I mentioned in my last post that one of our challenges for International Threads was "lines." Having worked with lines in dozens and dozens of different ways in the last eight years, I decided the only area I hadn't yet properly explored was curved lines. I had tried to piece very fine curved lines a couple of years ago with limited success, but on the small scale of our challenge pieces I thought I could do a good job.
Sargasso, 2015
I liked the result, and had fun putting the scales on the fish with free-motion quilting, but not sure that I am enthralled enough to go do more curves. Before I do, I'd need to have an idea -- for instance, if the curves represented waves I might consider a series commemorating my love of ocean travel. But it would need more meaning than that. Just "ocean" or "fish" doesn't have enough intellectual weight to carry the commitment of a series.
Well Kathy, this is another example of your great eye for design and steady, committed stitching. Sure, there is a sense of whimsy here, and that is not the norm in your work, but it really is a great example of focused intent. I think about the challenge of doing skinny lines in curves and creating actual, recognizable shapes and you mastered that here...
ReplyDeleteThinking Judy Kirpich style pieced-in curved lines, there is simply total concentration involved and there isn't anyone who can do that better than you. Hope to see more of curves in your new work - your way!
Bethany
Kathy, the curved lines are looking interesting and I'm looking forward seeing if you may uses more curved lines in your future work.
ReplyDeleteEdith
It looks great, Kathy. Did you use bias strips for the skinny inserts?
ReplyDeleteI used sort-of-bias strips -- opened the fabric to full width and cut from one selvage to five-inches-down on the other selvage. (Normally I use cross-grain strips, cut straight across from selvage to selvage.)
DeleteI've been enjoying reading about your process throughout the International Threads challenges posts and seeing the results. I especially like the depth and 'ripple' distortion effect in this quilt.
ReplyDeleteI love your curved lines. Just starting with small stripes, this is a challenge for me.
ReplyDeletedon't try curved lines until you've sewed a lot of straight ones. they're tricky!
DeleteLoved to see the original in Prague last month - and meeting you. Loved all of your other pieces, too!
ReplyDelete