Hydrangea by Ana Mallah

If you are looking for maximum return for minimum effort when it comes to gardening (if there is such a thing!) a good option worth considering is planting hydrangeas.

These wonderfully lush and effervescent plants grow quickly, prodigiously and produce the prettiest, most vibrant flowers that are hardy and long lasting. Have some flowering in your garden or in pots when visitors come over and you’ll be amazed at how often they get mentioned, there is something truly enchanting about them.

Her penchant for this floral beauty was first demonstrated in the project Flower Pots | Hydrangea featured in A Passion for Needlework 2 | Factoria VII. This sweet little embroidered pot was adorned with exquisite stumpwork flowers consisting of over 80 detached petals across 7 different colours.

Today we’re taking a look at Ana’s latest project from Inspirations magazine issue #119 which is simply called Hydrangea. 

Ana has gifted us with a single hydrangea flower in full bloom with softly shaded petals in classic hues of warm blues, dusky mauves and gentle pinks worked in surface embroidery accentuated with cleverly arranged stumpwork elements.

For anyone who was daunted by the task of stitching the 82 petals required in Ana’s hydrangea flower pot, relief is at hand as her newest creation, while equally as beautiful, is more economical calling for a mere 37 detached petals across 5 different colours.

‘I put together a pencil case of what I need for the petals and keep it with me wherever I go. First, I cut and shape the wires and place them in a ziplock bag. Next, I add them to my pencil case along with a small hoop with fabric, scissors, a needle and whatever colour thread I’m using for a particular petal, then I’m all set for my mobile petal making.’

Great advice Ana! As the detached petals are added to the piece last, you can be working on the surface embroidery at home, then when you’re out and about, keep your momentum going by stitching the detached petal elements on the go.

The final result is not only a dynamic life-like rendition of a real hydrangea that has even captured the sense of joy this flower emanates, it is also an absolute treat to stitch and a lovely addition to any home.

Step 1 – Purchase Project Instructions

Hydrangea by Ana Mallah is a beautifully shaded stem of hydrangea featuring stumpwork petals and beads.

Step 2 – Purchase Ready-To-Stitch Kit

The Inspirations Ready-To-Stitch kit for Hydrangea includes everything* you need to re-create this spectacular stem: Fabrics (inc. with pre-printed design), wires, embroidery thread, beads and needles.

*Please Note: To cater for flexibility of purchase, instructions are not included with our kits. For step-by-step directions on how to create this project, please refer to the magazine/digital pattern.