<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>How Tos – FanningSparks</title> <atom:link href="https://fanningsparks.com/category/make/how-tos/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://fanningsparks.com</link> <description>A DIY and lifestyle blog authored by Peg Frizzell.</description> <lastBuildDate>Mon, 18 Nov 2024 17:14:36 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1</generator> <image> <url>https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cropped-Site-Icon-Final-Square-Flat-32x32.png</url> <title>How Tos – FanningSparks</title> <link>https://fanningsparks.com</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>FanningSparks Appliqued Scoodie</title> <link>https://fanningsparks.com/fanningsparks-appliqued-scoodie/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Peg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Fiber]]></category> <category><![CDATA[How Tos]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Make]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fanningsparks.com/?p=16343</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Scoodie Appliqued with Leaves and Flowers @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="(max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" />In the original version of the fairy tale we know as Little Red Riding Hood, a dear little girl was given a little cap of red velvet by her grandmother.  It “suited her so well that she would never wear anything else, so she was always called ‘Little Red-Cap’.”  The story, originally published in German [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Scoodie Appliqued with Leaves and Flowers @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" /> <p>In the original version of the fairy tale we know as Little Red Riding Hood, a dear little girl was given a little cap of red velvet by her grandmother. It “<em>suited her so well that she would never wear anything else, so she was always called ‘Little Red-Cap’</em>.” </p> <span id="more-16343"></span> <p>The story, originally published in German as Rotkäppchen (Little Red-Cap) was included in a collection of <em>Kinder- und Hausmärchen</em> (Children’s and Household Tales) by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm in 1812.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Little-Red-Riding-Hood-–-Lithographic-Illustrations-by-Carl-Offterdinger.jpg" alt="Little Red Riding Hood – Lithographic Illustrations by Carl Offterdinger " class="wp-image-16356" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Little-Red-Riding-Hood-–-Lithographic-Illustrations-by-Carl-Offterdinger.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Little-Red-Riding-Hood-–-Lithographic-Illustrations-by-Carl-Offterdinger-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Little-Red-Riding-Hood-–-Lithographic-Illustrations-by-Carl-Offterdinger-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Little-Red-Riding-Hood-–-Lithographic-Illustrations-by-Carl-Offterdinger-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Little-Red-Riding-Hood-–-Lithographic-Illustrations-by-Carl-Offterdinger-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Little-Red-Riding-Hood-–-Lithographic-Illustrations-by-Carl-Offterdinger-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>I was thinking about Little Red-Cap while sewing my latest project which, admittedly, isn’t red or a cap. But it is a hood with an attached scarf―often referred to as a scoodie (scarf + hoodie). I made it for an upcoming trip to Germany where, by happy coincidence, we’ll be passing through the town of Hanau where the Brothers Grimm spent their early childhood. <br>Scoodies are often knitted or crocheted from yarn but I chose to sew mine from fleece fabric. The basic construction was simple thanks to the Hoodie Scarf pattern and instructions Mad Cap Hats has generously shared online (see More Info section below for details). Special thanks to Tori at Mad Cap Hats for permission to share her work!</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Sewing-Winner-the-Hoodie-Scarf.jpg" alt="Mad Cap Hats - Winter Sewing Winner the Hoodie Scarf" class="wp-image-16358" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Sewing-Winner-the-Hoodie-Scarf.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Sewing-Winner-the-Hoodie-Scarf-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Sewing-Winner-the-Hoodie-Scarf-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Sewing-Winner-the-Hoodie-Scarf-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Sewing-Winner-the-Hoodie-Scarf-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Sewing-Winner-the-Hoodie-Scarf-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>The Hoodie Scarf is designed to be made from fleece fabric such as polar fleece or blizzard fleece. These fabrics are available in a multitude of colors and patterns so there are countless design options. Plus, the front edge of the hood is designed as a separate piece making it easy to trim the hood with faux fur, deep pile fleece or contrasting colored fleece. <br>True to form, I decided to jazz up my scoodie with one-of-a-kind embellishments. A plain, light background makes the design stand out. Specifically, I chose these two fabrics from Joann:<br>. Debossed Checkerboard Sew Lush Fleece Fabric in cream for the hood trim (shown left). Only ¼ yard of the 57” wide fabric was needed.<br>. Luxe Fleece Fabric Solid, which Joann describes as their “<em>premier fleece option … the epitome of warmth and coziness</em>” in ivory for the main fabric (shown right). About ¾ yard of the 59” wide fabric was needed. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fleece-Fabrics-for-my-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg" alt="Fleece Fabrics for my Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16350" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fleece-Fabrics-for-my-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fleece-Fabrics-for-my-Appliqued-Scoodie-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fleece-Fabrics-for-my-Appliqued-Scoodie-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fleece-Fabrics-for-my-Appliqued-Scoodie-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fleece-Fabrics-for-my-Appliqued-Scoodie-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fleece-Fabrics-for-my-Appliqued-Scoodie-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>After considering a number of options, I chose to apply a simple leaf and flower pattern with felt applique and embroidery. The design was inspired by some special occasion, embroidered fabric spotted at the fabric store. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Pattern-Inspiration-and-Design.jpg" alt="Leaves and Flowers Pattern Inspiration and Design @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16355" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Pattern-Inspiration-and-Design.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Pattern-Inspiration-and-Design-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Pattern-Inspiration-and-Design-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Pattern-Inspiration-and-Design-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Pattern-Inspiration-and-Design-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Pattern-Inspiration-and-Design-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>Fabric which does not fray, such as fleece and felt, is ideal for making applique cutouts. So, I used the felt left over from the project shown below―a pretty pincushion in a heirloom cup and saucer (see <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/teacup-pincushion-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Teacup Pincushion – DIY Tutorial</a> for step-by-step instructions).</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Finished-Teacup-Pincushion-.png" alt="Teacup and Saucer Repurposed as Pincushion" class="wp-image-7093" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Finished-Teacup-Pincushion-.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Finished-Teacup-Pincushion--300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Finished-Teacup-Pincushion--768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>This simple color palette, with only subdued greens and deep blues, worked well with the uncomplicated design.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Wool-Blend-Felt-for-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg" alt="Wool Blend Felt for Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16369" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Wool-Blend-Felt-for-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Wool-Blend-Felt-for-Appliqued-Scoodie-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Wool-Blend-Felt-for-Appliqued-Scoodie-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Wool-Blend-Felt-for-Appliqued-Scoodie-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Wool-Blend-Felt-for-Appliqued-Scoodie-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Wool-Blend-Felt-for-Appliqued-Scoodie-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>The felt, purchased from Prairie Point Junction, contains wool which makes it a better quality than most craft felt. These pieces are a blend of 35% wool and 65% rayon. In comparison, the premier fleece I chose for the scoodie is 100% polyester. The mix of fiber content made it necessary to ensure the fabrics could be laundered together without any negative impacts. <br>Wool tends to shrink so that was my biggest concern. A secondary consideration was the possibility of the colors running. A quick test done by laundering sample squares of fabric in the same way I intended to wash the finished scoodie―wash on the delicate cycle and lay flat to air dry―answered my questions. Shown below is the outcome of my laundering test―there was no change to the fleece and there was no color transference. But the felt definitely shrunk. As a result, I pre-washed all the felt for this project. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Testing-Felt-and-Fleece-Fabrics.jpg" alt="Testing Felt and Fleece Fabric @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16368" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Testing-Felt-and-Fleece-Fabrics.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Testing-Felt-and-Fleece-Fabrics-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Testing-Felt-and-Fleece-Fabrics-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Testing-Felt-and-Fleece-Fabrics-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Testing-Felt-and-Fleece-Fabrics-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Testing-Felt-and-Fleece-Fabrics-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>Having selected all the materials for my scoodie, it was time to finalize the approach and sequence of construction. The scoodie is made with three basic pieces―hood trim, hood and scarf. Here’s a peek at the Mad Cap Hats pattern (again, please see More Info section below for links).</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Hoodie-Scarf-Pattern-with-Samples.jpg" alt="Mad Cap Hats - Winter Hoodie Scarf Pattern with Samples " class="wp-image-16357" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Hoodie-Scarf-Pattern-with-Samples.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Hoodie-Scarf-Pattern-with-Samples-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Hoodie-Scarf-Pattern-with-Samples-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Hoodie-Scarf-Pattern-with-Samples-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Hoodie-Scarf-Pattern-with-Samples-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mad-Cap-Hats-Winter-Hoodie-Scarf-Pattern-with-Samples-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>I chose to modify the pattern slightly by lengthening the scarf and adding pockets to the ends of the scarf. The extra length allows the scarf to be wrapped around my neck twice while the pockets will be convenient when the scarf is worn open. The pockets also hide the back (unfinished side) of the applique work. <br>As designed, the scarf piece was cut across the width of the fleece fabric resulting in a long narrow strip about 6” wide x 59” long. I cut three additional pieces of fleece:<br>. ONE 6” x 18” to lengthen the scarf<br>. TWO 6” x 8 ½” for pockets.<br>The additional 18” piece was simply inserted into the center of the 59” piece. The pockets were sewn onto the backside of the scarf ends by attaching them along 3 sides with a decorative blanket stitch. Here’s a preview of the finished appliqued scoodie with my phone tucked into one of the pockets.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Pockets-on-My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg" alt="Pockets on My Finished FanningSparks Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16360" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Pockets-on-My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Pockets-on-My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Pockets-on-My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Pockets-on-My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Pockets-on-My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Pockets-on-My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p><strong><u>TIP:</u></strong> Working with fleece is messy―little, fluffy bits go everywhere! An easy way to reduce the mess is to take your cut pieces outdoors and give them a good shake! <br>Mad Cap Hats conveniently shares instructions for their Hoodie Scarf in a YouTube video. I followed the steps as outlined but stopped midway through to apply the applique design. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sewing-Hood-on-Mad-Cap-Hats-Hoodie-Scarf.jpg" alt="Sewing Hood on Mad Cap Hats Hoodie Scarf @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16366" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sewing-Hood-on-Mad-Cap-Hats-Hoodie-Scarf.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sewing-Hood-on-Mad-Cap-Hats-Hoodie-Scarf-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sewing-Hood-on-Mad-Cap-Hats-Hoodie-Scarf-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sewing-Hood-on-Mad-Cap-Hats-Hoodie-Scarf-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sewing-Hood-on-Mad-Cap-Hats-Hoodie-Scarf-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Sewing-Hood-on-Mad-Cap-Hats-Hoodie-Scarf-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>Specifically, I sewed the hood and attached the hood trim but did not attach the scarf at this point. I also inserted the additional piece to lengthen the scarf but did not yet sew on the pockets. So, the starting point for the applique work was an assembled hood and an extra-long scarf.<br>There are 16 pieces in the leaves and flowers applique design so it was helpful to number them individually. I printed a second paper copy of the pattern and cut out the various parts. Then pinned the small pieces to felt and cut them out carefully. The entire leaves and flowers motif is repeated four times on the scoodie―one on each side of the hood and one on each end of the scarf. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-Pattern-Pieces-.jpg" alt="Leaves and Flowers Applique Pattern Pieces @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16353" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-Pattern-Pieces-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-Pattern-Pieces--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-Pattern-Pieces--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-Pattern-Pieces--768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-Pattern-Pieces--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-Pattern-Pieces--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>To position the individual applique leaves on the fleece hood and scarf, I found it easiest to pin the full paper pattern into place. Then, gradually roll back the paper pattern and position, pin and sew one felt leaf at a time. The flowers were added after all the leaves and stems were stitched.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rolling-Back-Paper-Pattern-to-Position-Leaves-on-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg" alt="Rolling Back Paper Pattern to Position Leaves on Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16364" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rolling-Back-Paper-Pattern-to-Position-Leaves-on-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rolling-Back-Paper-Pattern-to-Position-Leaves-on-Appliqued-Scoodie-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rolling-Back-Paper-Pattern-to-Position-Leaves-on-Appliqued-Scoodie-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rolling-Back-Paper-Pattern-to-Position-Leaves-on-Appliqued-Scoodie-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rolling-Back-Paper-Pattern-to-Position-Leaves-on-Appliqued-Scoodie-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rolling-Back-Paper-Pattern-to-Position-Leaves-on-Appliqued-Scoodie-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>A simple outline stitch (aka stem stitch) sewn down the center of the felt leaves worked well. Detailed instructions for an outline stitch can be found in my previous blog post <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/hello-marvelous-photo-embroidery-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hello Marvelous Photo Embroidery – DIY Tutorial</a> under Step 6 Stitch Photo. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stitching-Leaves-onto-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg" alt="Stitching Leaves onto Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16367" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stitching-Leaves-onto-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stitching-Leaves-onto-Appliqued-Scoodie-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stitching-Leaves-onto-Appliqued-Scoodie-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stitching-Leaves-onto-Appliqued-Scoodie-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stitching-Leaves-onto-Appliqued-Scoodie-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stitching-Leaves-onto-Appliqued-Scoodie-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>After the individual leaves were sewn in place, I created stems between the leaves with an outline stitch. Leaves and stems do not need to connect where the flowers will be placed. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-in-Progress.jpg" alt="Leaves and Flowers Applique in Progress @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16352" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-in-Progress.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-in-Progress-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-in-Progress-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-in-Progress-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-in-Progress-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Applique-in-Progress-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>There are three flowers in the design. In the <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/teacup-pincushion-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Teacup Pincushion – DIY Tutorial</a> blog post I refer to them as the “daisy form row of petals flower”.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-in-Progress.jpg" alt="Blue Felt Flowers in Progress @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16347" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-in-Progress.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-in-Progress-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-in-Progress-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-in-Progress-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-in-Progress-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-in-Progress-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>The below image was copied from that post. Detailed instructions can be found in that tutorial under Step 6 Sew #3 Daisy Form Row of Petals Flower. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Make-Daisy-Form-Felt-Flower-Collage.png" alt="Steps to Make Daisy Form Felt Flower @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-7094" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Make-Daisy-Form-Felt-Flower-Collage.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Make-Daisy-Form-Felt-Flower-Collage-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Make-Daisy-Form-Felt-Flower-Collage-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>The only difference between the flower pictured above and those I made for the appliqued scoodie is the flower center. Instead of making it with yellow felt, I used a narrow strip of ivory fleece and securely sewed the ends to the back of the felt daisy. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-Ready-to-Attach.jpg" alt="Blue Felt Flowers Ready to Attach @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16348" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-Ready-to-Attach.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-Ready-to-Attach-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-Ready-to-Attach-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-Ready-to-Attach-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-Ready-to-Attach-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blue-Felt-Flowers-Ready-to-Attach-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>The daisies were stitched onto the scoodie with small stitches hidden underneath the petals. After all the leaves, stems and flowers were sewn in place, I finished the edges of the scarf with a contrasting blanket stitch. <br>The below image was copied from my previous blog post <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/stitched-wooden-bowl-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stitched Wooden Bowl – DIY Tutorial</a>. Detailed instructions for this blanket stitch can be found in that tutorial under Step 10 Finish Top Edge.<strong> </strong></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Blanket-Stitch-Edging-Steps.png" alt="Blanket Stitch Edging Steps for Stitched Wooden Bowl @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-6526" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Blanket-Stitch-Edging-Steps.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Blanket-Stitch-Edging-Steps-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Blanket-Stitch-Edging-Steps-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>The blanket stitch around the ends of the scarf also serves to attach the pockets. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Appliqued-on-Scarf.jpg" alt="Leaves and Flowers Appliqued on Scarf @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16354" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Appliqued-on-Scarf.