The rest of the evening, I started in on what I thought the technique encompassed. I hit two wrong turn at Albuquerque, but instinct said keep going. I came back to the computer and found a better reference and better photographs. From that, point on I went full out on blending embroidery techniques. By four this afternoon, I felt I nailed something. While white work uses nothing but white threads and fabrics, I used what I could spare from the fabric I collect and threads I stockpile for utility quilting. The prototype is enough to help me organize my thoughts with other quilts. I decided not to use floral motifs in the use like all the examples I saw yesterday. As of late, my practice consumes itself in using and modifying tribal sign and symbols. So much so is my determination, mom gave me a book in the past hours on rock sign and symbol in the Southwest. My eyes are still big. Grouping this with other bits and pieces I have collected gives me so much more latitude to pursue in design. Aside: I will have to address cultural appropriation in deeper discussions of my work. Cognizant though, sometimes the level of trance and intuition in my work lasts beyond scheduled studio time. Bottom line? I am not trying to steal and the fascinations getting deeper as the months pass.
In the final observation, the prototype is a success. At a good suggestion, I will be integrating the method into Medicine Quilt #3. The offset with the bird sign is going to be one of the best discoveries I have ever made in fabric. Thank you so much to the persons who made the suggestion and friend who told me. The intended use was for the Hepialid Moth, which is two years out until I begin. I have been arguing with myself over the design of one section in the quilt. Initially it was to e made from metal. I got the clue that the edges will shred the fabric in the wash. I was confirmed that HM (Hepialid Moth) would be bed quilt. Attached to the idea, I said to myself to save the washer and keep the quilt as a wall hanging. More doubt ensued. Therefore, I changed the idea to medallions, then to Ojibwa beadwork circles, then needle turn appliqué. I was lost. With today’s build, it is resolve. I just have to build a pattern of spirals and a method of execution.
Check the photos. For me this was exploratory. As of late, I usually do not do much needlework beyond a running stitch and a button hold stitch. Melding a few techniques has got me wanton to design fabric/quilt just full of this notation. Meanwhile I will be putting aside money to get the books and configuring for more bookshelves. Hopefulness has me looking for two large armoires to store fabric, supplies, and books. Watching the second hand shops are where my pocketbook daydreams now. Patience is the rule of the day.
As ever, stay hungry and curious.