Doodling: Curls to Spirals
Good Morning, Quilters, Doodlers and Quilt-Doodlers!
I have a BIG CRAFTSY announcement tomorrow…but first….
Today in our series “Better Quilting through Doodling” we are doodling theUpward Curl that ranges anywhere from a slight curl to a tight spiral.
This little flourish finds it way into most of my doodles and most of my quilts. Once you add this to your repertoire, I’m sure you will see it pop up even when you aren’t thinking about it.
Use lined paper to get started.
Start with the basic shape: From the center, curve out then up adding just the slightest hint of a curl. Echo back to the center and create the right side.
Draw that shape many times (Many HUNDREDS of times if you like–I do!). While you are doodling, notice how difficult it is to create the same shape on the right and left–in other words, how hard it is to be perfectly symmetrical.
Don’t worry about asymmetry–that gives hand drawing and quilting it’s unique look!
Once you are comfortable with the basic shape, try adding a little more curl to each shape.
Then try creating a fern by stacking the basic shape.
Later, combine the upward curl with spirals to create an even more interesting pattern.
Wouldn’t this be a pretty piece of stationery?
As you doodle, try to create larger and larger versions. You will notice the movement becomes more fluent–that’s when you’re ready to try stitching it.
This may take thousands of repetitions…but that really doesn’t take long!
Commit to doodling every day-while you’re on your phone, or waiting at a carpool or when someone else is driving, while watching TV, waiting for water to boil…..a few minutes here and a few minutes there and you’ll have 1000 reps in no time! (Notice I didn’t ask you for 1000 reps of burpees or pushups?)
Tomorrow: The BIG CRAFTSY Giveaway Begins! Woo HOO!
See you for more details!
Lori
PS…All tutorials, images and information are the property of Lori Kennedy at The Inbox Jaunt and are intended for personal use only. Feel free to re-blog, pin or share with attribution to The Inbox Jaunt. For all other purposes, please contact me at lckennedy@hotmail.com. Thanks!
Thank you for your doodle lessons! It is becoming easier and easier. Like you say, practice everyday, 100s of times. Your lessons got me to start!
Woo HOO! It DOES get easier!
It seems like this is the type of design I usually tend to quilt and love spiraling. Can’t wait for the Craftsy announcement!!
Lori,
As other doodlers, I often find myself frustrated by the left curl that is so much prettier than the left side. I am predominately right handed although anything in sports finds me “a lefty.” I don’t know the reasons but I’ve noticed that the left handed doodle holds the pen/pencil loser. Now to try a looser grip with the right hand.
Thank you Lori for the encouragement & examples.
I think the asymmetry can give the look personality so go with it! Think “sisters” not “twins”.
Doodling on paper can’t be stressed enough!! AND it’s fun!!!!!
very fun to draw!!
Lori, I am appreciative of your enthusiasm.
Thanks, Rosemary!
How are the “twins”?
Excited to be getting new notebook and pens, pencils.
Me too Marta–was told by the dentist today to use a larger pencil, like a carpenters pencil. I looked at HD & the pencils I saw are flat—-will ask again next month.
Maybe look at a stationery shop for a pencil grip to put on an ordinary pencil instead. It will make a big difference.
I go to the dollar stores to get kid’s sketch pads. The work great for doodling and practice repitions and practing larger travelling motifs. I don’t feel guilty about using too much paper in one sitting as the pads are only a buck.
Wow, amazing, just some doodles to you, yet it is pure artistry to me.
Yes, carpenter’s pencils are flat. You can use either edge..the sharp side or the flat side for variety of effects. You can also try a #3 or #4 artist pencils. An ebony pencil leaves a mark similar to charcoal..I don’t think all those are what we are after in doodling to produce something akin to the stitches a sewing machine makes: a single line for our FM…Lori, any input here ???
Any pen or pencil that feels good to you will work. We are just trying to develop fluid motions and muscle memory.
I use those grips…arthritis in all joints of 10 fingers..
Yay for the giveaway!!!! I love your tutorials and I’m anxious to take actual lessons from you!
Thanks for all your lessons and tips. You are a very generous person. I am retired and so appreciate you….now on to doodling!
Your doodles are always so pretty!
Thank you again! You are so inspiring!