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Appliqued-on-Scarf-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Appliqued-on-Scarf-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Appliqued-on-Scarf-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Appliqued-on-Scarf-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Leaves-and-Flowers-Appliqued-on-Scarf-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>The final step was to attach the scarf to the hood as explained in the Mad Cap Hats video. <br>Here it is! My one-of-a-kind Appliqued Scoodie.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg" alt="My Finished FanningSparks Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16359" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/My-Finished-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>And here it is, modelled by Willow (a digital stamp from Pink Gem Designs), in the golden light of early morning.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="769" height="1024" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-Scoodie-Appliqued-with-Leaves-and-Flowers-1-1.jpg" alt="Back View of FanningSparks Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16393" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-Scoodie-Appliqued-with-Leaves-and-Flowers-1-1.jpg 769w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-Scoodie-Appliqued-with-Leaves-and-Flowers-1-1-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-Scoodie-Appliqued-with-Leaves-and-Flowers-1-1-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-Scoodie-Appliqued-with-Leaves-and-Flowers-1-1-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Back-View-of-Scoodie-Appliqued-with-Leaves-and-Flowers-1-1-450x599.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 769px) 100vw, 769px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Front-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg" alt="Front View of FanningSparks Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16351" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Front-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Front-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Front-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Front-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Front-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Front-View-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="769" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Scarf-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg" alt="Scarf of FanningSparks Appliqued Scoodie @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16365" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Scarf-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Scarf-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Scarf-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Scarf-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Scarf-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Scarf-of-FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Info</h2> <p>Please pin this image to share or save for future reference.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-Pin.jpg" alt="FanningSparks Appliqued Scoodie Pin @FanningSparks" class="wp-image-16349" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-Pin.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-Pin-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-Pin-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-Pin-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-Pin-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/FanningSparks-Appliqued-Scoodie-Pin-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <p>Previous blog posts mentioned in today’s blog post include:<br>. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/teacup-pincushion-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Teacup Pincushion – DIY Tutorial</a><br>. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/hello-marvelous-photo-embroidery-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hello Marvelous Photo Embroidery – DIY Tutorial</a><br>. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/stitched-wooden-bowl-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stitched Wooden Bowl – DIY Tutorial</a>.<br>The following unique products are featured in this blog post:<br>. <a href="https://madcaphats.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mad Cap Hats’</a> Hoodie Scarf pattern and instructions which are available for free <a href="https://madcaphats.com/pages/the-hoodie-scarf-winter-sewing-business-winner?" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> on their website. Special thanks again to Tori for permission to share her work!<br>. Willow Digital Stamp by Janet Roberts of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PinkGemDesigns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pink Gem Designs on Etsy</a>. <br>The following major supplies were used for this project:<br>. Fleece fabric purchased in person at Joann―similar products are available <a href="https://www.joann.com/c/fabric/fleece-fabric" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> on their website<br>. Wool blend felt purchased online from <a href="https://prairiepointjunction.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Prairie Point Junction</a>. <br>The following books and articles were consulted in the writing of this blog post:<br>. <em>Children’s and Household Tales Collected by The Brothers Grimm Complete Edition with All 250 Stories in English, Dutch, German</em> published by Lord Henfield in 2022 which is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/grimm-s-fairy-tales-all-250-fairy-tales-of-the-brothers-grimm-in-english-dutch-g/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> on Internet Archives<br>. Various Wikipedia entries.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Today’s Takeaways</h2> <p>1. A scoodie is a piece of winter headgear combining a scarf and hoodie. <br>2. A wealth of quality creative resources, including designs, patterns and instructions, can be found online at little to no charge. <br>3. Consider embellishing ordinary winter accessories such as scoodies, hats, scarfs and mittens. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="91" height="61" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peg-Signature-1.png" alt="Peg - FanningSparks Author" class="wp-image-122"/></figure> <p></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Make & Give Roundup 2024</title> <link>https://fanningsparks.com/make-give-roundup-2024/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Peg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 05 Nov 2024 11:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Holidays]]></category> <category><![CDATA[How Tos]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Make]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Tutorials]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fanningsparks.com/?p=16253</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Make & Give Roundup 2024 @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" />It’s that time of year―time to get serious about making gifts for the upcoming holidays! Judging from the activity on the FanningSparks Pinterest boards, it looks like a lot of makers have the same idea. I’ve pulled together my most popular pins to inspire your creativity and jumpstart your annual make-and-give projects. The projects in [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Make & Give Roundup 2024 @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-fea-1-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" /><p>It’s that time of year―time to get serious about making gifts for the upcoming holidays! Judging from the activity on the FanningSparks Pinterest boards, it looks like a lot of makers have the same idea. I’ve pulled together my most popular pins to inspire your creativity and jumpstart your annual make-and-give projects.<br /> <span id="more-16253"></span>The projects in this year’s Make & Give Roundup are presented in order of popularity based on Pinterest activity over the last 90 days.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16262" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-.jpg" alt="Make & Give Roundup 2024 Summary @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Make-Give-Roundup-2024-Summary--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><strong><u>1. Maker Apron<br /> </u></strong>This project is perfectly aligned with the current trend to reclaim, repurpose and upcycle. The FanningSparks Maker Apron is made from a pair of thrifted denim jeans for strength and durability. The project requires a sewing machine and basic sewing skills. The below Pinterest pin, featuring the actual measurements of my finished apron, has been viewed, pinned or shared over 16k times in just the last 90 days. The <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/maker-apron-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maker Apron – DIY Tutorial</a> post provides detailed step-by-step instructions for this project.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8190" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/FanningSparks-Maker-Apron.png" alt="FanningSparks Maker Apron Measurements @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/FanningSparks-Maker-Apron.png 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/FanningSparks-Maker-Apron-225x300.png 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><strong><u>2. Knotted Bird Ornament<br /> </u></strong>The second most popular Pinterest pin is this template for a Knotted Bird.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9795" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Knotted-Ceramic-Bird-Complimentary-Download-FanningSparks-July-2022.png" alt="Knotted Ceramic Bird Complimentary Download Image @FanningSparks" width="720" height="960" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Knotted-Ceramic-Bird-Complimentary-Download-FanningSparks-July-2022.png 720w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Knotted-Ceramic-Bird-Complimentary-Download-FanningSparks-July-2022-225x300.png 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></p> <p>I originally made a small flock of these birds from clay and hung them in my flower gardens (see <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/i-spy-something-white/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I Spy Something White</a>). But the birds can be made from a variety of materials, including decorative paper (as shown in <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/handmade-ornaments-for-the-holidays/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Handmade Ornaments for the Holidays</a>), and would look equally charming on a Christmas tree.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16257" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Hanging-3-Paper-Ornaments-on-Gold-Frame-Cropped.jpg" alt="Hanging 3 Paper Ornaments on Gold Frame Cropped @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Hanging-3-Paper-Ornaments-on-Gold-Frame-Cropped.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Hanging-3-Paper-Ornaments-on-Gold-Frame-Cropped-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Hanging-3-Paper-Ornaments-on-Gold-Frame-Cropped-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Hanging-3-Paper-Ornaments-on-Gold-Frame-Cropped-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Hanging-3-Paper-Ornaments-on-Gold-Frame-Cropped-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Hanging-3-Paper-Ornaments-on-Gold-Frame-Cropped-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>3. Lucet Cordmaking<br /> </u></strong>The next most popular project is cordmaking with a Lucet as featured in the <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/lucet-cordmaking-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lucet Cordmaking – DIY Tutorial</a>. A lucet is a simple tool that resembles a two-pronged fork. My full step-by-step tutorial explains how to make a wooden lucet―a good beginner project requiring only a jigsaw and basic woodworking skills.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6136" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tracing-Template-on-Wood-for-DIY-Lucet.png" alt="Tracing DIY Lucet Template on Wood @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tracing-Template-on-Wood-for-DIY-Lucet.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tracing-Template-on-Wood-for-DIY-Lucet-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tracing-Template-on-Wood-for-DIY-Lucet-768x577.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Lucets are used to make knotted cord by manipulating fiber strands around the prongs. The tutorial includes instructions on to make cord. Cordmaking may require a little patience but the repetitive movements quickly become relaxing and soothing. Cord can be made in a variety of fibers, such as yarn, string and floss, in an endless array of colors. These Pinterest pins have been very active.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6129" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lucet-Cordmaking-Instructions-Page-1-of-2.png" alt="Lucet Cordmaking Instructions Page 1 @FanningSparks" width="960" height="720" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lucet-Cordmaking-Instructions-Page-1-of-2.png 960w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lucet-Cordmaking-Instructions-Page-1-of-2-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lucet-Cordmaking-Instructions-Page-1-of-2-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6130" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lucet-Cordmaking-Instructions-Page-2-of-2.png" alt="Lucet Cordmaking Instructions Page 2 @FanningSparks" width="960" height="720" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lucet-Cordmaking-Instructions-Page-2-of-2.png 960w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lucet-Cordmaking-Instructions-Page-2-of-2-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lucet-Cordmaking-Instructions-Page-2-of-2-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p> <p><strong><u>4. Bluebird Birdhouse<br /> </u></strong>The Bluebird-Approved Birdhouse is one of the first tutorials I ever shared on the blog―5 years later, it is still a perennial favorite. This project is suitable for someone with basic woodworking skills including cutting and assembling wood. Only standard tools including a jigsaw, drill and screwdriver are needed. See the <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/diy-bluebird-approved-birdhouse-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DIY Bluebird-Approved Birdhouse Tutorial</a> for detailed instructions.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3191" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Birdhouse-Dimensions.png" alt="Design and Dimensions for DIY Bluebird-Approved Birdhouse. Tutorial at FanningSparks. @FanningSparks" width="960" height="720" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Birdhouse-Dimensions.png 960w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Birdhouse-Dimensions-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Birdhouse-Dimensions-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p> <p><strong><u>5. Sashiko Jacket<br /> </u></strong>Sashiko, a type of Japanese stitching, is typically done with white thread on indigo-dyed fabric so it’s a great option for embellishing a denim jean jacket. Check out the blog post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/a-denim-jacket-with-sashiko-flair/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Denim Jacket with Sashiko Flair</a>, to learn how to select and apply various sashiko designs to your one-of-a-kind garment. These two work-in-progress pins have been particularly popular.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-11999" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Right-Front.jpg" alt="Stitching Kikko Variation (Tortoise Shell) Sashiko Pattern on Right Front @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Right-Front.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Right-Front-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Right-Front-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Right-Front-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Right-Front-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Right-Front-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-12000" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Modified-Basketweave-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Left-Yoke.jpg" alt="Stitching Modified Basketweave Sashiko Pattern on Left Yoke @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Modified-Basketweave-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Left-Yoke.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Modified-Basketweave-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Left-Yoke-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Modified-Basketweave-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Left-Yoke-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Modified-Basketweave-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Left-Yoke-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Modified-Basketweave-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Left-Yoke-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Stitching-Modified-Basketweave-Sashiko-Pattern-on-Left-Yoke-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Whether you choose to give this jacket to someone special or keep it for yourself, you’re bound to appreciate the compliments it draws. This project requires basic hand-sewing skills.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16255" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Finished-Back-Yoke-on-Denim-Jacket-in-Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Sashiko-Stitching.jpg" alt="Finished Back Yoke on Denim Jacket in Shippo-tsunagi Seven Treasures Sashiko Stitching @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Finished-Back-Yoke-on-Denim-Jacket-in-Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Sashiko-Stitching.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Finished-Back-Yoke-on-Denim-Jacket-in-Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Sashiko-Stitching-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Finished-Back-Yoke-on-Denim-Jacket-in-Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Sashiko-Stitching-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Finished-Back-Yoke-on-Denim-Jacket-in-Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Sashiko-Stitching-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Finished-Back-Yoke-on-Denim-Jacket-in-Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Sashiko-Stitching-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Finished-Back-Yoke-on-Denim-Jacket-in-Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Sashiko-Stitching-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>6. Snowflake Ornament<br /> </u></strong>A series of complex twists and turns gives the below snowflake its charm. I originally made this snowflake from repurposed leather as shown in these photos. Detailed step-by-step instructions, along with a <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Red-Leather-Snowflake-Ornament-Complimentary-Download-FanningSparks-Dec-2021.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">complimentary download project template</a> can be found in the blog post <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/red-leather-snowflake-ornament-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Red Leather Snowflake Ornament – DIY Tutorial</a>.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8651" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Adding-Seed-Beads-to-Waxed-Cord.png" alt="Adding Seed Beads to Waxed Cord @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Adding-Seed-Beads-to-Waxed-Cord.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Adding-Seed-Beads-to-Waxed-Cord-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Adding-Seed-Beads-to-Waxed-Cord-768x577.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8630" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Attach-Hanger-to-Leather-Snowflake.png" alt="Attach Hanger to Leather Snowflake @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Attach-Hanger-to-Leather-Snowflake.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Attach-Hanger-to-Leather-Snowflake-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Attach-Hanger-to-Leather-Snowflake-768x577.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>This snowflake can be made from a variety of materials such as felt, reed and paper. Here’s one made with decorative cardstock paper.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10527" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Paper-Snowflake-Ornament.png" alt="Paper Snowflake Ornament @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Paper-Snowflake-Ornament.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Paper-Snowflake-Ornament-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Paper-Snowflake-Ornament-768x577.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>7. Fused Glass Flower<br /> </u></strong>The next most popular Pinterest pin illustrates a helpful tip for making fused glass flowers. This project involves cutting stained glass into petals, flower centers and leaves which are then fused in a glass kiln. A sturdy flower stem is made from copper tubing and the leaves and flower heads are attached to the stem. As shown in the below photo the flower head is attached with a small, flat-topped screw adhered to the bottom of the flower center.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13914" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Attaching-Glass-Flower-Head-to-Stem-.jpg" alt="Attaching Glass Flower Head to Stem @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Attaching-Glass-Flower-Head-to-Stem-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Attaching-Glass-Flower-Head-to-Stem--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Attaching-Glass-Flower-Head-to-Stem--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Attaching-Glass-Flower-Head-to-Stem--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Attaching-Glass-Flower-Head-to-Stem--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Attaching-Glass-Flower-Head-to-Stem--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>This project does require specialized equipment, such as a glass fusing kiln, and good glass cutting skills. But it’s all worth the effort when you share these beautiful fused glass flowers―<a href="https://fanningsparks.com/cut-flowers-that-really-last/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cut Flowers That Really Last</a>―with someone special.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16256" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fused-Glass-Daisy-and-Coneflower.jpg" alt="Fused Glass Daisy and Coneflower @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fused-Glass-Daisy-and-Coneflower.