12/18/2020
stitching things together
I seem to be compelled to stitch things together, to join them page like.
I often find I have a lot of finished pieces lying around and that's when I decide they would be safer joined, attached to each other.
That's usually how a cloth sample book evolves.
The first image here shows the edge of the first two pieces which I am in the process of attaching with buttonhole stitch.
It's a momentous day today. My husband, a health care worker, a nurse gets his first Covid vaccine in an hour!
Maybe we can all start to breathe again soon.
12/16/2020
notebook inspiration
One of these little hand made notebooks has inspired this little bit of stitching onto silk.
The two new pieces on silk here appear to be morphing into pages. It's subconcious, pages, books, artist books must be in my DNA.
I particularly enjoyed stitching the row of web stitches which remind me of little 'iced gem' biscuits!
12/14/2020
white, lemon and silk
Embroidery, samples, hand stitching.....I'm relaxing a little with these whilst we have a break from Alchemy. I'm enjoying reconnecting with hand work, simple embroidery.
I love to work with paper as you know but that doesn't mean I have lost my love of cloth or simple, relaxing hand work.
It's a sample, purely a playful exercise, exactly the same relaxing and creative pastime as the pieces here.
12/12/2020
embroidered sample swatch collection
The third piece of my latest sample puzzle is now finished.
These three pieces form a very lovely collection of embroidered swatches, sample pieces.
In the creation of these I have used prairie points, scalloped edges, padded cloth, hexagons, numerous hand embroidery stitches, patterned fabric, plain fabric, applique, pleated and gathered fabric and ribbon. (I may have left something out of this list....but you get my drift)
I have taken a deep breath and decided to list this selection of fabric pieces in the shop as a 'collection'
You can see that here.
12/10/2020
Alchemy overview
I've been taking stock of my Alchemy work as we are just about to go into a break with class, resuming after Christmas.
I've been assessing what I have done up to now and what still needs to be done.
There is definitely a need to create lace cloth so I can continue my sampling. There is also an excuse for more paperwork, (I will slot that into the 'design' aspect of class.)
I also plan to continue work on my latest cloth book.
That should be enough to keep me out of trouble.
12/08/2020
needle and thread
This new hand embroidered cloth book is growing. You saw the first page here, this is page two, page three is in progress.
I said last time how I was really enjoying pure hand embroidery, needle, thread and cloth.
That's still the case, I feel like I am reconnecting.
12/06/2020
lace investigations
My tiny little ledger from Alchmey 2020 is getting fuller by the day.
It doesn't close properly. A good thing.
It falls open at random pages. A good thing.
There is paper and lace, there are doilies, pom poms and sequins.
There is a lot of hand embroidery.
It's a joy to work on these little pages.
12/03/2020
a flounce for an edge
The piece I showed you here is now finished. It's the first page of a new cloth sample book.
I have really enjoyed this hand work as for the past few months I have been focused on lace cloth and teaching design in Alchmeny 2020.
I'm enjoying it so much the second page is underway.
There is something very special about pure hand embroidery............just you and your needle.
12/01/2020
a new embroidered cloth book
In the last couple of posts I have been reacquainting myself with past work, mostly embroidered samples which live in hand stitched cloth books.
Looking at past work never fails to fire me up, to inspire and with that in mind I have begun another collection of pieces which when finished will be used to create a new hand embroidered cloth book.
This is the first piece.
I'm thinking these pages will be bound at the top.
That means I need to start thinking about headers too....
11/29/2020
cloth sample book
Going back to this post where I spoke about reacquainting myself with some 'old' work', this cloth book is one of those pieces.
As I also came across a few loose embroidered samples I thought now was the ideal time to place them safely into this piece.
A short video....
11/27/2020
just embroidery
For various reasons I am moving a few of my embroidered pieces to safer spaces temporarily.
That has given me a chance to revist them again.
I thought you might like to see some of these pieces too.
11/26/2020
11/24/2020
mini design explorations
These little pieces measure six by six inches and are an extension of the design work you can see here and here.
It's a really useful exercise to take small areas of larger pieces and examine them more closely.
I will work into these more before I will call them finished.
My next pressing task however is to figure out where I want to go with this piece, how I want to extend it.
11/22/2020
a small design collection
This is old work....or past work, perhaps that sounds better.
I had this collection out last week for a show and tell with my Alchemy group. It has got me really fired up, the processes, the surface design options.
This is just part of the whole collecti0n.
In particular and with the last piece of paperwork I showed on here in mind I am spending a lot of time gazing at these pin pricked and collaged areas.
11/19/2020
the first part
Working with white in my Alchemy class has inpsired me to create more works on paper.
Pin pricking has also been a process I have shared within that group and again, I am inspired to create more pieces with that process.
The piece here today is part of a larger piece I am working on.
This one will have at least two sections before it's finished. I am currently planning the lower area.
11/17/2020
design progression
The images today show progression of the work you saw here.
This work has also inspired new pieces which aren't yet advanced enough to show on here.
I do hope you can see the link from the ledger to the stand alone piece and vice versa.
If you like these works on paper you may also like these,
11/15/2020
lace, embroidery and stitched paper
At the moment I am mostly working with lace and paper whilst trying to achieve a sense of the qualities of lace with my sampling.
Sampling is largely being worked with paper, in a ledger using scraps of lace and white to enhance that, for embellishment.
The main focus of these images is the tiny embroidered scrap with vintage cigarette silks. That piece has evolved independently from my main sampling but is most definitely inspired by my current explorations.
In these images the small stitched scrap is laid on old work. I guess 'paper', these processes have been part of who I am creatively for some time.
