Welcome to Material Mondays, we are nearly at the end of this project and it will be great to see how if feels once it is completed.
As a mixed media artist, I have found great solace in slow stitching and textile creativity, and I love the whole process from start to finish, finding the fabrics, painting and creating designs to the gentle rhythm of the needle weaving through the fabric, the soft touch of the threads, and the meditative state it brings have become a cherished part of my artistic journey.
You can start with any sized fabric, but you might want to take it slow with a small piece and grow into a larger more complex fabric.
If you're seeking a creative outlet that allows you to unwind and connect with your inner artist, slow stitching might just be the perfect match. This art form is not about rushing to finish but about savoring each moment of creation. Take a moment to breathe, let go of the stresses of the day, and immerse yourself in the world of slow stitching.
Adding the beading and other creative stitches is definitely a part of the process that goes hand in hand with slow stitching and brings a great deal of satisfaction when you step back and look at your piece.
If you have missed the previous posts where you see me first working on this project you can do so below
Part 2
Part 1
I hope you managed to check out some of the other videos in this series. I thought that I would share a creative task with you, for you to consider:
Creative Task:Find a quiet corner, gather some fabric scraps, threads, and a needle. Take your time, create a small slow stitching piece, and let the process guide you. Do let me know how you get on.
Come and join in the fun for Life Book 2024 Taster Sessions, where art meets well-being! Tamara and her team have put together an impressive lineup, taking you on a journey that can positively impact your health and overall sense of well-being.
Over the next two weeks, you will immerse yourselves in the world of art as the Life Book 2024 Teaching Team introduces you to a fantastic range of soul-nurturing experiences. These sessions will ignite your creative spirits.
The Taster Sessions will be available from September 25th, 2023, to October 8th, 2023, You can have continued access to the sessions if you join Life Book 2024, commencing on January 1st, 2024. Gaining access to over 80 enriching mixed media art sessions, each session is designed to not only awaken your artistic talents but also to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and foster mindfulness.
If you already feel the excitement, you can take the first step by pre-ordering Life Book now or delving deeper into what awaits you here. Prepare to embark on a transformative voyage that will enrich not only your artistic skills but also your life. Welcome to a world where art and well-being converge in a symphony of self-discovery and joy.
Sign up to my Patreon platform where you will unlock over 400 patron only videos, digital products and more! You can sign up for 7 day for FREE to get a flavor for what is on offer!
Welcome to the Creative Garden! Today, I'm thrilled to share the story of my amazing Curry Leaf tree that is growing in my food forest. You can check out the video below.
I originally brought a small Curry Leaf plant, and it's grown into a thriving tree that can grow up to 20 feet, whilst I don't want mine growing that tall here are a few things I noted:
1. The Unexpected pests
When I first got my Curry Leaf plant, it was a tiny sapling. I currently face some challenges when it flowers and it gets attacked by the small black fly which then attracts the ants, they have this symbiotic relationship.
I had to make the difficult decision to trim it back quite hard and wondered how it would respond. To my amazement, it bounced back stronger and healthier than ever.
2. A Bounty of Seeds and Saplings
Once the Curry Leaf tree blooms and produces flowers, it also starts to produce seeds. These seeds are not only edible but also give rise to an army of tiny Curry Leaf saplings. I discovered several mini plants surrounding the mother tree! They all sprouted from the fallen seeds.
Some have even grown into sturdy young plants that I've carefully transplanted to different parts of my garden. However, propagating these saplings from seeds or cuttings requires a delicate touch, as they don't like to be disturbed.
3. Cooking
The Curry Leaf tree is native to India and is also found in Australia, Barbados and other places around the world. It's known for its aromatic leaves that are widely used in Indian cuisine, adding that unique flavor to curries and other dishes. I often use the leaves in cooking, especially stews and soups, it adds a lovely flavor to the dishes.
4. Gardening Hacks: Pest Control and Bird Partnerships
In the world of organic gardening, pest control can be a challenge. One of the most effective ways I have found to keep pests at bay is by attracting birds to my garden and other garden friends to help - such as the lizards, frogs and toads. There are also a number of natural ways that you can deter pests in your garden such as Neem Oil, picking the pests off by hand, soapy water and other solutions depending on the pests.
5. Future Plans and Maintenance
As my Curry Leaf tree continues to thrive, I have plans to shape it so that it can stay at a manageable height, around six feet or so, to ensure easy harvesting of the leaves. Pruning and occasional spraying with neem oil will help maintain its health and shape. Additionally, I'll be relocating some of the young saplings to better spots in the garden.
That said some great tips for the Curry leaf plant. If it is not something that you are able to grow, think about how being out in your garden space or outdoors positively impacts on your health and well-being. Here are a few reasons to spend time in the outdoors:
Here are some Benefits of Gardening on Health
Gardening isn't just about growing plants; it also has health benefits as well:
1. Stress Reduction: Gardening provides a calming environment that can reduce stress levels.
2. Physical Exercise: Tending to your garden involves physical activity, helping you stay active and fit.
3. Fresh Air and Vitamin D: Spending time outdoors exposes you to fresh air and sunlight, essential for good health.
4. Mental Wellbeing: Gardening can improve your mood, reduce symptoms of depression, and boost overall mental wellbeing.
5. Healthy Eating: Growing your own fruits and vegetables encourages a healthier diet, rich in fresh, organic produce.
My Curry Leaf tree has been a great addition to my garden. If you have any questions or want to share your gardening experiences, please leave a comment below. Let's grow together!
So, I am celebrating another birthday this year. I feel thankful to have made it through another year and have the opportunity to continue working on those ideas, goals, and dreams that I have within me. Time seems to be moving even faster as we age so we have to make the most of the time we have.
Sometimes you can get stuck in reflection, this time last year we were organizing my mother's funeral, which took place two days after my birthday, it still seems a bit unreal.
I spend more time reflecting and sharing creative thoughts in the Arts and Wellness Cafe. I would love you to join me. Take a look below.
Join me in the Arts and Wellness Cafe
I share some art reflections, and ways in which you can alter work for someone who just wants to do a bit of a project. This is the first of many Arts and Wellness Cafe - come and hang out for a while in the studio and play a while with your supplies. I would love to hear how you use creativity in your day to day work.
Arts Resource Hub
If you have limited supplies I have tons of resources available in the Arts Resource Hub and several FREE courses with digital backgrounds that you can use in your projects.
Stay blessed and be a blessing! Have a wonderful weekend!!
Realityarts - Creativity Book Shop - Some really great titles for you to dive in
Creative Resources
Affiliate Links
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