Similar to the Bryce Canyon piece I created earlier; this piece is using the same batik fabric for the background. I am thinking to continue with one more; like a triptych with the remaining fabric. I’ve seen some really cool pieces done by other artists, but I’ve never attempted to do so myself, so why not give it a try?
When I began, I thought this might be solely done via bobbin thread play. By the way, you can always see more on Bobbin Play posts & tutorials here and here and of course, there are more! Just type in ‘bobbin play’ on the search box on the right-hand sidebar of the blog to see more posts about it.
Adding… layers and layers of different colors…
I like the contrast of the top thread, which is a variegated cotton with lime green and turquoise threads. This is definitely a personal choice, and can add alot of textural interest if you start playing with your top tension. Much of my bobbin play has typically shown a significant tightening of the top tension. I prefer to use a strong (40 wt) polyester thread.
I switched back and forth between a straight stitch, and a zig zag stitch, free motion style, for varying color impact, and texture detail. I really do love the added depth a compact zig zag can bring to the piece.
Do you think the blooms are missing anything? Well, I did. So I veered away from ‘just bobbin play’ and added ‘regular’ free motion, beginning with a black thread… this is 40 weight King Tut.
Hmmm… does it give the flower any more impact? What do you think?
And I made each flower’s center black center in a slightly different look…
No angelina. I think the thread is enough sparkle on it’s own.
And I decided that I did want to add more color and quilting, using variegated polyesters (Rainbows 40 wt from Superior Threads).
And I thought I’d try some solid thread color, in a purple tone. I’m not done… or am I? What do you think?
Anyway, It has been a year since I began this blog, and I was more than a bit intimidated by the whole ‘how to’ of the blog world. I spent many, many hours trying to figure things out… and the good news? It’s been a fun ride! And it reminds me that is what I try to teach to others. The JOY is in the stepping stones, the process, the challenges. There would be no satisfaction without the process!
So, let’s celebrate MY FIRST YEAR as a BLOGGER!
Anyone interested in winning a prize? Don’t know what it might be, but I’m thinking a small quilt… journal size, give or take.
And as the Widow Hen says to the Rooster Foghorn Leghorn (in the Bugs Bunny cartoon from my childhood–I love this line), “Widow Hen, I need yur love ta keep me warm.” (use your best southern accent here) LOL! Thank you for all your support over the past year; your encouragement, and comments; it really is so very much about community.
I hope you’ll come back to read and see more. Ya just never know… those comments already posted… may start adding up as extra tickets to win!
Love and Blessings to ALL.
Comments 13
I absolutely love your blog. I have a read and re-read several of your tutorials. Mostly, I love the color and creativity that you so generously share with all of us. Blessings to you for taking the time to take all the beautiful pictures.
Merci pour ton petit mot , j'adore ton univers , tu fais des merveilles , bravo et merci de nous faire rêver !!!
Amitiés .
I'm very thankful you started this bolg! Love your creations, photos, your attitude, joy, faith, and most of all your encouragement! (and I finally played with my fabric paints!)
I'm so glad I found your blog a few months ago. You are truly inspirational as I work my way towards exploring all these fun techniques …. still a bit intimidated, but I'll get there! Would love, love, love to win one of your beautiful pieces of art. Wish I lived closer to Montana so I could take a class from you! Bit of a drive from Southern California …. LOL
Someone else has a blog called Sparkle Power, and every time I see that title, I can't help by think it's YOU. lol I love all your glam shots so much.
: )
Happy Blogiversary!
~Monika
a little north of you
I'd love to win anything you have made, you are such an inspiration! Please put my name in your hat for the giveaway. I'm so glad I found your blog after finding your Etsy site.
I love your blog, and your beautiful work! I read all your tutorials, I have a Bernina machine and the tutorials are very helpful. Thank you for all you share with us. Please enter me in your drawing. Thank you
Mary S.
This Bobbin Play technique totally fascinates me. I need to set aside an afternoon to properly read the tutorials and try to adapt your method to my Janome
Beautiful.
Darc
xxoo
I love your creations – love, love, love your use of color and encouraging words on your projects. Beautiful!
Love it, Love it! Your blogging is the best. I log on every day so I don't miss anything. You inspire me to try out new things. Thanks for sharing so much.
I just love your use of color on color – I am just too reserved I guess so need to break out and try more thread work and brighter colors.
Your free motion stitching is spectacular! I've seen the bobbin stitching done at a workshop (even bought heavier thread) but I've never taken he time to try it.
I love reading your blog and looking at the photos of your creations. Please, please enter me in your giveaway!