spirit cloth 101

Compounding the base idea

 

Audio- ( 2:24)

I will call this Freedom.   To express the the free-form edge, the  letting go here.    I have 3 pieces now,  ready for stitch.  I could make more, but I would like to finish what I start here.  In the span of this class.... or at least really get going....

Composition and Story - 2

Working outward

What if you want to make your piece larger?  We have been focused on creating a base and then adding and working within that frame.  But often times I use a base as a core and then start extending outward.  This method works well when you want to make something larger and add more components as you go.  There is nice feel of open ended story this way.   This method can change the context of what you have quite quickly and encourage you to consider working larger.  To continue.

alternative video link

 

You can continue to add and cut away, paying attention to the thickness of your piece and adjusting as necessary.   This method works well  also because you can complete the stitching/quilting in the center and then move  outward so you are always working on the edge, making it easier to get at.

You can vary the placement of your core on your extension, it does not have to be centered.  You might also, if necessary,  sew some smaller scraps together to make a larger piece to use as an extension.

I will be talking more about stitching/embellishing, quilting and managing the back of a piece as you go.  When you get used to this method, you can always JUST GO... Don't worry about the back.   If you manage the thinness, more cloth can always be added.  

What if I want to combine multiple bases.  Would I arrange them on a backing and do the same, using strips & pieces to meld the edges of the bases together?  Yes, that is one way,  or  I might  extend one base with a big piece and add more bases and then extend and add more etc.   Or you could just overlap the bases and let the edges touch, simply stitch them together... depends on your arrangement idea.   Think collage.  There are  so many ways,  what if you invent your own?  And it works?   And you share it here?

Revising a plan

Continuing with FREEDOM.

alternative link

and then a second thought...

alternative link

Audio freedom (2:16)

The way you think as you go, can actually give form to what you are doing.   Sometimes the story is just the consciousness of the making of something.   And a new design emerges.  From your thoughts.   Let that happen.   Notice it.