Tag: creativity

Creativity comes from many sources both interior and exterior.

How to Choose the Right Thread

Choosing the right thread for your project is important. Discover the brand of thread that works best on your machine. It may vary according to the type of project you are working on. My experience involves sewing clothes,machine piecing and machine quilting. True confessions time-None of my experience involves embroidery or thread painting. So I won’t address them.

THE BEST THREAD FOR FREE MOTION QUILTING

The best thread for free motion quilting is Aurofil 50 wt. This brand is a thin,high quality quilting thread that comes in a wide range of colors. Each spool seems a bit more expensive than other brands. Yet, the thread is thinner so there is more thread per spool. It is strong enough to withstand the pull of the machine during the quilting process. I never break my own rule about free motion quilting with Aurofil thread. Moreover, one less thing to worry about.

Experiment with Color

When I began machine quilting many years ago, the right thread meant I choose colors to match my quilt. As I moved into the art quilt realm, I realized that each person’s eyes blended colors uniquely. I stopped worrying about choosing the perfect matching color. With more flexible of the thread colors, I liked the results. So I no longer worry about matching When I began machine quilting many years ago, I choose colors to match my quilt. As I moved into the art quilt realm, I realized that each person’s eyes blended colors uniquely. I stopped trying to match the right thread color. With more flexible of the thread colors, I liked the results. So I no longer worry about matching the right thread color to the fabric color or even coming close.

Choosing a Brand

When choosing a thread, consider what you will be doing with it. With practice, you will find which thread brand works bit with your machine. One brand of thread was recommended when I bought my machine. So I used it. I thought that the stitches could look better.

Quite by accident, I found other brands that made my stitches look better. I started to use them for piecing. Similarly, several nation brands of thread didn’t perform well on my machine. They are not poor quality threads just not suited well for my machine and the type of sewing I do. Free yourself to experiment to find a brand that creates the good quality look you want. So much for thinking all thread brands are alike.

Using Old Thread

I do not have a problem using old thread. At my guild’s annual flea market, I am drawn to the wooden spools of thread. I gather them like wild mushrooms in the spring. I know that there will be a time that they become rare. Yet I have found these antique threads to be as strong as newer threads. Do not be afraid to use them.

Author/artist in front of her art quilt at show in Sacramento, CA.

Spools with Unusual colors

Find spools of unique colors and shades. Add them to your work . Do not be afraid of their strength or quality. In my decades long sewing career, I only tossed one spool of thread due to poor strength. That’s a darn good record.

Collect a Wide Range of Thread Colors

The shades of colors change more quickly than one would think. Pantene Paints sets the standard for the popular paint colors for each year. This affects the whole world of fabric. Yet, what if the fabric color a quilter needs is out of fashion? This is why developing a stash of thread is important. I suspect it also encouraged some art quilters to begin to use paint as well. But that is another situation i am unfamiliar with as I don’t use paints. Yet, I keep an eye out for unusual thread colors. I have a wide range of color at my fingertips.

As I have gained experience I realize some acquisitions were a bit too hasty. I liked the color and gathered without regard for the content of the thread. The was a bit of a mistake. Opps, save that polester thread for basting or pass it on.

White Thread is Useful too.

I often run out of white thread. Hard to believe, but true. As uninteresting as it seems we do need white thread from time to time. Yet I found I didn’t have any.

A Special Thread

Special types of projects may require special threads. I took a Hawaiian quilting class a long while back. The teacher suggested the use of silk thread. So I bought several different colors. Silk thread is very thin which disappears with the needle turned applique technique used for Hawaiian applique. I completed several Hawaiian blocks over the years. The thin silk thread disappeared wonderfully into the fabric.

Conclusion

I have used a lot of different thread in my sewing lifetime. Some are very specialized while other are more versatile. Experiment with your thread use. There are no right or wrong threads.Of course, the internet has widened who we can ask for help and what their perferences are and why. However, experiment and form your own opinions.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/10/everything-i-know-about-thread-for-quilting/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/09/scale-and-size-is-important-on-fabric/

Consider this One Way to Advance your Art

Consider this one way to advance your art,the art critique. Do you feel tnat you have reached a certain level? Feeling comfortable with your skill level? Having your art work critiqued can be a powerful experience. One needs to be confident enough in themselves and their work to explain their process, inspiration or project clearly. Furthermore,one must be open to listening to suggestions and new ideas.

At first glance the words, art critique sounds like criticize. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The art critique looks for the strengths of a piece and ways in which the artist may improve their piece and/or their technique. It can be a learning process for all involved. Providing guidelines or a structure for participants helps everyone to understand the process.It can be a valuable learning experience for all participants.Most importantly, the art critique should give the artist a way forward . What is the artist’s plan for further development for the future?

There are many online resources for critiques. A critique should be more than just ” I like this” or “I don’t like that.” Probing questions that require deep thinking on the artist’s part about one ‘s choices is more helpful. This is the hard part for participants. Each must be prepared to participate is a meaningful way. Moreover, this can take practice, Repeated opportunities to discuss one’s art work and critique the work of others in this way help.

Furthermore,knowing the art critique process beforehand helps everyone to be able to participate on some level. Ideally, as artists we will internalize the questions so that we will ask ourselves these deep questions while we are in the process of creating our future pieces.

Suggested Norms of a Critique

  1. All participants are familiar with the process before beginning. Ideally they will be able to read the procedure well in advance.
  2. All participants will develop a probing question of interest to them.
  3. All participants will actively join in.
  4. A non threatening environment is essential. Focus on the process not the individual artist.
  5. Practice the procedure many times. With ongoing critiques rotating so that each artist will have their work viewed and discussed.
  6. A wide range of art levels experiences is valued.

A Coaching Organization

Attending a meeting of the Artists Conference Network was a powerful and inspiring experience for me. This national organization has a well developed program and coaching structure. Each artist designs their own plan including timeline. Therein lies the power; the artist is in control of their own path. However, the time committment is substantial. I attended with a friend hoping to start a local group. Unfortunately, a local group wasn’t formed.

Artists Conference Network https://artistconference.com/ outlines the art critique process. The following is from their website.
The Artist Conference is a network of local communities of artists trained in the coaching structure. They coach each other weekly towards their goals and share their creative work at meetings every two to three weeks. The structure is equally effective for amateurs and professionals, and the communities welcome anyone working in any creative field of endeavor, even if you don’t call yourself an “artist”. Check out their website for a group near you.

One Critique

Several years ago I volunteered to get my work critiqued at a regional SAQA(Studio Art Quilt Associates http://www.saqa.com/ ) meeting. This proved a new experience for me. We met in Oakland, California about 75 miles from my home in the beautiful studio of one of our members. A meeting full of friendly faces and a wide range of skill sets was a perfect spot for the art critique to take place. However, it was a one time event.

Another Critique

Another experience I had with critiques was with a small fiber group I was a member of. It was helpful that we met regularly and were comfortable with each other. We formed our group with the idea of celebrating fiber in many of its wonderful forms. However,our artistic experiences were very different. Our lack of experience in the process of each others’ work hindered our ability to contribute to the art critique on a highly skilled level.

Both of the critiques I participated in would have benefited from a clear format to follow. Repeated practice with the critique process makes for a positive experience for all.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2023/08/spark-creativity-by-limiting-materials/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/?p=67721
https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2024/02/how-to-mentor-like-project-runway/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2024/11/advice-for-artists-join-a-group/

Weird Questions and Comments

What are people thinking when they ask weird questions and comments? Meeting with the public to share one’s art is always opening one up to an unknown experience. In reality that is part of the fun. Yet, at times it is difficult to know what the people are thinking. This blogpost shares some unusual questions and comments that I have received.

Vacant Lot 43″ x 31″ 109 x79cm

At a recent First Friday Art Tour, I had a large tree art quilt on display Vacant Lot, 43″ x 31″ 109 x 79cm on display. A young woman showed interest in the piece. She explained that she was an artist. She wanted to learn more about the process. I explained the process of creating the piece with the fabric layering technique on a table, creating the scene and then free motion quilting the layers together. https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/07/fabric-layering-technique/ Her weird question,Is it was easy to do?

