My Turn To Hop Around The World.
Posted on | September 15, 2014 | 14 Comments
I have been invited by the lovely Joan at Moose Stash Quilting to participate in the Around The World blog hop.
This is a great way to find out about a lot of bloggers in many varied parts of the world. And to see what they enjoy doing.
Thanks for the opportunity, Joan.
I really enjoy working with all things involving fabric. Patchwork and Quilting is high on my list of most loved crafts. I make my quilts to be used and enjoyed. And sometimes they get to hang on my walls for decoration.
I was very proud when one of my quilts was published in the Australian Handmade magazine. This is a quilt I had made for our Grand-daughter to use on her bed when visiting here.
I also enjoy embroidery so of course it is logical to combine that with quilts.
Or just on its own.
I even manage to sneak in some play time with paper – scrapbooks, cards and art journalling.
But I thought for this hop I would focus on something Joan mentioned – ribbons.
Over the last 4 years I have been designing and producing patterns using a ribbon applique technique. It has been quite a surprise to me how these patterns have taken off so quickly. It is not something I ever intend to have as a business, but it is lovely that something I designed is being enjoyed by others.
So here are the questions and answers.
1. What am I working on?
I have made a number of mini wall hangings with ribbons, but I also wanted to make some decorations and tags.
I am trying to work out the best way to set the ribbons to make the stars and not waste ribbon.
2. How does my work differ from others of this genre?
Most applique pieces are fabric on fabric. I am using combinations of ribbons as the applique pieces.
I then like to add some embroidery, buttons and little decorations to the mini to add interest and character.
This is the first design I made.
Another colour way.
3. Why do I create?
I think it is the challenge to work out how to make an item that makes me want to create. Working out how to do it in the best way possible pushes me to try many different projects.
If it is in my head I want to see if I can make it.
With my ribbon patterns I wanted to work out a way that would let me applique ribbons firmly and securely but still allow them to have body and texture. I use vliesofix and iron pellon in combination to do this.
The bigger challenge is to write a pattern that makes sense and is easy to follow. I try to make sure that even the least experienced sewer can follow the instructions.
These snow mates took a little while to form into a pattern. Deciding what to embroider and how to use the buttons took a little testing, too.
4. How does my creative process work?
I thought when I started making my ribbon minis that the best way to work would be to write and draw the ideas I had, but this didn’t work. It seems I am better off just letting all the ideas swim around inside my head and then when I am happy that everything has fallen into place I can then start making some test samples.
This Ribbon Santa took a while to sort out the body proportions. Once that fell into place the rest followed easily.
Whereas the design for the angel was very straight forward right from the beginning.
Thank you visiting my post for the Around The World blog hop.
14 Responses to My Turn To Hop Around The World.
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Don’t know how I missed this post. Thanks for explaining your thought processes. I am similar in that I mull things over in my mind before I start working. I see that it has been a while since you posted. Hope all is well!!!
Your ribbon creations are just delightful Karen! I especially love Santa! he has such character!
Fabulous work Karen. As the recipient of one of your Santas I can say how nice they are I absolutely love mine. Hugs xx
A great representation of all the wonderful things you do!
Fabulous post! I just can’t get over how creative you are with ribbons! Oh, and I must pull out my magazine. I almost forgot I have it. A Karen quilt would be just perfect! Thanks for being such a great blogging buddy.
I really enjoyed your focus on your ribbon works. I think because you’ve shown them one at a time I hadnt realised how many you’ve made. Isn’t it wonderful that your patterns are selling, you’ll be doing workshops soon.
Test.
gorgeous quilts and your ribbon creations are so beautiful. Clever you!
What a lovely showcase of your beautiful work Karen. Your ribbon applique is just stunning and so very different – love it
Such an interesting post Karen, this bloghop sure is a great way to learn about bloggers around the world. Your ribbon creations are gorgeous – a great idea and it is interesting to learn how you process things, that falling into place moment is a good one! Thank you for sharing!!
I LOVE that red and white quilt. I think we’ve discussed it before. Your ribbon projects are very nice, I especially love the snowmen. And the Santa. And the Angel. You’re obviously doing well with your creativity gene.
Hi Karen wow i didnt know this about you,you clever chicky,i have loved you work for a long time but i didnt realize you were a designer,i enjoyed seeing all your work here Karen you are one very talented lady,thankyou for sharing.xx
Hi Karen. What a great post. I didn’t realise you were a designer (maybe I just missed that along the line). I just love your ribbon mini quilts. They are gorgeous.
Hello Karen,
It was lovely to see you different crafts on display. Especially the stars made from ribbons.
Happy days.
Bev.