After much gnashing of teeth, lots of distractions and a few false starts, I ended up with this idea last night. This morning I stitched 4 more CQ blocks to get the border fleshed out and make the required number for the CQJP.
All the blocks are generally 12" with fabric to spare so I can square them up when done without too much fuss, she says hopefully. The sizing on this project has been a thorn in my side. I will need to add an inner border--likely to be green--to set the outer border away from the inner applique blocks. The green will tie in with the birdcage block and I'll probably bind it with green too. I anticipate hand embroidery in the greens, reds, golds, blues, purples of the machine embroidered motifs.
I love this Dove in a Birdcage motif but I have to say that after the last 2 weeks of intense machine embroidery, I'm a bit burned out on all this detailed motif stitching. Maybe I have gotten it out of my system for awhile. This bird motif is stitched on '80s chintz!
I had a few issues with the Nativity figures and the red border. So when I separated them, I could see they belonged in different wallhangings. The figures are quite large--6 x 9 so they need some large spaces to breathe. It is a ridiculously obviously balanced layout but I couldn't really do anything much differently given the poses, the ground upon which they stood and the nature of the angels. I'm going with it.
I discovered the Christmas wrapping paper I had was gridded on the back and with the paper cutouts of the figures, it was easier to play with the size of the block and arrangement than with the actual blocks. I do not want to cut those figures until I am 150% sure what I want to do. This will be a smaller wallhanging--in the 40" range for the one small wall I have in my dining room. Since I usually set up my big Nativity on the dining room table, this will be a nice complement to it.
I may do the handwork this summer. I expect some tonal beiges and golds--very subtle. I'll get my handstitching back up to par on the red Christmas wallhanging (and the beginner's blocks over with my Stitch Twelve group).
Moving from skill set to skill set is tough. I'm sure the next time I get on the longarm, I'll need to rethink what to do.
I might almost be ready to exhale!
Have a Creative Day, Y'All!
I truly love your ambition! This is going to be another great piece.
ReplyDeleteI really like this new composition. I think the embroideries really are more compatible - harmonious - the work together better! That will be beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI always felt that the colors in the nativity motifs weren't compatible with the reds. So now you will have two! A wide red/green/white floral ribbon could be a dynamite inner border.
ReplyDeleteSmashing!!
I agree with Rian....this is smashing!
ReplyDeleteYes, I like the changes you've made. I think the nativity motifs will be gorgeous together with a softer surrounding. I love the splash of green against the wonderful Christmas reds.
ReplyDeleteI think adding that green will be a great move. Keep going:) (As if you would stop!)
ReplyDeleteI like this layout!
ReplyDeleteI never thought a machine embroidered dove could be so pretty.
Oh, yes! The changes are sensational!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely singing the right tune! Love it!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds as though you have found the right balance by separating the secular and the religious motifs. The shape and size of the nativity scenes really deserve a wall hanging of their own. Of course, it's always easier to recommend that someone else make 2 separate projects since I won't have to do the work. When you are finished these will definitely be 2 heirloom quality pieces.
ReplyDeleteDebra, I always love watching your creative process! It's like getting permission from mom not to have all the answers instantly. =) I'm going to absolutely love the red and green one and enjoy watching it come together. The one with the tall figures will be awesomely good, too.
ReplyDelete