Material Musings - Cardboard projects and slow stitching

In today's video we explore the use of cardboard in mixed media art.  In one of my pieces, I combine fabric, cardboard and clay.

Let me know if you use cardboard in your creative projects

If you would like to see some additional ways you can join us on Patreon for behind the scenes and early release content.

Explore, Stamp and Play - Material Musings

 

Come and dive into the world of mixed media art, and stamping.


Material Musings: Exploring Stamps, Stories, and Surfaces

Welcome to October’s Material Musings! This month, we’re diving into the wonderful world of stamps, from foam and homemade to digital and store-bought. I’ve gathered a whole collection from my studio shelves, many I haven’t used in years, and it feels like rediscovering old creative friends.

I first started experimenting with foam stamps made from a roll of camping mat my son once used for outdoor adventures. That same foam became the base for countless shapes and textures which shows that creativity can come from the most unexpected places!

Throughout October on my channel, I’ll be exploring how to use these different kinds of stamps on fabric and paper, sharing techniques for layering, mark making, and breathing new life into forgotten materials. We’ll also play with office stamps, sentiment stamps, and those mysterious supplies tucked away in drawers — turning them into textured surfaces ready for slow stitching or mixed media projects.

By the end of the month, I’ll gather the fabrics and papers we’ve created and transform them into a final stitched project. So gather your scraps, pull out your stamps, and join me in making something beautifully imperfect — one impression at a time.

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Stitched Folk, Side Kicks and Solar Dyeing - Material Musings

   

This month in Material Musings, creativity thrived in unexpected ways. I have really been inspired by the students take of my lesson on Fodder School.  Some experimented with turning their 'make fodder' into brooches, journals, and coasters - it was inspiring to see ideas all the ideas take shape. 

I managed to create a fabric cover for my 'Side Kick' journal shared by Wendy from Fodder School - you can check out the projects HERE 

Join us on Material Musings below

As I played around with the solar dyed fabric, I used some of my handmade stamps to enhance the designs.  I had to stay flexible with my unexpected results.

Solar dyeing with flowers produced surprising colors, turning “mistakes” into unique textures. Fabric scraps found new life in stitched clusters, pockets, and homemade stamps featuring birds, abstract shapes, and dandelions. 

I also launched Stitched Folk, exploring stitched figures on canvas, the course is fun and you get to create your own stitched canvas piece. 

 Looking forward to seeing you!

Reflective Fabric Adventures - Material Musings

 

Come and join me on Material Musings today as we get reflective over the work we have done on the eco dyeing at the moment.

Working with Beads, Felts - Visual Feast

 

Welcome to this weeks Material Musings take out your fabric and beads and lets have some fun on our projects!

I love collecting beads and have done so for many years, so much so that some of the beads would be considered 'Vintage'.  Come and join me and see just a fraction of the collection - a visual feast for the eyes!

Here are some of the collection - all different sizes and colors

I love using the beads on my fabric projects especially the ones with figures.

Before you Go

Material Musings - August Projects

 Welcome to this week's Material Musings

Here are some of the projects that I will be working on over the coming weeks.  I am going to do a larger Kawandi and I will show you my progress in the next episode.  I also have a few creative projects and lessons that I am creating and will share in a few weeks.

I have also stitched more of the encouraging words to go on completed projects, they always come in handy and it is great to be stitching things that will encourage and motivate.

Come and join us next time in Material Musings and bring what you are working on.  I would love to see!

Before you go

Check out the FREE papers for this month in Patreon

Managing Waste for Creative - Projects Material Musings

In this week’s Material Musings, I share some of the ways of incorporating fabric into mixed-media artwork. I use natural fibers alongside paper clay to create 3D sculptures and share some of the figures like “Stilt Walker’s Treasure” and “And Still I Rise.” Alongside experimenting with a self-made fibrous pulp, 

I also use natural dyes (henna, avocado, tea), and techniques include wax resist, stenciling, and bead embellishments. 

