Try these Solutions to Solve Little Art Quilting Problems

Solving little art quilting problems are different from the fixing bed quilts issues. One does not have to match seams like when making traditional quilts. If I have an error I can just cut it off with my rotary blade rather than ripping out seams. I still use my seam ripper but just not as much. This is not to say that issues don’t come up. They are just different issues. Some of these solutions apply to sewing in general as well as art quilting.

Solve Basic Sewing Problem

Anticipating Issues with Good Habits

Some suggestions to solve little art quilting problems begin with good habits. Of course the best way to fix problems is to anticipate them before they happen. Always make sure your fabric edge is straight. It might look straight but line up the plastic cutting ruler edge anyway. Make sure the fabric edge is straight. Even fabric straight from a shop might not be cut straight. Advice from construction workers, Measure twice to cut once.

Keep your machine free of dust.

Use a pipe cleaner to keep your machine’s mechanism free of dust. Look for holes in the machine for the pipe cleaner to enter safely.Remove dust carefully. Be careful not to disrupt interior settings. Vacuum the interior monthly if you sew a lot. It is amazing how much lint thread may shed. Remove lint from between the grooves of your feed dogs. I have been known to remove the lint with a large pin. A clean machine makes perfect stitches. Once I took my Husquvarna Lily into the shop because the zigzag stitch wasn’t working. The stitch was fine but my machine was full of lint underneath.

Watch your Speed.

Aim to maintain the same speed as you sew. The speed of throttle affects your stitches. Going fast and then slow can create inconsistent stitches. Attempt to keep a steady speed when stitching. Listen to your machine. It will tell you when your speed is changing. Especially on mindless tasks, we tend to daydream and not pay attention to the speed that we are pushing on the pedal or throttle.

Trouble Threading the Needle

If you are having trouble seeing to thread the needle on the machine,here is an easy fix. Get a white piece of paper. Double thickness or paper that is a bit stiff helps. Place it behind the needle and hold it there while threading the needle. The white makes a clearer background to see the needle’s hole. Other tips-Please wear your glasses. Trim the edge of thread before threading. Wet the end of the thread with saliva so the end isn’t frayed. I personally have not had luck with needle threaders. Maybe they will work for you.

Thread Trimming

Did you know that you can use 1 side of the scissors to trim a thread,sort of like a knife. This especially is helpful when the thread is coming out of the fabric.Trim as close as you can to the fabric with just one blade of the scissors. If you trim normally with the 2 points of the scissors coming together, one can accidently snip the fabric. This small nip in the fabric is difficult to fix. Some of us learn things the hard way.

Some Suggestions to Solve Little Art Quilting Problems.

Tucks to the Rescue

Tucks to the rescue. Sometimes a piece of fabric is just a bit too big for where it needs to fit. Yes, you could just cut off a piece of the fabric. But why not try to turn a problem into a solution. Create more texture for your art quilt by making one or more tucks . This may be useful when one is working within a particular size requirement. Tucks can be different sizes. They can be sewn close to the edge of fold or 1/4th inch (1cm) or farther away. Make a tuck or two that runs the whole length of the piece of fabric. I discovered the power of tucks when the slightest bit of extra fabric was too much.

Use the Crease or Fold to your Creative Advantage.

I often repurpose materials. Sometimes a piece of fabric comes with a crease or fold. It can be difficult to remove the crease even after using spray starch. Try this solution. Use the crease or fold to your advantage. Create a tuck or several rows of tucks. Sew the stitching line as close as you can to the edge of the fold. Problem solved. While creating an original art quilt, use the fold to your advantage. A series of folds can be moved to one side or the other to create movement as well as texture.

3 rows of tucks create texture and movement
A series of tucks create texture and movement.
A strip of fabric with a hard to get rid of crease
A strip of fabric with a hard to get rid of crease

Sew a tuck to remove a crease
Sew a tuck to remove a crease

A variation- Sew several lines of folds. Remember the rule of three or odd numbers. You may sew the tucks 1/4″ (1 cm) away from the fold. To create movement and texture, iron the segments of the tucks in different directions.

Lots of tucks, Upwelling. 34" x 30" 
86 cm x 76cm

Solve little Art Quilting Problems by Thinking Before you Cut

Sea Canyon Depths, 40" x 17"  102cm x 44cm
Sea Canyon Depths, 40″ x 17″ 102cm x 44cm

Think how can I save time or effort while cutting this fabric. I add a lot of foliage to my nature art quilt pieces. I started out cutting individual pieces. By accident I discovered that while cutting one piece, I could create a second piece that would be a mirror image. Less fabric would be lost. Just don’t cut all of the way through to the far end. Stop at the top of what you are cutting. Turn the fabric around and continue down the other side instead of cutting all of the way to the opposite side. Not difficult do if you stop and think before cutting. Just another way to solve little art quilting problem.

Sea Canyon Depths, 40" x 17"  102cm x 44cm
Sea Canyon Depths, 40″ x 17″ 102cm x 44cm

This technique could create mountains, foliage or another running pattern.

Sea Canyon Depths, 40" x 17"  102cm x 44cm
Sea Canyon Depths, 40″ x 17″ 102cm x 44cm An underwater work in progress

Sometimes experienced quilters forget about all of the little tips that they have learned along the way. I try and point a few hints here that I have learned.These are just a few of different technical problems or creative issues one might encounter.

http://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2023/04/what-most-people-dont-know-about-art-quilting/

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

Five Mistakes New Quilters Make

Just like everyone else new quilters make mistakes. Mistakes are part of the process of becoming a master quilter regardless if you are making art quilts or traditional quilts. Most of us are not proud of our earliest works. Yet, when an artist is accomplished, they make it look easy. The artists have practiced so much that it is hard to imagine that they ever made mistakes. Here is a review of several mistakes new quilters make.

Mistake #1-Poor Fabric Choices

Thinking one can make a quilt out of just any piece of fabric that they have. Yes, people make quilts out of used clothes or fabric that they have. But for a successful piece, their choices are based on their knowledge and their experience with that fabric. Plus if there is a problem then an experienced sewer or quilter will have an idea about how to fix the problem.

There is a reason that commercially available clothing patterns list the types of fabric that would work best. New quilters can stick with 100% cotton for the most success.

Another Mistake New Quilters Make

An acquaintance with limited sewing experience wanted to make a baby quilt to give to a friend. She choose to use soft and stretchy fabrics that she had left over from other projects. Soft and stretchy materials are difficult to work with.

On the other hand, parents are rightly concerned about what will touch their baby’s skin. One hundred per cent cotton fabric is safe and the most comfortable for a baby. On the other hand, soft minky fabric is nice for a backing.

Mistake #2-Washability and Care of the Quilt

Cotton fabric that is 100% cotton is easily washed. My inexperienced friend chose a dark multicolored patterned fabric for the baby quilt. Of course,patterns and styles of choice change. However,most new families want a light colored quilt. They are also concerned about washability.The color choices for this baby quilt were dark. In my opinion, the colors didn’t even coordinate well. In addition, most parents would prefer new materials to be used with an infant.

Mistake #3-Lack of experience with a sewing machine

In my opinion, the major sewing machine brands are of good quality. Even older and more older machines work well. That said when I bought my Lily Husquavarna over 20 years ago, a particular brand of thread was recommended to use with the machine. Quite by accident, I learned that other brands actually had better results. People swear by their Bernina machines yet I read that they can be fussy about the correct needle being used for the type of project. Learning the quirks of one’s machine is part of the learning process.

Mistake #4 Lack of Process Planning

Creating an art piece takes a loose plan. One needs to have an idea of what part needs to be completed before another part. Often an inexperienced art quilter will create a beautiful part without an idea of how to mount or display it. For example, an intricite portrait will be created, Yet,the artist will then not know what they need to do next. How should it be displayed? What fabric would highlight the work?

Similarly, at the beginning of her art career,a very talented fiber artist would make nature inspired 3D works. She wanted them to be free standing. Yet, she made them without planning for the structure that would allow them to be free standing. As I tried mixed media and assemblage,I remembered that lesson. Consider the final structure first. How will it hang? How will it stand up?

Mistake #5-Poor Color Choices

Quite a few years ago, a friend asked me to make a baby quilt for a relative. We went to the fabric store together to choose some fabrics. These are the green and blue fabrics she chose. While each fabric has its merits individually, I would never have chosen them to be the only fabrics in a quilt. As it was an early commission for me, I didn’t feel at the time that I should say anything. However, this poor color choice stayed with me for a long time.Needlessto say, I have developed my artist’s voice over the years. I would definitely express my opinion if this happened again. It pushed me to rethink and validate my experience in choosing colors.

Two fabrics, blue floral and green
Two fabrics,blue floral and green

A friend mentioned to me today that her sister made a quilt for her.They had lots of blocks with hand embroidery added. The friend didn’t really like the quilt. Her sister said she didn’t have to keep it if she didn’t like it. The friend wasn’t sure what to do. She mentioned that her sister’s quilting skills were not so good. The sister mainly made quilts for the family. When I finally saw a photo of the friends’s quilt, I had to admit that it had some charm. Maybe not totally to my friend’s taste but still charming in its own right.

Nonetheless,this reminded me of the steps that people go through before they attain mastery. Lots of mistakes are made along the pathway to excellence. However, when someone looks at a quilter’s successful piece, the failures are not visible.