Is that Easy to Do?

Well, anything is easy if one knows how to do it. But it is not easy if one doesn’t know how to sew or quilt. Above all,the free motion quilting technique is the highest level of quilting. It is not done by beginners. Much practice is needed to accomplish mastery. I am not sure exactly how I responded to her weird comment. However, her question stayed with me. I hope my answer advanced her understanding of art quilts in spite of her weird questions, requests and comments.

Another Unusual Request

The month that I moved into my first studio outside of my home in 2016,I received an unusual request. A local gallery was hosting a film festival for a weekend. They needed help with the acoustics. The curator asked if I would hang my quilts on the walls of the gallery during the showing. Furthermore,they insisted I bring just my largest art work. Although I was occupied with the move, I happily hung my largest art quilts.

Is Art Quilting Expensive?

While talking to someone at an art event, they mentioned how expensive art quilting is. The fabric is so expensive. Yes, fabric is expensive. Yet, I disagreed with them since I generally don’t buy fabric. I shared other sources than retail to obtain material. I explained my sources of fabric. My favorite is a local nonprofit gathers high end designer fabrics and makes them available to the public for a donation. Furthermore,my guild has an annual flea market that sells all kinds of material. Fabric is available at yard sales or second hand shops..Sometimes when people find out I use fabric they will gift me fabric. I realise it takes a while to build up a stash of fabric. Yet she seemed open to these ideas. As a public school teacher I definitely did not have a lot of extra funds to spend on gathering store bought fabrics.

Overheard Conversation at an Art Quilters meeting

Fast forward- At a subsequent large gathering for art quilters,I overheard two friends discussing the merits of their new Tesla vehicles. Yes, the meeting took place in Silicon Valley. Still, that conversation caught my attention forcing me to eat my words a bit.

I enjoy meeting and engaging with the public. I listen to them their thoughts and experiences. Their words often stick with me as these did.

http://www.saqa.com/

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2023/07/unexpected-comments-about-my-art/

Stress Free Curved Line Piecing

I learned stress free piece curved lines from reading a library book. It is that easy to learn. Rarely have I learned any technique from a book. Like many, I prefer to watch someone demonstrate the technique in person. I regularly use this technique to add movement in my abstract art quilts. This technique is not for creating equal curved lines for traditional quilting blocks.

Steps to Practice Curved Line Piecing

Materials needed-100% cotton fabric, rotary cutter, cutting mat, sewing machine, thread, iron and ironing board to press final product

Step 1

Step 1

Choose 2 pieces of cotton fabrics about 4″ x 4″
(10 x10 cm). Printed fabric makes it easy to tell which side is the right side. Solid color fabric ensures success.

Step 2 Notice that the pieces are on top of each other.

Step 2

Place the 2 pieces, right side up, on top of each other. Using a rotary cutter on a cutting mat, cut a simple curved line starting somewhere in the middle of the two pieces. Don’t stress about the shape of the curve or the exact middle. It doesn’t matter.

Step 3

Step 3

Separate the pieces. Take the top right piece and place it next to the bottom left piece. Take the top left piece and fit it next to the bottom right piece. They should fit together like a puzzle pieces.

Step 4

Step 4

To sew, place fabric right sides together. Sew together with a
1/4″( .5)cm seam. The important part-The two pieces need 1/4″ (.5cm)seam when moving through the presser foot. Due to the curve,the length of the fabric pieces won’t line up on all edges. Lift the top piece of fabric to adjust slightly as it moves through the presser foot. Also gently move the bottom piece of fabric if necessary. It sounds more difficult than it is. Press flat. That’s it!!! Repeat with the other 2 pieces of fabric.

Finished and pressed

Step 5

Step 5. Practice,practice, practice. As your skill develops, vary your cutting line to create different curves. I found this technique amazingly forgiving. Incorporate creatively into your art quilt projects.

Taking Curved Line Piecing to the Next Level

Step 6
Step 7

After practicing this technique for a while, I decided that I didn’t always want duplicate pieces for my art quilts. I adjusted the technique to use two pieces of fabric instead of four. I placed the edges of the two pieces face up close together, overlapping the fabric(step 6). The overlapping part is the section where I make the curved cutting line. Place the 2 fabric pieces together like a puzzle piece (step 7).

It is hard to tell but the fabric shown here is about 10″ long.
front of finished curved line piece using two pieces of fabric
back of finished curved line piece using two pieces of fabric

Once you have mastered the basic technique, let the experimenting begin. Lots of room for variation in the shape of the curves. Try different fabrics that are not 100% cotton. It works with them also.

Issues with Curved Line Piecing

Love in the Abstract pink magenta and purple art quilt, 24"x 26" 61 x 66 cm. Curved line piecing adds movement.
Love in the Abstract art quilt, 24″x 26″ 61 x 66 cm. Curved line piecing adds movement. Love in the Abstract added texture with couched threads.

Sometimes quilters can get carried away. If a few curved lines are good then a whole piece of them must be better. At least that is what I thought at one time. This turned out not to be a good idea. The piece would not lie flat. Maybe there were too many small pieces of fabric. The way it looked was also a problem. It was not pleasing to my eye. Lesson learned. Moderation is fine.

Poppin' Back multicolored art quilt, 23" x 22" 58 x 56cm
Poppin’ Back multicolored art quilt, 23″ x 22″ 58 x 56cm

Entering Shows

When one is ready to enter shows, one may find size restrictions. Sometimes it is easy to complete a piece within those limits. Yet,depending on the technique that one uses, it can be difficult.

I use curved line piecing in my abstract art quilts. This technique uses more fabric than just straight line sewing. If I am making a piece for a juried show with a small size restriction,it can be difficult to get the size just right. It is difficult to plan for a particular size especially if the size is on the small side,like 12″ x 12″. One has to take into account the seam allowances at the same time as planning for the fabric of an interesting shape of a curve. Be forewarned!

In spite of the issues that I brought up,I enjoy using this technique to add movement to my art quilts. I hope that you will also add this technique to your toolbox of skills.


Read more here. https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/06/yarn-adds-texture-to-an-art-quilt/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/09/scale-and-size-is-important-on-fabric/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2023/07/new-to-quilting/

http://www.saqa.com/ Learn more about art quilts at the Studio Art Quilt Associates website.

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/ See more of my art at my Etsy shop.

Why I Love my Unique Business Cards

Artful Fabric Business Cards
I started with this info on the back.

These are my fabric business cards. I use small bits of fabric and batting to create these small 3″ x 4″ (8 x 10cm) business cards. Surely, the materials would be normally tossed in the trash. Of course, making these cards is more time consuming. In spite of that, it is a lovely way to use the fabric and reduce waste while creating these unique business cards.

As my business grew,the info on the card changed.At first my studio was in my house. Later I rented a spot at the local arts center. Now I include the address of my studio. Because my cards are hand written, changes can be made easily. Yet, in the beginning my main motivation was to find a practical use for all of the little bits of fabric and batting quilters generate.

Reactions to my Unique Business Cards

In reality, the first time I handed out a card to a work colleague, she actually screamed. It was a scream of joy and excitement. That gave me a clue that I was on to something.

More recently,I often get a positive response when I offer the cards to people. If someone seems interested in my art, I say, “Would you like one of my business cards?” I can tell that they are about to say no thank you until they see the small art quilts with the info written on it. Pointing to the small pieces of fabric,”These are your business cards?” Most do not pass on choosing one. People choose seriously the one they really like the best.

Sometimes people don’t want to take one thinking that it took me so much time to make it. I have to convince them that that is what I made them for. Some do choose to take a digital photo instead. Each card is a unique little piece of colorful art.

A New Art Medium

Art quilting is a new art medium that many are not familiar with. Each business card is a small example of an art quilt. By sharing these examples, I feel that I am educating the public to what an art quilt is. Hopefully, they will show their friendsand share what they have learned.

An Increase in Sales?