11/13/2020
Alchemy whites
I'm loving working with paper in this manner as part of my sampling for Alchemy 2020.
These new pieces won't fit in my ledger but they are informing what will happen in there going forward.
The ledger has a little more work in it since you last saw it.
An embroidered fabric strip has been inserted on one page and secured with sequins on one side, bullion loops on the other.
11/11/2020
twelve pages, twenty four sides, twenty four embroidered compositions
It's finished. You have followed its progress on here. A hand embroidered, hand made artist book.
It will be hard to let this go. This is the third or fourth little book I have created with the intention of offering it for sale.
Up to now I haven't been able to part with any of them.
This one however is now listed in my shop.
(sold. thank you!!)
If you scroll to the end of the post there is a little video show and tell.
In other news, Alchemy is progressing well. The group are engaged, creative, innovative, supportive of each other and the work being produced is of another standard.....just wow.
My own work for that course is progressing slowly, slower than I would like so I am going to be giving that some attention over the next couple of days.
They are keeping me on my toes!!
11/07/2020
video, a little page work
There's a video today.
A saying 'hi' video and putting a little page together in my latest little artist book.
I may take a few days away from here.
Stay safe folks. x
11/05/2020
white, paper,
This isn't new work but hopefully these pieces will inspire more work using these techniques.
I have been looking at this work today in order to progress my own sampling for Alchemy.
I remember making these pieces, how excited I was. That excitement has returned now I have handled them again and considered these processes in relation to developing new pieces for my own design explorations..
I will start those new pieces today and share them with the Alchemy group next week in the hope they will be inspired too and amend this process to respond to their personal design collection.
11/04/2020
a woven page keeper
The little artist book in this post has a patchwork page keeper.
Inspired by some of the work being produced by the group in my Alchemy class I am creating a woven cloth page keeper for this one following on from the tiny bit of weaving I created for a page a few days ago. You can see that here.
(by the way...the weaving happening in Alchemy, created by one or two of the girls is of a far superior standard to my efforts)
11/02/2020
this artist book.....
It's an old one today. The picture was taken five minutes ago, the video made over a year ago.
I realised yesterday after posting my little, happy coloured weaving that I need colour at the moment.
We all need colour, we all need happy.
(as the video was made over a year ago some of what I say will be out of context)
11/01/2020
just a scrap of weaving
There is weaving happening in Alchemy (the girls not me), amazing weaving, innovative weaving....this little piece falls far short of that.
However.....it fits on this page and it makes me happy.
10/31/2020
Embroidery meets Alchemy
First today, a question. Does anyone know where you can buy metal patchwork templates in the UK?
I used to have a source but it appears they no longer trade.
Thank you!!
OK, last time I was here, this post, I spoke about the stages of creating this veil like piece. There was a piece in the hoop almost ready to be attached and that's where we are today.
As I came to attach that piece yesterday I remembered the design work I am doing for 'Alchemy 2020' as this veil like piece is forming my inspiration for that sampling.
One thing fed the other and here we have a new piece attached to my veil like piece using the thick white cord present in the design ledger.
(I hope you can make the cord out in the images)
I think this work will progress in this manner.....allowing the ledger to inform the work and vice versa.
10/29/2020
a silk flounce
Progress with my veil like piece. I thought a silk habotai flounce would be nice along one edge. As yet it's unfinished, I am adding beads and sequins, scattering them along it's length.
I'm undecided as to whether this edge will be an outer edge or whether I will attach another panel 'underneath' it, falling from it.
In the last image you can see the various stages of this work. I begin by embroidering on my lace cloth with white, I then add sequins. Once the sequins are added I cut that piece from the large piece of cloth and attach it to the main body of my 'veil' like structure, the piece with the flounce.
In the last and second to last image, as you can see, I am part way through adding sequins to one piece (in the hoop) which lays alongside a piece which has been embroidered prior to sequins being added.
I'm hoping to make headway with this work so it's likely you will see this again next time.
10/27/2020
putting pages together
Up to now you have only seen the beginnings of this little artist book. I have been posting images of loose pages and the embellishment on those but yesterday I thought it was time I put the book together. Putting this together allows me to see more clearly what's still to do, how much more playing and titivating is needed before this one is finished.
The outer cover I have embroidered for this is now attached (I showed that in this post)....that's progress but as you can probably see from the images there are still quite a few empty pages left to fill.
10/25/2020
how you all doing?
How you all doing? I won't apologise for bringing it up, Covid 19.
Way back in March when all this started I thought we'd be over it now, that it would be a distant memory.
Instead we are in deeper and deeper lockdown, cases rising despite the erosion of our freedoms and I have no idea how we get out of this, what that process will look like or how long it will take.
If you feel anything like I do mentally then you have my utmost sympathy and understanding because I feel pretty crap about the whole thing.
I want to help but I don't know how.
I posted my free class earlier in the year. That has been taken down now out of respect for those who paid for it when it was live.
I don't have another one to post.
I am considering creating new video for here on a regualr basis but that will take a little planning.
Meanwhile I have been trawling past video and will post those as and when it's appropriate.
Remember these were created some time ago so some of what I say might be out of sync time wise.
Hang in there, I am with you. I feel exactly like you do. I'm done. Enough already.
A little page in a sketchbook
10/24/2020
lace cloth, lace paper, a cover for an artist book.
Embroidering onto paper surfaces is so very satisfying. Couple that with lace cloth and it's a dream.
These pieces have been joined, combined, composed to create a cover for the little artist book I have been working on recently if sporadically.
There is still a bit of titivating to do here and of course I need more embellished and adorned pages before this one is finished but it's a joy to work on these little pages, these little books.