In Conclusion

My intent is not to criticize or shame someone’s efforts. We all start somewhere. However,I want to acknowledge the effort and experience that goes into the long path towards the mastery of skills. Our passion pushes us to continue to learn from the mistakes that new quilters make.

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/05/reuse-dont-toss/

How to Master Free Motion Quilting

Follow these free motion quilting hacks to help you master free motion quilting. I share the techniques and suggestions that have helped me achieve success. What does one need to get started? Can something be saved for a later date?

Nature Art Quilts,Make a Fabric Landscape Collage Quilt, tree on a hill with a fence
Overlook 35″ x 26″ 89 cm x 66cm 2018 Uses the fabric layering technique.


What do you Need to get Started?

  • a sewing machine that lets you lower or cover the feed dogs
  • a darning foot
  • Aurifil brand 100% cotton thread (found in better quilting stores)

What can you Put Off for later?

In my experience, these things that can be left for later. It is a personal choice. I saw quilting gloves mentioned as a necessary item to begin free motion quilting. I personally have never used these.They may be helpful for someone. But they don’t seem esseential to begin.

Many quilters like myself are draw to charming stipple quilting. On the one hand, stipple quilting is lovely and adds a lot to your quilt. On the other hand, it draws attention to the quilting. For this reason, it isn’t the best for a beginner. Leave stipple quilting until later when you are more skilled. I use another technique that works better for quilters new to free motion quilting. See hack 3.

Free Motion Quilting Hack -1

A darning foot is also necessary. If your machine didn’t come with one, they are easy to obtain. Buy one for your brand machine.

a darning foot

Free Motion Quilting Hacks-2

The best thread to use is Aurifil brand thread 50 weight 100% cotton. It comes in a lot of colors. However, it is generally only available in better quilting stores. At first, a spool can seem expensive. However, the thread is very thin. There is a lot of thread on each spool. I once pieced and quilted a complete double size bed using only one spool of this thread. This thread is highly recommended for free motion quilting. It truly will make or break your work. In the beginning, choose a thread color that matches the background. The threads blend in. Irregular lengths of stitches won’t show as much.

Aurifil thread 50wt
Aurifil thread 50wt

Free Motion Quilting Hacks-3

My preferred method of free motion quilting is to use the fabric layering technique. In the beginning,I was able to practice with satisfactory skills. As a result, I continued practicing. Therefore, leading to the mastery of the skill. My machine is a 20 year old Lily Husquarna. It is not a special machine,just a regular sewing machine.

To be honest, before I learned this technique, I was ready to give up on learning free motion quilting. I was not having any success. Therefore,I was very frustrated. In short, it is very forgiving as one develops their skill.

spools of thread for free motion quilting
I only use Aurifil brand thread for free motion quilting.

How to do the Fabric Layering Technique

Basically the fabric layering technique starts on a table. To begin, lay the backing fabric down. Start with a smaller size like 12″-14″ about 30 cm square. Then put the batting on top. Similarly, cover the batting with a background fabric that enhances your scene.Then create a scene with fabric. A landscape is an easy way to start. Cut out pieces of fabric for your scene ie. trees and rocks. Then lay the pieces on the background fabric. Continue until you have made a pleasant scene. Place a tiny dab of glue from a glue stick to keep pieces in place while quilting. Cover with tulle netting. Free motion quilt.

Free motion quilting allows the quilter to control the movement of the quilt. In order to do this, the quilter must lower the feed dogs on their sewing machine. The feed dogs are on the flat part of the machine. They control the movement of the fabric. Most newer machines have this feature. Mine is twenty years old and it does. If you are unable to lower your feed dogs, cover them. However, I am unfamiliar with this.

a basket with many colored spools of thread
Here is my basket of threads. I generally am not fussy about the type of thread I use for most kinds of sewing.

Fast Feet Slow Hands

While free motion quilting you should say to yourself, fast feet slow hands. What does this mean? The throttle makes the machine go fast. Your foot usually controlls the trottle. Push the throttle fast but evenly. At the same time, your hands should be moving slowly. Pull the sides of the quilt taut while quilting. Practice moving them at the same rate at an even pace.

Checking your Stitches

In the beginning, quilt following the outline of the tree or main object in the scene. Check your stitches by looking on the back of the quilt. Loose or lengthy stitches mean the hands are being moved too quickly. Those stitches need to be taken out.As you get better you can create free form grasses or branches or movement with the sewing threads. Read more about this technique. https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/07/fabric-layering-technique/

Shows With My Work One Fabric Three Art Quilts
DesertTrees in the Wash, 25″ x 24″ 64 cm x 61 cm 2021
Another example of the fabric layering technique.

In Conclusion

Free motion quilting is another tool to add to your quilting tool box. Yet, there is no easy fix for mastery this technique. Put in the time to practice,you will be rewarded with a higher level of skill. Use the suggestions here to make your path more successful quicker and less frustrating.

View more Art Quilts

View some art quilts I made using the fabric layering technique and free motion quilting.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/01/trees-in-art-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/07/fabric-layering-technique/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/04/birds-in-art-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/04/marine-life-in-art-quilts/

https://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/08/new-york-art-center-in-tribeca/

https://saqanorcalnv.com/

When Why How to Quilt?

Smilin',33" x 24",2021, all silk

  When Why How to Quilt?

What is quilting? Quilting can be several things. A basic definition is the sewing together of two or three layers of fabric either for a practical purpose or a solely artistic purpose. What if  a person cuts up fabric and sews it back together to make the top of a bed covering? Yes is the answer.

Who is a Quilter?

Are you a quilter if you only sew or piece the top together and then have another person do the quilting? Yes. When I started, I only did that part. I worried that I could not call myself a quilter when I really only pieced the top together.  Another person quilted the three layers, the top, the batting and the back, together. It turns out that I was wrong. Even back then,I was a quilter.

Acceptance of Many

The quilting world and the art quilt world both accept  people as quilters whether or not they actually sew the three layers together. Some have the luxury of sending their tops to a  person with a long arm machine or another person to complete that part of the process. Let’s just make sure that they are given credit for their contribution.Words are funny that way, confusing at times and not even close to the reality. No wonder there is so much misunderstanding in the world.

When Why How to Quilt?
Poppin’ Back, 23″ x 22″

How to Complete

I recently completed two abstract art pieces. Poppin’Back used bright yellows, purples,magentas contrasting with white pieces of fabric. The fabrics were cotton. When it was time to sew  the three layers together, I didn’t stop to think. I forged ahead, quilting the usual way I often do, moving the quilt from side to side to create wavy lines . This creates another level of movement that I adds to the art piece.

When Why How to Quilt?
Smilin’ 33″ x 24″

The Second Piece

The second piece,Smilin’  was completely made from dipioni silk in bright contrasting colors with curved line piecing.I loved the bright colors and shapes. What would quilting lines add to the stunning colors? I decided that they wouldn’t add much.

Yet, the 3 layers layers of fabric needed to be attached. Stitching in the Ditch which means quilting in the seams solved the issue for me.  Many art quilters would expertly sew 1/4″ lines to fill spaces. Giving myself permission to do something differently,I listened to what I felt the piece needed. I am happy with the final product.

Conclusion

Consider what is quilting brings to an art piece? Does it add an important  element like movement or color to the piece? Is it necessary? Each art piece is unique. It deserves its own consideration on how to quilt it. These are decisions that only the artist can make. It is one of the artistic decisions that the  artists must make. My plan is to pay attention and listen to the art more in the future.

See more art quilts at the Studio Art Quilt Associates’ website. https://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/02/the-making-of-an-abstract-quilt/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/06/abstract-art-in-fabric/

quilts/https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/01/creating-movement-in-abstract-art-quilts/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

Need Help? Try These Low Tech Quilting Hacks

Swimmingly

Low Tech Quilting Hacks

Try these low tech quilting hacks to make to make quilting tasks easier. This post is about my favorite tools that I often  use in my studio. Redirecting materials are a major motivating factor in my art. It so happens that it affects my low tech quilting hacks as well.

Threading the Needle

My regular sewing foot has a white plastic piece that holds it together. A bit of the white forms a background that allows for the ease of threading  the needle. For years, I sewed clothing. Yet, never noticed this because I had no need to change the foot. As soon as I started quilting and began to use different feet, I noticed that threading the needle became more  difficult.

What  Had Changed?

I couldn’t figure out what had changed. It took me a while, the small white background was not longer there. So I recreated the white by using a small piece of white paper. I now keep a particularly stiff piece of white paper close at hand. For easy threading of the needle,  I slip the paper behind the needle. When I  use the walking foot or darning foot for free motion quilting, I can see the needle’s hole much better.

low tech quilting hack
a useful white piece of paper to aide threading a needle

Easing of Fabric through the Feed-A Low Tech Quilting Hack


Many years ago I received a stick that looks like an orange stick used for nail care. Suzanne Cam gave them away as part of  a quilting workshop. This tool has now become an indespensible tool. I use it often to grab threads, to gently guide fabric smoothly through the feed when necssary.