Have my unique business cards caused an increase in sales? That is hard to answer. My business has increased over the years. However, I am not sure that I can attribute it only to my cards. I can say that I have been remembered by others because of my cards. That is a definite win. I hope that the cards might spark a conversation or two.

a newer version of my fabric business card
a newer version of my business card

A Community Connection

Art connects a community. Open Studios and First Friday Art Walks are about more than selling art. Even though a sale is always a wonderful result. These events offer the community to have a conversation about our lives and our passions. In these Post-COVID times, feeling seen and heard becomes more important. My unique business cards help to connect community. They give people a little bit of art to take away with them. Furthermore, this small token is greatly appreciated.

One of my handmade fabric business cards 3" x 4" 8 cm x 10cm
One of my handmade fabric business cards
fabric business cards
fabric business cards

My Central Coast California Community

My Central Coast California community has suffered real losses in the past several years through major forest fires, floods, and of course, the pandemic. When someone visits my Santa Cruz Art Center studio, I have no idea what they have been through. A recent visitor commented that he enjoyed seeing the unique fabric art quilts that I created. He especially liked my use of reflective sheer fabric for a pop and imaginative color combinations. He totally got what I was doing.

Moreover,there was something about the way he appreciated my unique business card. When he left and said, “Thank you for this lovely gift.” He inspired me to write this post.

I love my unique business cards for all they do. They are a simple yet powerful act of kindness, a sharing of art. They are an attempt to reduce and reuse materials while creating a step towards making my community a warmer, kinder place to be.

http://www.saqa.com/ Studio Art Quilt Associates

annbmayartquilts.etsy.com

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2023/04/what-most-people-dont-know-about-art-quilting/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/12/artful-fabric-business-cards/

See Unfinished Projects in a New Way

What happens to unfinished quilt projects often called UFOs? See these quilt projects in a new way. Maybe they have mistakes or were not coming together asthe original maker intended. Someone may have passed before being able to finish a piece. Many times they are given away. I find these new opportunities in my quilting guild’s flea market.

Some of my first steps into creating art involved taking someone else’s unfinished projects and rethinking how they could be used. Looking back after a decade, I realise that seeing these quilt projects in a new way helped move my creativity forward. Maybe it can do the same for you.

Traditional tulips in brown, orange, yellow and beige colors
This is a photo of a snapshot I took of this traditional quilt. I found the tulips at a garage sale along with the remaining pieces of fabric. The people were ecstatic that a passionate quilter would finish their mother’s quilt. I used the extra fabric to design and create the sashing and other blocks including the bargello,the stepping stone pieces.

Sorry No Photo

I adopted someone’s squares with colorful 3D stars. I reimagined them as Mexican pinatas. Then I added an iguana to watch the pinata fun.Unfortunately I don’t have any photos of the whimsical piece. Partly because I had no confidence that they were worthwhile. Partly because I completed it before digital cameras made taking photos so easy. However, the quilt did sell at the quilt auction at our annual show.

Unintended Consequences

The adopted blocks were the 4 square blocks and the the two triangle blocks. I added the sashing and the borders. As it is this traditional this baby quilt is on the small size 40″ x 38″ 102 cm x 96 cm. https://www.etsy.com/your/shops/annbmayartquilts/tools/listings/view:table/841741031

Stretch Your Brain

I made this traditional blue and cream baby quilt from discarded half triangle blocks. Before one is aware, your brain stretches to think in a different way.In addition,it frees your mind to consider a new way of looking at the blocks. Train your brain to do things a bit differently. Leave patterns and instructions behind. Seeing quilt projects in a new way exercises the brain.

With some blocks, I discovered that they had been discarded for a reason. Maybe they were not enough of them to do anything with. Sometimes the blocks were not all the same size. Yet I persevered. I continued to use these unfinished quilt projects in a new way to create a new unique quilt. Little did I know that this unknown direction would lead me down a path to see things differently.

Birdhouse Blocks

I found these bird houses many years ago. Someone had put a lot of work into making them. Yet around that time, I moved away from working with traditional blocks. They remained stored away.

Finally, I decided to pair them with an art quilt tree that I had made. The scene seemed a bit empty of birds in spite of being two main habitats for them. Therefore, taking an environmental angle,I named the piece Remember Birds ?

For many years scrub jays and robins made common appearances in my yard. Yet now I am actually overjoyed to see these previously common birds. I am not sure why they are no longer common. We did have a devastating forest fire not too far off. Or was it the many aggressive crows that had moved in?

True Confessions Time

I am not a fan of commercially made patterns. In my sewing days,I had several bad experiences which I blame on the commercial patterns I used. We pay our money and expect them to deliver. I have never used an artist made pattern. Using a pattern is not an option for me. Maybe that makes it is easier for me than for some to take this path towards creativity.

Unknown Paths

Sometimes we start down paths that we don’t even know are taking us somewhere. We are just trying something new. We have no idea of the ultimate affect they will have on our artistic lives. That is what happened to me. I saw beautiful traditional blocks that were put up for adoption at my guild’s flea market. Someone had put a lot of work into these blocks. Saving me time and energy I thought maybe I could use them for one of my quilts.

In Conclusion

Consider seeing unfinished quilt projects in a new way by reusing someone’s blocks . This is something anyone can do where ever they are in their quilting path. You are the boss. You make the choices. Will they all be successful ? Maybe yes, maybe not. But that is how we learn.

https://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/11/following-your-heart/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2023/04/how-to-be-a-brave-artist/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

Life is Change.Develop a Positive Attitude Towards Change.

Develop a positive attitude towards change! Life is change. Life is struggle. Trying to improve things to make them better is what life is about. Face the day with a positive attitude!

The 20th Century View of Retirement

An older well respected person upon entering retirement age once said   “I just don’t want any more problems.” This depression era person had the view that the golden age would be perfect. Ahead lay endless sunny days of golf or other enjoyment. Originally, due to life expectancy retirement was expected to only last about 5 to 10 years. Yet,the world has changed. While it is a blessing to be living longer, if one hasn’t developed interests to fill their time, it can be a curse.

One can only play just so many games of golf or fill in the blank of your favorite activity. Growing and being engaged is what life is all about. That is a healthy mindset. While I believe that we should try and prevent as many issues as possible, that is not always a possibility. Stuff happens. Life is change.Develop a positive attitude towards change.Facing problems with a positive creative attitude helps.

all silk art quilt magenta,blue, white and yellow 33" x 24" 84cm x 61cm
Smilin’ ,33″ x 24″ 84cm x 61cm When we thought the Pandemic was over the first time.

What New Interests Can You Develop

 If one is lucky to be healthy and active, then they can persue a new interest in retirement. Notwithstanding, it is important to develop hobbies or interests to keep one occupied and interested in life. Upon retirement, many return to earlier interests. There are certainly many important organizations that offer volunteer opportunities. Learn something new. Exercise those dentrites! Of course, if you have grandchildren you are lucky. You have a built in interest if they live close enough for you be involved in their lives. The unintended consequence of this blog has definitely helped provide me with brain stimulation.

Develop a Positive Attitude Towards Change

It is never to late to try new things. Keeping a positive attitude towards new things helps. If we are honest the good old days weren’t so great for everyone. We can remember the past fondly while looking forward to the future. Life is change.We should not expect perfection but rather rise to the daily challenges we all face. Yet even the most positive thinker can have set backs. 2022 is offering us a whole new set of issues to deal with. Fill in the blank with the ones that are stressing the best of us.

Solving Life’s Little Problems

Instead of telling yourself, oh I have this problem to deal with. Ask yourself how you will overcome it and solve it like a daily puzzle.Take strength in solving all the littles issues as they come up such as computer problems, ant invasions that remain for days, or the loss of a water heater. Power in solving these small issues abounds. It helps me to remember I can handle this. After all I am not in a war zone. On the other hand, I want to acknowledge that there are some serious issues out there people are struggling with.This post is a reminder to keep on keeping on . This too will pass. What we say to ourselves is important.

annbmayartquilts.com

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/08/how-to-talk-to-the-public-about-your-art/

New Work in Progress

Sea Grass,a new work in progress,uses green,blue and orange, colors that I use often.Nonetheless, this time I decided to do a variation on a theme. Something different but only slightly. I choose a muted tone for these same colors. Because my work is all about Color!Texture! Movement!, decorative threads came on board too.

