If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you know that I like to interpret foliage and scenery around me. The problem is that my literal brain wants to depict my photos exactly as they are. But, I know my quilts will be more interesting if I can put my own personal spin on things.
So, usually, I have to make a realistic sketch, just to satisfy my brain, and then I can get on to something more creative. Maybe a sketch, or a torn paper collage.
A torn paper collage is a great way to interpret a photo loosely because you CAN’T accurately depict the details. Just what my left brain needs!
The resulting collage can serve as a sketch for a finished quilt, or just as a creative exercise.
I’ve just added a full article about this technique to my website. It includes lots of in-progress photos and tips. Check it out and try it yourself.
Ellen Lindner
P.S. One more example on my old blog.
Artfully done, as always!
Thanks, Eleanor!
Great article on torn paper collage, Ellen. Thanks! I’ve been squirreling away colorful magazines and brochures for just such fun as this. After all the busy-ness of quilt show and three short trips, I’m ready to stay home with some artistic entertainment!
I did a presentation for the Pensacola guild and enjoyed showing pictures of the China trip, adding the one you took and sent me when Rise & Shine, Inner City was at the Creadle School of Art in Winter Park, FL. I finished with a view of it on the bed back at home.
I saw, on FB, that you’ve been on the go quite a bit lately. I’m sure the Pensacola group enjoyed your presentation.
The torn paper collage is a great creative exercise. I hope you enjoy it.
Love this technique and your great results. Very inspiring! Have you seen the book “Contemporary Quilts: Design, Surface and Stitch” by Sandra Meech? It is about her approach to quilt design, full of technique and details. Reminds me of your approach. Thanks for sharing your “how to”. Terrific!
Hi Maeve,
Thanks. It’s a fun and useful technique.
I’ve seen the book you mentioned, but I haven’t studied it. Maybe I’ll check it out again.