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-   -   Not Happy With My First Art Quilt Attempt (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/not-happy-my-first-art-quilt-attempt-t123267.html)

Cherylsea 05-15-2011 01:28 PM

It IS a work of art! Really nice so far. I would darken the mountain a bit and make the tree in the center ... less dense I guess is what I am trying to say. If you really don't like it I'll be happy to finish it!

catrancher 05-15-2011 01:28 PM


Originally Posted by Candace
This is just my opinion, but what I see in most landscape quilts that work best are that the fabrics for grass, buildings etc. are not literal. Meaning, they aren't fabrics that are printed with stone, or grass patterned fabric. They tend to be the same color way as the objects, but the patterning with thread is what gives it life and the interpretation of the viewer adds to the interest of the piece.

I think you may have nailed it. Lots of thread to tone down the harsh lines in the fabric maybe? Or...start over. I haven't decided yet.

Carron 05-15-2011 01:28 PM

You've got to be kidding. That quilt is fantastic. Very complicated and very appealing. Good job.

Melrose R 05-15-2011 01:29 PM

Wow, that is beautiful!

catrancher 05-15-2011 01:29 PM


Originally Posted by Bluelady
The sky, the hills .. wonderful! The only problem I see, and since you are only 1/3 finished I bet this "problem" will go away.. is the front lawn. The horizon line is too harsh, but once you get the tree and the fence and other details in it will tone it down. Is that what is bothering you about it? Your final embellishments will definitely smooth it out and make it flow.
Your fabric choices are awesome.. love the roof and the walkway and the stone fence. Remember, as you said, you still have 2/3 of it to go!
I think you will love it when finished!

I appreciate your optimism and that of the others of you.

catrancher 05-15-2011 01:33 PM


Originally Posted by Peckish
My trying-to-be-constructive criticism is that I think you're paying too much attention to the fabric textures and not enough to the fabric tones. Your mountain fabric is lighter and brighter than your sky fabric, and it should be the other way around. Your grass fabric is neat, but there's no depth-of-field (the grasses don't get smaller as the picture deepens) and the line where the grass ends at the top is a little abrupt - maybe some thread painting there would help both issues.
All in all, I think your quilt is really neat!!! I LOVE the block fabric you picked for the house!


Yes, I see what you mean. I have my thread work cut out for me, I think. Thanks to everyone for your helpful comments.

DogHouseMom 05-15-2011 01:39 PM


Originally Posted by catrancher
This is just my opinion, but what I see in most landscape quilts that work best are that the fabrics for grass, buildings etc. are not literal. Meaning, they aren't fabrics that are printed with stone, or grass patterned fabric. They tend to be the same color way as the objects, but the patterning with thread is what gives it life and the interpretation of the viewer adds to the interest of the piece.


Agree with the above. The grass in particular. Perhaps find another smaller print or almost solid, then intersperse a tuffet or two from this print, especially along the walls. Dont' be afraid to try several different fabrics together.

Also, the tree on the left corner of the house. Instead of cutting from a single piece of fabric, try several pieces of fabric - 2 -3 different fabrics showing light and dark. That will help give it a more realistic look (if indeed that is what you are aiming for).

sewingsuz 05-15-2011 01:42 PM

You are kidding. You did a great job. The only thing I may add if possible is the fence, It really looks great. Good Job

eastermarie 05-15-2011 01:49 PM

I agree with what has been said about the big tree. It is too big and too solid. Your eyes are drawn to that big green thing. Don't be afraid of putting another layer of fabric over top of it. Construct your new tree on one of those teflon sheets, you can put some of the building's blocks in the background between your branches and use a lighter green for the leaves. I've had to do thins like that with my stained glass wall banners for church. It will work and you will be happier with the results. You're doing a good job over all.

koko 05-15-2011 02:03 PM

Your quilt looks wonderful =) I'm making an art quilt right now (my first) as part of a challenge project for a quilt show so I know how you feel. In the very beginning I didn't even want to cut the fabric for fear it wasn't the right color or shape. As I've continued working on it I kinda like it now, even with my "mistakes". I've decided the "mistakes" give it interest and character!! I'm almost done and it looks nothing like I had imagined originally but it's more about process and the more I made changes (some just stumbled upon) it was for the better.

I like your interpretation - keep going and if you aren't sure about an area come back to it later and audition different fabrics. It's going to turn out great.


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