| Course
Description: |
The
title Nirvana was selected for this piece because I
wanted to suggest the joy or "bliss" which
most needle addicts get from their stitching. This band
sampler was stitched for the cover of my book, Potpourri
of Pattern, as a design that combines several interesting
open canvas networks into an attractive arrangement.
All of the patterns used are original stitch treatments
developed from my own doodles. Part of the class discussion
will focus on methods to develop such patterns along
with guidelines for developing sequences for such patterns
that will conceal the traveling paths, allowing open
areas to remain uncluttered.
The
main outline of the sampler is a Flip-flop Diagonal
Hungarian stitch that produces a charming rick-rack
edge. Students will have the option of executing all
of this outline prior to class or merely basting the
dimensions on quickly so that the inner fillings can
be placed accurately in class. If students wish to personalize
their pieces, they can add an extra pair of panels around
the middle area, and this possibility will be discussed
in the cover letter of the mail-ahead segment.
Students
may provide their own kits for this class to allow them
to work in their preferred colors. The teacher will
offer a kit in the colors of the original model (greens
and pinks on a sage ground with the Springtime Watercolours)
Threads recommended for this design include Watercolours
for the outline, pearl cotton in two weights and Kreinik
metallics in two weights, but other threads that fit
18-mesh may be substituted, if preferred. Guidelines
regarding value ranges will be specified in the individual
mail-ahead packet which will be sent to each student
with the instructions needed for the prework.
Techniques
explored in this design are blackwork, couching, beading,
and darning along with the open canvas networks since
most of the fillings are composite combinations. Students
will discover that the negative space created by these
open stitches is as interesting as the stitch textures
themselves, particularly on a colored ground.
COLOR CHOICE: None for kit but students may choose
to provide their own canvas and threads.
PREWORK: The framework of the design must be
outlined. Estimated time: 6-8 hours.
GOALS OF THIS CLASS:
1. To explore composite patterns, particularly open
styles where the negative space between stitches is
an integral part of the pattern.
2. To learn methods to create such patterns and to chart
proper sequences that conceal the traveling threads.
3. To learn some beading, blackwork and couching techniques.
TEACHER PROVIDES: Either a complete or partial
kit with the instructions and a color copy of the model.
STUDENT PROVIDES: A 14" X 16" stretcher
frame (or a longer one can be used for those who wish
to add some lettering or additional embellishments)
and a clamp or weight to secure the frame to a table.
TEACHER'S CLASSROOM NEEDS: Blackboard, eraser,
and chalk preferred (marker board acceptable alternative).
U-shape arrangement for student tables if possible.
Need large table somewhere for exhibit of visual aids.
Small table in front near board for teacher's notebook
and stitched model.
SUGGESTED FINISHING OF DESIGN: Framed piece |