10/22/2020
a beaded seam
Up to now I have been placing lace or vintage trim in the seams of my veil piece as I join newly hand embroidered sections. In this image, where three pieces meet I have added beading instead. I had a need for the repetitive. I'm so glad I did.
(Alchemy girls, your first critique videos are now live on the class blog)
10/20/2020
Guilloche stitch and couching with shiny things
The work you saw in this post is inspiring my personal Alchemy project which I am working on in the new run of that class. I'm hoping you can see the link when looking at this ledger work and looking back at those images.
As Alchemy progresses, as the class progresses, my own work will take a back seat. I doubt this little ledger will get the attention it's been used to but that means I will be able to approach these pages in a much more relaxed manner.
Meanwhile I continue to work on my veil like piece and hope to share progress on that piece with you soon.
10/18/2020
sequins, lace cloth, memory
I had a little trip down memory lane this morning, a little break from Alchmey things, a little 'keep in touch with lace cloth' five minutes.
This four minute video popped up from 2017, memories of Spain, (I had just come back from holiday), memories of this piece which I now must find to see how it turned out.....yes really, I can't remember.
10/17/2020
progress with my lace 'veil' like piece
These images show some of the stages I go through when creating my lace 'veil' like pieces.
First of all I create the lace cloth, in this instance with snippets of silk velvet too.
Those little silk velevt 'islands' are then edged with buttonhole lace before sequins are added.
I will occasionally cut holes in the lace cloth too and edge those with buttonhole lace. That results in an even lighter piece of cloth.
Once I have several pieces embellished I then join them. Sometimes I place lace in the seams or a vintage trim, sometimes self made cords.
As you have probably noticed I'm also partial to stitching shiny things into notebooks too!
10/15/2020
Lace cloth, beads and silk velvet
This morning has been about lace cloth. More pieces have been created on the sewing machine using silk velvet for my ongoing piece from lace class and the final titivations have been added to a brighter, more colourful piece which was created using patterned fabric.
August 2020 Lace cloth, the class which has just finished is now listed as a work on your own class. You can read about that here.
Included is access to thirty four videos which you can view at your liesure.
10/13/2020
Lace and white, my Alchemy project
There is some amazing work being produced during the first couple of days of Alchemy 2020. The Flickr group is already drool worthy.
Below are my efforts from our first post. This is in no way finished, these are very early explorations.
As we progress my work will be left behind to allow me to focus on the needs of the group. That's exactly how it should be but we have to start somewhere and allowing myself this playtime is inspiring and motivating.
I recently showed you work in a new little four inch artist book. I have worked on that a little more and hope to take it further later today. You can read about that here if you missed it.
10/11/2020
playing, doodling with my needle...
Following on from my post yesterday, more playing with little artist books. This is another four inch one in the making.
Creating these little pages, choosing embellishments to add, making little ribbons is I guess my version of doodling. It's relaxing, my mind can wander, it's immediately satisfying when you atttach a hand made toggle or a ribbon or a little piece of patchwork.
I would recommend this process being prescribed by your doctor.
I was in school this morning. Alchemy 2020 went live at 9am. The girls have their homework and I can breathe for a couple of days.
Can you hear me sighing from there?
And I could make these little dangly braids all day long....
10/10/2020
a little artist book play
Yesterday was spent with artist books, refreshing my memory, making plans for new books, adding to already worked pages.
Later today I am going to think about the idea I had in this post for adding lace pieces to my 'doodle doo' sketchbook.
I am thinking my lace pieces are actually too big for doodle doo though. I will have a look and if they are too big I will make new plans for them but now that I have reminded myself how much I love my 'doodle doo' sketchbook I might be compelled to work in it a little more with new pieces.
Alchemy 2020, my new class is due to begin on Monday....yikes....you can read more about that here but if you are registered, to confirm, our first post will actually be tommorow.
I hope your needles are sharpened!
10/08/2020
embroidery, lace like surfaces
Yes, lace, lace cloth, it's consuming my days. That's not surprising when you consider lace class has just finished and my personal 'Alchemy' project will centre on lace.
The pieces today are from lace class. I'm hoping to draw them all together in artist book form. As yet I haven't given much thought to the 'book' aspect of this, I'm still titivating.
In the background lots of embroidery and design work is happening for our first 'Alchemy 2020' post but of course I can't show you that, not yet.
Alchemy 2020 begins next Monday. I have copied the details at the foot of this post in case you missed it.
If you are already registered you should have received email from me today. Please let me know if you haven't reveived that.
Later today I am going to have a think about the 'artist book' aspect of the work you see here. I'm actually wondering, it just popped into my head....will this work live happily in doodle doo.....hmmm...do you remember doodle doo? If you haven't the foggiest what I am talking about then there is an old, short video at the end of this post which may enlighten you.
Alchemy 2020
The medieval forerunner of chemistry, based on the supposed transformation of matter, esp. that of base metals into gold.
Begins October 12 for 12 weeks.
(A two
week break is built in to this schedule meaning class length will be 14
weeks in total. Schedule details are given further down in this
overview.)
*Aims and Content*
Have you ever wanted to create that special piece, the one piece of embroidery which has eluded you for years as you didn't know where to start? You didn't know how to approach decision making re colour, pattern fabric and thread? If so then this online learning programme is for you.
You decide what to make, you decide which techniques to use with the knowledge that I will be there to explain, to guide, to support.
I will use this class as a vehicle to develop my own work providing demonstration of each step taken to build a reference, a library of design ideas for my own finished piece.
In addition to video demonstration of my own investigations I will provide weekly video feedback in a private forum on works and sampling created by the group as and when those works are uploaded for consideration. I will guide you, prompt you, encourage and support you each step of the way.
