Under my needle

December 9, 2016 | JP Dawes Artist

Nature printed silk.

Happy to be stitching again.

Rolling Along

November 29, 2016 | JP Dawes Artist

A discussion on FB about ways to transport silk scarves to a show/sale sparked my imagination. I was going to use the standard pool noodle or pvc pipe to roll scarves on so they don’t get wrinkled.

Then I was sending a fabric order on Etsy and emptied a cardboard bolt. It was a light bulb DUH moment. Since I carry my inventory in vintage suitcases something flat would be perfect. So I got to work making my silk roll.

I covered the bolt with 2 layers of batting and then a layer of flannel. This is actually a flannel baby blanket with a roll hem. Simple.

I made certain to position the hem so it was in the middle of the bolt. This gives me something with some form to pin the scarves to with silk pins. Depending on the width of the scarf, I can roll 2 pieces side by side. I can continue to add layers of scarves, being careful to only anchor them on the bolt through the edge of the scarf. This also means my hang tags will lay flat and not get crinkled like they would on a pool noodle.

Works like a charm!

Winter is Coming Soon

November 17, 2016November 17, 2016 | JP Dawes Artist

So I thought I needed a new coat. I purchased this 3/4 length pure wool coat at an estate sale. The only alterations were to take out the shoulder pads and remove the outdated collar. Then into the eco printing pot it went. I am certain there will be nobody else with a coat like it!

The Colors of Fall

November 11, 2016 | JP Dawes Artist

Some of the newest silks out of the dye pots today. These will be available at the Gifts For Girlfriends sale at the Ramada in Mountain Home AR on December 3.

I’m In Good Company

September 28, 2016 | JP Dawes Artist

For the first time in awhile now, I entered work in Quilt National. I had told myself before this that I wasn’t going to submit to quilt shows that were more concerned with even stitching and tight bindings. You know, the quilt police. I’m not saying it is as strict for Quilt National, but they do look at quilt construction. I simply cannot do that kind of perfect work any longer due to my rheumatoid arthritis. And you know what? It sucks big time ! There are days I want to kick the sewing machine.

I only want to submit to exhibitions that judge art for its visual impact and connections/message to viewers. I think I might have a fighting chance in that kind of show. But I entered Quilt National any way, call me crazy. And mine were some of the more than 700 entries that were not chosen. I am in really good company with a lot of art quilters I know and who’s work I admire. It doesn’t sting too much, just a little when I see the bank account going down from entry fees.

I think they are some of my strongest work. Now they are free to be juried for other venues. The search for the right ones begins!