This spring and summer, flowers made of all manner of textiles have appeared on a wide range of runways. Designers showed tiny buds scattered across a ballgown and massive blooms clustered on a bodice. Although there are many complicated ways and elaborate tools to make fabric flowers, you can create floral opulence with just a needle and thread, and a luscious fabric of your choice. 

One of the simplest methods for making lush floral ornaments is with gathered bias strips as the base. There are endless variations within this basic technique, from fabric choice to stitch size and stitching path, and each produces a lovely hybrid. I recommend experimenting with a variety of materials and methods to see which flowers appeal to you for your project. Even your rejects will be pretty, so save them for future embellishments.

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Barbie McCormick specializes in custom bridal design and enjoys trying fabric manipulation techniques. BarbieMcCormick.com