Moving Small Pieces- A Low Tech Quilting Hack

I also use the stick to move small pieces of fabric. For the fabric layering technique,I create my art flat on a table. I place the backing fabric  down first. Then I lay the batting on top.Finally,  I create the scene. At times this requires a gentle movement of small pieces of fabric or yarn. I use the stick for this. Nothing else creates a smooth curve or allows me to control the placement of  small items or details.

low tech quilting hack
a multiuse well used stick

Tiny Globs of Glue

At times I  need to glue items to my fiber pieces. Often I only need  the  tiniest bit of glue not a glob of glue that might show. When my studio was in my home, I would use a plate from the kitchen to put the glue on. After moving to my studio,no plates were readily available.

Making Do

I flipped over the  3 ” plastic cap from the can of starch to use. To control the smallest bit of glue, I use a large needle or hat pin. When finished I can easily wipe off the residue of  white glue .  The pin or needle is then ready for its original intended use.

low tech quilting hack 3
Plastic caps to control globs of glue

A Design Wall

I use a design wall to create my abstract pieces of art. It is essential for me to have a large space available. I would recommend at least 60″ high and wide. My studio design wall is about 90″ by 90″. I covered the wall with a  piece of white flannel fabric. It is held in place by push pins. Portability is not an issue for me. Other quilters  will swear by their expensive design walls. Don’t be fooled! Simple can be just as effective!

my large white flannel design wall design, low tech quilting hack
My large white flannel design wall design

True Confessions Time!

I am not an early adopter nor a gadget person.  Quality standard tools and materials are necessary. These hacks are very low tech. Whatever works! For those still reading this post, I expect to hear  a chuckle or two or daresay I, some laughing out loud at their simplicity.  What simple hacks do you use? Please share.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/04/forging-your-own-art-path/

More reading that may interest you.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/03/fabric-layering-technique-another-look/

https://so-sew-easy.com/quilting-hacks-for-beginners/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

How to Create Texture in Art Quilts

Under the Shady Tree detail 2

      Creating Texture in Art

Techniques for creating texture on a flat piece objects are subtle.  In other posts, I addressed other aspects of my mantra, Color!Texture!Movement! Moreover, adding color or movement creates a bolder statement. Above all,color impacts the viewer first and then movement next. But texture may even go unnoticed. However, now I will share my ideas for creating texture in my art quilts.

Tucks Create Texture

For instance, tucks are  small seams sewn on the edge of a fold. Yet, a series of 3-5 tucks create texture. For example, in Upwelling they represent the layers of earth movement. Furthermore,this technique is also helpful  to reduce the size of a piece of fabric by just a small amount.

green and teal art quilt with a pop of magenta
Upwelling, 30″ x 34″ Tucks run the width of several pieces to create texture.

Naturally Thick Fabrics

On the other hand,corduroy or other thick fabrics add texture by their nature. Look for fabrics that naturally have an interesting texture like dupioni silk. Unfortunately, these fabrics are often challenging to work with. Most importantly,develop your skills so that you will be able to work with them more easily.

Couching Decorative Threads

In addition,couching (zigzaging)different threads on fabric adds texture. First,I couch threads on long strips. Then I cut the pieces apart to use as fabric. In addition,this is a good way to utilize small pieces of yarn or decorative threads. At the same time,use the same color of thread to emphasize the line aspect of art. in this way,the focus will be on the color of the yarn not the color of stitching thread.

abstract art quilt in golds and light browns,Desert Sands, 16" x 21"  2015
Desert Sands, 16″ x 21″ 2015

Three Dimensional Objects

Furthermore,add texture with 3D objects. In addition,artistic people may create their own 3D object using fibers. Here I included two fabric figures that I had previously made. Similarly,on the male figure, I added a serape  for the Mexican theme. Likewise,embroidery thread hair,jewelry and lace completed the female’s figure.Finally,I added found plastic objects.

a Mexican inspired 3D art quilt
El Senor y La Senora Win Loteria

True Confessions Time

Ultimately,sometimes I am motivated by just using up materials. What items can I add to my art to finish it up? As a result, this random technique led me to a positive ending. I had about  8 designer samples  of short threads in different colors wrapped together. Spontaneously I decided to add them to the foot  of a tree. Don’t they look like grass? Boy! did this work!

a tree with a fence,fabric art,
Under the Shady Tree, 37" x 25" 2019
Under the Shady Tree, 37″ x 25″ 2019
decorative threads are used to look like plants growing at the base of the tree
Under the Shady Tree detail 2

Start with Fiber

Fun With Fiber 6, Fiber container holds southwestern fabrics, burlap background
Fun With Fiber 6

Start with fiber. Here I used a redirected folded fiber piece. I added a found Mexican(Aztec inspired) clay head and redirected fabrics. Then I attached it to a highly textured piece of burlap.

In conclusion, the techniques to add texture include tucks, thicker fabrics, couching decorative threads, and adding three dimensional objects. There must be other ways to add texture.
Do you know of any? Please respond with your suggestions. I am open to new ideas.

These articles  may also be of interest to you.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/04/an-abstract-art-quilt-sunset-through-the-forest/
https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/06/couching-threads-and-creating-fabri/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/01/couching-zigzag-…-to-art-quilts-2/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

How to Create Movement in Art Quilts

Winter Sunset greys,pinks and purple fabric in this abstract art quilt.

Creating Movement in Art

Above all as an artist I am interesting in creating movement in art.That is how I answered this question.“What are the essential elements you want your audience to know about your work? What do you want them to take away from seeing your art? “ asked a fiber artist friend.

She is well versed in the deep discussions generated by involvement with the Artist Conference Network.  The ideas  I had been thinking about  came together. The question brought my ideas into focus; color, texture, movement. At this time I would like to address creating movement in my abstract art quilt pieces.

Subtle Wavy Lines

How does one make movement on something that is inherently static and flat? At first, I attempted to make every seam a curved line. That turned out to be  a poor choice that affected the over all shape of the piece. I learned  some straight lines are important for shape and balance. Another true life lesson learned, the importance of balance.  Choose seams carefully for the visual impact. They may be wildly or gently shaped curves.

Activity on the Material

To begin, I choose  the fabrics with movement in mind. I look for interestingly curved shapesthat are part of the fabric’s design. When I cut them up, they add interest and drama. They catch the eye and draw it in.

When I first selected this fabric of elongated greyhound dogs, I  didn’t even notice the dogs just the colors and the shapes. I couched threads, rotated the fabric and then sliced the fabric into usable  pieces. The shape of the animals disappeared yet the movement of their bodies remained. Other fabrics provide a pop of action to the piece. Creating the illusion of movement is an essential part of my abstract art quilts.

grey and black dogs
Greyhounds with some couching of yarn
black and white branches on an indigo died background
Skyward, the finished art quilt

Couching Decorative Threads

Couching decorative threads is another technique that is  an essential part of my tool box. I sew multiple colored threads or yarns on to a strip of fabric. Then I cut them up into random lengths and use them as fabric. At first,the main purpose was to add texture to my pieces. Yet, sewing the threads in undulating parallel lines creates the slightest of distortion and movement.

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
Long strips of cotton with the threads couched on them.
An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
Winter Sunset, the finished piece

Adding Tucks

Adding tucks is another technique that started out as a way to add texture to a piece.  However, movement was created at the same time.  Tucks are small seams that run along the folded edge of fabric. When quilting over a series of parallel tucks they are folded up or down. This creates an illusion of movement.

green and teal art quilt with a pop of magenta
Upwelling , Tucks run the width of several pieces to create movement.

Using the Design Wall

I create my abstracts on a design wall. I take time to balance the colors, fabrics, and quiet spaces for eyes to rest. Looking at the piece with fresh eyes may take several days or longer before sewing all the pieces together. Abstract artists have the added benefit of being able to rotate the completed piece. They check to see if viewing the piece from another direction it may actually improves it. It just might happen. Just because it was conceived and executed in one direction doesn’t mean that it cannot look better “upside down.”

Creating Movement While Quilting

In addition,  the quilting process adds movement. I begin quilting in the middle of the piece making basically a large grid about 5” apart. Then the fun begins. I start quilting from corner to corner gently turning the fabric slightly side to side as I quilt. The thread line creates the movement.  If the thread color contrasts with the fabric color, then the threads stand out. When the thread color matches the fabric, the thread may seem to disappear, yet the movement remains on a more subtle level. Many viewers look closer to try and understand how that affect can be.

an abstract art quilt using African fabrics
Mossy Rocks, an art quilt

“It Dances.”

A former colleague of mine made an unsolicited comment about my work, “It dances.” Her remark touched me on several levels. Years earlier she admitted that she had no interest in attending an art quilt show. So when I heard her comment, I felt that I had truly opened her eyes to a new art form.

The Importance of Movement in Art Quilts

As you can tell movement in an art quilt is important to me. Yet not all art quilters share my view. A trend in quilting art quilts seems to be creating as many stitching lines on a piece as possible. These lines tend to be straight lines with about ¼” spacing . They may turn at sharp corners.

Does your quilting squash your fabric?

While attending a recent national art quilt shows, I noticed that almost 75% of the quilts had such quilting. I admit that such narrow line quilting may be effective for some pieces. The skill level is high for the artists that work that way. However, this style makes me cringe. Squashing and smashing the fabric into flat controlled pieces actually saddens me.Such tight stitching suffocates the fabric preventing it from moving or breathing.