Getting Started with the New Work in Progress

Choosing fabrics- I start with more fabric than I expect to use. I chose muted green, orange and blue.
Choosing fabrics- I start with more fabric than I expect to use.

After I decide on the colors, I find decorative threads that compliment the fabrics. That said,decorative threads may match or contrast with the fabrics.

Decorative threads that might work with the chosen shades of color. The threads add texture and movement.
Decorative threads

Fun threads that might work with the chosen shades of color. In addition,the threads add texture and movement.

Interesting threads in shades of cream to peach to brown add contrast and color.
Interesting threads in shades of cream to peach to brown add contrast and color.
Dark teal fabric with light teal nubby decorative thread.
Dark teal fabric with light teal nubby decorative thread

Next, all of the threads are couched(zig zagged) to the fabric. For example, I choose to couch with a matching sewing thread so that the stitches don’t show.

A long narrow piece of fabric with a feathery piece of decorative thread couched on it. This decorative thread is 3D . It adds contrast and movement and color.
A narrow strip of light green fabric with a 3D dark leafy decorative thread.

This decorative thread is 3D. Above all, it works hard to add contrast, movement and color.

Next I place the fabric with the decorative threads on the design wall.
Next I place the fabric with the decorative threads on the design wall.

These next four photos look very similar. However, look closely to the changes. I moved pieces around to balance the colors and details to please the artist’s eye in this new work in progress.

photo 1

In addition,you may notice that I eliminated the brown stripes on the right in the following photo. Similarly,I also removed the dark teal piece in the middle.Removed pieces will be saved for a different project.

Moving fabrics around slightly to please the artist's eye. Sometimes less is more.I eliminated some fabrics with decorative threads.
photo 2 Sometimes less is more.
New Work in Progress
photo 3
This is photo 4

In addition,notice the inclusion of the artist’s signature detail. I sew small pieces of extra fabric together. Then I add them to the piece. As little fabric goes to waste as possible. Plus it adds a little je ne sais quoi to the piece.

This photo shows how I sewed together the fabrics in the adjacent area. New Work in Progress
photo 4 This photo shows how I sewed together the fabrics in the adjacent area.

By sewing small groups of fabric together first, it allows me flexibility in case I run into a problem. It offers me more chances to add fabric to solve a problem of balancing colors.

Finishing the New Work in Progress

The top is completely sewn together.
The top is completely sewn together.

I sew curved line piecing to finish the art quilt and add movement to the quilt top. The vertical lines reflect the movement of the details of sea grass.

I finish the edges with a facing turned to the back. Then I hand sew the facing in place. The following photos are close up detail shots of the finished work.

The finished quilt top Quilting lines add movement to the quilt top.
The finished art quilt, Sea Grass. Quilting lines add movement to the quilt top.

Detail Photos

The following photos show details of the completed piece.

detail of completed piece
detail of completed piece

Learn more about art quilting from SAQA(Studio Art Quilt Associates), an interenational organization that began in Northern California in 1989. http://www.saqa.com/ https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/04/an-abstract-art-quilt-sunset-through-the-forest/

See more of my work at my Etsy shop. https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/11/colors-of-the-prism-piece/

How to Use Small Pieces of Fabric

Quilters create small pieces of fabric or scraps as a normal part of their sewing process. How to effectively use these scraps is a constant issue. I often use fabric 2″-3″ (5-8cm) to create my art. Guild members have gifted me small pieces of fabric, saying “Here, you use small pieces of fabric. Have these.” I didn’t refuse them. I put them to good use.

A little fabric humor- In my fiber group, I was the only art quilter. The other members made different kinds of fiber art. We would meet and share our art and our process. I learned that what seems obvious to quilters is not always so obvious to others. Discussing my process, I asked how do you think I begin? A friend answered,”You start by cutting up a lot of little pieces of fabric.” I had to chuckle. Sewers and quilters know that as we sew and trim, we easily create small pieces that become our scraps. We don’t need to create our own.

Another Use for Small Pieces of Fabric

Above all, quilters will probably always have small pieces left over. Whenever I make a bed quilt or a lap quilt, I like it to be reversible. In that way, I get two quilts for the price of one. Variety and change is good. Use your small pieces as part of the second side. Sew the leftover fabric from the front together and add them to the back fabric. This uses up the fabrics and also adds to the beauty of the quilt.

Many Art Quilt Techniques use Small Pieces.

There is a wide variety of techniques that use small pieces of fabric. Impressionistic art quilts lend themselves easily to the use of small pieces. With a little trimming a small piece of fabric becomes foliage, a rock or a hint of an animal. I have a container to store strips. Another bin is only for small pieces. Several bags are full of pieces larger than 6″. The real trick is to remember to look in those containers when choosing fabrics.

Small Pieces are my Signature Item.

Several years ago I had a commission to make a huge bed quilt 130″x130″ 325cm x 325cm using geometric shapes of solid colors. This is a king size bed with the quilt hanging down the sides to the floor. I was almost finished piecing the top together. But I came up short of a small bit of fabric. I could have bought some more. Yet I really needed only a few very small amount. I had a few small pieces left over so I sewed them together. That was enough fabric to complete the top of the quilt.

Furthermore, I was so pleased with the effect I decided I would repeat the process in the future. I would add them as a feature to my work. Small pieces (about 2” -3″ 5-8cm) sewn together are now a signature part of my abstract art quilts.

Business Cards Use Small Pieces of Fabric

I use small pieces of fabric to create my business cards. My business cards are small handmade art quilts about 3″ x 4″ 8cm x 10cm.Most people would throw out these small fabric and batting scraps. I sew several small pieces of material together. Then I write the basic information on a solid light color piece with a fabric pen. I add batting. I sew the three layers together and zig zag the edges. The extra effort to use materials that normally would be tossed out is important to me. I like that the card is a small art quilt for those who are unfamiliar with the art form. The positive response I receive for such an unique business card also makes it worthwhile. https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/12/artful-fabric-business-cards/ /i

A handmade fabric business card. Each one is unique."Use small pieces of fabric"
One of my handmade fabric business cards. Each one is unique.
The other side of my business card with the important information , location, phone number, website and etsy shop."Use small pieces of fabric"
The other side with the important information

Will these techniques make all of your scraps go away? Probably not. But it might be a step in tbe right direction.

I do realize that some might consider some of these scrap reducing suggestions to be a bit time consuming or even wacky. However, I am serious about reducing waste and reusing materials.Yet I can be a bit over the top at times. But as I say, ” It is not illegal, yet.” In addition, the best part is one can choose to do these ideas to use small pieces of fabric or not. Sometimes I give myself permission to toss a piece of fabric.

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/08/add-sheer-fabrics-to-create-a-surprise/

http://www.saqa.com/

Dogs are family members. Make a memory quilt.

Dogs are family members too. Make a memory quilt for your dog. Charlie, a client ‘s pet dog of 16 1/2 years had just passed. The family approached me to create an abstract piece of wall art in his memory. The beloved dog was groomed every two weeks. Each time he returned home with a colorful bandana tied around his neck. The bandanas could be made into a piece of art to keep his memory alive.

A Lot of Color!

There were about 30 different pieces of fabric bandanas. Holidays and special day themes were common with a wide range of colors. In addition,there were not a lot of solid colors for eyes to rest on. In a busy art quilt, I like to include places for eyes to rest on. The first steps was choosing a pleasant color wave. The client requested a lot of color for the memory quilt for her dog.

Choosing the colors-the most challenging part.

Choosing the colors became the most challenging part. Did I mention that the client and I lived on different coasts? Once the client sent me the bandanas then I could begin to suggest some colors. Phone communication, photos and texts were important. I thought that I heard her say that she wanted as many of the fabrics used as possible. So how could I do that?