Please note, you will not be expected to upload images on a weekly basis for feedback/mentoring. Upload these at your liesure. There will be no pressure from me for you to do anything other than work at a pace with which you are comfortable.
Following the completion of this 12 week self directed learning package it is envisaged you will have all the information required to produce a unique piece of embroidered art with inspiration, technique, process and final outcomes determined by you, the artist. Your art piece can be created using virtually any media such as cloth or paper. I will serve as mentor, guiding and advising you at each stage.
Suitable for beginners and the more experienced embroiderer.
The early stages of this programme will reinforce the importance of visual reference as a precursor to design for embroidery. Following initial investigations within a ledger concerning pattern, shape and colour it is envisaged that you will sample ideas with stitch as a means of identifying preferences regarding technique for use in your final piece.
Practical demonstrations will be built into the 12 week programme alongside regular appraisals of work in progress. Demonstrations will be determined by the needs of the group, driven by individual requirements re technique and process.
.
*My Role*
I will serve as mentor, guiding and advising you where appropriate, perhaps suggesting artists for you to study where I feel this is relevant to your own investigations. I will demonstrate specific techniques you may wish to use, appraise your work in progress and advise on surface design and colour choices. This is not an exhaustive list, merely an indication of the commitment I will provide to you and your chosen path.
*Ownership*
Your personal connection to this project will be its driving force. This process belongs to you, is self driven and all creative investigations and final outcomes should speak of you.
*Demonstrations*
Outside of my personal sampling which will be shared and recorded for the group other demonstrations will be provided as and when required depending on the needs of the group and the individuals within the group. The requirements regarding the demonstration of specific process and technique will not be known initially but will become evident as the course progresses.
*Forum*
Demonstrations will be hosted on a dedicated, password protected blog. It will not be possible for video to be downloaded. All videos will have to be viewed through the medium of the class blog. This is to ensure my copyright is protected. I hope you understand the importance of that particular aspect of this class.
A dedicated flickr group will be available where it is hoped you will post images allowing me to assess your progress and appraise/advise. Due to the nature of this programme the flickr group will be private, accessible only to those invited to join the group...in essence only those who have paid for the course. I anticipate certain comments will contain content which should only be available to those who have paid to participate in the class. This will provide protection not only for my copyright but for you and the monies you have paid to participate in the group.
You are more than welcome to post images of your work on your own blogs etc without divulging any of the process provided as part of the class.
***to clarify.....Images within the group will remain private, hidden from the wider flickr community. This is to protect the privacy of any comments I may make on your work***
I will provide basic IT support. This is not an IT class and I am not an expert on that subject. I will provide basic information for you on the use of Flickr and accessing our dedicated class blog.
*Starting Points*
Prior to the commencement of Alchemy
begin to gather starting points for your work. These items could take
the form of postcards, images from magazines, colour swatches from paint
charts or similar. Collect images relating to the work of other artists
who inspire you....textile art, sculpture, oil painting. This is a
''personal'' project, it centres around each individual, their aesthetic
and creative preferences.
If you are struggling for starting points
please take a look at the suggestions below. I can also assist and guide
you should you wish.
You are well supported throughout this process and I am available as little or as much as you need me.
*Suggestions for starting points*
Reminiscence
Childhood, motherhood, school books, birth certificates, heirlooms, children’s drawings, fairy tales, dolls houses, family photographs, vintage domestic cloth.
Domesticity
Cutlery, whisks, crockery, floral furnishing fabrics, painterly wall coverings, framed artworks, home baked bread, cakes, cups and saucers, teapots, pans.
World Community
Global living, travel, natural fibres, folklore, ethnic art, Peruvian, Mexican, Japanese, Inuit, Aboriginal, rich embellishment, shisha work, kantha work.
Future Living
Innovation, new technology, computers, modern architecture, sound waves, kaleidoscopes, mobile phones, graphic symbols, signage, techno textiles.
Natural World
Coral, shells, sea life, animals, moss, plant life, volcanic rock, fossils, rock formations, agriculture, oceans, weather, cloud formations.
*Expected Outcomes*
It is anticipated that by the end of our 12 week run you will have a greater appreciation of the design process which has led or will lead to the completion of your finished piece. In addition it is hoped that you will have created an informative reference in the form of a working ledger alongside a collection of embroidered samples.
*Ledger*
Your Ledger will document your progress throughout the course and is a crucial element in the creation of your finished piece. A record of your experience, the ledger may include sketches, thoughts, diagrams, notes, photographs, artist/designer images that inspire and influence you, computer generated imagery, printed fabric, embroidered samples. This is not an exhaustive list, you may add anything of your choosing to your ledger which connects you to the work.
A video will be provided in your welcome mail where the design ledger will be discussed.
Please do not be concerned if you are not comfortable with ledger work, drawing or painting. ''mark making'' is a process which evolves from many media including cloth and thread. Alongside suggestion for drawn and painted work will be alternative process for creating reference to colour and pattern using cloth and thread.
(the use of pencils, pens, paint etc is not compulsory. It is unlikely I will be using any of that media preferring to record my ideas in fabric and thread)
*Timetable*
Built into this 12 week programme are two free weeks which will allow space for Christmas making this course 14 weeks in length.
By that time I think a break will be good for you too. A time for reflection perhaps.
Video will be posted at least once weekly dependant on the needs of the group.
October 12. Class begins. Active week.
October 19. Active week.
October 26. Active week.
November 2nd. Active week.
November 9. Active week.
November 16. Active week.
November 23. Active week.
November 30. Active week.
December 7. Active week.
December 14. Break
December 21. Break.