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fused-Glass-Daisy-and-Coneflower-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fused-Glass-Daisy-and-Coneflower-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fused-Glass-Daisy-and-Coneflower-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fused-Glass-Daisy-and-Coneflower-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Fused-Glass-Daisy-and-Coneflower-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>8. Ceramic Heart Trivet<br /> </u></strong>Trivets, sometimes called hot pot holders, are typically used to protect the surface of a dining table from a hot serving dish or bowl. They are simple, but functional, objects with a decorative surface. The below photo, showing my heart-shaped filigree trivet formed in clay, has been pinned over 650 times in the last 3 months. This project requires specialized equipment, such as a pottery kiln, as well as basic hand-building pottery skills.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10878" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Heart-Shaped-Trivet-Formed-from-Clay-Strips.png" alt="Heart-Shaped Trivet Formed from Clay Strips @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Heart-Shaped-Trivet-Formed-from-Clay-Strips.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Heart-Shaped-Trivet-Formed-from-Clay-Strips-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Heart-Shaped-Trivet-Formed-from-Clay-Strips-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>It’s a very pretty design although it did present a challenge when adding tiny feet to the bottom―they must be placed just right for adequate support during firing. See my blog post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/maker-heart-challenge-2-broken-heart-trivet/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maker Heart Challenge #2: Broken Heart Trivet</a>, for all the details. Done right, a ceramic trivet like this would make a nice gift for someone who likes to cook and entertain.<br /> <strong><u>9. Wind Chimes<br /> </u></strong>The next most popular Pinterest pin illustrates another technique. This one comes from a project to make a set of wind chimes from repurposed vintage silver. The <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/old-silver-wind-chimes-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Old Silver Wind Chimes – DIY Tutorial</a> provides step-by-step instructions for transforming a vintage, silver-plated sugar bowl (or creamer) and cutlery into pretty wind chimes.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8058" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Old-Silver-Wind-Chimes-Titled-reg.png" alt="Old Silver Wind Chimes DIY Tutorial @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Old-Silver-Wind-Chimes-Titled-reg.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Old-Silver-Wind-Chimes-Titled-reg-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Old-Silver-Wind-Chimes-Titled-reg-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>It’s a fun project that doesn’t require any specialized tools or skills. The specific technique which has proven particularly popular on Pinterest, as shown below, is a tip to indent the target spot on the cutlery with a nail before drilling.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8037" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Drilling-Spoon-Handles-for-Wind-Chimes.png" alt="Drilling Spoon Handles for Old Silver Wind Chimes @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Drilling-Spoon-Handles-for-Wind-Chimes.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Drilling-Spoon-Handles-for-Wind-Chimes-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Drilling-Spoon-Handles-for-Wind-Chimes-768x577.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>10. Barn Quilt Block<br /> </u></strong>Barn quilts are back in vogue―they can be seen on porches, garages, sheds and fences, as well as barns. The below Pinterest pin, showing my completed Lilies and Hummingbird design, has been very popular. In fact, I’ve received several requests to purchase the pattern (<em>which I’m happy to share for free</em>) and even a few offers to buy a completed work (<em>sorry I don’t sell my artwork</em>). Barn quilt blocks can be made in a wide variety of patterns and colors so they’re easy to tailor to a recipient’s interests and preferences.<br /> See the blog post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/lessons-learned-from-my-first-barn-quilt-block/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lessons Learned from My First Barn Quilt Block</a>, for an overview of the materials and supplies needed as well as the process involved. Basic crafting skills as well as a good dose of patience are needed for this project.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9943" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/My-Finished-Lilies-Hummingbird-Barn-Quilt-Block.png" alt="My Finished Lilies & Hummingbird Barn Quilt Block @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/My-Finished-Lilies-Hummingbird-Barn-Quilt-Block.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/My-Finished-Lilies-Hummingbird-Barn-Quilt-Block-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/My-Finished-Lilies-Hummingbird-Barn-Quilt-Block-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>11. Coiled Rope Animal Coaster<br /> </u></strong>Last January, I set myself a challenge to focus on Earth-friendly projects. One of those projects was to sew coiled cotton rope coasters in simple animal shapes. I came up with four designs including a natty snail, bunny rabbit, simple bird and wooly sheep. All of the designs are based on a 4½” diameter core circle. A set of these coasters would make a useful and fun gift. The project requires a sewing machine but only basic sewing skills are needed. You can find all the details in the <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/coiled-rope-animal-coasters-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Coiled Rope Animal Coasters – DIY Tutorial</a>.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13570" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Animal-Shaped-Coiled-Rope-Coasters.jpg" alt="Animal-Shaped Coiled Rope Coasters @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Animal-Shaped-Coiled-Rope-Coasters.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Animal-Shaped-Coiled-Rope-Coasters-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Animal-Shaped-Coiled-Rope-Coasters-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Animal-Shaped-Coiled-Rope-Coasters-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Animal-Shaped-Coiled-Rope-Coasters-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Animal-Shaped-Coiled-Rope-Coasters-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>12. Photo Embroidery<br /> </u></strong>Embroidering photographs is becoming increasingly popular. Regular readers know I like to use this technique to commemorate my “word of the year” as part of my annual New Year’s tradition. For instance, my word for 2024 was “Change” (see <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/change-my-word-for-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Change: My Word for 2024</a>).<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13421" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Change-My-Word-for-2024.jpg" alt="Change My Word for 2024 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Change-My-Word-for-2024.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Change-My-Word-for-2024-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Change-My-Word-for-2024-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Change-My-Word-for-2024-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Change-My-Word-for-2024-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Change-My-Word-for-2024-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Stitching on paper is surprisingly easy and satisfying—especially when stitching on a favorite photo. Why not choose a photo that’s especially meaningful to someone special and embellish it with your own design to give as a gift?<br /> Check out the blog post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/hello-marvelous-photo-embroidery-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hello Marvelous Photo Embroidery – DIY Tutorial</a>, for step-by-step instructions. The below photo shows a technique from that tutorial which has been very popular on Pinterest.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6724" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Outline-Stitch-Instructions-Hold-Loops.png" alt="TIP – Hold Thread Loop Outside the Curve for Outline Stitch @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Outline-Stitch-Instructions-Hold-Loops.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Outline-Stitch-Instructions-Hold-Loops-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Outline-Stitch-Instructions-Hold-Loops-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>13. Turkish Mosaic Candle Holder<br /> </u></strong>This next project, the Turkish Mosaic Candle Holder, is another perennial favorite which is perfect for this time of year. It has a pretty 6-point star design that glitters and shines when a candle is lit inside. This project requires basic glass cutting skills and a few glass cutting tools but it’s entirely doable with the step-by-step instructions provided in the <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/diy-turkish-mosaic-candle-holder-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DIY Turkish Mosaic Candle Holder Tutorial</a>.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3844" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DIY-Turkish-Mosaic-Candle-Holder-Tutorial-reg-1024x768.png" alt="DIY Turkish Mosaic Candle Holder Tutorial pin. @FanningSparks" width="770" height="578" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DIY-Turkish-Mosaic-Candle-Holder-Tutorial-reg.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DIY-Turkish-Mosaic-Candle-Holder-Tutorial-reg-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/DIY-Turkish-Mosaic-Candle-Holder-Tutorial-reg-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px" /></p> <p><strong><u>14. T-Shirt Yarn Basket</u><br /> </strong>I’ll add one bonus project to avoid ending on unlucky number 13. This last project hasn’t (yet) received a lot of attention on Pinterest but, personally, I think it deserves a little more love.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13719" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finished-T-Shirt-Yarn-Basket-Holding-Mandarin-Oranges.jpg" alt="Finished T-Shirt Yarn Basket Holding Mandarin Oranges @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finished-T-Shirt-Yarn-Basket-Holding-Mandarin-Oranges.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finished-T-Shirt-Yarn-Basket-Holding-Mandarin-Oranges-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finished-T-Shirt-Yarn-Basket-Holding-Mandarin-Oranges-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finished-T-Shirt-Yarn-Basket-Holding-Mandarin-Oranges-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finished-T-Shirt-Yarn-Basket-Holding-Mandarin-Oranges-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Finished-T-Shirt-Yarn-Basket-Holding-Mandarin-Oranges-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>After all, these fabric baskets are very useful, relatively easy to make in any color and a variety of designs, and they’re made entirely from repurposed materials… win-win-win! These baskets are crocheted using yarn made from discarded T-shirts (see <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/extending-the-life-of-the-common-t-shirt/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Extending the Life of the Common T-Shirt</a> for the details). This project requires only a crochet hook, T-shirt yarn, a recycled base and a little know-how. See the <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/t-shirt-yarn-basket-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">T-Shirt Yarn Basket – DIY Tutorial</a> for full step-by-step instructions.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16260" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stack-of-T-Shirt-Yarn-Baskets.jpg" alt="Three Finished T-Shirt Yarn Baskets with Yarn @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stack-of-T-Shirt-Yarn-Baskets.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stack-of-T-Shirt-Yarn-Baskets-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stack-of-T-Shirt-Yarn-Baskets-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stack-of-T-Shirt-Yarn-Baskets-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Stack-of-T-Shirt-Yarn-Baskets-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></p> <p>Hopefully, this selection of popular Pinterest pins has piqued your interest and inspired you to try a new make-and-give project this year.</p> <h2><strong>More Info</strong></h2> <p>FanningSparks has a significant presence on <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/fanningsparks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pinterest</a> with nearly 3,000 followers. All the original photos shared in my blog posts are pinned on FanningSparks Make, Travel, Nature and Decorate Pinterest boards.<br /> For your convenience, here are the links to the 2024 Make & Give suggestions mentioned in this blog post:<br /> 1. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/maker-apron-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maker Apron – DIY Tutorial</a><br /> 2. Knotted Bird Ornament in <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/i-spy-something-white/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I Spy Something White</a> and <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/handmade-ornaments-for-the-holidays/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Handmade Ornaments for the Holidays</a>. A complimentary download project template for the knotted bird is available <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Knotted-Ceramic-Bird-Complimentary-Download-FanningSparks-July-2022.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.<br /> 3. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/lucet-cordmaking-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lucet Cordmaking – DIY Tutorial</a><br /> 4. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/diy-bluebird-approved-birdhouse-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DIY Bluebird-Approved Birdhouse Tutorial</a><br /> 5. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/a-denim-jacket-with-sashiko-flair/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Denim Jacket with Sashiko Flair</a><br /> 6. Snowflake Ornament in <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/red-leather-snowflake-ornament-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Red Leather Snowflake Ornament – DIY Tutorial</a> and <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/handmade-ornaments-for-the-holidays/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Handmade Ornaments for the Holidays</a>. A complimentary download project template for the snowflake is available <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Red-Leather-Snowflake-Ornament-Complimentary-Download-FanningSparks-Dec-2021.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.<br /> 7. Fused Glass Flower in <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/cut-flowers-that-really-last/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cut Flowers That Really Last</a><br /> 8. Ceramic Heart Trivet in <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/maker-heart-challenge-2-broken-heart-trivet/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maker Heart Challenge #2: Broken Heart Trivet</a><br /> 9. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/old-silver-wind-chimes-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Old Silver Wind Chimes – DIY Tutorial</a><br /> 10. Barn Quilt Block in <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/lessons-learned-from-my-first-barn-quilt-block/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lessons Learned from My First Barn Quilt Block</a><br /> 11. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/coiled-rope-animal-coasters-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Coiled Rope Animal Coaster – DIY Tutorial</a><br /> 12. Photo Embroidery in <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/hello-marvelous-photo-embroidery-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hello Marvelous Photo Embroidery – DIY Tutorial</a><br /> 13. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/diy-turkish-mosaic-candle-holder-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DIY Turkish Mosaic Candle Holder Tutorial</a><br /> 14. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/t-shirt-yarn-basket-diy-tutorial/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">T-Shirt Yarn Basket – DIY Tutorial</a><br /> In addition, the following FanningSparks blog posts are mentioned in this blog post:<br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/change-my-word-for-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Change: My Word for 2024</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/extending-the-life-of-the-common-t-shirt/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Extending the Life of the Common T-Shirt</a><br /> Make & Give suggestions from previous years can be found via the following links:<br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/make-give-2022-roundup/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Make & Give 2022 Roundup </a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/make-give-2021-roundup/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Make & Give 2021 Roundup</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/make-give-2020-roundup/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Make & Give 2020 Roundup</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/make-and-give-diy-tutorial-roundup/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Make and Give 2019 DIY Tutorial Roundup</a></p> <h2><strong>Today’s Takeaways</strong></h2> <p>1. The degree of activity on Pinterest pins can suggest popular projects and trends.<br /> 2. Taking the time and making the effort to create a one-of-a-kind gift sends a message of care and affection.<br /> 3. Consider making and giving gifts this holiday season.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-122 alignleft" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peg-Signature-1.png" alt="Peg - FanningSparks Author" width="91" height="61" /></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>More Carving and Printing</title> <link>https://fanningsparks.com/more-carving-and-printing/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Peg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 17 Sep 2024 10:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[How Tos]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Make]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Other Media]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fanningsparks.com/?p=15767</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="My Blended Rose Linocut Block with Brayer @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" />Instagram may just be the best way to discover outstanding artists and their work. Over the last few weeks, I’ve found dozens of talented linocut printing artists and so much inspiration! Let’s take a look at a few of the artists I’ve been admiring. They all specialize in linocut printing but they have a variety [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="My Blended Rose Linocut Block with Brayer @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" /><p>Instagram may just be <em>the</em> best way to discover outstanding artists and their work. Over the last few weeks, I’ve found dozens of talented linocut printing artists and so much inspiration! <br /><span id="more-15767"></span>Let’s take a look at a few of the artists I’ve been admiring. They all specialize in linocut printing but they have a variety of styles and areas of focus. For instance, some carve linocut blocks to create fine art prints and illustrations. <br />Andrea Wisnewski and Running Rabbit Press, in New England USA, specialize in hand-colored linocut prints, greeting cards and custom work. This delightful illustration is called <em>Charley</em>.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Wisnewski-Charley-from-Instagram-1024x715.jpg" alt="Andrea Wisnewski – Charley from Instagram" width="770" height="538" /></p> <p>Anna Hermsdorf, from Herne Germany, creates handmade linocut prints in vibrant colors. I love her <em>Gardener Girl Rosemary</em> print.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Anna-Hermsdorf-Gardener-Girl-Rosemary-from-Instagram-1024x626.jpg" alt="Anna Hermsdorf - Gardener Girl Rosemary from Instagram" width="770" height="471" /></p> <p>Angela Harding is a printmaker and illustrator from Rutland UK who draws her inspiration from the flora and fauna of the British countryside. On her website, she says “<em>In particular I love familiar garden birds, like the gaggle of sparrows that live in the ivy at the front of the house or the blackbirds that seem to feel they own the garden</em>”. This piece is called <em>Whippet Wonderland</em>.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Angela-Harding-Whippet-Wonderland-from-Instagram-1024x584.jpg" alt="Angela Harding - Whippet Wonderland from Instagram" width="770" height="439" /></p> <p>Some linocut artists focus on repeating patterns and create works of art on paper and fabric. Here are a few of my favorites.<br />SRM Prints, Sarah Reed McNamara, creates linoleum block prints and textiles. She is a “<em>printmaker, stitcher and art historian living and dreaming in Rockford, Illinois!</em>” says her Etsy shop.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SRM-Prints-Studio-Calendula-from-Instagram-1024x626.jpg" alt="SRM Prints Studio – Calendula from Instagram" width="770" height="471" /></p> <p>Margarts, Margaret Molinari, is a surface designer from New York/ Maryland USA whose “<em>art combines</em> [her] <em>love of drawing, sewing & printmaking</em>”. She never fails to amaze with the patterns she creates with fruit, vegetables and ordinary, found objects.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Margarts-Found-Object-Prints-from-Instagram.jpg" alt="Margarts - Found Object Prints from Instagram" width="955" height="795" /></p> <p>Annamay Handprinted, Julia Maetzl, is a textile artist from Vienna, Austria. They specialize in hand-printed fabrics and elegant home accessories made from sustainable materials and environmentally friendly textile dyes. This pattern is called <em>Tiki Fish</em>.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Annamay-Handprinted-Tiki-Fish-from-Instagram-1024x636.jpg" alt="Annamay Handprinted - Tiki Fish from Instagram" width="770" height="478" /></p> <p>Check the More Info section below for links to these artists as well as a long list of additional linocut printing artists to admire.