Retangular pieces of fabric on the design wall from light to dark. Which to choose?
Retangular pieces of fabric on the design wall from light to dark. Which to choose?

Being Flexible

I started by putting the fabric on my design wall. First, I thought of arranging the fabrics from light to dark. I cut a few pieces of fabric into rectangles. Then, I stopped myself. I shouldn’t spend time cutting out fabric if I wasn’t sure which fabrics would be used. That turned out to be a wise choice. Being flexible is very important.

As it turned out, most of the fabrics did not make it into the final piece. The client realized that the fabrics were too different to fit into a coherent piece. In other words, all of the pieces did not need to be used.

Meanwhile, during this time the clients were downsizing their house. They weren’t sure where the finished piece would be nor its size. As it turned out, the size needed to be 21″ x 19″ (54 cm x 49 cm).

Fun fabric choices ,how to choose?
Fun fabric choices, how to choose?

On the other hand,the size of my commissioned works are usually larger. This smaller size limits the number of fabrics. I usually choose 4-5 fabrics. In addition, I remember the rule of 3 to balance out the fabrics on the top of the quilt. Nonetheless, all turned out well.

Red ,blue and white bandanas from the dog groomers

Red ,blue and white bandanas? More choices.

Red and blue fabrics to choose to use for the art quilt.

Would red and blue fabric work ? I put these bright bandanas together. However, once I said that they were red, white and blue it sounded too patriotic.

Blue and pink fabric to choose from to make the memory quilt.

Would pinks and blue fabric work ?

The Client’s Choice

What finally caught the client’s eye was the bright fabric with many frogs on it!The bright warm colors of the active frogs fit the bill. Those colors guided me to a memory quilt for a dog.

Multicolored fabric with frogs. This fabric guided my final fabric choices.

From there I choose the bandanas that matched the frog fabric. Then I cut rectangles of various sizes, about 2″ x 3″ – 4″( 5cm x 8cm-10cm) and placed them on the design wall. I made sure that the fabrics were balanced. No one fabric was overpowering a side or quadrant. I sewed the pieces together to complete the top.

The fabrics were the stars of the piece so I wanted to minimize the quilting.I lightly quilted stitch in the ditch in the seams. Many clients are drawn to the fabrics of the patchwork. They are not concerned with fancy quilting for a memory quilt for a dog.

Plan Ahead

Ties and bows add texture to the finished piece.

Even though the ties need to go on at the end, one must plan ahead to include them in the beginning. Only the black and white one, made it one to the finished product. That is fine.

Completed dog memory quilt, 22" x 19" 56 cm x 48cm
Completed dog memory quilt, 22″ x 19″ 56 cm x 48 cm
back of dog memory quilt, 22" x 19" 56 cm x 48cm completed with fabric supplied by the client from grooming bandanas.

Here is what the client said about the finished piece.

 “I just wanted to tell you that it’s absolutely beautiful and I will cherish this with all my heart and soul. Thank you so much for such a beautiful job no words can describe what this means to me. Thank you again. ” Susan

https://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/11/memory-quilts-i-have-made/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/10/something-about-memory-quilts/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts

Scale and Size is Important on Fabric.

Who isn’t entralled with the incredible colorful childrens’ prints available? I chose fabric based on the colors or animals I wanted. However, I never paid much attention to scale. As shoppers we buy these fabrics with great plans in mind. Yet when one gets home, it can be difficult to match the fabric with others due to scale issues. The animals on childrens’ prints are often not the right scale or size to go together. Pay attention to scale.

Color or Animal

samples of fabric with prints of varying sizes showing issues of scale. The sea theme and colors are the same but the scale is not.
The sea theme and colors are the same but the scale is not. So much to keep in mind.
Small whales on fabric, the largest is 2" or 5 cm
Small whales, the largest is 2″ or 5 cm

The above piece of fabric with whales never seems to fit with other materials. The “largest” whale is 2 inches long,much too small. It seems strange that a whale would be considered too small.

It bears repeating that we usually we choose fabrics based on the particular animal or color of the fabric. Last on the list or not there at all is the size or scale of the print. The print artist can choose to make a small animal large or a large animal small. To my brain, it is most pleasing if the animals printed on the fabric have a similar size and scale. There are always exceptions of course depending on the quilt style. For example,place a large print in the middle of the quilt to highlight it. Then add smaller prints on the sides.

I Spy Quilts

I Spy Quilts are generally patchwork quilts using many fabrics printed with different everyday objects on them. The game is named for the guessing game, I Spy. One person says I Spy an item. The other person tries to find it quickly. In a variation one person describes an item as a clue to find it. This game is especially fun for a young child developing their language skills and vocabulary. The purpose of an I Spy quilt may be to engage in child’s play. However, paying attention to the scale of the items will make the quilt more attractive between games.

A Recent Donation

Recently someone gave me large donation of children’s fabric. Big hopes and dreams for loved ones that didn’t get made. Maybe the children grew too fast or changed their interests. Maybe life prevented the sewer from completing the project. Seeing so much charming fabric made me realize the importance of scale. It also made me think of the challenges it presents.

samples of fabric with prints of varying sizes showing issues of scale

Quilting with children’s prints is fun. Choosing a color range makes for a more pleasing overall effect. The scale of the animal or object is not the most essential part. However,consider scale for more pleasing artistic endevour. Yet,the affect of scale can not be ignored.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/11/memory-quilts-i-have-made/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2023/06/stress-free-curved-line-piecing/

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://www.etsy.com/listing/874593003/lap-quiltcontemporary

http://www.saqa.com/

How to Choose the Right Thread

Add Sheer Fabrics to Create a Surprise

I often add sheer fabrics as part of my art quilt process. Sheers add a subtle dimension to landscapes and seascapes art quilts. During one show, a visitor actually squealed in delight. He had viewed a piece straight on. However, when he walked away that he saw the reflection of the shiny sheer fabric. He squealed much to his own surprise. The sheer fabric proved subtle, yet very effective. The shape may not be visible when viewing straight on but sometimes it is. It depends on the available light. Quite by accident I discovered the surprise sheer fabrics can bring.

Cinnamon Tree 15" x 45" has peach colored sheer piece of fabric in the background.
Cinnamon Tree 45″ x 15″ 114cm x 38cm

I use small pieces of sheer when creating with my fabric layering technique. The sheer fabric may be used for almost anything. Cut the sheer fabric into any interesting shape imititating a slope of a mountain range, a branch or a cloud. The sky’s the limit depending on the artist’s plan. Some sheers have shiny pieces imbedded in them. This adds extra fun. Cinnamon Tree has sheer leaves,plants, rocks and a peach colored partial background. Maybe the sun is setting or peaking through the clouds.

Subtle Depth in the Background

The use of these sheer fabrics create a subtle depth in the background. Use small pieces to create shadows or who knows what. I like to leave something up to the viewer to decide what they think it is. Each viewer will probably see something different. In Sea Canyon Depths, there are several sheer pieces that may be difficult to see at first glance.

Sea Canyon Depths 40" x 17" , an underwater fantasy with sheer fabric foliage creating depth however not easily seen.
Sea Canyon Depths 40″ x 17″ 102 cm x 44cm
Beginning steps to creating include adding sheer fabrics early in the process. Sheer fabric on background
Beginning steps to creating include adding sheer fabrics early in the process.This is the beginning of Mexican Iguana, an art quilt that will ultimately show a rain forest landscape.
Mexican Iguana a little farther along with some plants and branches added.
Mexican Iguana a little farther along.

Finding Materials

One has to be imaginitive to access materials. Of course one could buy them. But what fun is that? Finding new uses for what some might call trash is part of my process. In addition, using unlikely materials creates unusual pieces of art. Flea markets and garage sales are good places to search. Preferably I choose to gather materials that speak to me. Then later I decide how I will use them. I try the fabrics out with other materials once I am in my studio.

