The Memory Panel, part 2

I've finally finished the Memory Panel, and it’s been a technically demanding project. The squares aren’t stitched directly to each other (as a pieced quilt might be made) but rather each one is stitched separately onto the large piece of backing fabric

Work in progress. The top row of squares has the edges frayed, the second row is stitched but not frayed, and the third row isn't quite complete yet

My first thought was to make all the “squares” exactly the same size and shape. This would have made it very easy to arrange them into a nice symmetrical frame, but it would also make the final arrangement very boring. So I made all the “squares” different widths, which then condemned me to spending a lot of time juggling them all into some arrangement which would make them all fit smoothly into a large rectangle. I also decided to finish off the edges of the “squares” by fraying the fabric they were embroidered on. I’ve used this approach before with good results, but I also thought that in this case the soft, wavy edges of the frayed fabric might disguise any places where the squares didn’t quite line up.

The finished Memory Panel

Well, it’s not bad, and I will enjoy looking at the images and mulling over the memories they inspire. All the same I wish it didn’t remind me quite so much of a lot of little table mats. But as a first version of an idea that I might expand later, it does its job

Comments

[Patti]

I love the idea of a memory panel. Your use of the fringing to meld the piece is lovely; it softens all the straight lines and makes me want to touch it.

[Tonya Everley]

Very lovely. I really like the frayed edges; nice touch. Enjoy getting to see your work.

[Deena]

Beautiful! The frayed edges add so much to your panels. Thank you for sharing.

[Linda Hudson]

This is so amazing! I am inspired to do something for a memory quilt. You have never ending ideas and the talent to bring them to life. Thanks for showing this masterpiece.

[Spanky]

You are creative,original,inspiring,and generous in sharing your exceptional talent.
Love this memory panel.

[ram bou]

I too love your memory panel. When looking at the first panel shown above as not finished, I thought that you were leaving one panel blank as you have lots of memories to come.

[Chantal]

It's beautiful
Je ne sais pas comment l'on dit chardon en anglais mais je les trouve particulièrement réussis
Bravo et merci pour ces belles réalisations

[Gail Beam]

I love the way you used different size panels and fringed the edges of the panels. I like to fringe the edges of alphabet letters that I use on towels and other items for my grandchildren. Thank you for sharing another awesome piece of work with us.

[Lisa Cox]

I think it's turning out wonderfully! And I agree that all the same size and shape would have been boring.

I like that your horse is reminiscent of a unicorn. But I can't find where you've hidden the peacock.
;-)

After this, are you thinking of another theme for an anthology work? I think a lot of your Scottish creatures would work together in a similar way.

[Cherri]

Just a quick note to let everyone know, Mia is having internet trouble and won't be able to respond to any questions or comments until it is repaired. Thanks for your patience.

[Ceil]

I just love this! You are so creative! :)

[Antionette]

Hi Mia. I have all the sympathy with you on internet supply. I went to my home country for almost 3 weeks and was so frustrated with the internet connections... The design is great and I love it. Would you please send it to me as well. I love the birds!

[Riaana]

You are an artist with tons of talent!!! Beautiful Mia!!!!!