First was the layering. Lots of open weaves in very neutrals stitched down with free motion.
Then I let Bob strut his stuff and embroider the flower names on the panel. I don't use this machine often enough really and it was quite a learning curve remembering. What would we do without the internet!
Afterwards I had a bit of free motion embroidery to do. I enjoy this. I will enjoy it more when Bob learns to thread himself every time I want to change colour. Four different greens in these stems!
And all four done on the panel.
I was asked a couple of times at the Open Studio how do I make my work so flat. I dampen it, stretch it out and leave it to do it's stuff!! And every piece is treated the same. Obviously the media used can dictate the water content from a thorough washing to no water at all just the pinning and stretching but they all have time to be put into their shape and relax into it. I was also asked five different times if I could do workshops, weeeeeeeellllll, I don't really have a lot to tell apart from things most people already know or things like this. And the few times I have taught it has petrified me so much I've been ill! Daft I know but that's just me.
And finally the pieces mounted. They are on 10 x 8 inch canvas panels.
I sprayed up some Khadi paper to compliment the flowers and tore the edges on a deckle ruler which, much to my surprise, gave them a lovely white contrast edge. Quite pleased with them, I hope the recipient is too.
A little bit on the wildlife front this week. Monday just as we were going to bed John found a HummingBird Hawk moth buzzing around the lounge. There have been a couple in the garden but it was a surprise to find one inside. After a bit of a chase and clambering about we managed to capture it and set it free.
And last night we had another bat fly in. No photos this time but once we'd opened another few windows and doors it eventually found it's way out too.
I hope you all have a good week ahead!
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