In Conclusion

I create movement  in several ways in my abstract art pieces. Some pieces of fabric are chosen based on their design element of movement. Couching decorative threads and tucks into gently waving lines adds subtle movement. Pieces are sewn together in a curve line piecing technique. Finally the artist generates wavy lines all over the piece quilting the three layers of fabric together.

Other resources that you may be interested in.

You may be interested in finding out more about the Artist Conference Network. It is an artist driven organization supporting artists as their more towards their artistic goals. Groups meet periodically to share and review each artist’s goals.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/04/scribble-quiltin…rt-2-the-process/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/04/scribble-quilting/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/06/couching-threads…d-creating-fabri/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/01/couching-zigzag-…-to-art-quilts-2/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

New Kind of Talk-Pechakucha Laser Talk

Spring Break, 32" x32", $695.
Pechakucha laser talk
Spring Break, 32″ x 32″

Pechakucha Laser Talk

First of all,I prepared this Pechakucha laser talk in anticipation of presenting it at an art quilt meeting. The Pechakucha,a Japanese word for chitchat. To clarify it is a format that gives a speaker a limited amount of time to discuss a topic. For example, I would have 4 minutes to present a limited  number of photos to on one topic. At the same time,numerous presenters of a variety of topics are able to share.  That is to say that I prepared to discuss my passion for making art quilts from redirected materials.  Moreover,FABMO, a local nonprofit is where I get my materials from. http://fabmo.org

My Art Quilt World

To begin,I do nature art quilts, abstracts and Mexican inspired fabric collages. Furthermore, I am very passionate about using redirected materials and threads to keep them out of the landfill. My inspiration comes from the materials I find at FABMO . I have been a volunteer there for many years. To clarify,I  brought photos from three pieces that I completed recently to present at this Pechakucha laser talk. So I could share the process with you.

Spring Break, an art quilt

Blues , greens and light colors on a piece of linen,Pechakucha laser talk
Paisley pattern on linen

First I choose the fabric, Here is the material  I started with. I liked the variety of color and decided to use the colors as a basis of an abstract art quilt.

green and blue pieces of fabric on a design wall,Pechakucha laser talk
Step 1 Beginning to place pieces on the design wall randomly

Next, I couched decorative threads and yarns with the idea of making interesting details. Then I cut up the strips randomly to use as fabric.  Following that trying out other fabrics on the design wall.You can see several examples of redirected couched ribbon and yarn on different colored fabric.

Blue, yellow and green fabrics with ribbon and yarn couched on it,Pechakucha laser talk
Pechakucha laser talk

Finally,the completed piece using scribble quilting. Scribble quilting moves the quilt side to side while quilting to create flowing lines of sewing.

Skyward, an art quilt

grey and black dogs,Pechakucha laser talk
Greyhounds
Black and grey dogs on a white background,Pechakucha laser talk
Greyhounds in another direction

Originally, I chose this FABMO fabric for the movement and stark lines. But when choosing the fabric,I didn’t even noticed the dogs. They were not of interest for me. First,I began to couch green and black threads.

Redirected yarn is couching on the black and white material,Pechakucha laser talk
Here, I zigzagged a variety of colors.

Then,I continued  couching other  colored threads.  Some of these threads were light blue but read more like grey against the light grey part of the fabric.

Black and white fabric cut into form branches on a blue sky ,Pechakucha laser talk
Can you believe that the tree is made from the same material?

Finally, I was ready to use the fabric to create tree branches. Using the fabric layering technique,I laid the back fabric down on the table.Of course the back is also another piece of material from FABMO. I covered it with batting and I laid an indigo dyed piece on top for  the sky background.

Completed piece of black and white branches on a sky blue background.Pechakucha laser talk
The finished art quilt just showed the tree tops.

The finished piece,Skyward,succeeds in its interplay of light and dark on the branches. On the other hand,one doesn’t notice the dogs at all.

Under the Shady Tree, an art quilt

A leafy tree leans over a fence.
The finished art quilt, Under the Shady Tree made from redirected materials.

Next is the finished piece of under the Shady Tree.  Aficionados of redirected materials may recognize the fence fabric. To clarify, I used the fabric layering technique.

Tree branches with leaves fallingPechakucha laser talk
Unusual materials can be used in unique ways.

Furthermore,notice several leaves with bluish and gold colors. To be clear,I used a multicolored synthetic knit that kept rolling up in other projects. I couched it to help it lay flat. Then I cut it into leaves.

tree branches against a beige background
a different view

Last but not least,Shiny sheer fabrics add interest.

Multicolored threads around the base of the tree,Pechakucha laser talk
Take apart details and see what interesting fibers one can find.

Creating Texture

Moreover,texture is created by taking apart fabric details. They can be used as bunches of threads to add interest. One can also find decorative threads,ribbon and small cording . Lastly, I laid it on the foreground , covered it with tulle netting and free motioned quilted the three layers together.

To sum up,I am all about color, texture, and movement which I create using redirected materials. Thank you for letting me share some of my recent works with you.

In conclusion, learn more about these techniques.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/03/fabric-layering-technique-another-look/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/04/wacky-fun-quilting-again/

To learn or refresh your memory about this all volunteer organization you may read the following article.
https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/12/the-amazing-stor…a-big-difference/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/12/coming-into-my-own-as-an-art-quilter/

http://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2018/11/use-redirected-fabric-in-art-quilts/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

How to Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts

Kelp Dwellers 25″ x 25″ A piece of multicolored blue sheer fabric is a perfect background for this underwater fantasy.

Use Redirected  Fabric in Art Quilts

Redirecting materials inspire.


Use redirected fabric in art quilts to design something new  and inspire yourself to create. I find unique fabrics not like those sold in a regular quilt store among redirected materials.

Discontinued fabric from a decorator’s studio

A sample of linen fabric from a decorator’s studio  becomes the main design element with the addition of zigzagged or couched yarn. The colors; black, white,, and grey attracted me before I saw that this linen actually had greyhound dogs printed on it. My fondness for dogs aside, I didn’t want the dogs to stand out. I  accomplished this by rotating the fabric and couching yarn to it. Next, I cut the fabric into twigs and branches to suggest tree tops. Then, I placed the branches on a sky blue indigo fabric background to complete the art quilt.

Friends’ Suggestions

Although dyeing fabric is a great way to redirect materials, it is a bit too messy for my situation. But many of my fabric friends have done it.  The sheet that the dyed fabrics are wrapped  in to carry home often is colored in an interesting way . Thanks to that warning, I was prepared when I recently took an indigo dyeing workshop. The background fabric for the sky was indeed the bedsheet  that had used to carry my other dyed pieces home.

The Process-


First,I choose the fabric. I liked the way the curved lines of the dogs’s backs created movement on the fabric.

grey and black dogs, Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts
Greyhounds on linen

Next,I choose the yarn colors that I wanted to use, grey, green, and black yarn. I couched the yarns with matching threads so that the sewing threads wouldn’t stand out.

black grey and white fabric with green and black yarn ,Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts
Black, grey, and white fabric with green and black yarn couched yarn

Next,I continued adding  yarn curving it as I zigzagged(couched) it onto the linen.

More beige, grey, black and white yarn couched onto the fabric

Then,with more yarn, it is more difficult to identify the dogs.

Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts
The dogs disappear.

Continuing,I kept adding more yarn and zigzagging it down. For thicker lines, I wrapped 3 pieces of yarn together.

Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts
I add more lines of yarn by zigzagging them with matching thread.
Different view of the fabric with threads couched

Ready to cut the Fabric into Branches

Finally, with this fabric, I cut out the tree branches,twigs and sticks. I put the backing fabric flat on the table. Then I added the batting on top.  Then I added indigo dyed fabric for the background. Next, I basted them with a touch of glue. I assembled the tree on top and basted  it.

Use Redirected Fabric in Art Quilts
black and white branches on an indigo died background

Lastly,I covered the finished top with tulle and free motion quilted the layers together. I finished the edges by adding a 2″ facing folding it to the back and hand stitching it. Finally, I sew a fabric sleeve or tube   onto the top back for hanging with a dowel and fishing line.

You may be interested in this previous blog post as well.
https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/zig-zagging-yarn-to-create-fabric/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/01/creating-movement-in-abstract-art-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/03/using-discontinued-fabrics/

The completed piece of  art  is totally  made from redirected materials; linen and backing material from the San Francisco Design Center, redirected yarn from my sister-in-law, redirected tulle from a wedding, and redirected background indigo fabric from a bedsheet. My heart’s desire is complete;making beautiful art from repurposed materials.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

I Love Mistakes-Learn from Them.

We all make mistakes but then learn from them. I Love Mistakes-Learn from them. I would like to share some mistakes that I have learned from. All mistakes are not bad. Errors are often touted as being something to avoid. Keeping one’s mind open can lead to embrasing errors  as a good discovery. Postits and the microwave oven, for example, were originally mistakes.

grasses in the wetlands with a moon overhead,Mistakes that I have Not Regretted
Grasses in the wetlands with a moon overhead

A Fabric Layering Technique Example

While working on a wetlands fabric layering piece, some fabric  turned under at the top. This unexpectedly added movement and  added interest  to the marsh. I continued doing it and added it to my toolbox. I Love Mistakes. Learn from them.

An Abstract Example

One example is how I discovered a signature detail of mine by mistake. When working on  abstract pieces, I generally first pull out all of the possible fabrics within my chosen range of colors. A particular  color was missing. Not finding a bigger amount, I solved my problem by sewing  some small pieces together at odd angles to make a large enough piece of material. It pleased me,I liked the way it looked.