Desert Trees in the Wash 25" x 24" 63cm x 61cm landscape art quilt variegated trees with a peach colored background.
Desert Trees in the Wash 25″ x 24″ 63cm x 61cm
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1195449560/fabric-landscape-collage-artnature-tree

Desert Trees in the Wash

The fabric for the trees in Desert Trees in the Wash came from FABMO.
I embellished the tree fabric with dark stitches to add texture. https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/01/discovering-new-stitches/ Notice the peach colored sheer fabric in the background. I slipped in a small piece of a reflective sheer in the center.

Sheer Fabrics from FABMO

The San Francisco Bay Area has many unique things to offer. FABMO.org is one of them for artists and crafters. Every week this nonprofit’s volunteers pickup discontinued materials from the decorators at the SF Design Center. The materials are then made them available to the public to keep them out of the landfill. The sheer fabrics are often slow to be adopted. When I heard this,I started to gather them.I had no idea how I would use them. Slowly they made their way into my art quilts. Would that everyone had this access to a wide variety of sheer fabrics!

You can read more about the fabric layering technique here.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/07/fabric-layering-technique/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/11/how-to-use-small-pieces-of-fabric/

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/04/free-motion-quilting-hacks/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/10/art-quilters-see-fabric-in-a-new-way/

http://www.saqa.com/

An Art Solution Came to Me in a Dream

Has an art solution ever come to you in your dreams? Other artists mention that their ideas or an art solution came to them while asleep. Yet this had never previously happened to me. Until now! I have many small pieces of Mayan woven fabric. In the past I had included these Guatemalan fabrics in my art quilts basically as strips or blocks. Yet,this time I wanted to do something different. The 12″ fabric iguana perched on my design wall ached to be included. I just wasn’t sure what I could do.

Mayan fabrics from Guatemala, bright red and blues
Here are some examples of the Mayan fabrics from Guatemala I have.

An Example

Iguana’s Fiesta is an example of how I would use my Mexican inspired fabrics. Can you see the three pieces of antique huipil dresses in the blocks? One is in the middle of the top row. There are two on each side of the lower blocks. Strips of Mexican inspired fabrics and lace are sewn down the sides. Do you see the iguana watching over the fun? I do have a thing for lizards. They often appear in my art quilts.

Iguana's Fiesta,34" x 30" 86cm x 76cm Brightly colored art quilt in yellow, red and black.
Iguana’s Fiesta,34″ x 30″ 86cm x 76cm

My Semiconscious State

In a dream or at least semiconscious state, it came to me to place the iguana in a tree using the Mayan woven fabrics as branches. I had never used the Mayan fabric as trees or branches before. However, I had used other fabrics in this way many times. So this was an easy transition to make. I liked the effect.

Mexican Iguana,art quilt,23" x21" 58 cm x53cm greens,golds in rainforest scene
Mexican Iguana,art quilt, 23″ x 21″
58 cm x53cm

I like the effect so much I ended up making another one also. Each art quilt figured a colorful iguana in the Mexican rainforest. The medium blue fabric is one of the Mayan fabrics as well. Dragonflies flit through the tree branches in Steamy Rainforest.

Iguana and dragonflies in the Steamy RainForest, 15" x 15" 38cm x 38cm, gold, greense
Steamy RainForest, 15″ x 15″ 38cm x 38cm

My Father’s Advise about Solving a Problem

My father’s advise for solving a problem was to leave it alone. Then come back to it later at a later time. This reduces frustration and anger. Equally it gives a person time to think. I don’t always do this. However, I do like the idea of putting something in the back of your mind for a while. The brain ruminates on issues or topics and comes up with a doable solution over time. That usually works for me. This solution works for which art genre you work in.

What works for you? How do you deal with art issues that come up?

A Word about Names

Mexico is home to a wide range of indigenous people,cultures and languages. These native peoples are my inspiration for many of my art quilts. The Mayan community stretches from southern Mexico to Guatemala. While the fabric was bought in Guatemala. It is difficult to know if the fabric came from Southern Mexico or Guatemala. For better or worse, I tend to use the phrases Mexican inspired and indigenous interchangeably.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/11/mexican-inspired-fabric-collages/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/09/how-sow-bugs-taught-me-how-to-be-persistent/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/10/everything-i-know-about-thread-for-quilting/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/03/mexican-dance-fabric-collages/

http://www.saqa.com/

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

Art Quilters How to Discover Your Artistic Style

Art Quilters, how to discover your artistic signature. Every great artist has a signature style or technique. A signature style is something the artist includes in each piece that identifies the art as uniquely theirs. Without looking at the name, we know who made the piece. Sometimes we can tell the style and time period of the art piece just by looking. Yvonne Porcella, founder of SAQA added black and white checkerboards to many of her pieces. What is a favorite technique or style of yours? What do you readily include in each piece? While my example are my art quilts, the process for recognizing an artistic signature is similar across genres.

How I Found One of my Artistic Styles

small geometric pieces that became an artistic signature
I fell in love with these small geometric pieces.

Art quilters I discovered one of my artistic style quite by accident while working on a very large abstract quilt commission. The piece was almost finished. I needed only a little bit more maybe 6 ” .Yet, there was a only small amount of fabric left. Not worth going to to store for.Nonetheless, I had a bunch of 2 to 3 inch pieces of fabric. I sewed those smaller pieces together.Surprisingly, they formed interesting geometric shapes. At the same time, they saved the day.

Art quilters how to discover your artistic style accidently.

Furthermore,I liked the affect. I started sewing leftover pieces of fabric together to make a bigger piece.Then I added these geometrically shaped pieces to other works of art. Basically I feel like I discovered an iconic signature style for my work. A win-win situation-Making interesting shapes while finding a use for small fabric pieces.

Discover Other Artistic Styles

There are several other techniques that I generally like to use. I found these when I wasn’t looking for them. But I repeated them and now I generally use them. Art quilters discover your artistic style. What techniques or themes do you use often?

Rusty Leaves 29" x 21", 2021 Leaves reaching out of upper border
Rusty Leaves,29″ x 21″, 2021

In my tree quilts, I often make the leaves reach beyond the edges to form an irregular finished edge. When I first did this I tried to create something unusual. It proved very popular with the viewing public. Many people comment on being drawn to it. Sometimes the edges begin about half way up the right and left sides continuing across the top of the art quilt.

Overlook, an landscape art quilt with a tree and red owl is covered with tulle netting, a signature technique.
Overlook is covered with tulle netting, a signature technique.

Fabric Layering Technique

I use the fabric layering technique to create my trees and other Nature art quilts. People have mentioned that they knew it was my quilt because of the technique. I create a scene and cover it with tulle netting before free motion quilting the piece.

Include 3D Fibers on Abstract Art Quilts

Sunset Through the Forest, 34" x 32" 2019 anabstract art quilt in greens and yellows with lots of 3D decorative threads
Sunset Through the Forest, 34″ x 32″ 2019

Abstract art quilts are one of my three portfolios. I like to add texture through the use of 3D fibers and decorative threads sewn on top of fabric. Many times the decorative threads are couched(zigzagged). At times they may not be totally attached to the art quilt. In general I am drawn to 3D genres of art.

Find your Artistic Signature.

Keep creating. Find techniques or materials that you like. Keep using them. Your signature piece will reveal itself to you over time. It will want to be in each piece you make. Pay attention when someone comments that I knew that was your piece without looking at the name. Finding your artistic signature will not be easy. It will take time to develop as your artistic career grows. But it will be worth the effort.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/03/an-educated-artist/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/07/find-a-way-to-cheat/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/07/how-to-make-a-quilt-without-a-pattern/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/04/forge-your-own-art-path/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/09/develop-your-art-passion/

https://www.saqa.com/

How I found Unusual Color Combos in Art

As an abstract art quilter, I am always looking for unusual color combos. They show themselves to me in the most random of places. Read to learn how I found unusual color combos in art.

Lingering Fog, 34″ x 34″ 87cm x 87cm

A previous post discussed the steps for creating a light and dark grey piece contrasting with lime green. I discovered this unusual color combo when I noticed scraps I had tossed on the floor. Serendipitious success. How I found unusual color combos in unusual places.

