Expressive Stitches

Synopsis

Whether it's a landscape, a garden, an animal or a powerful memory of a place or object, Jan shows you how she develops them all into beautifully stitched representations that exude awe-inspiring detail, colour and expression. 

Jan begins the creative process by collecting and storing natural items and exploring different patterns, texture, media and markings to cultivate her final design. She uses simple yet effective methods for altering fabric prior to stitching, including dyeing, embellishing and stamping, then transforms her fabric into a vibrant, textured artwork using a combination of traditional hand stitching, machine stitching, and other media.

Following a fascinating, illustrated step-by step chapter on Jan's key techniques, join her as she takes you through the stages of three types of work for which she is most renowned: the stitched landscape, the memory cloth and the bird sculpture. Each project also includes a break down of the materials, tools and techniques used, so that you can understand as well as see the development of her astounding, mixed-media creations. 

Throughout the book, a gallery of Jan's work complements her techniques and projects, providing inspiration for your own textile artwork. These are stunning pieces that will open your eyes and turn your own creative concepts into original, personal work.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Expressive Stitches

This chapter provides an overview of expressive stitches, their history, and their various applications. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the elements of stitches and how to use them effectively to convey emotion and meaning.

Real example:
A vibrant embroidery piece featuring a floral motif uses couching stitch to create a textured and dynamic effect, evoking the vitality and movement of nature.

Chapter 2: Basic Stitches and Variations

This chapter introduces the fundamental stitches and their variations, including running stitch, back stitch, chain stitch, and satin stitch. It explains how to execute each stitch correctly and how to experiment with variations to create different effects.

Real example:
A delicate lace sampler incorporates a variety of stitches, such as whipped stitch, buttonhole stitch, and picot stitch, to create intricate patterns and textures, showcasing the versatility of basic stitches.

Chapter 3: Contour and Dimensional Stitches

This chapter explores stitches that create contour and dimension, such as seed stitch, bullion knot, and french knot. It demonstrates how these stitches can be used to add depth and texture to embroidery, creating realistic and dynamic designs.

Real example:
A portrait embroidery uses bullion knots to create realistic hair, giving the subject a three-dimensional appearance.

Chapter 4: Color and Texture

This chapter discusses the importance of color and texture in expressive stitches. It explains how to choose the right colors and textures to enhance the emotional impact of the design.

Real example:
A vibrant tapestry uses a combination of variegated yarns and raised stitches to create a tactile and visually stimulating surface, evoking a sense of movement and energy.

Chapter 5: Combining Stitches for Expression

This chapter demonstrates how to combine different stitches and techniques to create unique and expressive designs. It encourages experimentation and the exploration of innovative stitch combinations.

Real example:
A mixed-media piece combines embroidery, couching, and beading to create a layered and expressive abstract design, conveying a sense of depth and complexity.

Chapter 6: Stitching with Meaning

This chapter explores how expressive stitches can be used to convey personal experiences, emotions, and stories. It provides inspiration and techniques for using stitches to create meaningful and evocative embroidery.

Real example:
A quilt featuring stitched memories uses personal belongings and photographs to tell a visual narrative, embodying the history and emotions associated with the objects depicted.