| Home | Dyeing | Embellishing Techniques |
links | Contact |
Thread Painting
One of my favorite embellishing techniques is thread painting using free motion machine embroidery. You can create a complete picture or just highlight and accent pieces. I learned the basics of this technique in Kathy's "Fabric Landscape" course and use it on many of my projects. Free motion stitching can also be used in quilting projects to stipple quilt. On the vest shown on my home page I used a combination of thread painting on fused appliqué bordered with satin stitch on the front, and stipple quilting on the back to make a raised flower design. Free motion stitching is a lot of fun once you learn to relax and move the fabric with a flowing motion. That definitely takes a little practice because most of us are used to the controlled sewing of regular stitching and want to control the free motion stitching in the same way. After a few sore muscles from trying so hard, I have finally managed to incorporate Kathy's "rules" - sit up straight so your arms can be in a relaxed, natural position and remember to breathe! During the class when we were learning to use the free motion method, it would get very quiet and we would all be holding our breath because we were trying so hard.
Thread painting can be used to create depth by using dark and light threads for shadows and highlights with very dense or minimal stitching, depending on the effect you wish to achieve. It can also be used very effectively with fabric painting. If you can find The Art of Annemieke Mein: A Wildlife Artist in textiles, it is well worth the price. She uses all kinds of textiles and fibers in combination with fabric painting and thread painting to create incredibly detailed wall hangings. (This is what I want to be able to do when I grow up). Click here to see two illustrations from her book.
Another wonderful book is Thread Magic: The Enchanted World of Ellen Anne Eddy. Ellen gives lots of detailed instructions on the fabric dyeing and thread painting techniques she uses to create her art quilts.
OK, on to the fun stuff!
| Home | Dyeing | Embellishing Techniques | links | Contact |