<br />Inspired by all this stellar work, I’ve been experimenting on my own. The challenge of printing fabric with linocut blocks can be a little overwhelming for someone just starting out. There are so many aspects to consider―from the creation of the design motif, to the repetition of that motif into an interesting pattern, to the carving of the linoleum, to the selection of the fabric and ink, to the mechanics of the actual printing. Thanks to the <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/linocut-printing-at-the-atlanta-printmakers-studio/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Printmaking Studio workshop</a> I attended recently, I’m getting more comfortable with the basics. <br />I’d like to share a few of the designs and techniques I’ve tried as well as document some of the things I’ve learned for future reference. My findings are grouped into three categories: Repeating Patterns, Carving Techniques and Multi-Color Printing.<br /><strong><u>Repeating Patterns<br /></u></strong>A design pattern is a discernible regularity where motifs or elements repeat in a predictable manner. It’s not difficult to create a simple, one-directional motif and then repeat it in a square grid pattern (aka full drop or block pattern) with the motif neatly stacked in rows and columns. But that may not result in the most interesting design pattern. See my previous blog post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/surface-design-inspiration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Surface Design Inspiration</a>, for a deeper dive into some of the layouts surface designers use to create patterns. <br />A diamond pattern repeat, for instance, is created with a diamond-shaped motif which is arranged in diagonal rows. I was quite pleased with the pattern repetition created with this simple six-petaled floral motif. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Interlocking-Flower-Motif-.jpg" alt="Printing Interlocking Flower Motif @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>One lesson I learned was to test my designs with paper cutouts before carving them in linoleum. The first block I carved, a 5” square, was too big and unwieldly. So, I redid it on a 3½” x 4” block―which worked much better. This is the revised design.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Testing-Interlocking-Flower-Motif-with-Paper-.jpg" alt="Testing Interlocking Flower Motif with Paper @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" /></p> <p>The next lesson I learned was to measure and mark for more precise printing. I used my favorite Pilot Frixion Erasable Marker Pen to draw horizontal lines on my fabric. Then I aligned the bottom edge of the linocut block with this line before each print. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Measuring-and-Marking-for-Interlocking-Flower-Motif-.jpg" alt="Measuring and Marking for Interlocking Flower Motif @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" /></p> <p>Ironically, despite my careful planning, I messed up my pattern in the third line on this piece. I overlooked my guidelines and placed the block in the wrong spot―throwing off the repeat. So, the real lesson here, is to mark and pay attention!<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Incorrect-Placement-for-Interlocking-Flower-Motif.jpg" alt="Incorrect Placement for Interlocking Flower Motif @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>Talented surface designers turn design motifs into seamless repeated patterns. Nowadays, this is done digitally with design software. But it can also be done the old-fashioned way by sketching and folding on paper. <br />Step 1. Start by folding your paper into 16 even sections―simply fold in half horizontally, fold in quarters horizontally, smooth out, fold in half vertically, and finally fold in quarters vertically. <br />Step 2. Smooth out your paper and sketch your design in the center keeping away from the edges. <br />Step 3. Fold the outside edges of the paper horizontally, and working on the back folded sections, extend the sketch across the outside edges. Repeat, with the paper folded horizontally. <br />Step 4. When you smooth out the paper again, you’ll see incomplete sections of your sketch along the edges. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Steps-to-Sketching-Continuous-Motif-.jpg" alt="Steps to Sketching Continuous Motif @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>While this technique creates a nice repeating pattern, it’s not ideal for linocut block printing (at least, not for a beginner like me) because it requires very precise placement during the printing process. Here’s how my peonies turned out―the leaf tips (called out with the white circles) didn’t quite match the way I intended. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Continuous-Peony-Motif-v1.jpg" alt="Printing Continuous Peony Motif v1 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>My second attempt with the peony motif turned out much better. I removed the leaves on the edges and simplified the peony petal treatment. To my eye, this version is much better―crisper and cleaner.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printed-Continuous-Peony-Motif-v2.jpg" alt="Printed Continuous Peony Motif v2 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" /></p> <p>One of the many things I learned at the <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/linocut-printing-at-the-atlanta-printmakers-studio/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Printmaking Studio workshop</a> was to arrange a design motif diagonally on the linocut block. This allows you to maximize the design space and create a dynamic repeating pattern. The idea is to print your block in groups of four, turning the block 90° for every imprint. Here’s my first attempt using this technique―I’m thrilled with the results!<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printed-Rotating-Rose-Motif-.jpg" alt="Printed Rotating Rose Motif @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" /></p> <p><strong><u>Carving Techniques<br /></u></strong>This next point may seem obvious but it took me a few tries to realize it’s an important design decision that should be made upfront. Before you start carving, consider if you want your motif, or elements within your motif, to be outlined or solid. The outcome can differ significantly as illustrated with these two versions of a butterfly. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Motif-2-Versions-.jpg" alt="Butterfly Motif 2 Versions @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>Another design decision that should be made upfront is line thickness―do you want light or heavy lines? Shown below are two examples. Notice how the interior lines on the butterfly’s wings are thin and light while the interior lines on the rose petals are thick and heavy. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Carved-Line-Thickness-2-Versions.jpg" alt="Carved Line Thickness 2 Versions @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>Sometimes, the right tool can make all the difference. For instance, I struggled to cut the tiny circles in my butterfly wings (see previous photo) using my Speedball Lino Cutter Set carving tools. Then I remembered the brass round hole cutters (a 3-piece set from Chinese Clay Art) which I used when working with clay. The clay hole cutter worked perfectly on the linoleum and produced neat, clean round holes. <br /><strong><u>Multi-Color Printing<br /></u></strong>Color is an important consideration for linocut printing because, typically, every color requires an additional impress. Careful planning and precise execution are needed to ensure everything aligns as intended. That’s probably why most beginner projects are printed in only one color. But, if you’re anything like me, it won’t take long before you’ll start thinking about how to incorporate more color.<br />Before I get into options for adding color, I’d like to offer a suggestion to stock up on white ink. I’ve been using Jacquard Screen Printing Inks in red, yellow, blue, white and black. My plan was to mix any additional colors needed. It wasn’t a bad plan but, because every ink preparation starts with white ink, I drastically underestimated the amount of white ink required. <br />One technique for adding color to a linocut print is color blending. I described this technique in my previous blog post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/linocut-printing-at-the-atlanta-printmakers-studio/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Linocut Printing at the Atlanta Printmakers Studio</a>, so I won’t repeat it here. <br />Color blending, with green and pink ink, worked well on this rose motif. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Blended-Rose-Linocut-Block-with-Brayer-reg.jpg" alt="My Blended Rose Linocut Block with Brayer @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>Other techniques for adding color to linocut block prints involve using multiple blocks. In reduction printing, for instance, the original block is printed multiple times with the block gradually being cut away between each printing. It takes careful planning to ensure the overlapping colors create the desired effect. Reduction printing works well for limited edition paper prints. <br />Another option is to use multiple, separate blocks to make a single image. Each block can be inked and printed in a different color. One method of doing this is to ink all the pieces and reassemble then into a single block, like a jigsaw, before printing the multi-colored image in a single go. Another method, one more suited to repeating patterns on fabric, is to print multiple pieces independently. I had a lot of fun playing with this technique.<br />In my first attempt, I created three separate blocks―two versions of a simple six-petaled floral motif and one butterfly. I removed the center lines from one of the floral motifs so the butterfly could be printed inside that space.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-on-Interlocking-Flower-Motif-Blocks.jpg" alt="Butterfly on Interlocking Flower Motif Blocks 3 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>The results were mixed because placing the butterfly in exactly the right spot proved difficult. In my second attempt, I redid the butterfly block with a solid body instead of an outlined body. I also trimmed the outside edges of the block so it would be easier to position. And I chose a darker color for the butterfly so any missteps would be less noticeable. These changes led to improved results.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Outlined-Butterfly-on-Interlocking-Flower-Motif-.jpg" alt="Outlined and Solid Butterfly on Interlocking Flower Motif @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>Printing the butterfly in a darker color made it possible to simply overprint the floral background. This was definitely the easiest method.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Overprinted-Butterfly-on-Interlocking-Flower-Motif-.jpg" alt="Overprinted Butterfly on Interlocking Flower Motif @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" />Another way to add color is to use a type of resist method whereby specific areas are covered and protected from ink during the first printing. <br />Here’s the process that worked for me: Cut pieces of removable vinyl (ie Cricut Premium Vinyl in Removable Matte) in the desired shape and size. Mine were butterflies. Stick the vinyl shapes on the fabric―scattering them randomly over the entire surface. With a Pilot Frixion Erasable Marker Pen, mark around the outline of each vinyl shape. Then print the entire background with the first block in the first color―simply printing over the vinyl shapes. I printed my background with orange six-petaled flowers.<br />After the ink dries, remove the vinyl shapes to reveal the blank, unprinted areas. Next, ink the second block in the second color and carefully place it inside the penned outlines to print. I printed butterflies in yellow.<br />This was, by far, my favorite technique. I especially like the freedom of being able to place the butterflies in any position, in any location, and being able to print them in any color. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterflies-Overprinted-on-Vinyl-on-Interlocking-Flower-Motif-1.jpg" alt="Butterflies Overprinted on Vinyl on Interlocking Flower Motif 1 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" /></p> <p>With a little more practice, I think the unprinted margin around the butterflies could be reduced to create an even better, tighter design. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterflies-Overprinted-on-Vinyl-on-Interlocking-Flower-Motif-2.jpg" alt="Butterflies Overprinted on Vinyl on Interlocking Flower Motif 2 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" /></p> <p>Speaking of printing the butterflies in any color, I tried a few different color combinations inspired by real butterflies. This version with the vibrant orange flowers and brilliant yellow butterfly is meant to mimic this Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly on this orange bloom. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printed-Yellow-Butterfly-on-Orange-Bloom.jpg" alt="Printed Yellow Butterfly on Orange Bloom @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /></p> <p>In this next sample, the deep orange butterfly was inspired by the Gulf Fritillary butterfly. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printed-Orange-Butterfly-on-Blue-Bloom.jpg" alt="Printed Orange Butterfly on Blue Bloom @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" /><br />I was disappointed with these color combinations so I tried a few others.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15770" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Alternative-Color-Schemes-for-Butterflies-on-Blooms-.jpg" alt="Alternative Color Schemes for Butterflies on Blooms @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Alternative-Color-Schemes-for-Butterflies-on-Blooms-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Alternative-Color-Schemes-for-Butterflies-on-Blooms--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Alternative-Color-Schemes-for-Butterflies-on-Blooms--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Alternative-Color-Schemes-for-Butterflies-on-Blooms--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Alternative-Color-Schemes-for-Butterflies-on-Blooms--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Alternative-Color-Schemes-for-Butterflies-on-Blooms--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />As you might expect, all the standard color theory principles apply and a little experimentation can lead to colorful and harmonious choices. <br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15785" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Finished-Linocut-Printed-Fabric-Projects.jpg" alt="My Finished Linocut Printed Fabric Projects @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Finished-Linocut-Printed-Fabric-Projects.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Finished-Linocut-Printed-Fabric-Projects-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Finished-Linocut-Printed-Fabric-Projects-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Finished-Linocut-Printed-Fabric-Projects-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Finished-Linocut-Printed-Fabric-Projects-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Finished-Linocut-Printed-Fabric-Projects-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <h2><strong>More Info</strong></h2> <p>Previous blog posts mentioned in today’s blog post include:<br />. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/linocut-printing-at-the-atlanta-printmakers-studio/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Linocut Printing at the Atlanta Printmakers Studio</a><br />. <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/surface-design-inspiration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Surface Design Inspiration</a>.<br />This blog post would have been much too long if I’d included every linocut printing artist I’ve been following and admiring. These are the artists I’ve featured:<br />. Andrea Wisnewski, Running Rabbit Press, specializes in hand-colored linocut prints. Find them on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/andreawisnewski/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a> or their <a href="http://www.runningrabbit.biz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.<br />. Anna Hermsdorf is a colorful linoleum printmaker. Find them on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/annahermsdorf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/annahermsdorf/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Etsy</a>.<br />. Angela Harding is a printmaker and illustrator. Find them on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/angelaharding11/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a> or their <a href="https://angelaharding.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>. <br />. SRM Prints, Sarah Reed McNamara, creates linoleum block prints and textiles. Find them on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/srmprints/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/srmprints" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Etsy</a>.<br />. Margarts, Margaret Molinari, is a surface designer and print maker. Find them on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/margarts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a> or their <a href="https://www.margarts.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.<br />. Annamay Handprinted, Julia Maetzl, is a textile artist specializing in hand-printed fabrics. Find them on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/annamay.handprinted/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a> or their <a href="https://www.annamay.at/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.<br />. Gwen Frostic, who I featured in the blog post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/gwen-frostic-unconquerable-spirit/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gwen Frostic – Unconquerable Spirit</a>, is a favorite for her naturalist block print artwork. Find her work on the <a href="https://www.gwenfrostic.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gwen Frostic website</a>.<br />. Andrea Emmons whose work I shared in last week’s post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/linocut-printing-at-the-atlanta-printmakers-studio/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Linocut Printing at the Atlanta Printmakers Studio</a>, is an artist/ printmaker. Find her work on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/emmons425/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>.<br />Here are several more talented linocut artists, linked to their Instagram accounts, to inspire you:<br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/agi.art/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Agi.Art – Agnieszka Koscisz</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cath_stonehouse/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Catherine Stonehouse</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lendacka/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kat Lendacka</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/katharine_watson/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Katharine Watson</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kitboyd/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kit Boyd</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/maarit.hanninen/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maarit Hänninen Linocuts</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marie.amelie.giamarchi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marie Amelie Giamarchi</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rainaatelier/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Raina Atelier – Raina Gulija Lilliard</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/riverbirdstudio/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">River Bird Studio – Jill Dunn</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/saunterandink/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Saunter & Ink</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/skylineprintworks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Skyline Printworks – Sarah Finger</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tatianasta_prints/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tatianasta Prints – Tatiana Svistunova</a><br />. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/365blockprints/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">365 Block Prints – Stefano Stoppani</a></p> <h2><strong>Today’s Takeaways</strong></h2> <p>1. Instagram may just be <em>the</em> best way to discover outstanding artists and their work. <br />2. When learning a new skill, make time to experiment and take note of your findings. <br />3. Celebrate your successes while learning from less-than-ideal outcomes.<br /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-122 alignleft" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peg-Signature-1.png" alt="Peg - FanningSparks Author" width="91" height="61" /></p> <p></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Linocut Printing at the Atlanta Printmakers Studio</title> <link>https://fanningsparks.com/linocut-printing-at-the-atlanta-printmakers-studio/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Peg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 10 Sep 2024 10:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Fiber]]></category> <category><![CDATA[How Tos]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Make]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Other Media]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fanningsparks.com/?p=15710</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Butterfly Printed Napkin at Table Setting @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" />Some skills can easily be learned on your own or with the help of online resources. But other skills are best learned with in-person instruction or guidance. In my experience, linocut printing―especially printing on fabric, falls into the latter category. That’s why I was thrilled to attend a recent Block Printing and Pattern Design on [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Butterfly Printed Napkin at Table Setting @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" /><p>Some skills can easily be learned on your own or with the help of online resources. But other skills are best learned with in-person instruction or guidance. In my experience, linocut printing―especially printing on fabric, falls into the latter category. That’s why I was thrilled to attend a recent <em>Block Printing and Pattern Design on Fabric</em> workshop.<br /> <span id="more-15710"></span>The workshop was hosted by the Atlanta Printmakers Studio. This community printmaking studio is located in Hapeville, Georgia which is an easy commute from my home. The Atlanta Printmakers Studio “<em>offers access to a well-equipped studio and diverse educational programs that foster the development of printmaking as a vibrant and progressive art form</em>” explains their website. “<em>The studio supports a variety of printmaking processes, including screenprint, letterpress, intaglio, relief, monoprint, book arts, and paper making</em>.”