Lesson 7.1
Tulip Embroidery: French Beadwork and Raised Aari Sequins
In this lesson, you will transfer a new floral motif and combine both embroidery techniques within one flower. Begin with French Lunéville beadwork along the stem and central petal, then turn the frame to add beads and sequins using the Indian Aari method. Changing from two beads beneath each sequin to one creates a gradual reduction in height.
Materials to Prepare
Embroidery frame with your composition in progress
Printed tulip pattern
Sharp pencil
Embroidery hook and thread
Pre-threaded beads and a thread bobbin
Loose beads and sequins
Soft pads for holding your materials
Scissors
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
Position and transfer a new motif into your composition.
Embroider the stem and central petal using French Lunéville beadwork.
Clarify pattern lines on the reverse side when needed.
Combine two beads and one sequin in a single Aari stitch.
Reduce the height of the embroidery by switching to one bead.
Complete the remaining details with your preferred materials and technique.
Your Practice
Print the motif, choose a harmonious position and transfer it onto the front side of your fabric. Prepare your threaded beads, then turn the frame to work from the reverse side. Make a starting lock where the stems meet and follow the drawn line, continuing around the central petal only. If necessary, clarify the guidelines on the reverse side.
Turn the frame to the front. Make a new starting lock and attach two beads followed by one sequin, spacing the stitches approximately 4 mm apart. Continue along one side of the tulip, then switch to one bead beneath each sequin to lower the raised effect.
Complete that side and cut and secure the thread. Repeat on the other side, beginning with two beads and one sequin before reducing to one bead and one sequin.
Finish the remaining inner sections with beads or sequins, choosing either Aari or French Lunéville embroidery to suit your design.