Lesson 1.3
Butterfly Embroidery: Beaded Outlines and Dimensional Sequin Wings
In this first lesson of the five-part butterfly project, you will combine French Lunéville and Indian Aari embroidery. Begin with beaded outlines on the upper wings, then work from the front side to add paired 4 mm sequins. A second sequin row introduces fish scale filling and develops the wings’ dimensional effect.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
Outline the upper wings using French Lunéville beadwork.
Preserve sharp corners while following the pattern.
Attach two differently coloured sequins together using the Aari technique.
Position sequin rows beside a beaded outline.
Build wing volume with fish scale rows.
Keep the thread attached for the next stage.
Materials to Prepare
Embroidery frame with the butterfly pattern transferred
Embroidery hook and thread
Pre-threaded beads and a thread bobbin
Loose sequins, 4 mm, in two colours
Soft pads for holding your sequins
Pencil for optional guidelines
Scissors
Your Practice
With the reverse side facing you, make a starting lock and outline the upper butterfly wings with beads. Pay particular attention to the sharp corners. Complete both wings, then secure and trim the thread ends.
Turn the frame to the front side. Make a new lock approximately 3 mm from the beadwork. Place two sequins of different colours onto the hook’s needle and secure them together with a stitch. Continue along the outer wing, then finish the thread and repeat on the other side.
Add the second sequin row, alternating colours as demonstrated. Draw a helping guideline if needed. Use a short securing stitch before changing direction and continue with the fish scale technique, keeping the sequins within the intended outline.
Leave the thread attached, ready to continue in the next lesson.