Oh this challenge was interesting... there are so many possibilities to create texture with textiles. When I read the announcement for this quarter theme I just didn't know where to begin. I wanted to do so much… but as I began narrowing down my ideas one kept coming back to me. The texture created by the different stitch techniques on quilted cloth. So that's what I did on this mini: I created sort of a sampler of organic improv stiches to create the texture: I machine quilted some wavy lines and then hand-quilted the rest with different stitches. Then added some French knots and raw applique flying geese for a more three dimensional look.
As you can see this quilt is very neutral. I love minimalist quilts, but also I purposely avoided color threads on this quilt. Instead I settled for using different thread weights on the same color as the background fabric so the stiches wouldn't pop to much. Rather let the texture left by the imprint of the stitches on the cloth be the main focus.
I've been enjoying these challenges and the community we have formed on this group. I'm really looking forward to the next one.
More photos on my blog
XO
Martha
Very beautiful! Normally I use so much color but I toned it down on this one, with the goal of letting the texture be the main focus, as you said. And I used flying geese too, but for it was the first time ever. Yours reminds me of tracks in the snow on a still morning.
ReplyDeleteI love these challenges and how our ideas converge and sometimes its completely different. Thank you
DeleteI enjoy seeing stitches do the work. Your piece is very nicely done. I think you were correct to use nuetrals in fabrics, threads, etc. as nothing competes. The entire art quilt takes the show.
ReplyDeleteThank you Nancy
DeleteI would always recognise your elegant quilts! I love the quietness of your pieces and this is just the same, letting the textured stitching and your floating geese do the work.
ReplyDeleteThank you Catherine. It was such a fun piece to create.
DeleteTechnical question: How you load your photos on blogger? Mine always show on the blog really fussy. When I click on it and it expands it you can seed the photo the way it should.
DeleteHi Martha - when you're typing your post, and have inserted your photos, if you click on one you will find that a little dialogue box opens with options for the photo size. I usually select 'extra large'. I've taken the liberty of going back into your post and doing just that just to make sure nothing odd was happening. If you have any problems next time round, let me know and I'll help! :-)
DeleteThank you Catherine :) Blogger and I have a very love/hate relationship. Thank you so much for your help.
DeleteI find this a very calming and peaceful quilt. The variety of textures created by the stitching is beautiful and I think the flying geese are a perfect finishing touch :)
ReplyDeleteThank you Janine. I felt that I needed to add just a touch of linen (my favorite fabric)
DeleteThe use of neutrals was a good idea as it focuses attention on the textures. Makes me think of the sand at the waters edge as the sea retreats
ReplyDeleteGreat idea to have natural stones and wood in the background of your photos.
ReplyDeleteIt sets off the textures and colors in your quilt perfect.