the design phase

Okay, so today was the day I started the design phase for our process challenge.  Having set my parameters as a wholecloth mini quilt, with a mandala and colour, I needed to come up with a plan.

To start, I took a plain piece of paper and marked a 16" square on it, and then quartered it horizontally, vertically and diagonally.

Next, using an idea I got from Lisa Calle - use your rulers to help you with the basic design,  I started with a 2.5" circle template and then grabbed my 6"curved ruler and started laying out some curves, using my registration marks as a guide.  Using the rulers means I know it will work with them when it comes to the quilting, and I'll be able to get nice sharp lines and angles.

A few more lines, a few more circles, and I think I've got my basic design worked out.

I think I can call that mandala inspired!  Now, what to do about colour?  I could go bold - using some dye pastels I picked up while visiting with Gina last summer -

Or see what I can come up with using thread.  The basic design is now transferred to a piece of white pfd (prepared for dye) fabric, just in case I want to add some colour other than thread! and some quilting ideas are penciled in.  All of this is subject to change once it goes under the needle...

Next step will be deciding if I'll include any trapunto - I'm thinking it is a possibility, then sandwiching it up and having some quilting fun with it!  That's my favourite part!

How are you doing with yours?
Janet

the process has started

and for me to get started this early is quite something!

Well, what has actually happened is that I have set some parameters for myself to work within and help focus my thoughts and attention, and I always need to do that or I go off half cocked in way too many directions!

My parameters to work on my process piece:

• Mandala inspired
• wholecloth
• colour through thread/paint/ or ???

I've stumbled across a Pinterest board that has me dreaming of possibilities, and I'm intrigued by the concept. There is a lot of meaning and spiritualism surrounding Mandalas, which I'm looking forward to learning more about. It also has me remembering just how much fun I had with my Spirograph growing up, and I'm looking forward to re-living some of that!

let's see what comes next?

Janet