Today’s Topic: A Large Whole Cloth Owl on Linen
Good Morning, Quilters!
Have you had a chance to try the little owl motifs? Be sure to doodle them for a few minutes before you stitch!
Today, I’d like to share my process for making a large whole cloth owl on linen.
Start with a Doodle
It’s always best to get a few ideas down on paper first. Even if the whole idea doesn’t make it to cloth, at least you start with a few ideas.
Transfer the Design
The next step is to transfer the design to the fabric. It’s not necessary to mark every stitch, just the basic outlines.
Sometimes, I just draw onto the fabric directly. I used the purple disappearing marker. It’s easy to erase as you go.
Lightbox Transfer
Another option is to trace the broad outlines with a dark marker and then use a lightbox to transfer the design to the fabric.
This method is perfect if you aren’t comfortable drawing.
Stitch the Outline
Next, create a quilt sandwich, choose thread and stitch the outline.
Keep it simple here. There’s plenty of time to add details later.
Free Motion Quilting the Details
Now comes my favorite part, filling in the sections with decorative motifs!
Start with a simple shape, like the letter ‘U’ and vary it slightly in each section.
Create contrast between the sections by using motifs with different density.
Change Thread
It’s fun to change thread to add details within the owl.
Or change thread to add subtle details in the background.
Add Details, Make Changes
The Owl needs a perch and a background.
I changed thread to add a branch and leaves.
Compare the photos
After stitching the branch, I didn’t think it was dark enough so I stitched over the branch with a heavier and darker thread.
Then I added a neutral color to stitch the background. I didn’t want to overwhelm the owl.
The busy background would be distracting if stitched in a more visible thread.
Back to the Drawing Board
While I like the Owl on Linen, I think there’s room for improvement.
I plan to do a little doodling and try another one.
Perhaps create a pattern and a kit?
What about YOU?
Have YOU ever seen an owl?
How do YOU transfer your ideas onto cloth?
Would YOU be interested in LKQ patterns/kits?
We’d LOVE to hear!
Hooot! Hoot!
Lori
PS…All tutorials, images and information are the property of Lori Kennedy Quilts and are intended for personal use only. Feel free to re-blog, pin or share with attribution to LKQ. For all other purposes, please contact me at Lori@LoriKennedyQuilts.com. Thank you!
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