I was able to spend a couple of hours today making a test of how the ghost orchid might look in applique. It comes out to about 14 x 18 inches, and there is more color and pattern in the fabrics than shows in the photo; colors lean more to greenish and yellowish whites too. I'm fairly satisfied with the shapes, but there would need to be more detail on petals and sepals, with more fabrics used and with machine embroidery. In addition, I have no idea of a composition for this thing, or not much idea anyway. I'll let this marinate for a while and then maybe do a test pieced block. I'm feeling less and less inclined for piecing though, since I don't think I can spend that much time. Thanks for everyone's comments and ideas.
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After posting, it is clear to me that this thing needs major jazzing up--different fabrics (which will mean shopping, I think), lots of interesting stitching, something. Insipid is the word that comes to mind. Oh, well--it's only a rough draft.
Rought draft or not great job! Fabric markers could be used for shading.
ReplyDeleteI think you are definitely on the right track; that is the most wonderful orchid shape, and I like the way you are using the fabric print for shading. Just take it a little further with the fabric colors, I think.
ReplyDeleteI think you can jazz it up with the quilting. I love its stunning simplicity, wouldn't change that.
ReplyDeleteI like how the negative and positive shapes play. I think you are right about using appliqué too. I'm afraid you would lose the fluid lines with piecing.
ReplyDeleteThe simlicity and fabulous shape are what make it tough to capture. Applique is the way and I think coloring with watercolor,colored pencils and possibly some micro-fine penwork will make it great. It's such a beautiful pastel and the shape is lovely. Go Kay!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with Rian. What you have here is elegant and spare. Some rich detail with the quilting will add interest without taking away from how ghostly beautiful this is.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Rian and Allison, it is simple and spare, which highlights the elegance of the shape.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't call it insipid at all, but I'm afraid I can't say here what I see when I look at it.
ReplyDeleteHave you ever seen Ammi Simms quilt of her shower curtain & the faucet? She pointed it out in a lecture once. There is an image that reminds me of it on your piece.
Congrats on the Grandboys! How exciting!