LibQuilters
First I machine pieced random pieces of fabric in colors that I like. Strips of commercial printed organza are layered over the center lengthwise. There are three layers of cotton fabric and no batting. All of the stitches (and knots) show on the back. This is totally new for me and I cringe at the sight of the back. I read somewhere how to avoid knots by taking a back stitch. I can’t figure out if this is done on the back or the front.
I am learning new things while out of my comfort zone.
I finish the edges of all my work and I work “tidy”; this is contrary to Slow Cloth. I now realize that I need to let go and let the needle travel and enjoy the fabric instead of being determined to concur it. I am trying too hard.
Let it be.
So, as I worked on this one I kept thinking about the edges debating whether to leave them raw or not? I decided to go for it; reveal it all; the raw edges as well as the back. I am still wincing just a bit.
Pathways
Bugle beads emphasize some of the pathways the stitches created; thus the title. They show up better on the detail image.
Pathways (detail)
Now I am moving on to another one while my mind is focused on handwork.
The next one will have neutral colors with the goal to release control.
Textile Art to Own
Wow, just love the color and slow stitches in this piece! I started a mini yesterday thanks to your inspiration. Thank you!
Love it! love all the motion, this way and that! A sucess indeed!
This is beautiful. Just the sort of thing I love bight colors and lots of surface texture. My dil uses a very tiny knot on the front where she starts stitching.
Beautiful! I LOVE the vibrant colors! I’ve been busy on my sewing machine, but you’re inspiring me to do some more handwork.
I’m a hand quiilter, so here’s how to hide your knots (if you want to). Tie a little knot in the end of your quilting thread. You can start from the front or the back, but when you take your first stitch, tug gently on the knot until it pops through your fabric. Knot hidden! If your knot is too big, it won’t go through, and if it’s too small, it will just come through the fabric. It takes a little practice, but it works.
To end, tie a couple of knots in your thread, and weave your needle and thread back through the last two or three quilting stitches. Pull the thread gently (you don’t want to break it, although it happens), and pop the knots through. Tighten the thread a little, and the knots and quilting stitches will lock the end in place.
Hope this made sense!
I too have a hard time knowing when I arrived at “KIFAYA!” (enough). Your use of contrasting thread colors is something I’m still approaching crabwise, eyes closed.
I love the term “slow cloth!” Your pieces are beautiful – very colorful and lively. I’m very much a fan of handwork myself.