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This
flurry of flying ladybugs was inspired by an embroidered
sweater. The basic shape of these insects was transformed
into a perfect mirrored outline by using a folded paper
pattern to poke an outline on to a piece of scrap canvas.
Then three of these whimsical bugs were arranged on
a diagonal axis and set up with a counted Assisi-style
back stitched outline that will enable them to maintain
the desired symmetry. Students will outline the main
wings and body in black pearl cotton prior to class
along with the overlaid transparent wings in pale blue
pearl cotton. Both outlines will be back stitched and
then whipped after the inside fillings are completed
to appear smoother with softer curves.
The
main pattern elements are in the bug wings and bodies,
and special diaper patterns were developed for these
focal points. The small scale Tent stitch patterns in
the wings are executed in simple red and white floss
with accents of white opalescent metallic in two of
the patterns. The bodies will each have large scale
texture stitch diapers in black velour, black pearl
cotton, and silver and black metallics. The wing patterns
are solid but the body patterns are slightly open. The
heads of the bugs are executed in a Web variation (a
couching treatment) and the eyes of the bugs are indicated
with applied red crystal flower shapes that are attached
with silver beads.
The
border pattern is a bold composite pattern with nine
individual steps, starting with a main framework of
Four-Way Extended Chevron units in bright blue. The
border repeats all of the colors used in the ladybugs
and both areas have beaded accents. The delicate open
background pattern was developed to fit the border exactly.
The soft faded look achieved is an ideal foil to the
brighter elements in the border and center motifs.
COLOR
CHOICE: The same red, black, white and silver threads
will be used in every color choice but students may
substitute green or yellow accents for the blue areas.
PREWORK:
Basting Lines and the Stitched Outlines of the Three
Lady Bugs. Estimated time: 6-8 hours.
GOALS
OF THIS CLASS:
1.
To provide students with a potpourri of different diaper
pattern treatments in a two-day experience.
2. To introduce some unusual approaches to stitch sequences
for composite patterns that minimize the bulk on the
back and eliminate the visibility of the traveling threads
in open areas.
3. To discuss the use of appropriate borders and backgrounds
in a design.
4. To share approaches to adapting designs from non-embroidered
sources to canvas interpretations.
5. To share ways to use "counted outlines"
on canvas rather than drawn outlines.
6. To discuss the use of applied elements like the beads
and crystal flowers.
7. To discuss ways to achieve motion in a design. The
overlay of wing outlines serve to suggest that the ladybugs
are flying.
TEACHER
PROVIDES: All materials needed to execute the design
plus a color picture of the original model and a detailed
instruction booklet.
STUDENT
PROVIDES: 16" X 16" stretcher frame, a
laying tool, embroidery scissors, 12"-18"
ruler, and two Hi-liter pens. No added cost anticipated
unless stretcher frame has to be purchased.
TEACHER'S
CLASSROOM NEEDS: U-shaped table arrangement for
students is preferred. Blackboard or expo-type board
needed with appropriate accessories. A table is desired
up front for the teacher's notebook and
model, and an extra table elsewhere will be used for
visual aids and additional displays.
SUGGESTED
FINISHING OF DESIGN: Framed Piece or Suede Tote
Bag.
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