Description
The summer flowers necklace pattern gives you two designs in the one pattern. So, this is a two-for-one bargain! Both designs are made exclusively with seed beads. You can buy all the materials for this from me in the Beading Supplies.
Materials for the Summer Flowers Necklace
For this floral necklace project, you will need size 11 seed beads. I used two colours for the leaves. I then used a mix of colours for the flowers. It will also work with Delica beads.
Take a close look at the gallery images. You can see that so many different colour options are possible. I made a traditional green-leaf, coloured flowers with the drapes. The collar design used a more unusual gold, cream and blue combination.
I have also used 4mm firepolish beads for the flower centres. However, you can replace these with any kind of 4mm bead, or a 3mm bead. Or, you can also just use seed beads. I tried a few variations using little strands and clusters of seed beads in my centres.
Lastly, you will need a bolt clasp and your favourite beading thread. In case you are wondering, I disguised the clasp in this clever design!
Techniques and Experience
The Summer Flowers Necklace uses brick stitch and Peyote stitch. I suggest this pattern is intermediate level. However, it is a time-consuming project, so may well appeal to advanced beaders too.
The pattern instructions include written text and diagrams. I have assumed you already have a basic knowledge of the techniques. However, you can download free tutorials covering these techniques if you need some extra help.
The Story Behind the Design
I designed my original Summer Flowers Necklace back in 2006. I remember this vividly because I recall sitting with my Dad and beading the leaves, keeping him company in his final illness. So, this pattern has real emotional ties for me. That may also explain why I haven’t published it sooner.
Bead Magazine actually published a variation on this many years ago. I adapted the design to create a floral necklace for them. To be perfectly honest, I’d forgotten all about that until I was sorting through some old issues recently!
The pattern you are buying here has been completely re-written by me. So, you are getting two variations of the floral necklace. I have shown both in the gallery images.
You have the flexibility to colour this any way you want. It is also easy to alter the length by adding more groups of leaves and flowers. Ideally, this should sit at collar height.
If you enjoy this pattern, then I think you will also like my Autumn Leaves necklace.
