I don't know about the rest of you but when I go to quilt shops/shops I often pick up supplies that I've never tried...just "in case". When I heard what the challenge topic was I immediately thought of trying out some stuff called "Texture Magic" that I've had in a drawer for at least a couple of years.
I'm not sure who has already tried it so I'll describe the process briefly. When you open the package the TM just looks like a piece of interfacing. You pin (spray baste) it to the wrong side of your fabric. You can add a layer of batting between the TM and your fabric. Then stitch on the fabric - either free motion or along a predetermined pattern. It helps to use a hoop if you are not using batting. Then you steam the stitched fabric (TM side up) and the fabric shrinks about 30% in all directions.
At first I thought I'd do an abstract piece. But after watching several youtube videos to learn more about working with TM I decided that foliage and tree bark would work well. I sketched out a bonsai (interpreted from some online clip art). I made one copy at final size and one copy 30% larger. I traced the larger shapes on to the TM, stitched outlines and interiors for each piece, then shrank them and trimmed the excess. The end result was a set of pieces which were very close to my desired size. The foliage was stippled without batting while the trunk has a batting layer.
I used some black fabric with metallic threads as the background. Depending on the angle different parts glitter. I think it complements the satin fabrics used for the tree.
I'm not sure who has already tried it so I'll describe the process briefly. When you open the package the TM just looks like a piece of interfacing. You pin (spray baste) it to the wrong side of your fabric. You can add a layer of batting between the TM and your fabric. Then stitch on the fabric - either free motion or along a predetermined pattern. It helps to use a hoop if you are not using batting. Then you steam the stitched fabric (TM side up) and the fabric shrinks about 30% in all directions.
At first I thought I'd do an abstract piece. But after watching several youtube videos to learn more about working with TM I decided that foliage and tree bark would work well. I sketched out a bonsai (interpreted from some online clip art). I made one copy at final size and one copy 30% larger. I traced the larger shapes on to the TM, stitched outlines and interiors for each piece, then shrank them and trimmed the excess. The end result was a set of pieces which were very close to my desired size. The foliage was stippled without batting while the trunk has a batting layer.
I used some black fabric with metallic threads as the background. Depending on the angle different parts glitter. I think it complements the satin fabrics used for the tree.
No.....I would never (tongue in cheek) make a purchase for a 'just in case moment' ! And,who am I kidding. Seriously love how the Texture Magic created the perfect little bonsai.
ReplyDeleteStarry, starry nights. Great little bonsai. I think I would like to play with Texture Magic must try and get some, thanks for your explanation.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy playing with Texture Magic too! And your use of it here is great :) Isn't it fun when we finally use some of the things we purchase?
ReplyDeleteI love hearing about new products! Sometimes when I do an impulse buy, I forget how to use it by time it will surface in my studio! Love your texture of the bonsai!
ReplyDeleteI never had any luck using my TM in one of my pieces. Your piece is amazing!!!! Just beautiful. Thanks for sharing your process as well!!!
ReplyDeleteLooks like lots of possibilities with TM, must try it. Your choice of black fabric with metallic threads is just perfect and is a nice contrast to the shiny tree trunk and heavily textured tree canopy.
ReplyDeleteThis is lovely Allison. Fantastic choice of background fabric to create the starry night sky. Your tree has beautiful texture.
ReplyDeleteI have great fun with TM ("Shrinky" fabric) but banned myself from using it for this texture challenge!
Perfect for the bonsai a really lovely piece using a limited pallet.
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