Desert Blooms

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.