I Love Mistakes-Learn from them.

This example is how I discovered a signature detail of mine by mistake. I started to do it more. sewing small pieces of fabric together (about 1-1 1/2″ long) that had been trimmed off other pieces. Not wanting to waste any fabric anyway, I now often include some small pieces sewn together  to each of  my abstracts. I is now  my signature detail.

greys,pinks and purple fabric in this abstract,Mistakes that I have Not Regretted
Greys,pinks and purple fabric in this abstract art quilt

Tension Takes Over

Another example is the day the tension on my  machine seemed to have  a mind of its own.   The sewing  machine started to pull the bobbin thread from the bottom up to the top of the fabric. Stitches looked like dots. I liked the effect. I tried it using different colored threads. Using a cream colored fabric,I preferred a black thread on the bobbin(bottom) and a cream colored thread for the top. I adjusted the tension so that the bottom thread would pull up and create dots .

Knots, art quilts with fibers
white fabric with black thread pulling to the top
stitches with poor tension
decorative stitches created by black thread being pulled to the top of white fabric
Knots, detail showing stitching with poor tension
Knots, detail 2

In Conclusion

Keep an open mind  towards mistakes. Are they interesting? Do they make your piece more  interesting? Then accept your mistake. Learn to love and accept mistakes.Learn from them. Add the technique to your toolkit and use it. Embrace  new discoveries.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/09/inspiration-from-one-fabric/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/product/grey-laotian-reverse-applique/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

See A New Abstract Art Quilt Work in Progress

Winter Sunset greys,pinks and purple fabric in this abstract art quilt.

Abstract Art Quilt Work in Progress

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
Winter Sunset, An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors,the finished piece

Abstract Art Quilt Work in Progress, Winter Sunset

This work in progress shows the steps I follow to create an abstract piece of art. Designing my abstract art quilts begins with choosing a group of colors. Inspiration for this quilt came from the greys and pinks of a winter sunset. I pick the decorative threads that I want to work with. I choose fabric that fits into the shades of colors that I chose. This time I want the colors to blend together and hardly be noticeable. Look for the green marbled fabric I added for that purpose. Choosing mnaterials from my stash is my favorite part of the creaive process.

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
1. Yarn and decorative threads for couching.
An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
2.I begin to choose fabrics.

Couching Decorative Threads and Yarns

Couching decorative threads and yarns to a long strip of fabric is fun. I  use little pieces that might otherwise be thrown away. Each person’s eyes will blend the colors together differently. Then I randomly cut up the strips to use as fabric. I place the fabric on the design wall. Then I move the pieces  around until I like it.

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
Long strips of cotton with the threads couched on them.
An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
I cut up the long strips. They are ready to be used as fabric.
An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
I place them on my design wall.

Keep Colors and Textures Balanced.

Beginning  to sew the pieces together, I  keep my eye out  to make sure that the balance of the colors and textures is good.

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
I start to add the other fabrics.
An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
8. I added more fabric.

I keep adjusting the fabrics adding and subtracting fabrics as I go. Until I get it just right in my eye’s mind.I begin sewing small pieces together.

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
I sew more pieces of fabric together.

I continue sewing pieces pieces together. Here you can tell that the pieces are getting larger.

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors

I moved some other pieces around. Sewing together continued. I finished sewing or piecing the top together.. The quilt sandwich has the top, the batting and the backing fabric pinned together to quilt.

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
done

I use my wacky fun scribble quilting technique to quilt the three layers together  creating an added level of movement. Scribble quilting is a technique I named. I  move the quilt side to side while quilting with a walking foot.

An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors
Winter Sunset, An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colorsthe finished piece

You may be interested in reading more at Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) website.

http://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/06/abstract-art-in-fabric/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

Try Something New. Bring Your Bravery!

Sunlit Boulders,art quilt
Bring Your Bravery! Auditioning fabrics on my design wall, browns greens, beiges
Photo 1  Auditioning fabrics on my design wall

Bring Your Bravery! Be Brave!

A main motivation of mine besides making stunning art is to reuse materials. Pieces of yarn and decorative threads that some people may discard become unique design elements. I couch (zigzag) them on a strip of fabric, cut them and use as fabric. Yet, sometimes there are decorative threads that one just has to buy. There is one like that in this piece. The ribbon alternates rusty orange and green with 3D native inspired tied knots. Bring Your Bravery! Be Brave!

Choosing Colors- Be Brave!

Choose your color scheme. I recommend three to four colors. Sort hues from light to dark in the same shades. Be brave. Experiment with different colors on your design wall. Don’t be afraid to eliminate fabrics.  Start with more material than you think you might need. Include one bright fabric that makes the piece pop.

Creating Details Bring Your Bravery! Be Brave!

Couch (zigzag) decorative threads on 5”wide strips of cotton. Try something new. Bring Your Bravery! Be Brave! Emphasize the art element of line by couching with thread that matches the yarn to make the sewing thread disappear. Double or triple the ply for a thicker line. Repeat four to six times using different colors and types of decorative threads.  Couch the decorative threads fairly close together about 1/8-1/4 inch apart. Leave a 1” space on each side of the fabric strip. This gives you flexibility. You can always make it smaller.

Tucks add texture.

Bring Your Bravery! Be Brave! Tucks add texture. Fold a 12” length or longer strip of fabric wrong sides together to create a fold. Stitch 1/8” or 1/4” close to the fold edge. Choose your thread to blend into the fabric or to stand out as a design element.    Make 3-5 tucks on the same strip of fabric. Remember to save room for the seam allowance on the sides. Press to lay flat. Cut up the strips into 4”- 8”pieces. Balance their placement on the design wall.

Temporarily Mark your Design Wall

Plan to make your finished artwork about 24”square.  Mark with pins the approximate size of your finished piece on the design wall as a guideline. Remember when you are putting fabric on the design wall, the finished product will be smaller. Start with fabric pieces that are a bit larger.

Bring Your Bravery!Small strips are being sewn together.
Photo 2 Small strips are being sewn together.

Place the Pieces Randomly

So, you have assembled your own “fabric” with couched decorative threads and tucks. Now it is time to mix those fabrics with others on the design wall. Bravely put the pieces up randomly and start to move the pieces around to see what goes together. What fabrics jump out at you?

Almost all squared up. Most pieces sewn together
Photo 3 Almost all squared up.

Balance the  Fabrics

Limit those to an odd number of them. Balance the different fabrics making sure that they are spread out evenly over the top. Beginners might choose to piece their top using straight lines up and down. Placing the pieces on a diagonal adds interest.  A diagonal quilt will go past the guideline pins and be trimmed into a rectangular or square.

quilt sandwich, the three layers are put together
step 4 quilt sandwich
Golds, greens and yellow fabric highlight this Native American inspired art quilt
step 5 Sunlit Boulders,art quilt, completed

Sew As You Go

Show courage. Sew, cut and move fabric around the design wall. Keep cutting and sewing pieces together until it pleases you. The top doesn’t need to be totally finished to start to sew. Sew straight or curved line seams. Continue to sew pieces together into about 8” strips. Pin them to the design wall either in straight lines or on a diagonal. Allow time for this process. Trust yourself.

A “Painful” Time

This can be a “painful” time for an artist, if the piece isn’t coming together as one wishes it would. I find that if I don’t like a part, it gets more interesting after I cut it up and rearrange the pieces. Leave items on the design wall and return later to look at the piece with fresh eyes.
Complete sewing the top when you are happy with it. Prepare the quilt sandwich and quilt. Scribble Quilting is fun and adds movement to your piece. Whichever way you quilt your piece, you will have an artful abstract art quilt as testament to your bravery.

About the Author

Ann Baldwin May lives in Santa Cruz, California. In 2012, she retired after teaching elementary school for 36 years. She has won  several awards for her work. She participates in the juried Santa Cruz County Open Studios Art Tour from her studio in the Santa Cruz Art Center.  May is a member of SAQA( Studio Art Quilter Associates). Contact her at baldwinmay49@yahoo.com or www.annbaldwinmayartquilts.com. Or visit her Etsy shop at annbmayartquilts.etsy.com

Directions for Curved Line Piecing-optional

Lay two pieces of 5” cotton squares on top of each other right sides up on the cutting mat. Cut a slightly curved line through both fabrics with a rotary cutter. There will be four pieces. The top of one fabric will fit the bottom of the other fabric like two puzzles pieces making the original square. Take those two pieces that fit together and sew right sides together with a ¼” seam. Only the part of the fabric going through the foot will line up to a ¼” seam due to the curve. Slightly adjust the top fabric as you move them both through the foot. Press open. This technique is very forgiving. You will be amazed at your curved line. Practice making curves of different widths.

Advice for Beginners

Let each person’s eye see the hues in their own way. Let go of controlling the way the colors mix together. The color of thread changes depending on the color of the fabric that it is sewn on. The color of the fabric is influenced by the color it is next to.

When I started making art quilts, I had a lot of experience sewing clothes and bed quilts. I would think of how a traditional quilter would do something and then I would choose to do it differently.

Consider expanding your stash to include a wider range of shades and hues.

Tips

It is imperative to be cautious with certain aspects of our lives, but cutting up fabric is not one of those times.

