I’ve completed the quilting on the center portion of this piece and have begun quilting the border. As often happens to me, I have a plan when I start but as I work, more ideas come to mind. I have learned to listen to the conversation that begins between myself and the work. I’m always happier with the final piece when I do.
In the center I have used Superior Thread’s 100-weight Kimono silk to outline, echo and meander quilt. The crisp lines of outline and echo make the printed leaves and flowers pop while the small meander completely flattens the background. At a distance, the meander acts as supporting cast to the featured images by becoming a simple texture and allowing the leaves and flowers to take center stage. I used 40-weight trilobal polyester by Superior to stitch over the veins of the leaves — something new for me. I normally thread paint the printed images before adding batting and backing and quilt around the shapes. I like the bolder definition this thread weight gives the veins while also pulling some of the lime green color into the center of the quilt. See how these leaves looked before quilting here.
Beginning the border, I have used more Kimono silk thread to outline and echo quilt the organic shape that says ‘tomato’. My thought as I began quilting this portion was to fill the rest of the space with small pebbles. But as I worked I began to think more about what you would see when a tomato has been sliced. In addition to the lovely juice on the plate, seeds would be revealed. So I am seriously considering using a few beads rather than more thread.
Options! Stay tuned.
This is stunning, Franki! =)
Beautiful! Thanks for telling us about the thread that you used. I appreciate the added information.
After the images, it’s all about the thread for me!
It is beautiful. What type of batting do you use?
I have been happy with Quilter’s Dream Cotton for some time. It quilts beautifully and I like the low loft.