How I found unusual color combos in art.

Recently I found pieces of fabric from different projects that I had thrown together in a bag. I discovered a charming unusual color combo of light purple and a yellow orange.

Spring Sunset 12" x 12 ", an abstract art quilt of violet,amber,lilac and pale yellow,In Search of Unusual Color Combos
Spring Sunset 12″ x 12 ” 30cm x 30cm

Meanwhile, I looked up the name for a yellow orange color. It is called amber. What? I thought amber was a darker color. Surprisingly,it turns out that amber is directly between yellow and orange on the color wheel. As a result,I am now convinced that the color is amber.

Lilac

Lilac, a light or medium purple has not always been my favorite color. Growing up it was the springtime purple of choice. Maybe my mother’s dislike for the color influenced me.

However in these times of COVID I find my choice of colors changing. Previously my mantra of Color! Texture! Movement! usually included bold bright colors. These days the colors of choice are lighter and subtle creating calm and peaceful emotions.

In Search of Unusual Color Combos,Goldenrod Blush, art quilt of beige,cream and yellows
Goldenrod Blush,31″ x 32″ 79cm x 81cm 2022

My focus on incorporating texture and movement remain. For some of the fabrics,I sewed a layer of lace on top of a sturdier fabric. Next, I couched (zigzagged)decorative threads on top. Then I cut the lace into smaller pieces.You may be interested in reading other blogs on how to add more texture to your art quilts.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/02/add-decorative-threads-for-texture/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/07/creating-texture-in-art/

A color coordinated fabric storage area looks appealing. However, it reduces the chance for coming across an unusual color combination.

Certainly, finding unusual color combinations begins with open eyes and an open mind. Unfortunately there are no easy pathways forward. Ultimately,each artist must take this road on their own.

Learn more about the international organization for art quilters, Studio Art Quilt Associates. https://www.saqa.com/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

Ready to toss? Don’t. Rethink How to Use.

Quilters are famous for reusing fabric in their quilts. Yet, for quilters there are several other ways to reuse and not toss materials. Let me share a few of the ways that I have taken this a bit farther. I am very passionate some might say obsessed about not throwing fabric or other materials away.

Desert Trees in the Wash landscape art quilt
DesertTrees in the Wash, 25″ x 24″ 64 cm x 61cm 2021 Just one example of how I use small bits in my art quilts.

Business Cards

I use bits of batting and fabric to make my business cards. They are like mini art quilts. Some people benefit from a visual example of what an art quilt is. The fabric cards are about 4″ x 4″ 10 cm 10cm.

Therefore,it would be a real challenge to use these small materials for anything else. Each fabric business card is unique. People are thrilled to choose a small piece of art to take with them. https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/12/artful-fabric-business-cards/

fabric business cards
My fabric business cards

First, I write out my contact information using a fabric pen on a light colored solid piece of fabric. Next,I sew several small pieces of leftover fabric together. Finally, I make a small quilt sandwich with a small piece of batting inside. Then I stitch the three layers together. Trim and zigzag the edges.

a fabric business card- a work in progress
a fabric business card- a work in progress
a fabric business card -a work in progress with batting and backing
a fabric business card -a work in progress with batting and backing

Short Pieces of Decorative Threads

Pieces of decorative threads add texture and dimension to my art quilts. They could be birds or twigs in the wind. I prefer to create a more impressionistic view in my landscape art quilts. I leave it up to the viewer to decide whether the small piece is a bird or a leaf blowing in the wind. Reuse, don’t toss.

a bin of decorative threads
A textile friend gave me lots sof small pieces of the decorative threads she had left over from making scarves.
a closer look at some of the decorative threads
a closer look at some of the decorative threads
a plastic container of yarns and decorative threads I use,reuse don't toss
Here are some other yarns I use.
decorative threads and details I take apart to use their threads
Decorative threads and decor details I take apart to use their threads

Small Pieces of Fabric

Small pieces of fabric become abstract art quilts or fabric landscape collages. I have written several blogs on this topic. Here are links to two.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/02/the-making-of-an-abstract-quilt/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2017/07/fabric-layering-technique/

Sew Batting Together

Pieces of batting can be sewn together to be used like a larger piece. Make sure the weight of the batting is the same. Cut straight edges. Sew by zigzagging straight edges together. Make sure to create no gaps. Often there is a narrow long piece of batting let over when quilting a large quilt. These are my coveted pieces for this technique. Quilters,Reuse,Don’t Toss

two pieces of equal weighted batting can be sewn together,reuse don't toss
Two pieces of equal weighted batting can be sewn together.

Reusing items in Mixed Media

During the pandemic I turned my attention to mixed media or assemblage. I searched for small yet unusual items. These items would add interest to an art piece. Everything does not need to be a broken piece. Repurposing items also counts. My daughter brought back a small sewing kit from a trip to Europe. She never used it. I found a new use for them.

art in a box with blue tiles and buttons,9" x 6" reuse don't toss
Blue EuropeanThreads, 9″ x 6″ 23 cm x 15 cm

I am not sure if buttons would be considered unusual items. Yet, when I stacked them up with contrasting colors the effect was unusual.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/02/recent-attempts-at-assemblage/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/08/sewing-room-minimalist-assemblage/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/12/artful-fabric-business-cards/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/05/five-mistakes-new-quilters-make/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/01/frequently-asked-questions/

Reuse, don’t toss. Sometimes I have to give myself permission to throw something away. But with some thought, it is easy to consider another way to use something.

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

Does it Help to be an Educated Artist?

An Educated Artist,Love in the Abstract 26" x 24" 2017 Purple, pink and red in this abstract art quilt
Love in the Abstract 26″ x 24″ 66 cm x 61cm 2017

An Educated Artist

I met an educated artist a while ago. Subsequently, we talked about art. She knew all the names of the unique colors. At certain times of the convo, I didn’t even recognize the name she used. Initially,her depth of knowledge blew me away. I had not studied art. I had not memorized nor had even heard of some of the colors. In short, I assumed that she was an excellent artist. However, was I correct to make that assumption?

Her Work

Subsequently, she showed me some of her work. These included drawings,paintings and mixed media that had done over the years. Her work was good not great or spectucular. Knowing all the correct art terms didn’t help her create better art. Maybe time spent is the studio is important. Focus one’s attention. Decide what one’s goals are.

What Makes a Great Educated Artist?

So what really contributes to making  a great artist? Skills, time to practice, resiliency, and above all, the mastery of materials.

Skills and Materials

The great thing about art is that everyone can and should make art. Humans need to make art. Each human can choose what skills and materials they want to use. They may choose materials that they have readily available. The skill needed to use those materials needs to be developed.

Time

One has to have time to develop those skills. Time could be set aside daily or weekly. Or on the other hand, it could be developed over years. It is difficult to juggle a job, family and art. Each person gets to choose how they will handle it.

Resiliency

Resiliency is necessary to keep going. Artists need it so that they continue on in spite of setbacks. One cannot give up. Making a living from selling art is hard. Some choose different pathways to do something in art for their career. Teaching or commercial art are just two paths. Others wait until retirement to work on their art full time.

In Conclusion

Skills and the mastery of materials, time, and resiliency contribute to the making of a great artist.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/10/seeing-critically/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/06/how-to-discover-your-artistic-signature/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/01/to-frame-or-not-to-frame/

http://saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/12/on-calling-yourself-an-artist/

https://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/

One Fabric -View Three Unique Art Quilts

Knots, 15″ x 15″ 38cm x 38cm 2013

View how One Fabric became Three Unique Art Quilts

Little did I know that when I chose a fabric that one fabric would become three unique art quilts. The background fabric spoke to me. I liked the dots of different sizes while the peach color drew me in.

