In the evenings, after a full day at the sewing machine and at the computer, I've been plugging away at a few different hand stitching projects . . . . Right now, it's all about 'bright' and it's all about 'birds.'
And the hand work is really helping to keep me centered.
I've been working on this Stitchery Crossover project for a while. Over a year. I've been showing you progress reports, from time to time but, except for a label, this peacock-themed cross stitched wall-hanging quilt is now done, at long last.
I bordered the stitching using the Stitchery Crossover technique, then bound it using the same fabric.
I kept the quilting, fairly simple. Straight lines only.
Just enough to emphasize the stitching and plenty to stabilize and secure the layers of stitchery and quilting fabrics and batting.
It needed a little 'something' to create interest where border and binding met.
So I added a Portuguese Knotted Stem stitch, in bright orange, all the way around the piece to pick up some of the highlights in the stitching. this is one of my favorite edge stitches because it adds nice texture as well as color.
The pattern is inspired by a book mark pattern in Ultimate Cross Stitch Birds, released in 2018. Not sure if the issue is still available, perhaps in digital form.
I have to warn you though, only the center motif is in the pattern. The second border and spacing is the result of repeating some of the original design elements - along with a lot of calculating and counting.
With the Peacock done, my thoughts turned to the stash of projects I had planned to take with me on my now-cancelled or postponed travel.
This project, called Rainforest Beautiful from the Vickery Collection seemed just the ticket for my color-craving, somewhat challenge-seeking, bird-loving evening diversion.
And so it begins . . . again.
Take care of your creative soul. Be kind to yourself. Be well.
Happy Stitching!
Joan Ford
Head Hummingbird
Wow I just saw your address at the bottom of the page. I had been looking at some of your blog post. I was trying to get the directions for the pin cushion and saw the picture of the fluffy head duck lol- We just moved back to NY and live in Chenago county- we are practically neighbors. I love your creativity Joan – Thank you for making my day brighter
Hi June! Indeed, you are just down the road a piece! Welcome back to NY!