My piecing process is rarely the same. I’ll gather up some fabrics and lay out what looks good together. Sometimes I’ll map out a design, most times I start sewing scraps together and follow the process to see where it goes.
For the jacket below, I had the fabrics chosen, but as far as the overall design, I had no specific ideas. I began by sewing the scraps into blocks, putting together what looked good. Eventually, as the blocks came together, I found connections between them. This often happens, I think, ‘oh, so this is what it’s about.’ I follow along and pretty soon it all starts to come together. I try and keep things balanced, so the elements aren’t all in one spot, or, with clothing this is important, not in the wrong spot. If things are out of balance or in the wrong spot, I’ll take it apart and add or rearrange until it’s right.
It’s kind of like painting with water color. I have an idea, but the parts and pieces have their own agenda. Things happen that are a complete surprise. It feels like I’m just there for the ride and waiting and watching to see how it all comes out.
Below, pinned to the wall after the sections were pieced.
The same for the one below, for this one I started with the idea of high contrasting dark and light.
The front.
The back, still in process.
How about that cool ikat design for the base fabric? You can see the hexagon shapes in the larger pieces along the bottom edge. I love that it has the feeling of light dancing on water. So good.
Next up?
It’s all here on my table. It may look like piles of kimonos now, but in fact it is new jackets, coats and a skirt or two.
Stay tuned.
This is gorgeous. You have such an artistic eye for pattern and color matching. I am envious. Jean
Thank you Jean!
Ann love the improvisation. It’s how I quilt, and write. I bet your brain keeps working on the improvisation while you sleep, not conscious, but solutions are there just when you need them. Beautiful piercings.
Thank you Judith! I like your name for the technique, ‘improvisation.’ Perfect!