It has become increasingly important for me to consider sustainable sourcing for my supplies, and I experiment with techniques and recycling materials either from my own supplies or thrift stores and also revisit unfinished projects for renewed inspiration.

Before You Go....

Check out the FREE Mixed Media Art Tags Course

Abandoned Fabric Projects? - Material Musings

 Abandoned Fabric Projects? - Material Musings

Do you have any abandoned creative projects that need to be given a new lease of life?  Join us on Material Musings today!

Here are some of the projects 

Sometimes all it takes is for you to go through them, see what supplies you are using now, and you may get that spark to revisit and maybe even finish the project.  It works with any type of creative project!

Fabric Art Journals - Material Musings

 

Here is Material Musings for this week. I have been slightly snowed under, but I wanted to get a start on the topic this month.

For May we will be looking at additional ways that you can work on the fabric in your journals if you make them and use some of the supplies that you may already have.

I will be sharing over the coming weeks the following, and anything else that I may have that can make marks on the fabric and create some unique and individual pieces for stitched projects:

• The use of Glitter on Fabric - Most of us have used glitter in the past, I am sure you have some lurking in one of those draws

• Derwent Inktense Pencils and Inktense Bars - these are two of my favorite supplies, they are highly pigmented and permanent once dry

• Neo Colors

• Gesso

If you would like to know more about the supplies, I have linked them so you can check them out. Essentially, I want you to try some of the supplies that you may not have thought of using and that you already have - experimenting and playing.

Did you miss last weeks Material Musings - check it out below:

Before You Go - Check out the Art Resource Hub and the FREE online classes we have available. Learn more HERE

Fabric Embellishments - Material Musings

 

Check out the video HERE

Welcome to Material Musings where we look at some of the fabric embellishments that you can get to use in your work.

I source mine from a variety of sources, around the home, thrift stores, or swaps that you can do with other creatives - especially those who stitch, they will always have some unusual and interesting trims that you may be able to use in your work.

In this video I share some of the ones that I have and how I use them.  Join me on this Material musings slow stitched journey.

Check out the previous video and you will be able to see some of the fabric in a project.

Material Musings - Slow Stitched Projects

Before You Go

Come and join us for FREE on Patreon and see behind the scene and dive into a creative oasis!  Learn more HERE!

Making a Kawandi - Material Musings

 

I managed to get my first Kawandi completed.  I decided to use all the fabric that I had been hand dyeing or creating batik and wax resist pieces with.

It was lovely to reconnect with all the fabric that I had been working on over time.  It was slightly challenging with the more heavier cotton fabrics as they were so thick, and the needle kept finding ways to maneuver into my finger. 😂

You can check out the video above for Material Musings to get a closer look at the Kawandi so far.

What is a Kawandi?

A Kawandi is a type of hand-stitched quilt traditionally made by the Siddi women, who are descendants of African enslaved women taken to India. Kawandi are distinctive because of their vibrant, designs and the way they are constructed. They are made from layers of Saris, fabric scraps, often brightly colored, and sewn together with running stitches. 

Key Features of Kawandi's

• Kawandi are typically sewn from the outer edges toward the center, unlike many traditional quilts made from blocks or panels.  The stitching is done in a spiral pattern, with all layers securely held together.

• They are made using recycled fabrics, including old saris or other discarded textiles.
• The use of fabric scraps gives the quilts a rich texture and unique, look.

• The quilts are often colorful and feature bold patterns, with an emphasis on spontaneity and personal expression.

• Small decorative touches, like folded fabric triangles called phulas (flowers), are added to the corners.

Kawandi's are made for practical purposes, such as providing warmth, but they also reflect the Siddi community's history and artistry.  

Check out these Fiber Artists on Instagram

Sherry Whetstone

Kianga Jinaki

Material Musings - Fabric Inspirations and Kawandi

 

Come and check out this weeks Material Musings. We look at lots of lovely dyed and hand printed fabric, and we start a Kawandi!

