Monday, January 11, 2016

Crazy Quilt Journal Project 2015 - Needle Lace

Completed my 10th block for CQJP2015!  It is an experiment in needle lace which I have never attempted before.  So here it is, my first attempt, mistakes and all.  The photo color is a bit brighter blue than the actual block, but you can see the stitching regardless.


The first section I completed was in the center.  I began with the basic Single Net Stitch, followed by the Double Net Stitch and then the Buttonhole Net Stitch.  I then created some crossed straight stitches and wove some rings into that.  

The section on the right contains the Cloth Stitch, tighter and closer at the bottom (my left as I was working) and becoming slightly looser on the other end.  This was a stitch I really enjoyed doing and was very pleased with the results.  

The section on the left was started with Basic Russian foundation stitches to which I added some alternating Buttonholes.  I was getting frustrated here because my series of Buttonhole stitches began to twist.  I realized they are the same as the half-stitches I did in my Macrame experiment in which they were supposed to twist.  Maybe I am working them too tightly?  I would love it if anyone could suggest what I might be doing wrong.  I moved on and did a few Double Russian Stitches, creating a Buttonholed Bar at the end.

Top left is my attempt at a Woven Spider Web.

I then attempted some edgings along the outer tapes.  Top left - Knotted Edging (doesn't show up well); top right - Bullion Picot Edging; bottom right - Pinned Picot Edging; bottom left - Side Stitch Edging.

I enjoyed many of these stitches, especially the Cloth Stitch, and some I didn't care for...yet, but I know they will be great for filling in space and/or adding texture, color or interest using a matching or maybe contrasting fiber on future CQ blocks.  Lots of possibilities.

I'm ready to do another painting now before I complete the next, 11th block.  Hope everyone is having a great start to 2016!

5 comments:

Magpie's Mumblings said...

I can't tell you what you were doing wrong - because I think it all looks quite right!! I think you should be really pleased with this. I can see a couple stitches that I will have to research and try out.

margaret said...

looks very good to me too would never for one moment think it was your first attempt you look like you have been doing it for years

margaret said...

looks very good to me and looks like you have been doing it for years

Carol- Beads and Birds said...

Interesting block. I don't know anything about needle lace except that it looks terrific. I think I might have to try it. You're right, it is a great filler.
xx, Carol

Createology said...

I am intrigued by your needle lace stitching. I have never attempted anything so fine. CQ always gets my attention however I do not begin to try it. Too many other projects. 2016 will be an amazing year I believe...