<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15724" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Exterior-from-APS-Website.jpg" alt="Atlanta Printmakers Studio Exterior - from APS Website @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Exterior-from-APS-Website.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Exterior-from-APS-Website-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Exterior-from-APS-Website-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Exterior-from-APS-Website-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Exterior-from-APS-Website-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Exterior-from-APS-Website-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />It’s an outstanding facility with a heartwarming backstory. Andrea Emmons, our workshop instructor, is one of the founding members of the Studio. She explained that after attending an evening class at a community venue, she and her fellow students began searching for studios where they could continue to explore the medium. When none were found, they took on the daunting challenge of setting up their own shared printmaking studio. A determined trio, Andrea, Kathy Garrou and Stephanie Smith, founded the Atlanta Printmakers Studio (APS) as a non-profit community arts center in 2005.<br /> “<em>The art form of printmaking is a little like ceramics or sculpture in that it is process-based and can require specialized and heavy equipment like presses and inks and chemicals you might not want to use in your living room!</em>” explains co-founder Smith in a 2018 interview. “<em>There is an inherent collaborative aspect … you have to share equipment which leads to sharing ideas, techniques and is a really rewarding experience.</em>”<br /> They found studio space in 2006 and set up shop at the Metropolitan Warehouses (now known as MET Atlanta), a popular mixed-use space in Atlanta’s West End. Fueled by a need for more space, combined with a desire for more natural light and a climate-controlled environment, the APS moved to their new location in downtown Hapeville in 2023.<br /> The Hapeville Development Authority sponsored the move to Hapeville as part of their revitalization and economic development efforts. Located on the doorstep of the busy Atlanta airport, the City of Hapeville was able to raise the necessary funds through local hotel/motel taxes.<br /> The new Studio, located in the heart of Hapeville, is amazing! It’s the result of a unique, adaptive-reuse project which completely transformed a neglected 1950s gas station.<em> </em>Here are a few photos of the building―from its neglected state at the beginning of the project around 2021 back to its original distinctive 1950’s style.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15720" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Amoco-Gas-Station-Photos-from-APS-Website.jpg" alt="Atlanta Printmakers Studio - Amoco Gas Station Photos - from APS Website @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Amoco-Gas-Station-Photos-from-APS-Website.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Amoco-Gas-Station-Photos-from-APS-Website-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Amoco-Gas-Station-Photos-from-APS-Website-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Amoco-Gas-Station-Photos-from-APS-Website-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Amoco-Gas-Station-Photos-from-APS-Website-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Amoco-Gas-Station-Photos-from-APS-Website-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Inside the building is, what the APS members describe as, their “dream studio” consisting of 3000 sq ft of carefully-configured, light-filled working space. There are two large studio spaces, an art gallery and a store front where artists can sell their work. This is the view from inside the building’s unique curved window wall.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15737" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Store-Front-of-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio.jpg" alt="Store Front of Atlanta Printmaking Studio @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Store-Front-of-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Store-Front-of-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Store-Front-of-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Store-Front-of-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Store-Front-of-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Store-Front-of-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Located along the shop’s main wall is an unusual display unit labeled “<em>Virginia Ave. Steve’s Service Center</em>”.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15740" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Virginia-Ave-Steves-Service-Center-Store-Display-at-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio.jpg" alt="Virginia Ave Steves Service Center Store Display at Atlanta Printmaking Studio @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Virginia-Ave-Steves-Service-Center-Store-Display-at-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Virginia-Ave-Steves-Service-Center-Store-Display-at-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Virginia-Ave-Steves-Service-Center-Store-Display-at-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Virginia-Ave-Steves-Service-Center-Store-Display-at-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Virginia-Ave-Steves-Service-Center-Store-Display-at-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Virginia-Ave-Steves-Service-Center-Store-Display-at-Atlanta-Printmaking-Studio-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>I didn’t understand it’s significance until I came across this photo on the Hapeville Arts Instagram page―the unexpected sign pays homage to the building’s origins.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15723" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Steves-Service-Center-Interior.jpg" alt="Atlanta Printmakers Studio - Steves Service Center Interior @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Steves-Service-Center-Interior.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Steves-Service-Center-Interior-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Steves-Service-Center-Interior-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Steves-Service-Center-Interior-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Steves-Service-Center-Interior-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Steves-Service-Center-Interior-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Here’s a look at the new studio space. Andrea took the below photo during our workshop as we were carving our first linocut blocks. As you can see, there was plenty of space for everyone to work comfortably.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15722" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Our-Workshop-Group-from-Facebook-.jpg" alt="Atlanta Printmakers Studio - Our Workshop Group - from Facebook @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Our-Workshop-Group-from-Facebook-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Our-Workshop-Group-from-Facebook--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Our-Workshop-Group-from-Facebook--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Our-Workshop-Group-from-Facebook--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Our-Workshop-Group-from-Facebook--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-Our-Workshop-Group-from-Facebook--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>The workshop provided us the opportunity to create 3” square designs. Here are some examples of Andrea’s work which she generously shared with the class for inspiration.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15714" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Block-Print-Work-on-Display.jpg" alt="Andrea Emmons Block Print Work on Display @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Block-Print-Work-on-Display.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Block-Print-Work-on-Display-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Block-Print-Work-on-Display-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Block-Print-Work-on-Display-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Block-Print-Work-on-Display-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Block-Print-Work-on-Display-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15719" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Printed-Fabrics.jpg" alt="Andrea Emmons Printed Fabrics @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Printed-Fabrics.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Printed-Fabrics-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Printed-Fabrics-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Printed-Fabrics-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Printed-Fabrics-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Printed-Fabrics-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Here’s a closer look at the linocut blocks she used to print her fabric.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15718" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Blocks.jpg" alt="Andrea Emmons Carved Blocks @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Blocks.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Blocks-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Blocks-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Blocks-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Blocks-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Blocks-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>It can be a little difficult to visualize the resulting print so here are a few blocks matched up with the resulting prints.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15715" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-1-.jpg" alt="Andrea Emmons Carved Block with Printed Fabric 1 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-1-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-1--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-1--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-1--768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-1--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-1--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15716" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-2-.jpg" alt="Andrea Emmons Carved Block with Printed Fabric 2 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-2-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-2--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-2--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-2--768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-2--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-2--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15717" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-3-.jpg" alt="Andrea Emmons Carved Block with Printed Fabric 3 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-3-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-3--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-3--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-3--768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-3--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Andrea-Emmons-Carved-Block-with-Printed-Fabric-3--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>We started our projects by preparing designs on 3” squares of paper. Then we transferred them to linoleum blocks using #2 pencils. As noted in my previous blog post, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/gwen-frostic-unconquerable-spirit/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gwen Frostic: Unconquerable Spirit</a>, the linoleum used for printmaking is not the same linoleum that was used to cover floors in the late 1800s. Several new and improved varieties of materials, specifically designed for carving and printing, are now available. We used pink-colored, plastic-based, carving plates called “Speedy Carve” from Speedball.<br /> Carving tools specifically designed for this purpose are used to carve linocut blocks. I use a Speedball Lino Cutter Set which comes with five interchangeable cutters and a red, plastic handle. I purchased a second handle on the advice of an online expert―which turned out to be a great tip! Because I typically use only two of the cutters, having two handles means I rarely have to change my cutters.<br /> The idea is to carve away the linoleum from any area where you want the paper/fabric to show through. Here’s my carving of a quirky spoon and fork motif. It looks blue because I took the photo after the block was printed.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15730" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block.jpg" alt="My Dressed Spoon and Fork Carved Block @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>We were able to create three blocks during our workshop. For my second block I reused an old favorite design―a simple peacock with an interesting positive/negative treatment. It’s the same design I used for one of the ceramic tiles in my wall collection (see <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/still-talking-about-tiles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Still Talking About Tiles!</a>)<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9092" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Peacock-Design-Transferred-with-Paper-Templates.png" alt="Peacock Design Transferred with Paper Templates @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Peacock-Design-Transferred-with-Paper-Templates.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Peacock-Design-Transferred-with-Paper-Templates-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Peacock-Design-Transferred-with-Paper-Templates-768x577.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>My third design was a butterfly―which, honestly, I carved in advance at home. Here are the carved peacock and butterfly linocut blocks shown with a few other potential design motifs.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15731" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Peacock-and-Butterfly-Carved-Blocks.jpg" alt="My Peacock and Butterfly Carved Blocks @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Peacock-and-Butterfly-Carved-Blocks.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Peacock-and-Butterfly-Carved-Blocks-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Peacock-and-Butterfly-Carved-Blocks-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Peacock-and-Butterfly-Carved-Blocks-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Peacock-and-Butterfly-Carved-Blocks-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/My-Peacock-and-Butterfly-Carved-Blocks-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>After we finished carving our blocks, Andrea helped us print them on paper for the big reveal!<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15735" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Proofing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-.jpg" alt="Proofing my Dressed Spoon and Fork Carved Block @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Proofing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Proofing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Proofing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Proofing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Proofing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Proofing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />My peacock design even made it to Andrea’s post on the APS Facebook page!<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15721" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-My-Peacock-Block-from-Facebook.jpg" alt="Atlanta Printmakers Studio - My Peacock Block - from Facebook @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-My-Peacock-Block-from-Facebook.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-My-Peacock-Block-from-Facebook-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-My-Peacock-Block-from-Facebook-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-My-Peacock-Block-from-Facebook-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-My-Peacock-Block-from-Facebook-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Atlanta-Printmakers-Studio-My-Peacock-Block-from-Facebook-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Seeing the printed image helped us identify any refinements that were needed. One area typically requiring further attention is the “chatter” which is the texture caused by shallowly carved areas of the block. We could, of course, only carve away more material since it’s impossible to replace material already removed. Chatter and other imperfections are, by the way, part of the appeal of linocut printing!<br /> Next, we learned to print on our own. Each student had a flat acrylic working surface, a roller called a “brayer”, a 1½” putty knife and their choice of Speedball Fabric block printing inks. I copied this setup at home substituting a 9” x 19” sheet of tempered glass and a selection of Jacquard Screen Printing Inks.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15738" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Supplies-for-Linocut-Printing.jpg" alt="Supplies for Linocut Printing @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Supplies-for-Linocut-Printing.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Supplies-for-Linocut-Printing-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Supplies-for-Linocut-Printing-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Supplies-for-Linocut-Printing-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Supplies-for-Linocut-Printing-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Supplies-for-Linocut-Printing-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />To prepare the ink, we squeezed out a line of white ink along the top edge of our working surface. Then mixed in a small amount of our chosen color(s) using the putty knife. After achieving the desired hue, we touched our brayer to the ink and rolled it up and down the working surface. We rolled the brayer both vertically and horizontally until we got an even coating of ink. The trick is to load the brayer with just the right amount of ink in a smooth even coat. Judging how much ink is the right amount takes practice. But we learned to listen for a soft “hiss” to indicate the ink was ready to be transferred to the block. Here again, the objective is to load a smooth, even coat of just-the-right-amount of ink.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15734" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-.jpg" alt="Printing my Dressed Spoon and Fork Carved Block @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-my-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-Carved-Block--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Before mixing our ink, though, we had to prepare our fabric. We used cotton tea towels and bandanas at the workshop. Both options offered a myriad of layout options such as an all-over pattern, a center design or borders. We learned it’s best to begin printing in the center. You can simply fold the fabric in half and then use the resulting crease as your center point. Or if you prefer to be more precise, you can measure and mark guidelines on the fabric. I found my trusty Pilot Frixion Erasable Marker Pen worked great. The pen marks disappear with heat and, since the finished projects have to be pressed to set the inks anyway, my marks were removed at the same time.<br /> Another great tip from Andrea is to mark the top on the back of your stamp. I also found it helpful to mark the center points along all four sides.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15732" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Border-of-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-.jpg" alt="Printing my Dressed Spoon and Fork Carved Block @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Border-of-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Border-of-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Border-of-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Border-of-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork--768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Border-of-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Border-of-Dressed-Spoon-and-Fork--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>We started printing with a single color but also had the opportunity to blend hues. This description, from the book <em>Handmade Prints</em> by Anne Desmet and Jim Anderson, accurately captures the technique we learned. “<em>To make a blend, take a roller as wide or wider than your block. Place on the slab two blobs of ink, each of a different hue … on either side of the roller’s width. With two palette knives smear a line of ink inwards from each blob until the colours are just touching. Roll the ink back and forth until it is evenly rolled. Now ink the block. On both slab and block, be sure to roll in only one direction to maintain the blend</em>.”<br /> Shown below is my attempt to blend purple and yellow ink for my butterfly linocut block.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15725" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow.jpg" alt="Butterfly Printed in Blended Purple and Yellow @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>My first attempt was rather messy but the images got better after a few tries. Here’s how the purple-yellow blend looks on a blue cotton fabric―it’s a happy accident that the yellow became a rich gold.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15733" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Butterfly-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow.jpg" alt="Printing Butterfly in Blended Purple and Yellow @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Butterfly-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Butterfly-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Butterfly-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Butterfly-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Butterfly-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Printing-Butterfly-in-Blended-Purple-and-Yellow-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Returning to the point about loading just the right amount of ink, here are a couple of examples showing less than ideal results. Applying too much ink can result in a smudged, blotchy image while applying not enough ink can result in a faded, incomplete image. It takes practice to get it right.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15728" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Prints-Too-Much-and-Too-Little-Ink.jpg" alt="Butterfly Prints - Too Much and Too Little Ink @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Prints-Too-Much-and-Too-Little-Ink.