Tuesday, May 15, 2007

What a gift!

As far back as I can remember I wanted to be an artist. I never really fit in the 9 – 5 box. Seven years ago I left that box and have never looked back. It is not with out some pitfalls but the rewards have been worth it. During family gatherings I am still asked when I plan on getting a real job.

I view this project as a healing tool. For a whole year I will be able to celebrate each month with an expression of my creativity. What a gift!

OK so now that that is over, I have never bead embroidered before. Any tips on what type of fabric that has worked well for you?

4 comments:

beadbabe49 said...

I love the many choices of cotton fabrics in the quilt shops. I used to simply back them with a lightweight pellon but for this project and a series I started in January, I'm backing them with timtex, an interface used in the quilted bowls I've seen the quilters make.
If you check out my blog, I have a sample of some of the fabrics I'm using now.

Magpie Sue said...

I also use quilter's cotton fabrics. In terms of interfacing or a stiffening agent, you should check out Robin's book One Bead At A Time. She beaded on a five dollar bill once!

Brenda said...

Thanks for the information. I am off to the fabric store. I can't wait to try a test piece.

Mary Timme said...

Hi Brenda,

I use just about anything I want to, but one of my favorites is untreated canvas. The next favorite is cotton or polyester something with a backing. I like, Robin, will use my interleaving pages or I may use an acid free paper with the design I want on top of the fabric, whatever I have chosen and tear it off when the design is done, (See http://beadfluff.blogspot.com for a photo of a mountain lion I just finished and is in my collection) and sewn onto the canvas, or sometimes I use the Ultra 70 Pellon directly, or the Lacy's stiff stuff or add felt to something and stitch over it. By far I like using something sturdy enough and stiff enough that I'm not required to have it in a hoop. Hate Hoops! And back stitch is what I use 95% of the time. You can email me from my profile on my blog if you want to know more.