The simplest technique I use for designing patchwork comes from a concept taught to me by a drawing teacher many years ago. I had trouble with getting started and he helped me tremendously by explaining how to find the core shape in a figure. I call this Home Base Patchwork. It involves starting with a simple shape embedded in a background. This shape forms the heart of the design. I used this as the basis of my simple free pieced patchwork beasts. You just reduce your design to a simple core shape. From there, you can add details in applique or stitch to refine your base into something more complex. It is sort of like playing Mr Potato Head or Cootie if you remember those kids toys. I think it is a great way to start, especially for the beginner.
There are 3 basic shapes I like to work with. The square, the chopped triangle and the long rectangle. You can make almost anything from them and they are easy to do.
With all patterns, I like to start with a sketch. The drawing can be quite simple, just to get an idea of how the pieces can fit together. A point of reference. A little plan. These are some basic sketches I work from. When making a pattern, it is best to work with straight lines and in banded units, either horizontal or vertical. In this demo, an excerpt from patchwork beasts, there are 3 horizontal sections.
Section 2 is your main design unit here, I have darkened the shape that evolved into the beast in the video. This area will be pieced together first and then the top and bottom added later. I use a combination of free style piecing and planned patterning in building a little cloth like this. I find it easy to do and it can be made quite complex as you learn.
For my patchwork bases there are 2 focuses, the figure and the background. These two elements will form the base for embellishment. The steps I follow for all my Home Base patterns are basically the same.
After you piece, you can start imagining ( the best part!) how to decorate your new base to make it work in the context of your project.
So here are some examples of feathers that might be built from a simple shape. If you work small, this simple approach is best decorated with stitch. If you work larger you might use applique, turned or ragged to decorate in combination with stitch.
The larger you work, the more complex you can make your patchwork base. It is also better not to try to work too small in the beginning. Keep the sections of your design banded so it is easier to sew your sections in straight lines. There is a logic to it that becomes familiar over time.
PDF feather plans
Just remember :
...your design will become smaller if you don't allow for seam allowance. you get used to it after a while
...thinner fabric work best for applique
...press your seams open as you go, trim excess where seams meet.
...basting your patchwork to a lightweight base (as in the first lesson) makes embellishment easier and more stable.
...keep it simple and use decoration to add detail.
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Sky indigo fabric by the indigo fairy, maker of moons, Glennis
Free Piecing inspiration ( she got me to try a sewing machine!) from the queen of free piecing, Tonya
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