A Kawandi is a type of hand-stitched quilt traditionally made by the Siddi women who are descendants of enslaved Africans who were bought to India. 

Kawandi quilts are distinctive because of their vibrant, improvisational designs and the way they are constructed. They are made from layers of fabric scraps, often brightly colored, and sewn together with running stitches. Here's a closer look at their key characteristics:

Key Features of Kawandi Quilts

1. Construction Style:

   • Kawandi quilts are typically sewn from the outer edges toward the center, unlike many traditional quilts made from blocks or panels.
   • The stitching is done in a spiral pattern, ensuring all layers stay securely held together.

2. Materials:

   • They are made using recycled fabrics, including old saris, or other discarded textiles.
   • The use of fabric scraps gives the quilts a rich texture and unique, look.

3. Aesthetic and Design:

   • The quilts are often colorful and feature bold patterns, with an emphasis on spontaneity and personal expression.
   • Small decorative touches, like folded fabric triangles called phulas (flowers), are added to the corners or edges.

4. Practical and Cultural Significance:

• Kawandi quilts are made for practical purposes, such as providing warmth, but they also reflect the Siddi community's history and artistry.
• The improvisational process mirrors storytelling and a connection to cultural heritage.

Let me know if you have made one and how it turned out.  Looking forward to sharing my progress with you.

Material Musings - Slow Stitching and Bargello

 

In today's video I share my most recent Material Musings video, where I look to continue working on the 'Choices' Slow stitched project.  If you want to see what the project looked like before you can check out the previous video below:

It is nice to have a smaller project to work on in-between larger projects as it enables you to take a breather, but still keep your hand in.  I also worked on a new project known as Bargello.  I had all the supplies, but had used them for other things.  I check out Kiala Givehands monthly meetups and saw a presentation by Bonnie Natko and was able to create with it.

This is how the projects eventually turned out which was quite pleasing.  I just have a few other things to do with the stitched project and also decide how I want to use the completed Bargello - who knows maybe try some others.

Before You Go....

Creative Gardener Today

Here is what I share in the garden today.  You can check out the video below.

There has been a lot of other growth in the garden, and I will do a garden tour towards the end of the month.

Gratitude Junk Journal - Early Bird 20% Off

We have an early bird rate (until 31st October) on our Gratitude Junk Journal, which I am teaching in.  If you would like to get 20% off then enter the code AMORE24 at the checkout.

Learn More About Gratitude Journal HERE

Art Resource Hub

Every month in the Art Resource Hub I share a FREE digital Download, for your creative projects, here is the one for October:

Material Musings - Fabric Art Projects

 

Welcome to today's Material Musings, I am excited to share what I have been working on and learning in my fabric adventure.

I will be sharing some of the fabric art journals that I have been creating and I have made a couple that have been helping me keep my smaller projects and fabric ephemera in some order.

I also finished this fabric dragonfly inspired by a class on Making Zen by Lisa Goddard You can check her out on Instagram Here 

I hope you enjoy the video and check out some of the projects, and get to create some fabric journals of your own.

Before You Go

Join in the fun at Embroidery Extravaganza

Here are the speakers

What to Expect
At Embroidery Extravaganza, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Participate in workshops led by experts in the field.
• Discover new techniques and creative ideas to take your embroidery to the next level.
• Exclusive Student Benefits
• Gain access to all event presentation recordings with no expiration date! This invaluable resource is available exclusively to students who purchase their tickets before the event date.
• Giveaways during the live event
• Receive a digital swag bag filled with goodies
• Get Ready for a Day of Creativity

To make the most of your experience at Embroidery Extravaganza, here are a few tips: 

• Come Prepared: Bring your embroidery supplies, including needles, threads, hoops, and any other materials you like to use.
• Stay Open-Minded: Be ready to try new techniques and experiment with different styles.
• Take Notes: Keep a journal handy to jot down ideas and techniques you learn during the workshops.