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Prints-Too-Much-and-Too-Little-Ink-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Prints-Too-Much-and-Too-Little-Ink-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Prints-Too-Much-and-Too-Little-Ink-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Prints-Too-Much-and-Too-Little-Ink-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Prints-Too-Much-and-Too-Little-Ink-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Luckily, when you take a step back, the images merge into a pleasing, overall pattern and the imperfections fade away. Plus, you can always fold a napkin to show the best ones!<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15727" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting.jpg" alt="Butterfly Printed Napkin at Table Setting @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-at-Table-Setting-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>It’s important to cleanup in a timely fashion. We used water-based inks which means they can be cleaned up with soap and water. Some experts recommend using baby wipes or paper towel to remove ink from your blocks and tools. While this is a good way to wipe off excess ink, it doesn’t remove the ink from the crevices on the linocut blocks. At the workshop, we used a dish brush with a built-in soap dispenser filled with Dawn dish detergent. Using this brush under running water made it easy to clean my linocut blocks.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15729" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Cleaning-Up-Block-Printing-Supplies.jpg" alt="Cleaning Up Block Printing Supplies @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Cleaning-Up-Block-Printing-Supplies.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Cleaning-Up-Block-Printing-Supplies-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Cleaning-Up-Block-Printing-Supplies-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Cleaning-Up-Block-Printing-Supplies-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Cleaning-Up-Block-Printing-Supplies-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Cleaning-Up-Block-Printing-Supplies-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>The final step is to heat set the ink on the fabric. Andrea recommends letting your printed fabric dry for at least four days. Then using an iron, set to the temperature suitable for your fabric’s content, to press on the wrong side of the fabric.<br /> I’ll wrap up with a final look at my first successful linocut block printing project!<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15739" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Table-Setting-with-Butterfly-Printed-Napkin.jpg" alt="Table Setting with Butterfly Printed Napkin @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Table-Setting-with-Butterfly-Printed-Napkin.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Table-Setting-with-Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Table-Setting-with-Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Table-Setting-with-Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Table-Setting-with-Butterfly-Printed-Napkin-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></p> <h2><strong>More Info</strong></h2> <p>The Atlanta Printmakers Studio is located in Hapeville, Georgia― just minutes from downtown Atlanta. I thoroughly enjoyed my day at the Studio. Many thanks to Andrea Emmons and my fellow students for a fun-filled day of learning and making!<br /> You can learn more on the <a href="https://www.atlantaprintmakersstudio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Atlanta Printmakers Studio website</a>, at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/atl_printmakers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ATL_Printmakers on Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AtlantaPrintmakersStudio" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Atlanta Printmakers Studio on Facebook</a>.<br /> Previous blog posts mentioned in today’s blog post include:<br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/gwen-frostic-unconquerable-spirit/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gwen Frostic: Unconquerable Spirit</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/still-talking-about-tiles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Still Talking About Tiles!</a><br /> The following resources were consulted in the writing of this blog post:<br /> . <em><a href="https://voyageatl.com/interview/meet-stephanie-smith-atlanta-printmakers-studio-west-end/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Meet Stephanie Smith of Atlanta Printmakers Studio</a></em> article by Voyage ATL July 2018<br /> . <em><a href="https://atlanta.urbanize.city/post/printmakers-studio-hapeville-amazing-rescue-1950s-amoco-gas-station" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Check Out this Amazing Rescue of ‘Hidden Treasure’ 1950s Gas Station</a></em> Atlanta Urbanize article from Feb 2023<br /> . <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hapevilleart/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hapeville Arts on Instagram</a><br /> . <a href="https://www.hapeville.org/168/Development-Authority" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hapeville Development Authority</a><br /> . <em>Handmade Prints: An Introduction to Creative Printmaking without a Press</em> written by Anne Desmet and Jim Anderson and published in 2000. This book is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/handmadeprintsin0000desm_i4c3/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> on Internet Archives.<br /> . <em>From Block to Print: A Printmaking Daily Challenge</em> with Katharine Watson, an online class available on <a href="https://www.creativebug.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CreativeBug</a>.</p> <h2><strong>Today’s Takeaways</strong></h2> <p>1. Some skills can easily be learned on your own or with the help of online resources. But other skills are best learned with in-person instruction or guidance.<br /> 2. Never underestimate the impact a team of determined people can have on a community.<br /> 3. A community studio is a magical space where members and guests can share a workspace, equipment, supplies and, most importantly knowledge and ideas, to make art together.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-122 alignleft" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peg-Signature-1.png" alt="Peg - FanningSparks Author" width="91" height="61" /></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Surface Design Inspiration</title> <link>https://fanningsparks.com/surface-design-inspiration/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Peg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 27 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[How Tos]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Make]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Other Media]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fanningsparks.com/?p=15487</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="My Decorative Paper Stash from Japan and Thailand @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" />Fabrics, wallpapers, gift products and decorative papers are great sources of surface design inspiration. Examining the patterns, illustrations, and other artwork on these surfaces reveals a profusion of design motifs and patterns. My own decorative paper stash―yes, I admit I have one―includes several beautiful examples. Most of my decorative papers were made and decorated by [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="My Decorative Paper Stash from Japan and Thailand @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" /><p>Fabrics, wallpapers, gift products and decorative papers are great sources of surface design inspiration. Examining the patterns, illustrations, and other artwork on these surfaces reveals a profusion of design motifs and patterns.<br /> <span id="more-15487"></span>My own decorative paper stash―yes, I admit I have one―includes several beautiful examples. Most of my decorative papers were made and decorated by hand while others feature beautifully printed artwork. All the papers feature extraordinary textures, colors and designs.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15508" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-v2-reg.jpg" alt="My Decorative Paper Stash from Japan and Thailand v2 reg @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-v2-reg.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-v2-reg-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-v2-reg-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-v2-reg-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-v2-reg-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/My-Decorative-Paper-Stash-from-Japan-and-Thailand-v2-reg-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Several of these pieces hold treasured memories of unique paper shops in Chiang Mai, Thailand and Tokyo, Japan. Here’s a glimpse of the abundance of paper on offer at the shops I visited in Japan.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15522" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Paper-Shops-in-Tokyo-Japan-v3.jpg" alt="Paper Shops in Tokyo Japan @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Paper-Shops-in-Tokyo-Japan-v3.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Paper-Shops-in-Tokyo-Japan-v3-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Paper-Shops-in-Tokyo-Japan-v3-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Paper-Shops-in-Tokyo-Japan-v3-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Paper-Shops-in-Tokyo-Japan-v3-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Paper-Shops-in-Tokyo-Japan-v3-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />One outstanding example from my stash is this vibrant red and orange colored paper featuring undulating lines and flying birds. The gentle curves of the vertical stripes immediately grab the viewer’s attention.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15489" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan.jpg" alt="Decorative Paper – Orange and Red with Cranes – from Japan @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />A closer look reveals a wealth of details! First, the birds―a sedge of cranes―all in flight―graceful long wings extended―bold white feathers edged in gold. Cranes are a popular motif in Japan where they symbolize longevity and good fortune. Then there are the lovely fill patterns inside the undulating stripes―scattered dots, repeated curves, clouds―all in vibrant blended hues highlighted with gold.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15490" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-Closeup-–-from-Japan.jpg" alt="Decorative Paper – Orange and Red with Cranes Closeup – from Japan @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-Closeup-–-from-Japan.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-Closeup-–-from-Japan-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-Closeup-–-from-Japan-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-Closeup-–-from-Japan-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-Closeup-–-from-Japan-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Orange-and-Red-with-Cranes-Closeup-–-from-Japan-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>I’m left wondering―how does one create such an amazing surface pattern design? What is the creative process? What design principles must be considered? What are the design elements? How are they arranged into a pleasing composition? I consulted my favorite vintage books on ornamentation to glean answers.<br /> First up, is the book, <em>Le Dessin a L’Ecole – Cahier No 8 Décoration</em> (<em>Drawing School – Notebook 8 Decoration</em>), written in French by Jean Verdier and published around 1940. It is part of a 13-booklet series teaching children to draw.<br /> <em>Notebook 8 Decoration</em> focuses on the decorative composition and the main principles. Verdier begins with <em>le point</em>, the dot. Roughly translated from the original French, the author writes “Here is the simplest decorative element: the dot. The dot can be a spot, a circle, a square, a diamond, etc. By repeating this element, we can obtain simple, pleasant and diverse decorative effects. By varying either the color or the size of the dot, more advanced effects can be obtained.”<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15505" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Point-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier.jpg" alt="Le Point from Le Dessin L’Ecole Notebook 8 by Jean Verdier @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Point-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Point-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Point-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Point-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Point-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />I found a few examples of dots in my decorative paper stash. This colorful piece isn’t unique (it’s from the <em>Uptown Flair</em> collection by The Paper Studio) but it illustrates the point (pun intended) perfectly.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15493" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dotted-Patterns-from-Uptown-Flair-Paper-Pack-by-The-Paper-Studio.jpg" alt="Dotted Patterns from Uptown Flair Paper Pack by The Paper Studio @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dotted-Patterns-from-Uptown-Flair-Paper-Pack-by-The-Paper-Studio.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dotted-Patterns-from-Uptown-Flair-Paper-Pack-by-The-Paper-Studio-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dotted-Patterns-from-Uptown-Flair-Paper-Pack-by-The-Paper-Studio-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dotted-Patterns-from-Uptown-Flair-Paper-Pack-by-The-Paper-Studio-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dotted-Patterns-from-Uptown-Flair-Paper-Pack-by-The-Paper-Studio-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Dotted-Patterns-from-Uptown-Flair-Paper-Pack-by-The-Paper-Studio-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Next, Verdier introduces <em>la ligne</em>, the line. He writes, again roughly translated from the original French, “The line, whether straight, curved or broken, is, like the dot, a very simple decorative element. The use of opposing lines that differ in their shape, their color and especially their thickness gives very interesting decorations. The same is true for the use of the line with the dot.”<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15502" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/La-Ligne-from-Le-Dessin-a-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier.jpg" alt="La Ligne from Le Dessin a L’Ecole Notebook 8 by Jean Verdier @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/La-Ligne-from-Le-Dessin-a-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/La-Ligne-from-Le-Dessin-a-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/La-Ligne-from-Le-Dessin-a-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/La-Ligne-from-Le-Dessin-a-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/La-Ligne-from-Le-Dessin-a-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />This hand-crafted paper, from Thailand, provides a great example of a pretty pattern created with simple lines.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15497" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Flowing-Lines-–-from-Thailand-.jpg" alt="Hand Crafted Paper – White with Gold Flowing Lines – from Thailand @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Flowing-Lines-–-from-Thailand-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Flowing-Lines-–-from-Thailand--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Flowing-Lines-–-from-Thailand--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Flowing-Lines-–-from-Thailand--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Flowing-Lines-–-from-Thailand--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Flowing-Lines-–-from-Thailand--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Verdier goes on to introduce the circle. In the six figures at the top left of the below image, he calls out how a circle can be decorated with either a small or large center decoration. Figure I illustrates a small, nondominant center decoration with a dominant background. Figures II and VI illustrate a large, dominant center decoration with a nondominant background. Figure III shows a center decoration and background which are equal in width and visual weight―a treatment which, Vernier warns, will create confusion. He avoids the confusion by adding design elements to either the center decoration (Figure IV) or the background (Figure V) clearly making one or the other more dominant.<br /> Next, Verdier segments the circle and applies a variety of decorative elements.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15504" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Cercle-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier.jpg" alt="Le Cercle from Le Dessin L’Ecole Notebook 8 by Jean Verdier @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Cercle-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Cercle-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Cercle-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Cercle-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Cercle-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-8-by-Jean-Verdier-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></p> <p>This elegant Japanese washi, a type of paper handmade from the paper mulberry plant, showcases a complex design pattern including several flower-filled circles.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15513" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Washi-Paper-–-Gold-and-Black-Patterned-–-from-Japan-.jpg" alt="Washi Paper – Gold and Black Patterned – from Japan @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Washi-Paper-–-Gold-and-Black-Patterned-–-from-Japan-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Washi-Paper-–-Gold-and-Black-Patterned-–-from-Japan--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Washi-Paper-–-Gold-and-Black-Patterned-–-from-Japan--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Washi-Paper-–-Gold-and-Black-Patterned-–-from-Japan--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Washi-Paper-–-Gold-and-Black-Patterned-–-from-Japan--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Washi-Paper-–-Gold-and-Black-Patterned-–-from-Japan--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Verdier explains the square is decorated according to the same principles as the circle―note the diagrams at the top left of the image shown below.<br /> In addition, he says, the subdivision of the square is controlled by diagonals and axes. Figures I and II illustrate diagonal treatments: Figure I shows a square with a center decoration aligned with its diagonals while Figure II has decorated diagonal corners. Figures III and IV illustrate decorative treatments based on the square’s axes: Figure III has decorative elements at the four endpoints of the horizontal and vertical axes while Figure IV shows a center decoration aligned with the four points of the axes.<br /> Verdier also illustrates a series of squares with a variety of decorative treatments.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15503" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Carre-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-by-Jean-Verdier.jpg" alt="Le Carre from Le Dessin L’Ecole Notebook by Jean Verdier @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Carre-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-by-Jean-Verdier.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Carre-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-by-Jean-Verdier-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Carre-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-by-Jean-Verdier-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Carre-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-by-Jean-Verdier-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Carre-from-Le-Dessin-LEcole-Notebook-by-Jean-Verdier-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />The pattern on this next sheet of decorative paper is deceptively simple. Rich, gold squares are randomly scattered across the surface of a plain white background on this handmade paper from Thailand.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15498" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Squares-–-from-Thailand.jpg" alt="Hand Crafted Paper – White with Gold Flowing Lines – from Thailand @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Squares-–-from-Thailand.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Squares-–-from-Thailand-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Squares-–-from-Thailand-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Squares-–-from-Thailand-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Squares-–-from-Thailand-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Gold-Squares-–-from-Thailand-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><span style="font-size: inherit; color: var(--text-color); font-family: var(--text-font); letter-spacing: var(--text-tracking);">There are, of course, more geometric shapes than those I’ve mentioned but geometry is not the only source of design motifs and patterns. As noted in my last blog post, </span><a style="font-size: inherit; font-family: var(--text-font); letter-spacing: var(--text-tracking);" href="https://fanningsparks.com/could-you-repeat-that-please/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Could You Repeat That Please?</a><span style="font-size: inherit; color: var(--text-color); font-family: var(--text-font); letter-spacing: var(--text-tracking);">, there are three fundamental sources of design motifs and patterns including geometric, classical and organic.<br /> </span>In his book, <em>Etude de la Plante: Son Application aux Industries d’Art</em> translated to <em>Study of the Plant: Its Application to the Art Industries</em>, M.P. Verneuil demonstrates how natural elements can be applied to various media. He illustrates the point with a series of German Iris motifs applied to a stencil, stained glass, lace, wallpaper border, wood carving and wrought iron.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15511" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Potential-Applications-of-German-Bearded-Iris-Motif.jpg" alt="Verneuil Potential Applications of German Bearded Iris Motif @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Potential-Applications-of-German-Bearded-Iris-Motif.