finding my style

Along my journey, I have learned the visual value of "mood" boards. We use them at work as a way of conveying ideas. But when it comes to using one personally, I am a bit lax. I don't like to tear up magazines, if I do, the tear sheets get lost or left in a file that becomes obsolete.

Enter my new tool: pinterest.


I joined out of curiosity. Let it lie not knowing if or when I would really utilize it. Now, I love it. Easy to keep track of things I am drawn to. Becoming easier to discern my aesthetic. Eye candy deluxe!

Phases COMPLETE

I have been a busy little bee without internet access! 

I also have been focused on finishing so I can move on to the other quilts that are in my head!

This is Phases, my own design, mixing Drunkard's Path blocks with plain blocks. Inspired by the changing shape of the moon as it moves through it's phases, thinking of the way life moves, and the phases we go through.

All batiks, FMQ'ed on my Baby Lock. 49" square.

on personal quilting style

**this is a rambling post**

As I mentioned in this post, I have been pondering my personal quilting style. Then today, this post brought my own questions more into focus.  

I have been consciously focusing on not only what I like, what draws me in, but what I do, how I put things together, how I stitch. 

With this in mind, I think my FMQ is a lot like Ann Fahl's. Eclectic, whimsical, free-form. I have tried to stitch in a more formal style like this, but I just can't! My hands, the machine and the quilt tend to take on a will of their own. I am able to appreciate both styles, and learn from both artists.

I like artwork that is multi-layered, with lots of imagery, like collage (love Nick Bantock!). Artwork that has hidden elements (like this dollhouse!) and design that makes me smile (like this). I love it when someone looks at my one of my quilts and sees the stitching designs separate from the piecing.

When it comes to piecing, I enjoy free-form, intuitive piecing, following patterns, using templates. I am drawn to color, but also adore surface patterns (batik and print). I can be inspired by antique quilts, traditional designs, folk art; I love visiting museums and being inspired by the work of other artists. 

I do not like to conform to "rules" when it comes to my quilts. I do not want to be put into a box that does not allow me freedom to explore, experiment and evolve. I do like improving my technique and refining my skills.

I guess, while I haven't answered the question of "what is my style", I have clarified a bit. Please share your thoughts! 


So, how do I come up with a description of my work?

Sargosso is COMPLETE

**well, I am still stitching the binding!**

This is a HUGE quilt. 110" by 108" (I was shooting for square and I am very happy with the outcome!).

 all batiks

Pattern from Eleanor Burns, Radiant Star Quilts. Class at my LQS taught by the wonderful Miss Ellen!

cotton thread, top and bobbin

Long arm quilted, free-motion, by ME on my Mom's Gammill, Miss Gertie.

 Swirls and waves, to simulate an underwater feel

For my bed. LOVE IT!





Click on the link to see more cool projects!

stuff I have been doing while I wasn't here

Well the faithful Dell was retired (disconnected,to be donated to Goodwill) and I contributed to the economy by purchasing 2 new laptops, 1 for me, 1 for the hubs. I still need to load my Photoshop Elements software and my Wacom tablet, but I have been rather busy making quilts! Yes, I seam (heheheh) to have gotten my quilting groove back!

I completed the quilting of "Sargasso" (king-sized Radiant Star) on my Mom's long arm this past weekend. I am now in the process of hand-sewing the binding.

I have completed the quilting (on my DSM) of "Phases" (an art quilt) but haven't cut the binding yet. I have also completed the piecing, basted and started quilting on "Shortcake" a donation quilt for my office's United Fund campaign. I still need to add my border to "Nature 1" which is an Asian-inspired wall quilt then baste + quilt.
Sorry for the lack of photos, I also need to hook to my external hard drive and download from my camera! But quite frankly, I would rather be quilting than do all this tech stuff!