The center of the flower is worked first. Use
metallic
and weave over and under the marker threads to create a center about
1-2cm in diameter, as you desire in relation to the size of your mari.
In needlework, this
technique is called "spider web", "rose", "woven wheel" etc. stitch.
You can see an
illustration here:
http://www.nordicneedle.net/2011/07/29/spider-web-stitch-embroidery/
Next, place pins to mark where to stitch the petals. Use the distance
from pole to equator as the reference and place pins to mark the outer
points of the Kiku. For long petals, place pins 1/8 of this distance up
from equator. For mid length petals, 1/3 of this distance up from the
equator, and for the short petals, use 1/2 of the distance up from the
equator. These distances can be adjusted to your desires.
Work a kiku design using Uwagake
Chidori Kagari, from the inner/top stitch at the edge of the center
worked previously, and using the pinned points as the outer/bottom
points. You want the petals
to start as close to the center as possible, so work the top of the
stitch in the edge of the center "spider web". Work the design in three
shades of the same color working from very pale to medium to
dark. It is the darker shade that really sets the petals apart
from one
another, so make sure it stands out from the light and medium rather
than just blending into them - see the finished photos.
The thing I love about this pattern is that it is so easy to play with.
You can make the petals as long or as short as you want them - with as
much or as little variation in length as you want. if you want an obi,
all you have to do is shorten the long petals so that they don't cross
the obi, and you will have room for a band there.
Happy stitching! - AB
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