Stenciling and Stitching

When I was at Art is You, I took a class with Kecia Deveney and Linda Willis called Flags of Affirmation.  

Here is one of Kecia's and Linda's project pics - it had me at "hello!"

Kecia Deveney and Linda Willis' class picture for "Flags of Affirmation."

It was one of those classes that opened up a whole new world for me.  Since taking it, I have been designing my own fabrics using my stencils, and stitching up a storm.  I finally hung a valance made of all the flags I've been working on!  I love it!

The painting on the right is one I worked on in Sue Pelletier's class, and the one on the left (mostly obscured, sorry) is from Tracy Verdugo's class -- all from Art is You.  So I guess my living room is a bit of an altar to the wonderful community Sal and Ellen have created.  (The walls are Benjamin Moore 708 if you're wondering.)

Here are some detail pictures:

And closeups:

Using the "Namaste Stencil" from Stencil Girl

Using the Doors and Windows Stencil (top fabric) and Hebrew Calligraphy and Hamsa Stencil (background fabric)

Five Hamsas Stencil (top fabric), and Garden Flowers and Leaves Stencil (background fabric)

Namaste Stencil

Random Squares Stencil

Five Hamsas Stencil (foreground), Flying Tulips Stencil (Background Fabric)

Creating your own fabric is so easy!  I just use tea towels or napkins I bought at yard sales.  After washing them, I stencil with acrylic paint and a cosmetic sponge, just as I would do with paper.  I've washed these again, and the paint stays put and retains its vibrancy.   I love being able to create my own fabrics!

Stencils used:  Bubbles Girl, Garden Flowers and Leaves, Namaste, Flying Tulips

Then I just give a little cut and rip up the fabric and layer it as I please.  I love this style of sewing.  Not being a sewer by nature,  I love not worrying about straight lines, loose threads, and ironing!  It's mixed media, art journaling and sewing all rolled up in one, and I'm hooked.  Look who else is a fan:

Hope you have a wonderful day doing what you love.  Linking to Art Journal Every Day.  

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