Intuitive Stitching - Week 2
Intuitive Stitching
A few stitches at a time..
Week 2, Part 1 - Foundation/Backing
Click on the image below to view the video:
Week 2, Part 2 - Foundation/Backing
Click on the image below to view the video:
Notes - in brief
- Tear or cut your selected fabrics into strips.
- They can be either several strips of different lengths or 1 long strip.
- Strips should be 10-12 cm wide or you can vary the widths.
- Decide if you prefer raw edges on the long sides of your strips or if you want to reinforce them with stitch.
- Add stitching to edges if desired (eg running or blanket stitch).
- Prepare more than enough strips so you have plenty to choose from. The leftovers can be saved for another scroll!
In more detail::
Size options - my completed scroll measures 10 cm x about 3 m (4 in x almost 9 feet); the 10 cm width works well without being too small and cramped, or too large and overwhelming. Don't feel you have to use exactly the same size as I did - just work with the fabrics you have. If you prefer to work in smaller sections and want a bit more variety, you can make your scroll foundation from a series of shorter pieces which can be joined together before or after you add your stitching etc.
Shape options - one of my scrolls (as seen in the first image here) is tapered, ie it is about 10-11 cm at one end, tapering down o about 3 cm, so this could be an option for you. You could also make it from shorter sections which are not exactly the same width, to make the edges uneven. This looks great when it's rolled up also.
Edges (ideas) - it's no secret that I love raw edges! These can be cut or torn, but I like to tear the fabrics. Some require a bit of effort; it helps to make a small snip or cut with scissors to get you started. A rotary cutter and mat also work well if you're cutting rather than tearing. If you prefer, you can outline the edges in a running or other stitch to reinforce them but I prefer to keep things simple! Other alternatives are blanket stitch or machine-sewn eges (hemmed or zig-zagged).
Fabric suggestions - I really enjoy finding uses for vintage and upcycled fabrics such as wool blanket pieces or table linen. I also save scraps leftover from previous projects, which are a potential gold mine. My favourites are wool, linen and silk, but cotton is great too. Just make sure the ones you choose for your scroll foundation are not too thin and flimsy - save them for the next session! Another option is to deconstruct upcycled clothing and make a memory scroll. You could use clothing your children have outgrown, for example.
NB - don't stress too much about your fabric choices. Develop a sense of play and enjoy sorting and arranging them; they will soon show you what to choose!
(c) Rita Summers
Online - gonerustic.com
Instagram- @gonerustic
Facebook - gonerusticstudiogallery