December 28. Active week.
2021
January 3 Active week.
January 10. Active week. (final week)
*Registration*
Upon registration you will receive further information in e mail form where suggested equipment for the course is discussed along with a video where options for your design ledger are considered. (please allow 24 hours for this to arrive)
Access to all resources is permanent. There are no deadlines. I will remain available to you after the conclusion of our 12 week period in an advisory, appraisal role...however...new video demonstrations will not be provided after the 12 week period has ended.
Please note, for me as mentor Alchemy is a huge commitment which consumes my creative life for its duration. For this reason a minimum number of participants is essential. In the unklikely event that minimum registration numbers are not met this online learning programme will be cancelled and all moneys refunded in full.
Refunds will not be given however should you decide to leave the class once we have begun.
You may contact me at any point prior to class beginning if you have any questions or queries.
Similarly, should you have any questions before registering for this class please do not hesitate to get in touch using either the Big Cartel contact form or by emailing me at
10/06/2020
lace and pattern, extending design
Recently as you know I have been looking at ways in which I can create lace like surfaces.
I was doing that as I was impatient to begin my own work for Alchemy 2020.
A couple of days ago I decided I was wrong to be doing this as it might have an influence on my thinking and sampling for class.
What I have done instead is attach those lace exploration pieces to a larger piece of paper and added pattern taken from one of my design ledgers.
At the end of this post are images of design work from that particular ledger.
(If you are registered for Alchemy 2020 you should have recieved an email from me today. If you haven't received that please let me know as soon as possible.)
10/04/2020
design sheets
Yesterday I spoke about retraining my brain to approach design in the 'right way' ready for Alchemy 2020.
This morning I pursued that a little more.
These are past design sheets. When they were put together they were an essential part of the box ticking excercise I had to pass.
I did pass and consequently allowed myself a little flexibility in future design work.
That flexibility will continue into Alchemy but as a prompt, as a reminder these are invaluble.
If you are signed up to Alchemy you will not be excpected to create a design sheet in this manner. These are 'stand alone' mounted work, A1 size.
Whilst I will speak about this process I will also show how a similar, equally as informative composition can be created on a much smaller scale.
10/03/2020
exploring lace, interpretation 2.
I've extended my sampling of lace surfaces from yesterday.
This work is purely to get my creative juices going.
I have spoken before about how I usually jump in with my finished idea and complete deisgn work, research, sampling retrospectively.
That won't be allowed in Alchemy, not for me. I need to set an example.
So as I said, these pieces are just to get my creative juices going and when class starts I will have to be on my best behaviour and approach my design work in the 'right way'.
Heck, class can do what they like, bake cakes, knit a jumper, arrange a few flowers but me.....I have to be on it.
Best behaviour Karen.
10/02/2020
exploring lace, interpretation.....
This is my initial experimentation with lace surfaces, the examination of those for my personal Alchemy 2020 project.
It may not find its way into my ledger but I needed take my first baby steps, to get my brain cells going and this seemed as good a place as any to start.
I wish my images were better. It's dark and gloomy here and despite my best photoshop efforts this is all I could come up with.
09/30/2020
considering design
The process of design is very much on my mind at the moment in the run up to Alchemy 2020. With that in mind I am revisiting a lot of past works, past ledgers which were created in repsonse to a set design brief.
If you have taken 'Alchemy' in the past you will most likely have seen this work before. The fact I am looking at it again gives an indication of it's worth, it's relevance even after 17 years.
The brief for this work was simply 'decay'.
As you can see I focused on that word, I defined it, I ran it through a thesaurus, I worked with words and text as my foundation.
My aesthetic may have changed dramatically since this work was created, my approach to design however hasn't.
09/29/2020
Lace cloth and Alchemy update
My latest finished pieces from lace class. These are complete. What will they be? They don't need to 'be' anything, they just 'are'.
The respose to Alchemy 2020 has been amazing, thank you so much.
You can read more about this new online learning experience in this post.
When there is so much enthusiasm for one of my classes it fires me up, I feed on that enthusiasm and really can't wait for this one to start.
It's relevant to the images here too as I personally hope to take my 'lace cloth' work forward during Alchemy 2020 and create an informative journal crammed with process, samples and ideas for further lace works whilst also encouraging and guiding group members to create something equally exciting of their own choosing.
But for now....I am going to enjoy these pieces here and be inspired.
09/27/2020
Lace cloth investigations
This morning I started the write up for our last post in lace class. I spoke earlier in the week about how sad I am when class comes to an end, any class. My groups are consistently inspiring, innovative, enthusiastic and encouraging.
The piece above was created as part of my sampling for lace class and it really fired me up. I know this piece has mileage, the techniques can be pushed, extended, taken further. I had a huge desire to go forward with that and have spent a lot of time thinking how I could invest time into that sampling whilst running a class.
Alchemy 2020 was born from that thinking and numerous requests for me to run the class again.
For me, Alchemy 2020 will not only be about mentoring and guiding the group, it will also be about developing my own work. Each step will be recorded and documented for the group whilst I encourage, support and guide individual members with their own projects.
At the moment my stitching time is being used to complete pieces from lace class but my thinking time centres on Alchemy. I am constantly looking at old ledgers and inspirational images. My dream is to channel my inner Christian Lacroix.....don't laugh. If I don't succeeed it won't be from lack of trying.
(Just to say, when I compose and send emails I always compose in Arial. For some reason they have been known to arrive in script. I have no idea....my head is scratched...I have decided to select all and choose Arial again prior to sending. Who knows if that will work. Maybe if you get an email from me which arrives in script you could select all and choose Arial? Would that work? I have no idea. Technology and me aren't the best of buddies.)