Spaces are limited, so don't wait to secure your spot at this incredible event. Plus, you can save $20 off your ticket now by using the code ee24reality at checkout.

Sign up now at creativespark.ctpub.com.

Fabric and Foam Stamps

Come and join me in Material Musings today.  I have been playing around in my fabric art journals and experimenting with my foam stamps. I had created a set of foam stamps from the last 100-day project, and really liked how some of them came out.

Here is a selection of them.  I have been working on using them on fabric and incorporating slow stitching which I will be doing in this current fabric art journal that you will see in the video. 

I really like some of the foam stamps I created and will be sharing more of them. The foam stamps digital images are going to be available as digital stamps that you can incorporate in digital art work on my Etsy Store Here.

Take a look at the video and you will also catch some information about other things that are happening in the studio and some of the FREE courses that are available on my course platform. You can check it out HERE

These bold foam stamp designs are some of my favorite and look really effective on an art journal page and can be used to decorate your art journals and create prints on fabric.

I will keep you updated with the progress.

Check us out on Patreon HERE

Material Musings - Fabric Projects

 

Join us in the studio and come and see what new projects we are working on in Material Musings, some new projects using faces and figures and completing some of the smaller stitched projects.

Here are some ways in which you can make the most of your stitched projects:

• Display Creatively: Showcase your finished projects in unique and creative ways. Frame them, hang them on a decorative embroidery hoop, or hang them on wooden dowels or branches for a natural effect.

• Personalize Gifts: You can use your stitched projects to create personalized gifts for your loved ones. Whether it's a custom-designed piece of embroidery or a hand-stitched card, adding a personal touch makes the gift extra special.

• Experiment with Techniques: Don't be afraid to try new stitching techniques and explore different styles. Mix and match colors, stitches, and patterns to create one-of-a-kind projects that reflect your creativity.

For More Ideas Click Here

Here are some of the pieces that I am working on

These piece use some of the digital art dolls that I have on my Etsy Store, you can check them out Here

Fabric Art and Slow Stitching Projects - Material Musings

 

Welcome to Material Musings, where we embark on a journey through the exciting world of fabric art! From exploring various fabric products to delving into inspiring books for creative sparks, there's so much to discover together.

I am currently immersed in several fabric art projects, and we will be choosing a few to work on over the next couple of weeks. I will be adding some additional stitching and also going though my bead selection.

Check out the video above and I have included time stamps in the video description to make for easier viewing.

Check us out on the FREE membership on Patreon for some tips for you to consider while on the stitching journey: - Check it out Here

Embrace Imperfection

Don't be afraid to let go of perfectionism: ....Learn more Here

Experiment with Texture

Explore texture in your fabric art by: Learn more Here

Before You Go

Here are some of the other projects and resources mentioned for you to take a look at

Dragonfly stitched project - https://youtu.be/8Zody9EG9Z4

Red Bead Stitched Project - Part 1 https://youtu.be/aiqsmpk8D8s Part 2: https://youtu.be/PsHo0cntWIE Fabric Kits/course to purchase: https://realityarts.thinkific.com/courses/fragments

The Ultimate Flower Book - https://amzn.to/49FS2To

Creative Applique to Make and Wear - Hardcover - https://amzn.to/3JqmVR3

Stitch inspiration: Bianca Springer @thanksimadethem on IG or https://biancaspringer.com/ I am teaching - Check out my FREE Courses HERE - https://realityarts.thinkific.com/ Thank you for joining me in my art studio. We all have 5 minutes that we can give to creative play, why not see how you can fit creativity into your every day Subscribe Here http://youtube.com/amandatrought For More inspiration please visit my Patreon page HERE. https://www.patreon.com/realityarts

Check out Bianca Springers Book 'Represent - Embroidery' on Amazon HERE

Check out her Blog too HERE- 

Material Musings - Finishing those Fabric projects

 

Welcome to Material Musings today, I am sharing one of my fabric projects with you.  I have a range of projects that are in a stage of nearing completion and I often work on small batches at a time to get a group of them complete, and move them on to their next stage.