Create texture by including fabrics other than 100% cotton. While a variety of fabric adds interest, provide some solid fabrics as a needed resting spot for one’s eyes.

Include a bit of fabric that will pop. Shiny synthetics work well for this.

Supplies and Materials

Rotary blade, cutting matt, design wall(white flannel thumbtacked to the wall)
sewing machine, batiks, found threads(decorative threads, yarns, rickrack, colored string, synthetic raffia), a variety of small pieces of cotton fabrics(fat quarter or smaller), fabrics of different textures (optional), thread, batting, cotton backing fabric, scissors, walking foot for quilting.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/press-coverage/

http://Art Quilting Studio Magazine, Fall issue, 2018.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/06/abstract-art-in-fabric/

Challenge Yourself!Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Along the Path

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement! appeared in Art Quilting Studio, Summer edition, 2018. Ann Baldwin May is having Fun With Color!Texture! Movement! in each of her art quilts.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/press-coverage/

fabric teal colored tree with leaves falling and rocks at foot of the treeFun With Color!Texture! Movement!
Along the Path
Fun With Color!Texture! Movement!
detail,Along the Path, art quilt

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Having Fun With Color!Texture! Movement! will show the steps  needed to add color,texture andmovement to art quilts using the fabric layering technique.

Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!
GETTING STARTED

The fabric layering technique makes it easy to have Fun With Color!Texture! Movement! to your art quilts. Begin by laying the back cotton fabric on a table. Choose a size that will easily fit on your work table.  A square or rectangle about 15”-20” is a good start. Press the fabric to lay flat. Cover with batting which should also lay flat. Don’t worry if the edges don’t exactly line up, they will be trimmed later.  Next, choose a fairly neutral background fabric or fabrics. Overlap the fabrics about an inch. If the fabrics shift during quilting, the batting won’t show. Cut a meandering line to look  like rolling hills on the edge of the top fabric. Lightly baste with a glue stick.

Choose your Colors Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Fun With Color!Texture! Movement!
detail of Along the Path

Choose your colors adding a range of hues from light to dark as well as colors that contrast. Play with the colors to see what you like. Be ready to eliminate those that really don’t work.  Go for an impressionistic view rather than a picture perfect trunk, leaf, or branch. Each viewer’s eye will blend the colors uniquely.

Start Large to Small

When beginning to create the scene, start with the largest part and work to the smallest. Cut out the tree trunk and add branches as you go. Flip the fabric and use the backside to add dimension. When you have the tree the way you like it, lightly baste. Just baste in a few places not all over. Later on, if you  may want to slide a branch underneath and  you won’t be able to  if it is totally glued down.

  Add Details Having Fun With Color!Texture!Movement!

Add rocks to the foreground. Choose fabric that will work for you to add texture. Avoid fabrics that have rocks printed on them. I chose marbled fabric I bought at Pacific International Quilt Festival and a redirected fabric to add texture. You will notice that they are cut simply.  Lightly baste the rocks to the background.
For the medium sized branches, I couched (zigzagged) decorative threads and ribbons on to a multicolored piece of redirected linen. Then I cut the branches out. I lay them on the piece balancing out the colors. Crossing branches adds interest and movement. Keep going until the scene is pleasing to you. Baste lightly.

Along the Path,detail

Leaves Add Interest

Working on the leaves is so much fun. Gather contrasting and blending colors. Make the leaves about
3”-4”   varying the shape and size. Small scrap pieces are all that are needed. Pay attention to balancing the placement of the colors . Reflective, shiny sheer fabrics add a pop to the leaves. Save them for the top for the greatest effect. If you choose to have the leaves stick out from the edge, make those leaves  ½” bigger for ease of zigzagging. During the final trimming you can adjust the leaf lines by cutting  before zigzagging. Lightly baste leaves in place. Your art quilt will also be successful if you decide to make the edges straight .

The Beginning of the End

When your artist’s eye says that the scene is complete, cover with tulle. Make sure that the tulle is 2 “ longer on all sides. It can pull  a bit during quilting. Pin the tulle down making sure that it is flat but not stretched.  Use a lot of straight pins; remove as you quilt. As with other quilting techniques, begin in the middle of the piece and quilt outward. Edges may be rolled to accommodate the machine’s space.

Helpful Hints

Beginners will have success stitching along the edges of the branches, following the lines of the fabric. More experienced quilters can add movement by quilting lines resembling slanting plants. Choose a thread color that blends with the background.  I highly recommend Aurifil  thread for successful free motion quilting. Trim the edges and zigzag two times. Press lightly with a pressing cloth or piece of fabric. Add a sleeve to the back to hang. Stand back and admire!

Everyone Starts Somewhere.

Several years ago I began my path from traditional quilts to art quilts. I took a class in the fabric layering technique from the award winning, Meri Vahl (meriartquilts.com). Meri had learned the technique from Northern California artist, Laura Fogg(laura-fogg.squarespace.com).The technique  allows for  much personal creativity; none of our work  looks similar. I was inspired to create a tree with leaves overflowing the edges as I have sold five pieces to the new Kaiser Permanente Facility in Scotts Valley and WEatsonville, California.   A change in color scheme keeps all of my trees unique.

Important Materials

quality scissors; large and small, sewing machine, darning /free motion foot, walking foot for zigzagging, rotary cutter, cutting board, plastic see through quilting ruler, cotton fabric for backing, tulle, synthetic fabrics, redirected materials, commercially marbled fabric, sheers, batiks, Aurifil thread,  Avery glue stick, pressing cloth ( to protect tulle and synthetics from melting when being pressed),a pointed wooden stick , straight quilting pins(They are longer than sewing pins.)

Tips

  • Leave a 1-2” empty back ground space on the sides of your piece. Then when trimmed your art doesn’t lose any interesting parts.
  • A light colored tulle will be best for your first project. I personally am not fussy about the color of tulle I use.
  • This technique is a forgiving way to practice free motion quilting. Before I learned this technique, I was ready to give up with free motion quilting in frustration. Lower or cover your feed dogs. Put your stitch length at 0. Use the darning/free motion foot with Aurifil thread. Push foot pedal control fast while slowly moving/quilting the layers of fabric.( Fast foot ,slow hand) Aurifil thread is available at most quilting stores. It appears more expensive but it really isn’t.  I pieced and quilted a queen sized quilt of many seams with one spool.
  • Throwing the leaves onto the scene adds movement. Free yourself from cutting out perfectly formed leaves.
  • Use a large straight pin like a hat pin to get the tiniest dab of glue on the tip and gently slide under the fabric to be basted. I use a wooden stick similar to an emery stick to help me gently nudge the pieces of fabric to where I want them to be.

Advice for Beginners

I come from the world of  bed quilts. The basic sewing skills used in traditional quilting are fundamental for most art quilting. However the “Quilting Rules” can be left behind. Buying patterns, pressing seams and matching seams are a few of those rules I have freed myself from. Give yourself permission to try something new, be it a color combination or creating your own designs. Listen to yourself. Take baby steps. You decide if you like your work or not. If not, change it. There is no wrong way to do it. Many art workshops or seminars begin with activities to get people in touch with one’s creative side.

Along the Path
Along the Path

About the Author

Ann Baldwin May lives in Santa Cruz, California. In 2012, she retired after teaching elementary school for 36 years. She began quilting in the 1970s. Ms. May participates in the juried Santa Cruz County Open Studios Art Tour from her studio in the Santa Cruz Art Center. She recently sold five tree art quilts to Kaiser Permanente for their facilities in Santa Cruz County, California. May is a member of SAQA( Studio Art Quilter Associates). Contact her at baldwinmay49@yahoo.com or www.annbaldwinmayartquilts.com. Or visit her Etsy shop at https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/01/creating-movement-in-abstract-art-quilts/

https://stampington.com/art-quilting-studio-summer-2018/

Step By Step Instructions to Make an Abstract Art Quilt

Step By Step Instructions to Make an Abstract Art Quilt

This work in progress shows the step by step instructions to make this abstract art quilt, Sunlit Boulders. Featured in Art Quilting Studio Magazine, Fall issue, 2018.

Step By Step Instructions for an abstract art quilt, browns, greens, yellow and batiks with a sourthwest feel.
Sunlit Boulders 31″ h x 28″w

 Inspiration and Adjustments

Sunlit Boulders is an art quilt with curved line piecing, Scribble Quilting and couched decorative yarns and threads. My first intention was  to highlight the Native American batik shown on the left on the first photo. As I chose different fabrics, I decided that I would minimize their use.  I removed more of that fabric. I was happier with the way it looked. It’s okay to change ideas in midproject if it doesn’t look or feel right to you. Follow these step by step instructions to make your own abstract art quilt. It will be uniquely yours.

Step By Step Instructions,Photo 1. gathering fabrics
Photo 1. gathering fabrics

Photo 1

I am auditioning fabrics that complement and contrast with the batik fabric. Using  strips of fabric, I couch(zigzag) a variety of decorative threads and yarns to the strips. I cut the strips apart into varying lengths without much forethought.

Photo 2. Trying out fabrics.
Photo 2. Trying out fabrics.

Photo 2


I am still auditioning fabric. I included some pieced strips left over from a previous project. Notice that I  eliminated the reddish fabric.

Photo 3. Begin to sew smaller pieces together.
Photo 3. Begin to sew smaller pieces together.