OK...another image and a copy and paste of Alchemy from Big Cartel.
Stay safe folks.
Alchemy 2020
The medieval forerunner of chemistry, based on the supposed transformation of matter, esp. that of base metals into gold.
Begins October 12 for 12 weeks.
(A two
week break is built in to this schedule meaning class length will be 14
weeks in total. Schedule details are given further down in this
overview.)
*Aims and Content*
Have you ever wanted to create that special piece, the one piece of embroidery which has eluded you for years as you didn't know where to start? You didn't know how to approach decision making re colour, pattern fabric and thread? If so then this online learning programme is for you.
You decide what to make, you decide which techniques to use with the knowledge that I will be there to explain, to guide, to support.
I will use this class as a vehicle to develop my own work providing demonstration of each step taken to build a reference, a library of design ideas for my own finished piece.
In addition to video demonstration of my own investigations I will provide weekly video feedback in a private forum on works and sampling created by the group as and when those works are uploaded for consideration. I will guide you, prompt you, encourage and support you each step of the way.
Please note, you will not be expected to upload images on a weekly basis for feedback/mentoring. Upload these at your liesure. There will be no pressure from me for you to do anything other than work at a pace with which you are comfortable.
Following the completion of this 12 week self directed learning package it is envisaged you will have all the information required to produce a unique piece of embroidered art with inspiration, technique, process and final outcomes determined by you, the artist. Your art piece can be created using virtually any media such as cloth or paper. I will serve as mentor, guiding and advising you at each stage.
Suitable for beginners and the more experienced embroiderer.
The early stages of this programme will reinforce the importance of visual reference as a precursor to design for embroidery. Following initial investigations within a ledger concerning pattern, shape and colour it is envisaged that you will sample ideas with stitch as a means of identifying preferences regarding technique for use in your final piece.
Practical demonstrations will be built into the 12 week programme alongside regular appraisals of work in progress. Demonstrations will be determined by the needs of the group, driven by individual requirements re technique and process.
.
*My Role*
I will serve as mentor, guiding and advising you where appropriate, perhaps suggesting artists for you to study where I feel this is relevant to your own investigations. I will demonstrate specific techniques you may wish to use, appraise your work in progress and advise on surface design and colour choices. This is not an exhaustive list, merely an indication of the commitment I will provide to you and your chosen path.
*Ownership*
Your personal connection to this project will be its driving force. This process belongs to you, is self driven and all creative investigations and final outcomes should speak of you.
*Demonstrations*
Outside of my personal sampling which will be shared and recorded for the group other demonstrations will be provided as and when required depending on the needs of the group and the individuals within the group. The requirements regarding the demonstration of specific process and technique will not be known initially but will become evident as the course progresses.
*Forum*
Demonstrations will be hosted on a dedicated, password protected blog. It will not be possible for video to be downloaded. All videos will have to be viewed through the medium of the class blog. This is to ensure my copyright is protected. I hope you understand the importance of that particular aspect of this class.
A dedicated flickr group will be available where it is hoped you will post images allowing me to assess your progress and appraise/advise. Due to the nature of this programme the flickr group will be private, accessible only to those invited to join the group...in essence only those who have paid for the course. I anticipate certain comments will contain content which should only be available to those who have paid to participate in the class. This will provide protection not only for my copyright but for you and the monies you have paid to participate in the group.
You are more than welcome to post images of your work on your own blogs etc without divulging any of the process provided as part of the class.
***to clarify.....Images within the group will remain private, hidden from the wider flickr community. This is to protect the privacy of any comments I may make on your work***
I will provide basic IT support. This is not an IT class and I am not an expert on that subject. I will provide basic information for you on the use of Flickr and accessing our dedicated class blog.
*Starting Points*
Prior to the commencement of Alchemy
begin to gather starting points for your work. These items could take
the form of postcards, images from magazines, colour swatches from paint
charts or similar. Collect images relating to the work of other artists
who inspire you....textile art, sculpture, oil painting. This is a
''personal'' project, it centres around each individual, their aesthetic
and creative preferences.
If you are struggling for starting points
please take a look at the suggestions below. I can also assist and guide
you should you wish.
You are well supported throughout this process and I am available as little or as much as you need me.
*Suggestions for starting points*
Reminiscence
Childhood, motherhood, school books, birth certificates, heirlooms, children’s drawings, fairy tales, dolls houses, family photographs, vintage domestic cloth.
Domesticity
Cutlery, whisks, crockery, floral furnishing fabrics, painterly wall coverings, framed artworks, home baked bread, cakes, cups and saucers, teapots, pans.
World Community
Global living, travel, natural fibres, folklore, ethnic art, Peruvian, Mexican, Japanese, Inuit, Aboriginal, rich embellishment, shisha work, kantha work.
Future Living
Innovation, new technology, computers, modern architecture, sound waves, kaleidoscopes, mobile phones, graphic symbols, signage, techno textiles.
Natural World
Coral, shells, sea life, animals, moss, plant life, volcanic rock, fossils, rock formations, agriculture, oceans, weather, cloud formations.
*Expected Outcomes*
It is anticipated that by the end of our 12 week run you will have a greater appreciation of the design process which has led or will lead to the completion of your finished piece. In addition it is hoped that you will have created an informative reference in the form of a working ledger alongside a collection of embroidered samples.
*Ledger*
Your Ledger will document your progress throughout the course and is a crucial element in the creation of your finished piece. A record of your experience, the ledger may include sketches, thoughts, diagrams, notes, photographs, artist/designer images that inspire and influence you, computer generated imagery, printed fabric, embroidered samples. This is not an exhaustive list, you may add anything of your choosing to your ledger which connects you to the work.
