Sunday, 2 May 2021

Take 2

I have gone right back, almost to before where I started, if such a thing is possible.  I had in my mind's eye a half-remembered image of tiny bits of colour surrounded by something dark.  I wondered if I could use my string blocks to constitute these little bits of colour.  So, you guessed it, out came the rotary cutter again.  I cut a few little squares (a quarter the size of the original strings).  The original intention was to use each one on its own, but as I played around I wondered about reforming the Os that I had in my first attempt.  Like this.
I have log cabined around these centres, to bring them back up, roughly speaking to 10.5 inches.  The dark blue/black fabric was nearly a pair of trousers about 2 years ago, but the pattern, which had looked fine on paper, was very odd sewn up so they never got finished.  These pieces have been lurking around ever since.  It is very lovely in the flesh, but is, I think, a linen and cotton mix, so slightly unruly to handle.  Never mind.  

I liked these, so I made a few more.
And then a few more.

Very crease-y but otherwise okay.  This isn't a layout, of course, just a bunch of bits arranged for a photo; I will play around once I've got a few more under my belt.  I am getting 4 little bits from each of my original string blocks, so almost nothing is going to waste and hopefully this version will work better than the first, otherwise I will end up working with postage stamp-sized pieces.  ]

Will my tulips work with what I have here?  I have no idea yet and haven't wanted to jump the gun by trying them out.  For now I'm just concentrating on one thing at a time.  

13 comments:

Julierose said...

I like the "new look" very Asian I think; the surrounding darks really let the pieced strings shine out..
sometimes starting over is the way to go...
hugs, Julierose

Robin said...

It's a very satisfying look to see the string blocks surrounded by the darker shades. Blue was a good choice. I realize it chose you but it still works very well. Looks like you found a great beginning.

Yvonne from Quilting Jetgirl said...

Oh, the dark frame sets them off so nicely. I hope this is both looking and feeling good to you!

Ann said...

They shine surrounded by the lovely dark blue. What a clever way to reframe blocks that weren't working. And to use up projects that didn't work out. I have a dress I made last year that may end up in a quilt.

Marly said...

Lovely! Your strings can breathe again and are looking much better. I think you've found a great solution.

patty a. said...

I like those dark blue fabrics - especially the striped one. The sharp contrast between the logs and the string blocks looks great. The navy is not quite as harsh as the black was. I hope this layout works for you.

Quiltdivajulie said...

Yes! Yes! Yes! Keep going … I think your tulips will play nicely …

Mystic Quilter said...

Your string blocks really pop beautifully out of the dark blue fabrics, your tulips will work well them I think.

Kim said...

LOVE the dark blue fabrics enclosing the string blocks. They cause the strings to really shine.

lyn Lewis said...

Oh this is altogether more 'you' and I simply love it!
Ragged edges even LOL
Jewels in the Sea!

Had you used the tulips instead of the these blocks, it might even look like a Monet Tulip fest!

Though unsure is he had tulips in amongst the other flora lol

Janie said...

Yes, the design process, always a fun adventure. The colors framed by the dark blues shine out. Good compliment there.

Monica said...

That blue black fabric is lovely, so rich! Somehow this reminds me of the paintbox knitting patterns I wanted to make back in the 80s. 😄

Mary Marcotte said...

I agree with everyone. This is working really well. Your tulips will fit right in since they share many of these colors. Your new background contrasts just enough to feel intentional, not so forced as the black. Can't wait to see what's next!