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Potential-Applications-of-German-Bearded-Iris-Motif-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Potential-Applications-of-German-Bearded-Iris-Motif-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Potential-Applications-of-German-Bearded-Iris-Motif-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Potential-Applications-of-German-Bearded-Iris-Motif-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Potential-Applications-of-German-Bearded-Iris-Motif-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Verneuil starts by studying the botanical element in question. He carefully takes note of its main parts including the root, stem, leaf, flowers, fruit and seeds. Then meticulously captures his observations with sketches. This is Verneuil’s plant study sketch of a German Bearded Iris (<em>Iris germanica</em>).<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15510" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Plant-Study-Sketch-of-Iris-Germanique.jpg" alt="Verneuil Plant Study Sketch of Iris Germanique @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Plant-Study-Sketch-of-Iris-Germanique.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Plant-Study-Sketch-of-Iris-Germanique-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Plant-Study-Sketch-of-Iris-Germanique-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Plant-Study-Sketch-of-Iris-Germanique-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Plant-Study-Sketch-of-Iris-Germanique-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />The next step in his practice is “interpretation”. At this stage, Verneuil simplifies and transforms the natural form into an ornamental state. Let’s take a closer look at Verneuil’s interpretation of the German Iris as a wallpaper border―notice how the plant study sketch (from the previous image) has been simplified and transformed below.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15512" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Wallpaper-Border-with-Iris-Germanique.jpg" alt="Verneuil Wallpaper Border with Iris Germanique @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Wallpaper-Border-with-Iris-Germanique.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Wallpaper-Border-with-Iris-Germanique-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Wallpaper-Border-with-Iris-Germanique-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Wallpaper-Border-with-Iris-Germanique-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Wallpaper-Border-with-Iris-Germanique-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Verneuil-Wallpaper-Border-with-Iris-Germanique-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />More examples of Verneuil’s plant studies and applications can be found in my previous blog post <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/how-nature-inspired-art-nouveau/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How Nature Inspired Art Nouveau</a>.<br /> Returning to my decorative paper stash, here’s an example of an organic motif and pattern featuring plum blossoms. In Japan, where I bought this paper, the plum blossom is known as the “flower of peace” symbolizing vigor, renewal, beauty, grace and elegance. These concepts are gloriously showcased in this design.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15492" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-White-with-Pink-Plum-Blossoms-–-from-Japan.jpg" alt="Decorative Paper – White with Pink Plum Blossoms – from Japan @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-White-with-Pink-Plum-Blossoms-–-from-Japan.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-White-with-Pink-Plum-Blossoms-–-from-Japan-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-White-with-Pink-Plum-Blossoms-–-from-Japan-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-White-with-Pink-Plum-Blossoms-–-from-Japan-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-White-with-Pink-Plum-Blossoms-–-from-Japan-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-White-with-Pink-Plum-Blossoms-–-from-Japan-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Continuing with the theme of natural motifs, this deep red handmade paper from Thailand showcases beautifully intricate gold butterflies.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15496" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-Red-with-Gold-Butterflies-–-from-Thailand-.jpg" alt="Hand Crafted Paper – Red with Gold Butterflies – from Thailand @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-Red-with-Gold-Butterflies-–-from-Thailand-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-Red-with-Gold-Butterflies-–-from-Thailand--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-Red-with-Gold-Butterflies-–-from-Thailand--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-Red-with-Gold-Butterflies-–-from-Thailand--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-Red-with-Gold-Butterflies-–-from-Thailand--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-Red-with-Gold-Butterflies-–-from-Thailand--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Most of the decorative papers I’ve shared thus far feature design motifs repeating in a predictable manner. But surface designs can also be random with design elements scattered across the surface irregularly. Shown below is a great example of a random pattern―the red silk thread meanders unpredictably across the surface of this handmade Thai paper.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15500" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Red-Silk-Thread-–-from-Thailand.jpg" alt="Hand Crafted Paper – White with Red Silk Thread – from Thailand @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Red-Silk-Thread-–-from-Thailand.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Red-Silk-Thread-–-from-Thailand-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Red-Silk-Thread-–-from-Thailand-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Red-Silk-Thread-–-from-Thailand-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Red-Silk-Thread-–-from-Thailand-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Red-Silk-Thread-–-from-Thailand-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />The design patterns in today’s post, both regular and random, have “seamless pattern repeats” meaning the repeated motif can be extended in all directions without interrupting the repetition.<br /> In order to create a seamless repeat, surface designers typically follow specific layouts―positioning design motifs and elements according to a predefined grid. The most basic layout is the square pattern, also called the full drop or block pattern, in which the design elements are stacked in a neat, grid pattern with every row and column aligned.<br /> This handmade Thai paper illustrates a seamless pattern repeat based on a square, full drop, layout.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15499" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Hearts-and-Spirals-–-from-Thailand.jpg" alt="Hand Crafted Paper – White with Hearts and Spirals – from Thailand @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Hearts-and-Spirals-–-from-Thailand.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Hearts-and-Spirals-–-from-Thailand-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Hearts-and-Spirals-–-from-Thailand-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Hearts-and-Spirals-–-from-Thailand-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Hearts-and-Spirals-–-from-Thailand-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hand-Crafted-Paper-–-White-with-Hearts-and-Spirals-–-from-Thailand-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Verdier explains the basics in the below image from <em>Notebook 8 Decoration. </em>He shares several potential layouts or <em>réseaux </em>design networks. Roughly translated from the original French, Verdier explains “This page shows you decorations obtained by the repetition of any surface, square, rectangle, diamond, repeated both on a horizontal line and on a vertical line. The whole forms what is called a network.”<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15506" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Reseaux-from-Le-Dessin-L-Ecole-par-Jean-Verdier-Book-8.jpg" alt="Le Reseaux from Le Dessin L Ecole par Jean Verdier - Book 8 @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Reseaux-from-Le-Dessin-L-Ecole-par-Jean-Verdier-Book-8.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Reseaux-from-Le-Dessin-L-Ecole-par-Jean-Verdier-Book-8-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Reseaux-from-Le-Dessin-L-Ecole-par-Jean-Verdier-Book-8-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Reseaux-from-Le-Dessin-L-Ecole-par-Jean-Verdier-Book-8-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Le-Reseaux-from-Le-Dessin-L-Ecole-par-Jean-Verdier-Book-8-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />Returning to the <em>Study of the Plant</em>, Verneuil introduces the topic of <em>fonds ornés</em>, decorated backgrounds, with examples of Japanese background designs. He notes these designs are based on geometric construction which can be very simple but often becomes very complicated. In the Japanese designs illustrated below, he calls out the construction lines based on squares, equilateral triangles, hexagons and rhombuses.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15501" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Japanese-Decorated-Backgrounds-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil.jpg" alt="Japanese Decorated Backgrounds from Study of the Plant by Verneuil @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Japanese-Decorated-Backgrounds-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Japanese-Decorated-Backgrounds-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Japanese-Decorated-Backgrounds-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Japanese-Decorated-Backgrounds-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Japanese-Decorated-Backgrounds-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Japanese-Decorated-Backgrounds-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Verneuil goes on to explain how a “network” or design grid can be used to construct an ornate, organic background. Roughly translated from the original French, he writes “In each of its elements we will inscribe a plant form, whole plant, flower or leaf. We will have to seek an ingenious interpretation to adapt the chosen form to the space reserved for it”.<br /> In the below example on the left, Verneuil repeats an acorn motif in a T-shaped pattern repeat. In the example on the right, Verneuil uses two, different-sized squares to build a pattern repeat with the flower and leaves of the columbine flower.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15494" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-104-and-105.jpg" alt="Fond Orne from Study of the Plant by Verneuil 104 and 105 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-104-and-105.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-104-and-105-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-104-and-105-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-104-and-105-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-104-and-105-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-104-and-105-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>Regarding these next two examples, Verneuil calls out the complexity of the arrangement of irises, including their leaves and flowers, as well as the water surrounding them.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15495" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-108-and-109-.jpg" alt="Fond Orne from Study of the Plant by Verneuil 108 and 109 @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-108-and-109-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-108-and-109--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-108-and-109--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-108-and-109--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-108-and-109--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Fond-Orne-from-Study-of-the-Plant-by-Verneuil-108-and-109--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Returning to my decorative papers, I looked for examples with interesting seamless pattern repeats. The below example features diagonal stripes with the design alternating between colorful floral garlands and subdued gold bands. The repeat unit appears to be a diamond shape placed on the diagonal.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15488" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Golden-Floral-Stripes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat.jpg" alt="Decorative Paper – Golden Floral Stripes – from Japan with Repeat @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Golden-Floral-Stripes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Golden-Floral-Stripes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Golden-Floral-Stripes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Golden-Floral-Stripes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Golden-Floral-Stripes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Golden-Floral-Stripes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>The final example I’d like to share is this energetic crane design. A large sedge of cranes flies diagonally across the surface. Close examination reveals the pattern repeat appears to be a rectangular full drop. The repeat unit is a vertical rectangle stacked in an even grid.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15491" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat.jpg" alt="Decorative Paper – Red with Cranes – from Japan with Repeat @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Decorative-Paper-–-Red-with-Cranes-–-from-Japan-with-Repeat-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>As you might have guessed, my recent fascination with surface design is leading up to a new project―linocut printing. Please check back for updates on this latest creative endeavor.</p> <h2><strong>More Info</strong></h2> <p>Previous blog posts mentioned in today’s blog post include:<br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/could-you-repeat-that-please/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Could You Repeat That Please?</a> which focuses on the visual patterns which surround us and introduces three fundamental sources of design motifs and patterns―classical, geometric and organic.<br /> .<a href="https://fanningsparks.com/how-nature-inspired-art-nouveau/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> How Nature Inspired Art Nouveau</a> which examines the connection between nature and the Art Nouveau art movement and introduces the work of artist/author Maurice Pillard (M.P.) Verneuil.<br /> The following books and resources were consulted in the writing of this blog post:<br /> . <em>Le Dessin a L’Ecole – Cahier No 8 Décoration</em> (<em>Drawing School – Notebook 8 Decoration</em>) book by Jean Verdier and published around 1940 in French. Check Pinterest or Flicker for scanned images from this book.<br /> . <em>Etude de la Plante: Son Application aux Industries d’Art</em> translated as <em>Study of the Plant: Its Application to the Art Industries </em>by M.P. Verneuil published in 1903. It is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/gri_33125005959479/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> in the original French on Internet Archives.<br /> <em>. The Grammar of Ornament</em> book by Owen Jones published in 1856. It is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/grammarornament00Jone/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> on Internet Archives.<br /> . <em>Méthode de Composition Ornementale – Éléments Rectilignes</em>, translated as <em>Ornamental Composition Method – Rectilinear Elements</em> by Eugéne Grasset published in 1905. It is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/mthodedecomposit01gras/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> in the original French on Internet Archives.<br /> . Various Wikipedia entries.</p> <h2><strong>Today’s Takeaways</strong></h2> <p>1. Fabrics, wallpapers, gift products and decorative papers are great sources of surface design inspiration.<br /> 2. Design motifs can be created from a variety of elements ranging from simple geometric shapes to complex botanical specimens.<br /> 3. Follow specific layouts―positioning design motifs and elements according to a predefined grid―to create a seamless pattern repeat.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-122 alignleft" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peg-Signature-1.png" alt="Peg - FanningSparks Author" width="91" height="61" /></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Could You Repeat That Please?</title> <link>https://fanningsparks.com/could-you-repeat-that-please/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Peg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 20 Aug 2024 10:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[How Tos]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Make]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Southeast]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[USA]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fanningsparks.com/?p=15414</guid> <description><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Elephant Fountain at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn Georgia @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" />Once you start noticing them, patterns appear everywhere. Patterns can take many forms from abstract ideas to observable behaviors to rhythm and rhyme. But the focus of today’s discussion is visual patterns―regular repetitions of an element or motif―that can be observed through sight. There are “three fundamental sources of design motifs [including] organic, geometric, and [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="1900" height="845" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Elephant Fountain at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn Georgia @FanningSparks" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; clear:both;max-width: 100%;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea.jpg 1900w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-300x133.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-150x67.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-768x342.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-1536x683.jpg 1536w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-175x78.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-450x200.jpg 450w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-fea-1170x520.jpg 1170w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1900px) 100vw, 1900px" /><p>Once you start noticing them, patterns appear everywhere. Patterns can take many forms from abstract ideas to observable behaviors to rhythm and rhyme. But the focus of today’s discussion is visual patterns―regular repetitions of an element or motif―that can be observed through sight.<br /> <span id="more-15414"></span>There are “<em>three fundamental sources of design motifs</em> [including] <em>organic, geometric, and classical</em>” report authors Richard Proctor and Jennifer Lew in their book <em>Surface Design for Fabric</em>. “<em>Organic designs evolve from nature, geometric designs depend on the rectilinear or curvilinear figures used in geometry, and classical designs are based on traditional styles</em>”.<br /> <strong><u>Classical Designs<br /> </u></strong>Classical design patterns were evident at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a Hindu temple in Lilburn Georgia, which I had the good fortune to visit.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15423" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Side-View-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia.jpg" alt="Side View of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn Georgia @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Side-View-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Side-View-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Side-View-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Side-View-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Side-View-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Side-View-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />“<em>Open to one and all, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was inaugurated in August of 2007 after only 17 months of construction time utilizing 1.3 million volunteer</em> <em>hours</em>” explains their website. “<em>T</em><em>he Mandir is comprised of 3 types of stone (Turkish Limestone, Italian marble, and Indian pink sandstone). More than 34,000 individual pieces were carved by hand in India, shipped to the USA and assembled in Lilburn like a giant 3-D puzzle</em>”.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15422" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rooftop-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-.jpg" alt="Rooftop of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn Georgia @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rooftop-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rooftop-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rooftop-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rooftop-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rooftop-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rooftop-of-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15421" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Portico-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-.jpg" alt="Portico at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn Georgia @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Portico-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Portico-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Portico-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Portico-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Portico-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Portico-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Visitors are invited to “<em>Enjoy hours of beauty, peace, and discovery at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Lilburn, GA – a masterpiece of exquisite Indian design and workmanship. Marvel at the intricate marble carvings, participate in Hindu rituals or learn about the world’s oldest living faith – Hinduism.</em>”<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15425" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Staircase-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia.jpg" alt="Staircase at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn Georgia @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Staircase-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Staircase-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Staircase-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Staircase-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Staircase-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Staircase-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>“<em>A typical, ancient Hindu temple has a profusion of arts</em>” reports Wikipedia “<em>from paintings to sculpture, from symbolic icons to engravings, from thoughtful layout of space to fusion of mathematical principles with Hindu sense of time and cardinality.