Sheer Shadows
In my Instant Art Quilt class, the fabric is the star. High contrast fabrics produce dramatic results, almost without effort. Low contrast fabrics yield very different results. They don’t have enough drama to stand alone, but they make lovely backgrounds for further embellishment.
I had the idea of using tulle applique on such a quilt. Since the sheer fabric would allow the layered background to show through, I thought they’d be a great combo. So, I stitched up a subtle Instant Art Quilt (IAQ) and gave it a try.
What do you think? I’m pretty happy with it. (Click any photo for a larger view.)
Initially, the dull blue tulle didn’t show up as much as I wanted, so I added a black zigzag. And some french knots for additional interest.
As expected, the background layers show through, which I like. And, if you look closely, you might even be able to make out the overlapping tulle petals.
In the Instant Art Quilt classes, we often look for a natural diagonal line that can be emphasized. I think you can see that such a line existed here, and that I made use of it.
I think the tulle applique idea definitely has merit, and I plan to revisit it.
FYI: You might be interested in this gallery of my students’ IAQs. They’re awesome!
Way to go Ellen! Nice job showing your work. Welcome to the blogosphere
Thanks, Susan!
Yes, I can see the overlapping tulle! And you students’ work is wonderful. Welcome to the blogging world!
pam
Well done, Ellen…. blogs are so fun!
And I did enjoy another trip to the gallery, there are some pretty awesome pieces there.
I will be back often.
All the best…
Hi Ellen
Great to have you blogging too. I have added you to my blog roll & look forward to many more intereting posts.
cheers, Sue from Australia
Thanks, Pam!
Thanks, Carole. Isn’t it fun to see your own piece there?
Yes, Ellen, I have to admit, it was fun…to see my piece there,
but it was a fun class, too…
Way to go, Ellen. I just love following your adventure. These instant art quilts of yours has inspired me to go into yet another direction.
Oh, I have a blog also. Please visit when you have a chance. http://dianehamburgart.blogspot.com
Congratulations on your Blog! I like the way it navigates and is set up. I also love the Instant Art Piece with the sheers added; very nice.
Glad you’ve started a blog! I’ll put a link from mine to yours:)
Valerie
Beautiful work, and I like your blog!
Did you just use sheers for the flower? or is it toning down the whole piece. Nice touch with the stitching and french knots.
I look forward to following your blog.
Welcome to the blogosphere, Ellen! It’s fun to see your students accomplishments!
Thanks, Diane! I hope I get to see your new direction.
I just visited your blog and was very impressed. You’re doing some super cool stuff, which makes me want to grab some spray paint and join in.
Thanks, Judy!
Thanks, Valerie!
Thanks, Rhoda.
I only used tulle on the flower part.
I’ve seen your work on Bonnie’s site and really admire it. Glad you now have a blog..it has been added to my favs list. I never thought of using tule for applique. thanks for sharing
Thanks, Gloria. It’s all so much fun!
I love this! It gives me many ideas. I’ve toyed around with the idea of using tulle, in my head, but now I’ll have to try a couple of things. And, the work of your students is wonderful! What gorgeous creations. I have had your class on my want list and now I’ll just have to move it up on the list.
Are you on Twitter too?
Thanks for sharing this and your student gallery.
Ellen
I love your techniques, your artwork because it looks so uncomplicated and quick to do and pleasing to the eye. I live in Point Edward, Ontario (bet you never heard of this place) which makes the Web so great for so many people!! Cathy