Another different applique border

Some time ago - on the 26^th of April, to be exact – I posted a picture of an experiment I’d been doing to try and make the borders of appliqueed material more interesting. Rather than using the plain heavy satin stitch border you usually see, I tried to disguise the border and bring it into the design a little bit

Well, here’s another example of the same thing. It’s a portrait of a robin sitting in some branches (it’s a European robin, as you can see – not the American version!) and the robin is sitting on an appliquéd patch

 

The robin on his appliquéd background

The applique border has been used as a stem of the tree, and so it has leaves growing out of it, and there’s also another twisty twig with yet more leaves stitched on top of it all

Overall I’m quite pleased with the result. Of course all designs can’t be conveniently turned into this kind of thing, and in many cases you have no choice but to let the applique border be seen clearly for what it is. But it’s nice to be able to try something different from time to time

 

Comments

[Sandra Lane]

Mia, a very interesting concept with this design, I really like what you have done with it. Maybe you could widen the appliqué edge stitching so it is a clean cut so it has hidden edges. I have found by trial to be careful of the fabrics used. Loose weaves I have a problem with pulling away, now I only use them for samples I may use if they turn out okay. I think the leaves all add to the design. Was the background material splash painted ? it looks great. Another well done.

[Barb]

Awesome Mia.
You amaze me!

[Maria]

beautiful work i like it alot

[Lisa]

Mia, that is beautiful! I love the way you have integrated the border with the art of the piece!

[Liz]

So beautiful! The robin is so colorful and cheery amidst the swirling leaves and vines. You should definitely do more!

[Suzanne]

I just love this! I loved the earlier one, too! You definitely have art and imagination in your blood. There are good digitizers out there, but no one like you. Your work isn't just stitchery design, it's art! I envy your inspiration - creating the background fabric to further enhance the subject, then coming up with this vine concept...all on top of the design itself, with is gorgeous. I agree with Sandra - you amaze me.

[Beal]

This is lovely! The bird looks so cozy, nestled in the greenery and the border.

[Gail Beam]

Hi Mia, I love your embroidery interpretation of the European robin. It is beautiful, and your hand painted fabric makes a perfect background. The leaves and vines that you have digitized to help blend in the satin outline of the applique patch is perfect. Have a great week!