EGYPTIAN LOTUS LARIAT
© 2007 by Melanie Potter
The "lotus" was the depiction of the floral symbol in ancient Egyptian tombs and temples. The "lotus" which is known today as the water lily had a significant meaning to the Egyptian people. The "lotus" floating in the waters of chaos, carried inside its petals the Creator of light which banished darkness. Thus when the petals closed at the end of the day, chaos reigned throughout the night until the lotus opened again the next day. The flower was firmly linked with the rising and setting of the sun because of its consistent openings and closings during these times. This beadwork design features the lotus dangling at the end of the lariat . The innovative circular chevron chain stitch is used which you will learn to increase. You will also extend the stitch to create an embellished edging on the lotus. Keeping with the theme of flowers, small ruffled florets embellish the neckpiece of the lariat giving it a very delicate effect. You'll also learn a clever technique to add fringe in an even pattern to a budding lotus.