Photo 3

I start to cut up the strips of couched yarns to add to the quilt. I am trying out where I like the pieces, moving them around. Dark strips frame the piece. I begin to sew some pieces together. Figures from the batik stand out enough.

Step By Step Instructions. Sew pieces together. Move to a different spot to create balance of fabric and color.
photo 4 Sew pieces together. Move to a different spot to create balance of fabric and color.

Photo 4

Tucks are  add texture. Notice that I moved some pieces  around. I do more sewing of pieces  together.

Step By Step Instructions,photo 5. I find problems are solved by cutting up fabric into a smaller piece.
photo 5. I find problems are solved by cutting up fabric into a smaller piece.

Photo 5

I am not afraid to cut up fabric. I can always use the fabric at a later date for a different project. More tucks are added to fabrics. I eliminated some batiks symbols.

Step By Step Instructions,Photo 6. All sewn together.
Photo 6. All sewn together.

Photo 6

All pieced together and ready for batting and backing.

Step By Step Instructions,Photo 7. A quilt sandwich when the top, the batting and the backing is ready to be quilted.
Photo 7. A quilt sandwich when the top, the batting and the backing is ready to be quilted.

Photo 7


Scribble Quilting is complete. Edges need to be trimmed and cut straight.

Photo 8 Finished.
Photo 8 Finished.

Photo 8

The finished art quilt represents my mantra of color, texture, and movement.

You may be interested in reading more.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/09/inspiration-from-one-fabric/

http://Inspiration from One Fabric

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/04/an-abstract-art-quilt-sunset-through-the-forest/

https://stampington.com/art-quilting-studio-autumn-2018/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/06/abstract-art-in-fabric/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/01/creating-movement-in-abstract-art-quilts/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

How One Fabric Inspired Me

Spring Break, 32" x32", $695.

Inspiration from One Fabric

This work in progress shows the steps I take to create this abstract contemporary art quilt. I draw inspiration from one fabric.

Color! Movement! Texture!

Color! Movement! Texture! are my main goals for my abstract art quilts. Color is where I begin. What colors do I want to work with? I found a piece of linen at Fabmo, a nonprofit that redirects materials from the San Francisco Design Center. I really liked the variety of colors and movement in this one piece. This fabric became my inspiration to find other fabrics and textures with the same colors for my abstract piece.

Inspiration from One Fabric

Oddly enough, several years ago four quilter friends and I  were having trouble choosing colors for a donation quilt we wanted to create together. One friend suggested that we find a fabric and choose the colors from that fabric. At the time I couldn’t quite wrap my head around what she was saying. However, when I saw this multicolored linen, I immediately understood what she had been trying to have us do. Sometimes it takes times for inspiration to happen.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2018/11/mistakes-that-i-have-not-regretted/

Inspiration from One Fabric
1. Inspiration from one piece of commercially producted fabric

Photo 1 Choosing the Fabric

First I choose the fabric I want to work with.  This one piece has so many different colors in it. Those are the colors that I want to work with. This is  when the fun begins. I go through my fabrics to find additional fabrics. I look for shades that are lighter and darker.At this step, I don’t reject much.

Photo 2

I chose these fabric from the stash that I had. Also I found decorative threads and yarns to add to some of  fabrics for interest.

Inspiration from one fabric
2.  Here are the fabrics I chose from my stash.

photo 3 Inspiration from One Fabric

I place small pieces of fabric on my design wall. I move them around before sewing them together. Then I start to sew smaller  pieces together. I make sure that colors, textures and similar pieces are equally balanced around the piece. Does your eye have a place to rest? Are there too many colors in one area? Time to adjust before the whole piece is sewn together.

3. Spring Break

Photo 4 and photo 5

Here is a detail of the smaller pieces already sewn together.

4. A detail of the pieces sewn together
Inspiration from One Fabric
5. Another detail of the pieces sewn together

photo 6

6. Another detail of the pieces sewn together

photo 7

Inspiration from One Fabric
7. Here is the finished quilt, Spring Break.

Inspiration from one fabric helped me create this abstract art quilt. Hopefully, this step by step explanation will inspire you as well.

For more information on couching threads refer to my previous post.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/06/couching-threads…d-creating-fabri/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/07/using-fabrics-saved-for-a-long-time/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/10/step-by-step-instructions/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

Try a new Technique-Fabric Layering

The art quilt is completed.

Fabric Layering Technique of making Art Quilts

The fabric layering technique of making art quilts uses a  table rather than a design wall. In short, I create a scene and then cover it with tulle netting and free motion quilt the three layers(back, batting,top) together. I use this technique for my Nature portfolio; underwater fantasies, trees, landscapes. The photos in this post are of an underwater fantasy, more impressionistic than realistic.

To  Begin

To  begin, I choose the top fabric. I prefer to choose a fabric with some dimension already on it, light and dark spaces. If I choose a dark background, then I will choose lighter colored materials for my  plants, fish, rocks and other items . If I choose a lighter background, then I will choose darker color to create the scenery.

Step 1

The back fabric is flat on the table. A piece of batting is laid on top of that. You can see the white batting  hanging a bit over the edge. Then I laid a piece of moddled commercial fabric on top. The piece is about 14″ by 14″. I let the fabric’s different shades of coloring do part of the work in creating interest and depth in the piece. I lightly baste the layers together with an Avery glue stick.

step 1 in fabric layering technique for making art quilts
step 1 in fabric layering technique for making art quilts

Step 2

For this piece, I cut out light colored rocks and placed them in the foreground. I cut out irregularly shaped dots of different colored batik fabric for the jellies(formerly called jelly fish). I place the jellies as if they are swimming in the current. An art trick or rule is to have an odd number of items, three, five or nine objects.

step 2 in fabric layering technique for making art quilts
step 2 in fabric layering technique another look

Step 3

Next, I cut out plants and place them between the rocks. I add decorative threads for the tenacles of the jellies being aware of the movement of the water. When everything is in its place,I  baste the pieces in place with a light dab of glue. One can use different brands of glue. Test before hand that the glue does not discolor the fabric and make a mark after it has dried.

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Step 4

Next, I cover the scene with tulle netting and pin the tulle in place.

step 4 in fabric layering technique for making art quilts
step 4 in fabric layering technique another look for making art quilts

Step 5

Then,I free motion quilt the three layers together. I lower the feed dogs on my machine to allow me to move the piece however I want. The quilting  creates another level of movement.

step 5 in fabric layering technique for making art quilts
step 5 in fabric layering technique another look for making art quilts

Step 6

I finish the piece by zigzagging the edges twice. For larger pieces, I often attach a facing and turn it to the back and stitch by hand.

step 6 in fabric layering technique for making art quilts
step 6 in fabric layering technique another look for making art quilts

Here is a photo of the back of the piece where you can see the machine stitching easier.

the back of the piece fabric layering technique
the back of the piece fabric layering technique

Laura Fogg,https://laura-fogg.squarespace.com/ first developed this technique. I learned it from Meri Vahl, http://meriartquilts.com/meri-henriques-vahl/     who had learned it from Ms. Fogg.

A bit about Free Motion Quilting

Free motion quilting is at the apex of skill for quilters. The technique takes a lot of practice to master. Before I took Meri Vahl’s class, I had been practicing. To be honest, I was so frustrated that I had almost decided to give up. Luckily, I didn’t. The fabric layering technique is a forgiving way to practice the skill. I highly recommend it.

Here are my suggestions for success in free motion quilting.

  • Use Aurifil brand thread. It can be found in fine quilting shops or online. It is totally worth the higher price. The thread is strong yet thin. I once pieced and quilted a double sized bed quilt using only one spool.
 Aurifil thread 50wt
Aurifil thread 50wt

“Fast feet, slow hands.” This is the mantra for free motion quilting. This means that one pushes the pedal of their machine so that the throttle goes quickly. With the feed dogs down, the quilter slowly  moves the quilt with her hands. This does take a fair amount of practice.Practice using the fabric layering technique. Begin by outlining your figures with the free motion quilting.

Have fun practicing with this technique! Let me know how it goes for you! I hope you have as much fun as I do using this technique.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/04/marine-life-in-art-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/08/add-sheer-fabrics-to-create-a-surprise/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/03/fabric-layering-technique-another-look/

http://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2018/06/video-of-art-display-2/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/04/birds-in-art-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/01/frequently-asked-questions/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/some-newer-pieces-2020-2021/

One Way to Add Texture to an Art Quilt

Long strips of cotton with the threads couched on them.

Introduction

Yarn Adds Texture to an Art Quilt

Use yarn to create fabric to add texture to an art quilt. I zigzag or couch multiple pieces of yarn on strips of  100% cotton. Then I cut them up and use the pieces  as fabric in my art pieces. Decorative threads can also be used.

brightly colored yarn
Yarn I inherited from my mother.

My First Inspiration

I have several small spools of yarn I inherited from my mother.   Their bright colors attracted me. I don’t know what my mother had used them for. I wanted them for something,although I didn’t know for what. They languished in my studio for a long time before a perfect use came up.

My Second Inspiration

Several years back at a large quilt show, I saw a piece that had a large amount of yarn jammed on top into big blob. To be honest, I didn’t like effect at all. But it gave me the idea to use  yarn in a more orderly fashion. I stumbled upon a way to create more  texture for my pieces.