The projects are made up of a variety of different materials, including some that have been wax resist dyed, painted and there is some slow stitching that brings it all together.

It is a lovely relaxing time to do some slow stitching while getting some of these pieces complete, and they are now ready to go on to the next stage of their journey and I will think about what additional embellishments would look good.

Have fun with your stitched projects.

Before you go

Join us in the Art Resource Hub for the new digital download papers that are available to you for FREE to use in your creative projects.

Material Musings - Tips for your scrap fabrics

 

Welcome to Material Musings, in this video I share some ways that I use fabric scraps and create mini projects.  I show you some of the panels and wall hangings in progress, waiting for either some stitching, beading or to be added to another project.

I also share how I create these fun badges, they will either be placed on another project or can be used as a tag or in an art journal spread. I will be adding some more stitching to the pieces and maybe some beading to each of them.

How are you using your fabric scraps, or your supplies that you have neglected?

If you decide to create them, remember to share on IG and tag me @realityarts

Check in your own supplies to see what you have.  Here are some of the additional supplies that I used:

• Brads - https://amzn.to/3VsNA7c
• Hot Glue Gun - https://amzn.to/3vtsb32
• Embroidery Thead - https://amzn.to/3VsATJr
• Ribbon - https://amzn.to/3PvE3Zh
• Fabric panels (available in different colors) - https://amzn.to/495SutS and check out - https://amzn.to/3Tq9ghM

Have fun!

Before you go

Join us for FREE on Patreon or try out one of the Tiers on the 7 day free trial:

Material Musings - Stay Inspired with Slow Stitching and Fabric Art

 

Welcome to this weeks Material Musings, I'll be sharing some of my projects that feature stitched faces, These pieces reminder us of the possibilities that slow stitching and fabric art offer.

As you check out the video, also take a look at 4 ways that you can paint and stitch on fabric and tell your story:

1. Embrace the Storytelling Aspect

Each face stitched onto fabric tells a unique story, capturing moments, emotions, and memories. Slow stitching and creativity allows you to express those things that words might not be able to express. Using needle and thread enables you to weave tales of love, loss, joy, and resilience. As you bring your stories to life through fabric art. let the storytelling aspect of slow stitching fuel your creativity and expression.

2. Experiment with Texture and Depth

Explore possibilities of texture and depth with wax resist hand-dyed fabric, you can get some amazing effects. This technique adds a layer interest to your fabric art. Play with different colors, patterns, and resist techniques to achieve unique effects. Experimenting with texture and depth opens up a world of creative possibilities that will keep you inspired and engaged.

3. Add Beading

The addition of beads not only adds visual interest but also infuses your creations with additional pops of color. Experiment with bead placement, size, and color to enhance the beauty of your stitched pieces and bring them to life.

4. Therapeutic effects

There is also the therapeutic effects of slow stitching and creating on fabric to consider. The repetitive motion of stitches brings about a calmness that you can dip into whenever the mood takes you.


As you step into your own fabric art journey, remember to embrace the storytelling aspect and experiment with texture and depth. Let your creativity flow freely as you explore the endless possibilities of slow stitching and fabric art and watch as your imagination takes flight. So, grab your needles, threads, and fabrics, and let's dive into a world of creativity, inspiration, and endless possibilities together.

You can check out my Fabric Fragments kit which includes a selection of fabric both hand painted, dyed and pre printed. It has also included one of my painted and stitched pieces and videos on working with your fabric. Patrons get a discount on all courses and digital products on my course platform. 

I would love to see what you create, let me know what you are working on.
Blessings!

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