Inktense

 I watched a clip recently where the artist used watercolors to create variegated color on white floss. My thought, not permanent.  I decided to use inktense blocks:

I used a second "coat" of color after the first layer was dry. The floss feels soft and I think it will stitch well. Quick and fun!

Library Play Day

 Once a month, friends get together to work on projects, talk (alot!), eat, and problem solve at our local library.  I worked on journal backgrounds and left feeling uplifted and filled with joy.

I don't normally work on so many at a time, but knew that drying time would be a constraint. It was a good day.

Jonah

 More stitching... These beads have been in my stash for ages. It felt good to use them all!

Lenten Lily

 Helleborus, also known as a Lenten Lily, caught my eye at Trader Joe's in Iowa City on Monday.  The colors! Are they not inspiration for a textile project?!?

Trash day

 An early morning walk to the road with the trash bin was quite lovely.

Jonah

 My process: As a collage artist, I begin my work with small blocks that may or may not be stitched and beaded. I enjoy putting the pieces together into a larger block and then do a baste to keep them in order. Usually, there is not a piece of fabric on the back, as that just adds another layer to stitch thru.

This piece is pinned and ready to start stitching. I keep the blocks small so they are easy to take with to stitch while visiting my husband.

February project: Jonah

 Work on this project began with creating some random stitched blocks. I've now weeded thru and removed the ones that just don't work with my theme and color palette. There are many ideas and components that I've pulled to be a part of the project - probably needs some more weeding. For now, I just want to begin designing, with a goal of finishing by the end of February. 

My basic palette is teal, brown, and grey:

Shards of glass. Yes - I do like breaking up bottles and jars to run thru my rock tumbler!

Shells! 

Lots of beads:

I dyed this tablecloth ages ago. Somehow it will fit into the design.

Little bits of lace and random messy stitching:

Couldn't help myself - more dyeing to be done!

This is the beginnings of an idea to include. Whale baleen created from a discarded leather jacket. My first thought was to stitch the pieces down, but it is just too thick - my hands hurt just thinking about pulling the needle. I woke up this morning with a new thought - couching. It was so obvious to me after a good night's rest!

And finally - I know I want to include yo-yo's from a coverlet my grandmother made back in the 70's.