lillybeck

I agree with Janet. You have done a great job. I would never attempt this.

catrancher

Okay, okay . . . I'm still not happy with this, but it's a good way to practice with these. The Shiva Paintstiks, if you aren't familiar with them are like oil crayons. They develop a film that can be wiped off with a paper towel when you want to use them, then after using them they reseal themselves with a new film so that they never dry out. They can be stenciled, rubbed, whatever . . . depending on what you're trying to achieve. I only have the irridescent colors, and not enough choices to achieve the colors I want. I was just messing with them. This morning, I ordered another set with more colors, including white and black.

Here's a link if you're interested in learning more:

http://www.sewthankful.com/PaintstikInstruct.html

oksewglad

What a great idea! Nothing like trying this technique on an actual project. And you have rid yourself of the guilt of the unfinished project! Way to go, G.

Suziuki

I have only limited experience with landscape quilts but have to agree with Candace.
Someone mentioned the tree in front of your house being too dark, this can be made lighter with thread embellishment.

I think you will find that once you have added the other tree and the fence, it will come together, and you will be surprised the difference thread embellishment does make.

Don't be hard on yourself, you have had the courage to try this. When I did a course for landscape quilting I found there was a lack of pre course information on fabric selection, so tried to select fabrics with a print that matched the textures in my photo, but I also took to class a whole selection of other fabrics. Once the instructor had explained a little bit more about what we should aim to achieve and showed us samples of her work, it was clear that my original fabric selections were poor choices. I am thinking this may have been the same for you. Even if you are not happy with your end result (and most of the time we are our own worst critic) you have gained the techniques and experience to help master this art if you feel you want to go further with it.

catrancher

Thanks! I have a hard time forcing myself to work on anything when I'm unhappy with a project, and I knew this one would keep me out of the sewing room. It's better to keep it as a practice piece.

I started on a simpler image today, and I'm going about it differently . . . and more light-heartedly. I'm only adding one new element per day, and that will give me plenty of time to stare at it. Also, instead of fusing or sewing pieces down, I'm using a "canvas" of muslin and using 505 spray until I'm certain I like the fabrics I'm trying out. It's not ready for prime time yet, but I'll post a picture of it when I get a little further along.

Thanks again for all your interest and encouragment. I have to admit being surprised at the number of comments I got. Your suggestions have been extremely helpful, and I've learned a lot from reading them.

QuiltQtrs

Looks fine to me. House is similar to a property shown on HGTV program
recently, in France?

catrancher

Italy.

MyWifeMadeME

Not bad for the first try. It looks fine!

Farm Quilter

I really like what is happening with the paint sticks and can't wait to see what you do with the new ones you ordered!!! It REALLY makes a great difference with the house and grass...I rather like the blue mountain, but you will be able to play even more with the new paints and when you start the quilting process...don't forget that the thread painting can make such a difference!

Thanks for sharing these pictures...and keep sharing them, please!!! I am learning so much from you :thumbup:

margecam52

I like the way the green works with the grasses! I need to try something with the class info I've taken.
Marge