Materials


First, I  chose the colors that I want to use in my art quilt. I go through my box of decorative threads and yarns looking for yarn with texture and complementary shade of color. Using a long strip of cotton fabric, 20”-40” long and 5” to 6” wide, I begin.  Other backings like ribbon didn’t work well as it was slippery and was not easy to sew with. I zigzag(couch) the yarn to the cotton strip.  I  prefer to match the sewing thread color to the yarn as that the color of the yarn stands out more; the stitching appears invisible. But that is a personal choice one can make.

Suggestions


Don’t worry about the lines being straight.
A thin piece of yarn can be doubled or tripled to become thicker .
Vary your use of threads  for texture.
Remember to leave space for the 1/4″seam allowance.
Don’t sew too close to the side edges of the cotton fabric.

zigzagging threads
Next,various strips of cotton with yarn and decorative threads zigzagged on them.
Then,long strips of cotton with the yarn couched on them.

More Suggestions

Sometimes I keep the threads straight and sometimes I cross one thread on top of another.  I like the movement this creates on my art quilts. Overthinking this process is not necessary. I find it fun and relaxing. If things don’t turn out as I would like then I can just save the piece for another project.  After 5 or 6 pieces of yarn have been couched, then I randomly cut them into pieces to use as fabric.

couching decorative threads
Sometimes I use linen with a slight design on it for added texture.
Finally,I cut up the long strips. They are ready to be used as fabric.

Conclusion
It will be easy to find interesting yarns and decorative threads at flea markets or garage sales. There won’t be enough yarn for a scarf or a sweater but there will be more than enough for your couching projects.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/02/decorative-threads-add-texture/

http://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/02/the-making-of-an-abstract-quilt/

Looking for a Fun way to Quilt?

Spring Break, 32" x32", $695.

Scribble Quilting  is a  wacky fun way to quilt.  Are you stuck in stitch-in-the-ditch?  Are you a bit bored with straight line quilting?  Maybe it’s time for you to try Scribble Quilting. It is not hard at all. All you need to get started is a walking foot, a quilt sandwich ready to quilt and different colors of thread.I developed this technique because I was bored with other ways to quilt.Looking for a wacky fun variation to your quilting? Try Wacky Fun Scribble Quilting.

Waiting for the Roadrunner, green,gold and beige, 22" x 24" 56cm x 61cm
Waiting for the Roadrunner, 22″ x 24″ 56cm x 61cm

Artful and  Interesting

First  of all,Scribble Quilting is a colorful, artful and an interesting way to quilt. For example,the quilting thread lines cross each other; creating positive and negative space.  The sewing lines are the positive space. However,the negative spaces are the shapes created by the lines. Similarly, Lines undulate, curve and wave.  Do the lines you’ve made draw your eye in and keep your interest?

By Accident

Like many great ideas, Scribble Quilting was discovered by accident. Once while making a baby quilt,I decided to quilt curvy lines with my walking foot instead of straight ones. Furthermore, I used one of the built-in stitches on my sewing machine which made regular, gentle curves.  Soon, I wanted to make the curves wider.  Switching back to my usual straight stitch, I began gently moving the quilt from side to side by hand to make wider curves than my built-in stitch had allowed.  It was fun, and the lines looked more interesting.  I kept quilting, experimenting with contrasting thread colors. Subsequently,I currently finish  many of my art quilts this way.

Scribble Quilting

In addition,I named this technique Scribble Quilting. After art lessons were cut at in my elementary school classroom, I noticed that some students showed their frustration with what they considered unsuccessful art projects. After that, they would  scribble all over them with four or five different crayons.   It caught my attention. However,it looked like a party with confetti falling all over.  As I quilted my pieces, drawing lines with multiple colors and crossing over them repeatedly, it reminded me of scribbling.

Fun with Thread Color

Take this opportunity to have fun with thread color. Be aware that the thread color can appear different depending on what colors it is on or near.  Free yourself from perfectly matching the thread to the top fabric.   I found that even slight variations in the color of the quilting threads added subtle interest to a quilt top.

More color is more interesting. For example, I bought a spool of wacky fun chartreuse (yellow green) thread at a flea market several years ago.  I never wear this color and had not tried it in quilting. But this thread has become one of my favorites because of the way it plays with other colors.  It brightens green or black fabric.Yet, it often reads as yellow.  I encourage you to play with the thread to see how it changes, depending on the color of the fabric. Updated- Sometimes I use just one color of thread instead of more than one.

More Color is Better Except

More color is more interesting, with one exception. Thinking that variegated thread would be fun and wacky, I tried to use it. However, I personally was not satisfied with the results. I had no control over when the colors changed. It wasn’t fun when the bobbin thread didn’t match the top thread. Maybe this is just a personal choice on my part. Each quilter can make their own decisions.

Are you ready to start Scribble Quilting?

Begin each project by quilting straight lines about 5  inches (12cm) apart using a walking foot.  Stitch-in-the-ditch works well to hold the quilt sandwich together.  Remove the pins to avoid sewing over them.  After you’ve finished straight-line quilting to secure the quilt sandwich, change to another thread color.

Next,quilt several lines in one color. Spread the stitiching lines out across the quilt top.  As you sew from one edge of the quilt to the other,gently moving the quilt sandwich from side to side.  Change thread color and continue quilting. Make wider curves so that the quilting lines cross.  Keep quilting until the quilting is evenly space.  Are happy with the way the lines cross each other? if not, then do some more.

Instructions

1)       Prepare a quilt sandwich by pinning together the backing, batting and top (step 1).

step 1 of fun wacky quilting process
step 1 of scribble quilting process

2)      Decide where to start quilting.  In the beginning, it’s easiest to start on one side and go to the opposite side.

3)       Begin by using a walking foot to make straight lines of stitching about 5 inches 12 cm apart.  Stitch in the ditch if you want.  (step 2).

step 2 of quilting process straight line sewing on the quilt sandwich(3 layers)
step 2 of scribble quilting process

4)      Now begin sewing curved lines of quilting, still using a walking foot.  Begin curved quilting on the edge of the quilt, near the middle of one side.  Pull the quilt taut with both hands as you quilt.  Gently move the sandwich from side to side as the machine stitches.  Use your needle down position in case you have to stop.  Stop quilting to readjust the quilt sandwich.  Avoid jerky movements.  The quilting thread should form a smooth, flowing line (step 3).

step 3 offun wacky quilting process
step 3 of scribble quilting process

Problemsolving

If your line of stitches moves abruptly to one side, stop immediately.  Remove stitches until you have enough to thread a needle, then bury the threads in the batting.  Continue quilting, starting at the end of the line of stitching.  If you don’t want to stop or don’t notice the mistake until later, stitch another line of quilting which crosses the first line at the point where the mistake occurred (step 4).  This will make the mistake less noticeable.

step 4 of quilting process, curved line sewing
step 4 of scribble quilting process

5)       As you quilt, check the back of the sandwich to see if some areas need more quilting.  The quilting lines should be balanced from one area of the quilt to another (step 5).   Keep quilting until you like the way it looks.  If you’re not happy, add wavy lines in contrasting colors, crossing more lines of quilting.

step 5 of fun wacky quilting processm Adding more curvy sewing lines
step 5 of scribble quilting process

6)      Bind the quilt using your favorite technique.

Welcome to the joy of  Scribble Quilting! I hope that you enjoy using this wacky fun technique as much as  I do.

You may also be interested in these articles.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/04/an-abstract-art-quilt-a-work-in-progresssunset-through-the-forest/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/01/creating-movement-in-abstract-art-quilts/

http://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

http://www.saqa.com/

Discovering New Stitches

Tranquility with black stitches pulled through to the front before quilting.

New stitches can be found by accident. Mistakes can sometimes lead to a wonderful realization or improvement.

Discovering New Stitches by Mistake

Discovering New Stitches by Mistake, Tranquility, a pieced beige and brown art quilt
Tranquility, an art quilt with black stitches pulled through to the front before quilting.

The Tension was Off.

Tension is the balance between the top threads and the bottome threads on a sewing machine.A while back my 20 year old Huskavarna Lily was acting up. Out of the blue, the tension would change as I was sewing. The action pulled the bobbin thread through to the front (top) of the fabric. As annoying as this was, I liked the way the stitches looked. I was discovering new stitches quite by accident. Could I repeat the success of this stitch ?

Let me confess, that I am not a person who often uses all of the stitches that are available on my machine. I usually use the  zigzag stitch and one or two decorative stitches. I decided to fool around. How could I could use this “accidental stitch ” to my advantage? I wanted to  discover new stitches by mistake. Would it be a way to add interest to my art quilts?

Changing the Tension

I changed the tension to 8 or 9 high on my machine. with a black thread in the bobbin. The top thread I used matched the white or beige color of my fabric. At the time, I was doing Native American inspired quilts. Moreover,I felt the black dots on the top somehow seemed to work for me. The maximum contrast drew my attention. I also adjusted the stitch length and width  to make them as large as possible for maximum visibility. The results were pleasing.

In conclusion,errors can turn into serendipitous wonders if we keep our minds open to them. In the future, I should be more adventuous to change the tension and adjust more of my machines stitches.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/01/creating-movement-in-abstract-art-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/02/the-making-of-an-abstract-quilt/

http://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

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