I LOVE talking about blocks, studying blocks, and playing with them in Photoshop... I am always on a quest for great blocks and trying to figure out what makes them so great ... So I started this companion blog that will be devoted to this quest. But also check out my regular blog at http://olderrose.blogspot.com

Friday, June 17, 2011

Utilizing the shape of the patch to frame...


Using the shape of the patch to frame or define  a focal point is a good technique and here is an excellent example.  The needlework is done by Gayle S.  By using a simple geometric seam treatment on the white block she completed the frame with it and the branch for her cardinal..  This little corner of the block stands alone.....

But even on the block as a whole it is dramatic and everyone who followed her did a wonderful job... If I could alter anything it would be the button cluster which could be larger and carry across like northern lights.. maybe with some rhinestones and more silver.  If it were my block coming home to me I would definitely add more buttons... I often add and change A LOT on blocks after they come home... more later on that subject.
This needlework is by Janet P. and the little vignette is defined on one side by the shape of the block while the lace and button trail  framed the other two sides and just like Alice's work the other day, it wanders out and enhances the block as a whole...  So the message here is that you often don't need to completely surround something with needlework for it to be framed....
Sometimes as I'm gathering examples I have trouble identifying either the stitcher or the owner... I know this is Sherry's block but not sure who did the stitching..  (if you know, write me so I can give credit)   The image is framed by lace, embroidery, and ruching but the whole thing is defined by the shape of the block.. It is truly lovely and CQ at its finest.
Finally  it is the shape of the patch that frames and defines this little scene I did on Lindy's block in a spider RR even though the sign and flowers extend into the rest of the block... I created the scene to fit the patch..

I have accumulated a wealth of gorgeous work to share on this blog so if I have contacted you for permission and you have not seen it yet.... I am working as fast as I can and keep checking...

Also don't forget to become a follower as it is nice for me to know whom I'm working for... of course comments are always welcomed... AND I also hope you are oooohing and ahhhhing along with me.

And next on framing....."Hair Today"

7 comments:

  1. Am learning a LOT Gerry - thank you!

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  2. I'm loving this Gerry, I've gathered so much from this blog, keep up the fantastic work!

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  3. I wish I could hug you! Thank you for explaining and guiding us with all the examples.
    Deb

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  4. Gerry, since I don't have a blog I don't think I can become a follower, but I have both of your blogs on my morning reading list. I am learning a lot from you and your work is much appreciated. Right now I'm piecing butterfly blocks to make a sewing machine cover. Yesterday I looked up plants that attract butterflies and I'm going to put lots of the flowers on the blocks.

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  5. I am enjoying your 'Block Talk' and learning so much! Thank you.

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  6. Gerry thank you so much for putting this blog together to help anyone that needs help. I have learned sllot just in this short time. i intend on following you as long as you have this blog. Your insight is very much appreciated. Thanks again

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  7. Hi Gerry,
    Am really enjoying your analyzing of the blocks. I would really like to hear more about you changing the blocks in an RR - that was one of the reasons I have never been in an RR - not sure what I'd end up with...but then I only recently found out about the "book" where you write your preferences about your block in an RR.

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