Shisha Embroidery

 Shisha embroidery , is a very old and traditional technique  done in the western regions of India. While the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan  excell in beautiful embroideries using small mirrors and beads , the Lambadi ( gypsys of Andhra ) too use a lot of mirrors in their traditional attire . And these Lambadis carefully trim small pieces of mica by hand to produce different shaped shisha or mirrors .  It is said that these mirrors were attached to dresses not only to add beauty to the garment but also to ward off evil eye .

Here`s a sampler that I had made a few years ago using stitches like herringbone , cretan , fly . french knots , lazy daisy etc Though it has discolored over the years , I still think that these  motifs are pretty even now. I have done a lot of shisha embroidery since then but this

 sampler is  my favorite .

Well , what do you think ? do drop in a line , as I love hearing fro you . And keep visiting for more on Shisha embroidery .

The Crimson Chakra necklace !

Here`s a look at my latest project ,  The Crimson Chakra necklace  !

When I started this project , I had no idea how it would turn out. My initial idea was only to make a necklace that matched with my kutchwork saree that I have done .

 I had been given the round motif pattern  as a part of the monthly challenge by Coco of .Perles Dentelles.   . A quick and fun project , I loved creating the motifs as they were easy to do , and was happy I learn`t a new technique .

Gaining confidence after doing a couple of motifs ,  I decided to experiment a little more and came up with the triangle motif . After a lot of  weaving and reopening , I was able to get the look I wanted for the center . The faux coral beads came in handy to fill up the circles and now all it needed was a chain to match .

 I tried thinking  but came up with nothing suitable , and kept this project on hold . And to my surprise , I found the pattern and the lovely tutorial by Inspirational Beading  , that seemed to be perfect for the chain .Thanks Mortira  , for the inspiring post . (You can find her blog here)

       Quite thrilled at this , I completed the necklace finally and  , this is how it turned out .

 How grateful I am at all the  beaders on the web , who inspire me to learn and create these pieces of beadwork that I`ll always treasure
  So what do you think ? Don`t these wonderful people need a big thank you for sharing their art and inspiring us to learn more and more ?

Do write your views

 Till then ciao

beadfully yours
 motidana