A video will be provided in your welcome mail where the design ledger will be discussed.
Please do not be concerned if you are not comfortable with ledger work, drawing or painting. ''mark making'' is a process which evolves from many media including cloth and thread. Alongside suggestion for drawn and painted work will be alternative process for creating reference to colour and pattern using cloth and thread.
(the use of pencils, pens, paint etc is not compulsory. It is unlikely I will be using any of that media preferring to record my ideas in fabric and thread)
*Timetable*
Built into this 12 week programme are two free weeks which will allow space for Christmas making this course 14 weeks in length.
By that time I think a break will be good for you too. A time for reflection perhaps.
Video will be posted at least once weekly dependant on the needs of the group.
October 12. Class begins. Active week.
October 19. Active week.
October 26. Active week.
November 2nd. Active week.
November 9. Active week.
November 16. Active week.
November 23. Active week.
November 30. Active week.
December 7. Active week.
December 14. Break
December 21. Break.
December 28. Active week.
2021
January 3 Active week.
January 10. Active week. (final week)
*Registration*
Upon registration you will receive further information in e mail form where suggested equipment for the course is discussed along with a video where options for your design ledger are considered. (please allow 24 hours for this to arrive)
Access to all resources is permanent. There are no deadlines. I will remain available to you after the conclusion of our 12 week period in an advisory, appraisal role...however...new video demonstrations will not be provided after the 12 week period has ended.
Please note, for me as mentor Alchemy is a huge commitment which consumes my creative life for its duration. For this reason a minimum number of participants is essential. In the unklikely event that minimum registration numbers are not met this online learning programme will be cancelled and all moneys refunded in full.
Refunds will not be given however should you decide to leave the class once we have begun.
You may contact me at any point prior to class beginning if you have any questions or queries.
Similarly, should you have any questions before registering for this class please do not hesitate to get in touch using either the Big Cartel contact form or by emailing me at
09/25/2020
Alchemy 2020
Design imagery, past work, sketchbook pages, investigation, sampling, imagery, mark making.
My library of sampling has been scattered all around me these past few days in honour of the return of Alchemy, my new 'old', much requested class. The listing is copied below.
Alchemy 2020
The medieval forerunner of chemistry, based on the supposed transformation of matter, esp. that of base metals into gold.
Begins October 12 for 12 weeks.
(A two
week break is built in to this schedule meaning class length will be 14
weeks in total. Schedule details are given further down in this
overview.)
*Aims and Content*
Have you ever wanted to create that special piece, the one piece of embroidery which has eluded you for years as you didn't know where to start? You didn't know how to approach decision making re colour, pattern fabric and thread? If so then this online learning programme is for you.
You decide what to make, you decide which techniques to use with the knowledge that I will be there to explain, to guide, to support.
I will use this class as a vehicle to develop my own work providing demonstration of each step taken to build a reference, a library of design ideas for my own finished piece.
In addition to video demonstration of my own investigations I will provide weekly video feedback in a private forum on works and sampling created by the group as and when those works are uploaded for consideration. I will guide you, prompt you, encourage and support you each step of the way.
Please note, you will not be expected to upload images on a weekly basis for feedback/mentoring. Upload these at your liesure. There will be no pressure from me for you to do anything other than work at a pace with which you are comfortable.
Following the completion of this 12 week self directed learning package it is envisaged you will have all the information required to produce a unique piece of embroidered art with inspiration, technique, process and final outcomes determined by you, the artist. Your art piece can be created using virtually any media such as cloth or paper. I will serve as mentor, guiding and advising you at each stage.
Suitable for beginners and the more experienced embroiderer.
The early stages of this programme will reinforce the importance of visual reference as a precursor to design for embroidery. Following initial investigations within a ledger concerning pattern, shape and colour it is envisaged that you will sample ideas with stitch as a means of identifying preferences regarding technique for use in your final piece.
Practical demonstrations will be built into the 12 week programme alongside regular appraisals of work in progress. Demonstrations will be determined by the needs of the group, driven by individual requirements re technique and process.
.
*My Role*
I will serve as mentor, guiding and advising you where appropriate, perhaps suggesting artists for you to study where I feel this is relevant to your own investigations. I will demonstrate specific techniques you may wish to use, appraise your work in progress and advise on surface design and colour choices. This is not an exhaustive list, merely an indication of the commitment I will provide to you and your chosen path.
*Ownership*
Your personal connection to this project will be its driving force. This process belongs to you, is self driven and all creative investigations and final outcomes should speak of you.
*Demonstrations*
Outside of my personal sampling which will be shared and recorded for the group other demonstrations will be provided as and when required depending on the needs of the group and the individuals within the group. The requirements regarding the demonstration of specific process and technique will not be known initially but will become evident as the course progresses.
*Forum*
Demonstrations will be hosted on a dedicated, password protected blog. It will not be possible for video to be downloaded. All videos will have to be viewed through the medium of the class blog. This is to ensure my copyright is protected. I hope you understand the importance of that particular aspect of this class.
A dedicated flickr group will be available where it is hoped you will post images allowing me to assess your progress and appraise/advise. Due to the nature of this programme the flickr group will be private, accessible only to those invited to join the group...in essence only those who have paid for the course. I anticipate certain comments will contain content which should only be available to those who have paid to participate in the class. This will provide protection not only for my copyright but for you and the monies you have paid to participate in the group.
You are more than welcome to post images of your work on your own blogs etc without divulging any of the process provided as part of the class.