</em>”<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15429" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Various-Carved-Stone-Motifs-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-.jpg" alt="Various Carved Stone Motifs at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn Georgia @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Various-Carved-Stone-Motifs-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Various-Carved-Stone-Motifs-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Various-Carved-Stone-Motifs-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Various-Carved-Stone-Motifs-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Various-Carved-Stone-Motifs-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Various-Carved-Stone-Motifs-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia--450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>There is indeed a profusion of arts at this Hindu Temple but my personal favorite was this spectacular row of elephants in the grand fountain. There are patterns upon patterns in this scene from the decorative elements on each elephant to the repetition of the elephant heads.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15418" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia.jpg" alt="Elephant Fountain at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lilburn Georgia @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Elephant-Fountain-at-BAPS-Shri-Swaminarayan-Hindu-Temple-in-Lilburn-Georgia-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><em>The Grammar of Ornament</em>, a design sourcebook written by Owen Jones and published in 1856, takes a deep dive into ornamentation―an art form we might call “surface design” today.<br /> It includes, for instance, the image pictured below. Titled, <em>Indian No 1</em>, the book plate showcases “<em>Ornaments from Works in Metal, exhibited in the Indian Collection</em>” at the Exhibition of the Works of Industry of all Nations held in 1851. “<em>These ornaments … are chiefly taken from Hookhas … and </em>[are]<em> all remarkable for great elegance of outline, and for such a judicious treatment of the surface decoration that every ornament tended to further develope the general form</em>”.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-15426 alignnone" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Indian-No-1.jpg" alt="The Grammar of Ornament - Indian No 1 " width="472" height="715" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Indian-No-1.jpg 472w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Indian-No-1-198x300.jpg 198w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Indian-No-1-99x150.jpg 99w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Indian-No-1-175x265.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Indian-No-1-450x682.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 472px) 100vw, 472px" /></p> <p>Jones leans heavily into traditional and classical ornamentation presenting, as Wikipedia puts it, “<em>key examples of ornament from a number of sources which were diverse both historically and geographically – notably examining the Middle East in the chapters on Arabian, Turkish, Moresque (Alhambra) and Persian ornament</em>.”<br /> Here’s another example from <em>The Grammar of Ornament</em>. <em>Pompeian No 3</em> features a “<em>Collection of Mosaics from Pompeii and the Museum at Naples – From the Author’s Sketches</em>”.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15428" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Pompeian-No-3-.jpg" alt="The Grammar of Ornament - Pompeian No 3" width="465" height="703" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Pompeian-No-3-.jpg 465w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Pompeian-No-3--198x300.jpg 198w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Pompeian-No-3--99x150.jpg 99w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Pompeian-No-3--175x265.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Pompeian-No-3--450x680.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 465px) 100vw, 465px" /></p> <p>These mosaic patterns remind me of the 8000-year-old mosaic floors I saw preserved in Ephesus, Turkey. See my previous blog post <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/learning-from-the-ancient-masters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learning from the Ancient Masters</a> for more on the history and tradition of mosaics.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15415" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ancient-Mosaic-Floor-Interior-Room-in-Ephesus-Turkey.jpg" alt="Ancient Mosaic Floor Interior Room in Ephesus Turkey @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ancient-Mosaic-Floor-Interior-Room-in-Ephesus-Turkey.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ancient-Mosaic-Floor-Interior-Room-in-Ephesus-Turkey-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ancient-Mosaic-Floor-Interior-Room-in-Ephesus-Turkey-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ancient-Mosaic-Floor-Interior-Room-in-Ephesus-Turkey-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ancient-Mosaic-Floor-Interior-Room-in-Ephesus-Turkey-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3602" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Ephesus-Mosaic-Floor-in-Context-1024x768.png" alt="Ancient Mosaic Floors at Ruins of Ephesus in Turkey. @FanningSparks" width="770" height="578" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Ephesus-Mosaic-Floor-in-Context.png 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Ephesus-Mosaic-Floor-in-Context-300x225.png 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Ephesus-Mosaic-Floor-in-Context-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3603" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Ephesus-Mosaic-Floor-768x1024.png" alt="Ancient Mosaic Floors at Ruins of Ephesus in Turkey. @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Ephesus-Mosaic-Floor.png 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Ephesus-Mosaic-Floor-225x300.png 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></p> <p><strong><u>Geometric Designs<br /> </u></strong>In his 1905 book, <em>Méthode de Composition Ornementale – Éléments Rectilignes</em>, translated as <em>Ornamental Composition Method – Rectilinear Elements</em>, author Eugéne Grasset makes a strong case for artists to look carefully at the great works of the past without simply copying them. His two books―the first volume focuses on straight elements while the second one addresses curved elements―guide the reader through his creative design process.<br /> The first step, he explains, is to isolate the primitive elements, starting with the simplest ones. Here’s a snapshot of the simple geometric shapes Grasset considers to be the foundation for all ornamental composition. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15424" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Simple-Geometric-Shapes-by-Eugene-Grasset.jpg" alt="Simple Geometric Shapes by Eugene Grasset " width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Simple-Geometric-Shapes-by-Eugene-Grasset.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Simple-Geometric-Shapes-by-Eugene-Grasset-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Simple-Geometric-Shapes-by-Eugene-Grasset-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Simple-Geometric-Shapes-by-Eugene-Grasset-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Simple-Geometric-Shapes-by-Eugene-Grasset-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Simple-Geometric-Shapes-by-Eugene-Grasset-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>The scalloped edges of this carved stone doorway from the Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal provide a great example of a pattern based on geometric shapes…<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15420" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ornate-Doorway-at-Pena-Palace-in-Sintra-Portugal.jpg" alt="Ornate Doorway at Pena Palace in Sintra Portugal @FanningSparks" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ornate-Doorway-at-Pena-Palace-in-Sintra-Portugal.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ornate-Doorway-at-Pena-Palace-in-Sintra-Portugal-225x300.jpg 225w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ornate-Doorway-at-Pena-Palace-in-Sintra-Portugal-113x150.jpg 113w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ornate-Doorway-at-Pena-Palace-in-Sintra-Portugal-175x233.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ornate-Doorway-at-Pena-Palace-in-Sintra-Portugal-450x600.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></p> <p>… as do these beautiful, curvy blue-and-white tiles and the matching wrought iron window grille spotted in Aveiro, Portugal. There are numerous more examples like this in my previous blog posts <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/talk-about-tiles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Talk About Tiles!</a> and <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/lines-and-patterns-in-wrought-iron/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lines and Patterns in Wrought Iron</a>.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-4148" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Decorative-Door-Grille-759x1024.png" alt="Complementary Tile and Wrought Iron Door Grille Design in Aveiro. Portugal. @FanningSparks" width="759" height="1024" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Decorative-Door-Grille.png 759w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Decorative-Door-Grille-222x300.png 222w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px" /></p> <p>Geometric patterns are also the basis of sashiko―a type of Japanese stitching. Here are a few pattern samples from my previous blog post <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/my-little-stab-at-sashiko/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">My Little Stab at Sashiko</a>.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-11828" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/My-Sashiko-Pattern-Samples-Labelled.jpg" alt="My Sashiko Pattern Samples Labelled @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="768" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/My-Sashiko-Pattern-Samples-Labelled.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/My-Sashiko-Pattern-Samples-Labelled-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/My-Sashiko-Pattern-Samples-Labelled-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/My-Sashiko-Pattern-Samples-Labelled-768x576.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/My-Sashiko-Pattern-Samples-Labelled-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/My-Sashiko-Pattern-Samples-Labelled-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>I selected a few sashiko patterns to embellish a denim jacket. See my blog post <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/a-denim-jacket-with-sashiko-flair/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Denim Jacket with Sashiko Flair</a> for details on this project.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-11996" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Pattern-Transferred.jpg" alt="Shippo-tsunagi Seven Treasures Pattern Transferred @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Pattern-Transferred.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Pattern-Transferred-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Pattern-Transferred-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Pattern-Transferred-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Pattern-Transferred-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Shippo-tsunagi-Seven-Treasures-Pattern-Transferred-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>The design you can see on the finished jacket is a variation of the traditional <em>Kikko</em> (Tortoise Shell) pattern.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-11986" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Finished-Right-Front-in-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Stitching.jpg" alt="Finished Right Front in Kikko Variation (Tortoise Shell) Sashiko Stitching @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Finished-Right-Front-in-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Stitching.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Finished-Right-Front-in-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Stitching-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Finished-Right-Front-in-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Stitching-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Finished-Right-Front-in-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Stitching-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Finished-Right-Front-in-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Stitching-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Finished-Right-Front-in-Kikko-Variation-Tortoise-Shell-Sashiko-Stitching-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p><strong><u>Organic Designs<br /> </u></strong>The third design pattern type, organic designs, also consists of elements which repeat in a predictable manner. They are based on nature and, as you might expect, less structured than classical and geometric patterns. One of my first blog posts, <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/patterns-by-mother-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Patterns by Mother Nature</a>, examines the idea of looking to nature for pattern ideas. A number of different patterns including animal prints, stripes, floral, foliage, geometric and abstracts were illustrated in that post.<br /> Shown below, the wings of an Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly provide an example of an organic pattern…<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15416" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Eastern-Tiger-Swallowtail-on-Butterfly-Bush.jpg" alt="Eastern Tiger Swallowtail on Butterfly Bush @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Eastern-Tiger-Swallowtail-on-Butterfly-Bush.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Eastern-Tiger-Swallowtail-on-Butterfly-Bush-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Eastern-Tiger-Swallowtail-on-Butterfly-Bush-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Eastern-Tiger-Swallowtail-on-Butterfly-Bush-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Eastern-Tiger-Swallowtail-on-Butterfly-Bush-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Eastern-Tiger-Swallowtail-on-Butterfly-Bush-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>…as do the colorful, rows of kernels on this Glass Gem ornamental corn…<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15419" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Glass-Gem-Corn-at-John-C-Campbell-Folk-School.jpg" alt="Glass Gem Corn at John C Campbell Folk School @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Glass-Gem-Corn-at-John-C-Campbell-Folk-School.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Glass-Gem-Corn-at-John-C-Campbell-Folk-School-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Glass-Gem-Corn-at-John-C-Campbell-Folk-School-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Glass-Gem-Corn-at-John-C-Campbell-Folk-School-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Glass-Gem-Corn-at-John-C-Campbell-Folk-School-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Glass-Gem-Corn-at-John-C-Campbell-Folk-School-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <p>…and this patch of starburst-shaped plants.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15443" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Starburst-Shaped-Plants-in-Oakfield-Park-Nova-Scotia.jpg" alt="Starburst-Shaped Plants in Oakfield Park Nova Scotia @FanningSparks" width="1024" height="769" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Starburst-Shaped-Plants-in-Oakfield-Park-Nova-Scotia.jpg 1024w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Starburst-Shaped-Plants-in-Oakfield-Park-Nova-Scotia-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Starburst-Shaped-Plants-in-Oakfield-Park-Nova-Scotia-150x113.jpg 150w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Starburst-Shaped-Plants-in-Oakfield-Park-Nova-Scotia-768x577.jpg 768w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Starburst-Shaped-Plants-in-Oakfield-Park-Nova-Scotia-175x131.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Starburst-Shaped-Plants-in-Oakfield-Park-Nova-Scotia-450x338.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />In <em>Leaves and Flowers from Nature, </em>the final chapter of his book <em>The Grammar of Ornament</em>, Jones warns “<em>the more closely nature is copied, the farther we are removed from producing a work of art</em>”. He sees “<em>true art consisting in idealising, and not copying, the forms of nature</em>”. He instructs artists to emulate the order, symmetry, grace and fitness of the natural world in their work.<br /> This color plate from his book, <em>Leaves & Flowers from Nature No 8</em>, shows “<em>several varieties of flowers, in plan and elevation, from which it will be seen that the basis of all form is geometry … the result is symmetry and regularity</em>”. Interestingly, Jones sees geometric forms in nature.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15427" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Leaves-and-Flowers-from-Nature-No-8.jpg" alt="The Grammar of Ornament - Leaves and Flowers from Nature No 8" width="466" height="717" srcset="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Leaves-and-Flowers-from-Nature-No-8.jpg 466w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Leaves-and-Flowers-from-Nature-No-8-195x300.jpg 195w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Leaves-and-Flowers-from-Nature-No-8-97x150.jpg 97w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Leaves-and-Flowers-from-Nature-No-8-175x269.jpg 175w, https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/The-Grammar-of-Ornament-Leaves-and-Flowers-from-Nature-No-8-450x692.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /></p> <p>Another point of view comes to us from the French artist and author M.P. Verneuil. I raved about his 1903 book, <em>Etude de la Plante : Son Application aux Industries d’Art</em> translated to <em>Study of the Plant: Its Application to the Art Industries</em> in my previous blog post <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/how-nature-inspired-art-nouveau/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How Nature Inspired Art Nouveau</a>.<br /> Verneuil makes the case that plants offer the most variety in form and provide us the most resources for decorative purposes. It’s another fascinating approach.<br /> Regardless of the source―classical, geometric or organic―there is much to learn about the creation of design motifs and patterns. Thankfully, talented artists and authors have been studying and writing about this subject for hundreds of years. I’m planning to spend some time delving into their ideas―I’ll let you know what I learn.</p> <h2><strong>More Info</strong></h2> <p>Several previous blog posts were mentioned in today’s blog post including:<br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/learning-from-the-ancient-masters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learning from the Ancient Masters</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/talk-about-tiles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Talk About Tiles!</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/lines-and-patterns-in-wrought-iron/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lines and Patterns in Wrought Iron</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/my-little-stab-at-sashiko/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">My Little Stab at Sashiko</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/a-denim-jacket-with-sashiko-flair/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Denim Jacket with Sashiko Flair</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/patterns-by-mother-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Patterns by Mother Nature</a><br /> . <a href="https://fanningsparks.com/how-nature-inspired-art-nouveau/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How Nature Inspired Art Nouveau</a>.<br /> You can learn more about the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Hindu temple) located in Lilburn, near Atlanta, Georgia on their <a href="https://www.baps.org/Global-Network/North-America/Atlanta.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.<br /> The following books and resources were consulted in the writing of this blog post:<br /> <em>. Surface Design for Fabric </em>book by Richard Proctor and Jennifer Lew and published in 1984. It is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/surfacedesignfor00proc/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> on Internet Archives.<em><br /> .The Grammar of Ornament</em> book by Owen Jones published in 1856. It is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/grammarornament00Jone/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> on Internet Archives.<br /> . <em>Méthode de Composition Ornementale – Éléments Rectilignes</em>, translated as <em>Ornamental Composition Method – Rectilinear Elements</em> by Eugéne Grasset published in 1905. It is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/gri_33125005959479/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> in the original French on Internet Archives.<br /> . <em>Etude de la Plante : Son Application aux Industries d’Art</em> translated as <em>Study of the Plant: Its Application to the Art Industries </em>by M.P. Verneuil published in 1903. It is available <a href="https://archive.org/details/gri_33125005959479/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> in the original French on Internet Archives.<br /> . various Wikipedia entries.</p> <h2><strong>Today’s Takeaways</strong></h2> <p>1. A design pattern is a discernible regularity where motifs or elements repeat in a predictable manner.<br /> <span style="font-size: inherit; color: var(--text-color); font-family: var(--text-font); letter-spacing: var(--text-tracking);">2. The three fundamental sources of design motifs and patterns are classical, geometric and organic.<br /> </span><span style="font-size: inherit; color: var(--text-color); font-family: var(--text-font); letter-spacing: var(--text-tracking);">3. Artists and authors have been studying and writing about ornamentation and surface design for hundreds of years.<br /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-122 alignleft" src="https://fanningsparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Peg-Signature-1.png" alt="Peg - FanningSparks Author" width="91" height="61" /><br /> </span></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> </channel> </rss>