Margaret’s preparation for this workshop was excellent and this helped us with our choice of landscape at the start of the day. Each person received a different photo of a landscape and scraps of voile in relevant colours. By looking through a small window of card we chose an area of the photo to use as an inspiration for our work and this made it far less intimidating than trying to capture a large area.
Individual photos by Liz Clancy
Using a background of calico, we painted areas of colour with well diluted fabric paints. Special emphasis was given to the sky as this would remain free from embroidery. We layered our pieces of voile as an indication of trees, fields, sea etc. These were secured using Bondaweb or a bonding powder. Larger pieces of voile on top helped keep smaller bits underneath in place and also created a “mood” to the picture.
Now came the fun part of creating our own work of art with embroidery, either by hand or machine and by doing so we added details of trees, bushes, fields etc. Margaret was always there to give advice but encouraged us to make our own choices so that the finished piece would be our own creation.
The day went so quickly and we each came away with the beginnings of a textile masterpiece and a good basis for any future landscape work. Some machinists had finished but those of us doing hand work vowed to finish at home.
We are very fortunate to have members like Margaret who, as well as being talented, are able to give us excellent and enjoyable tuition.
Thank you for a lovely day.
Judy Joiner