Beginning something new is always a shot of adrenalin to the creative flow. While pouring over a stack of Machine Quilting Unlimited magazines, an article by Jenny Bowker (May 2011) called “Starter Scrap Quilting” piqued my interest. Jenny likes to start with a small scrap of large-print fabric, add borders, then extend the pattern of the print out to finish the design. Her extensive library of quilting designs finishes the quilt, truly making it her own.
I used this idea in 2007 — in a reverse mode — to finish Peaches. The hibiscus print was perfect to work with the photograph of my exotic peach-faced lovebird perched atop a cyanotype print of a hellebore leaf. But the solid blue line butted up to the print was too abrupt. My solution was to quilt the design across the border, then paint the design additions. The border became an integrated part of the whole design element.
Here is the beginning of the reverse process:
Quilting in progress:
I love it, Franki!
Thanks! And thanks for the great quilting idea! I’m having fun.
Wow. Beautiful. I don’t remember ever seeing “Peaches” before.
He hangs just outside my studio. Now you’ll have to come to my house again to see him.
Simply lovely, Franki… love this technique and your subject matter. The background stitching sets the flowers off so well. ~diana
Thanks Diana!
Design on design on design. My favorite design!!!!
Oh yeah! Love the layering. The ideas are flowing.
franki–this is my favorite of all so far! i LOVE it!!
Jackie — I think you’ll be seeing more of this as I refine it. Thanks for stopping by.
You never cease to amaze me with your terrific new ideas, and this is very lovely. Jennifer
Thank you! Fun to be amazed, isn’t it?
ooh! I like the quilting!
But I don’t see the lovebird. Am I missing something?
umm, nevermind. somehow the first picture didn’t pull up. oops. I feel silly…
No problem-o. You’re among friends here, Suzanne.
I love this Franki-everything is just the right touch!
Hi praise coming from you Jenny! Thanks so much.
I just love watching how you develop a theme and follow it through. I admire how you are never afraid to say “I don’t like that” and then tackle the issue until it comes RIGHT for you .
Thanks Maureen! This is a learned process for me, not natural. But it’s quite a relief to really understand that I don’t have to make everything that I attempt “work.” If it isn’t what I want or like it’s important for me to make the necessary changes. If that means starting over, so be it. Several years ago I tossed a 3′ x 6′ piece and started over. I’ve never regretted it! My replacement for that failed piece was just juried in for a very competitive show.
Absolutely beautiful thanks for sharing.