Knots-background fabric

First of all came Knots. It was one of my first pieces incorporating 3D objects with my art quilts. I added tucks and couched(zigzagged)fuzzy decorative threads to the fabric. Quilting black stitches added extra interest.The fiber piece in the middle is a mat like sample from FABMO as well. I folded it in half. Furthermore,I chose native inspired fabrics to roll up inside of the mat. Finally,a piece of favorite decorative thread with indigeous type details was added in several places. In short,Knots remains a favorite of mine. https://www.fabmo.org/

Copper Cliffs-smaller pieces used

SOLD! Copper Cliffs 21″ x 19″ 53cm x 48cm⁸ 2019

Copper Cliffs is an abstract art quilt. Smaller pieces of the original fabric is visible among the other fabrics. One of my go to techniques to create texture is to couch (zigzag) decorative threads on to fabric. Then I cut the fabric into smaller pieces to use. I used several different fabrics to do that in this piece. I also used curved line piecing to sew the pieces together. Scribble quilting adds movement.

Desert Trees in the Wash-Tree fabric stands out

DesertTrees in the Wash, 25″ x 24″
63cm x 61cm 2021

Desert Trees in the Wash is a more recent piece. Oddly enoughafter all of these years, the fabric still called to me. Almost all of these fabrics and details are redirected designer samples that I acquired at FABMO. The fabric layering technique starts with the back fabric being place on a table. Then I lay the batting or center fabric on top. Next, I create the desert scene on top. A thin layer of tulle netting covers the entire piece to hold everything in its place. Free motion quilting makes sure that nothing moves.

One Fabric Three Art Quilts
A piece of fabric that inspired

In Conclusion

These three art quilts use the same fabric in different ways. On the one hand they are each unique. Each one was created without an inkling of the others.Yet, they also represent common aspects of my portfolios. It is only when I look back that I see this. I still like this fabric. I am happy with the outcome of each piece.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2021/10/seeing-critically/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/

2022/01/to-frame-or-not-to-frame/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

Is it Important to Frame an Art Quilt?

tree with leaves flowing outside of the frame
Rusty Leaves, 29″ h x 21″ w
73cm x 53 cm

Art quilts are a newer art form. Creating art with fabric is not like creating art with paint. We create our own canvas of sorts with our backing. We finish the edges with stitches.We do not need an additional frame to complete our work. Some quilt artists add a fabric frame but that is different.

Art quilters need to embrace the uniqueness of their art form. Art quilts come in many fabrics,colors and sizes. There are no predetermined sizes like with a canvas. Sometimes  quilt artists choose a smaller size to try out a new technique or for a gift.

More importantly, in order to gain acceptance, some quilt artists frame their art. That way it is immediately recognizable as a piece of  art similar to a painting. Furthermore, who doesn’t want their work readily accepted by the public. I get that.

Yet, quilt edges are always finished. It is part of the process. Quilt edges are generally finished by several methods.  Sew a facing on the front  and turn it to the back for hand stitching. Zigzag twice on the edges. Some art quilters prefer attaching a binding like a more traditional quilt.

All artists want their work accepted as art. However, educating the public about art quilts is necessary. Why add a heavy frame? It is redundant and unnecessary. Why do it?

Framing Art Quilts is Different.

Fabric is a unique material to use to create art. It moves and stretches a bit. When I started creating art q;uilts, I thought that they were to lie flat against the wall. Then I visited the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles.https://www.sjquiltmuseum.org/ The incredible quilts on display did not lie flat against the wall. Naturally, I gave up that idea. Art quilters need to embrace the uniqueness of their special materials.

magenta tree with irregular shape on edges
Beach Tree, 34″ x 29″ 86cm x 73cm


11 Reasons Why I Don’t Frame my Art Quilts

  • The edges are finished. There is usually a facing, binding or the edges are zigzagged twice. Nothing more is needed.
  • Fabric encourages a different type of artistic expression. Leaves can flow off of the sides. A frame would cover up that expression.
  • I send my art quilts by rolling them up. They take up less space.
  • I store my art quilts by rolling them up with the front to the outside to prevent wrinkles. It is amazing how little space they take,
  • Be forward thinking. Ditching the frame immediately shows movement away from a tradition.
  • A frame is more heavy and cumbersome. What artistic value does it add to the art quilt? Trying to match styles can be difficult.
  • In Earthquake Country or Tornado Country, a heavy frame over a bed is not advisable.
  • I can carry all of my quilts for a solo show under  one or two arms. I  roll them up together. They are not heavy.
  • Frames adds extra unnecessary weight whether they are wooden, metal or another material.
  • When storing an art piece,a frame takes up more space.
  • A frame is expensive.
  • I store my quilts rolled up in a closet. A temporary tag pinned to the top allows for fast identification of each individual quilt.

Exceptions to Not Framing

I realize that there may be exceptions. It is possible to frame an art quilt. On the other hand,in some permanent public settings, framing may be preferred. Museums or other public and private organizations may want a consistent look in their presentation of the artwork. Permanent collections do not move often. The situations are different.

In Conclusion

Why add a frame if it is not necessary? Frames are expensive, heavy, and take up more space. On the contrary, they can not be rolled up for easy storage,shipping or carrying. More importantly, some painters are now painting the sides of their canvases so frames will not be necessary for them.

http://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com https://www.saqa.com/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/01/frequently-asked-questions/

What do you Want to Know? Frequently Asked Questions

Do you Look at the World with a Critical Eye?

Seeing Critically

Seeing critically is looking to see what one likes or doesn’t like about something. How would one make it better or more attractive? Don’t we all do this while getting dressed? However, it could also pertain to a piece of art, an room arrangement or a garden as well as  others.

Seeing  Critically
What would you add?

An Exercise to Practice Seeing Critically

Lately, I have found my art process spilling over into other aspects of my life. Basically my process is to do something and then try and make it better. What can I do to make the art more interesting? How can I kick it up a notch? I find myself looking at others work and doing the same thing. What parts do I like and which parts would I change? I am not being  critical as in criticize but as in finding the merits and the faults of something.

I see this as seeing and thinking critically about the work. The thoughts are only for myself. I wouldn’t dare say anything to the artist. That is not my intent. It is merely a practicing looking with a critical eye.

The Learning Curve of Art

I am reminded of an exercise that a photography teacher had us do. We were to go about our lives without our cameras and look for photos to take only with our eyes. The students practiced forming low risk pictures. We would notice the world around us. Frame a shot, pretend to take a photo  and continue on our way. It was a way of focussing. It was also in the days of dark rooms and fairly  expensive film. However, the exercise is still a valid one to focus one’s eye to the beauty around us.

Maybe this is a common art teacher technique. Never having much art training , I don’t know. My one year of drawing and painting was back in the days of Do Your Thing. If you know what your own thing is then that is great. But I had no idea of what my thing was.

I took the photography class because I had noticed that people with a good camera could get into events more easily. People thought that you were with the press.

Trying new ventures is a good idea. However to attain a particular skill level, one must practice. Somehow that never occurred with me.We are all in different places along the learning curve of art.

Seeing  Critically
How would you use this pieces?

Artful Gardens

Many people take pride in their artful gardens, large or small. As I walk by a neighborhood garden, I find myself observing critically. How are the plants  arranged. Are the shapes, colors, sizes of the plantings in harmony? Are they placed in a balanced way? Or are they clumped together with no interest? Between the drought, gophers and deer,we are sometimes lucky to have anything growing this late summer.Critisizing in not my intent. However, looking for artful placement of colorful plants is.

Art on Social Media -Seeing Critically

These days many  people are posting their art on social media. Each person is on their personal pathway to becoming or improving as an artist. I would never make a critical comment about that  person’s art. But it is an opportunity to practice seeing critically.   What parts I think work and how I might change it if it were my piece?

In conclusion, becoming an artist takes practice. Part of that progress  is to see critically many different art forms or even parts of life.Try it! It is free and easy. However, it is best to keep your opinions to yourself!

Read more.

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/02/one-fabric-three-art-quilts/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2022/08/how-to-talk-to-the-public-about-your-art/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/04/forging-your-own-art-path/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/09/becoming-more-creative/

https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2020/06/develop-your-art-style/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/annbmayartquilts/

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