***to clarify.....Images within the group will remain private, hidden from the wider flickr community. This is to protect the privacy of any comments I may make on your work***
I will provide basic IT support. This is not an IT class and I am not an expert on that subject. I will provide basic information for you on the use of Flickr and accessing our dedicated class blog.
*Starting Points*
Prior to the commencement of Alchemy
begin to gather starting points for your work. These items could take
the form of postcards, images from magazines, colour swatches from paint
charts or similar. Collect images relating to the work of other artists
who inspire you....textile art, sculpture, oil painting. This is a
''personal'' project, it centres around each individual, their aesthetic
and creative preferences.
If you are struggling for starting points
please take a look at the suggestions below. I can also assist and guide
you should you wish.
You are well supported throughout this process and I am available as little or as much as you need me.
*Suggestions for starting points*
Reminiscence
Childhood, motherhood, school books, birth certificates, heirlooms, children’s drawings, fairy tales, dolls houses, family photographs, vintage domestic cloth.
Domesticity
Cutlery, whisks, crockery, floral furnishing fabrics, painterly wall coverings, framed artworks, home baked bread, cakes, cups and saucers, teapots, pans.
World Community
Global living, travel, natural fibres, folklore, ethnic art, Peruvian, Mexican, Japanese, Inuit, Aboriginal, rich embellishment, shisha work, kantha work.
Future Living
Innovation, new technology, computers, modern architecture, sound waves, kaleidoscopes, mobile phones, graphic symbols, signage, techno textiles.
Natural World
Coral, shells, sea life, animals, moss, plant life, volcanic rock, fossils, rock formations, agriculture, oceans, weather, cloud formations.
*Expected Outcomes*
It is anticipated that by the end of our 12 week run you will have a greater appreciation of the design process which has led or will lead to the completion of your finished piece. In addition it is hoped that you will have created an informative reference in the form of a working ledger alongside a collection of embroidered samples.
*Ledger*
Your Ledger will document your progress throughout the course and is a crucial element in the creation of your finished piece. A record of your experience, the ledger may include sketches, thoughts, diagrams, notes, photographs, artist/designer images that inspire and influence you, computer generated imagery, printed fabric, embroidered samples. This is not an exhaustive list, you may add anything of your choosing to your ledger which connects you to the work.
A video will be provided in your welcome mail where the design ledger will be discussed.
Please do not be concerned if you are not comfortable with ledger work, drawing or painting. ''mark making'' is a process which evolves from many media including cloth and thread. Alongside suggestion for drawn and painted work will be alternative process for creating reference to colour and pattern using cloth and thread.
(the use of pencils, pens, paint etc is not compulsory. It is unlikely I will be using any of that media preferring to record my ideas in fabric and thread)
*Timetable*
Built into this 12 week programme are two free weeks which will allow space for Christmas making this course 14 weeks in length.
By that time I think a break will be good for you too. A time for reflection perhaps.
Video will be posted at least once weekly dependant on the needs of the group.
October 12. Class begins. Active week.
October 19. Active week.
October 26. Active week.
November 2nd. Active week.
November 9. Active week.
November 16. Active week.
November 23. Active week.
November 30. Active week.
December 7. Active week.
December 14. Break
December 21. Break.
December 28. Active week.
2021
January 3 Active week.
January 10. Active week. (final week)
*Registration*
Upon registration you will receive further information in e mail form where suggested equipment for the course is discussed along with a video where options for your design ledger are considered. (please allow 24 hours for this to arrive)
Access to all resources is permanent. There are no deadlines. I will remain available to you after the conclusion of our 12 week period in an advisory, appraisal role...however...new video demonstrations will not be provided after the 12 week period has ended.
Please note, for me as mentor Alchemy is a huge commitment which consumes my creative life for its duration. For this reason a minimum number of participants is essential. In the unklikely event that minimum registration numbers are not met this online learning programme will be cancelled and all moneys refunded in full.
Refunds will not be given however should you decide to leave the class once we have begun.
You may contact me at any point prior to class beginning if you have any questions or queries.
Similarly, should you have any questions before registering for this class please do not hesitate to get in touch using either the Big Cartel contact form or by emailing me at
09/23/2020
Design
Lace class comes to an end next week. I am always sad when a class comes to an end. I miss the enthusiasm and the inspiration provided by regular contact with innovative, experimental and like minded people.
The reason I am particularly going to miss this class however is because of my work in the image above. I am completely in love with this piece and very anxious to take it further, push the process, sample more.
Any attempt to do that, any plans for further experimentation will require research and sampling, design excercises, investigations.
With that in mind and taking into account a few requests I have had for the return of 'Alchemy' it is likely that my next class will be design focused concentrating on this piece for me, concentrating on anything of your own choosing should you decide to join me.
So below.... a large selection of design images I will be considering whilst pondering the possible return of 'Alchemy'.
(almost certainly without pencil and paint for me personally so please don't take examples of that here as an indication of my intentions)
09/20/2020
reacquainting
Today is a day for reacquainting myself with lace and all things lace class.
It's good to be back working on these pieces and making plans for more and more embellishment.
09/13/2020
a little notebook doodle
Just a little doodling in one of my notebooks today. It was an itch I had to scratch so to speak.
I'm off here for a few days. I'll see you on the other side.
Miss you already.
09/12/2020
pompoms and plaited page ties
The results of my 'Friday workshop table' from yesterday. Another notebook, another stitched double page spread.
You will no doubt notice the pompoms. I love a pompom.
The plaited silk chiffon from yesterday is now attached to the notebook and allows me to tie the book in a couple of ways. I have shown it here in the last image tied with the front and back covers placed together.
As of Monday this will be my view and my back garden for six days.
I will do my best to post tomorrow before I go.
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