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- 

Your Stuck! Now What?

 What do you do when your art feels stuck or incomplete?

When your art feels stuck or incomplete, it can be a frustrating and discouraging experience.

However, it's important to remember that mistakes and creative blocks are a natural part of the artistic process. Instead of viewing them as failures, try to see them as opportunities for growth and exploration. 

One way to approach this situation is to take a step back and reflect on what might be causing the block. Is there a specific technique you're struggling with, or perhaps a lack of inspiration? By identifying the root of the issue, you can begin to find solutions that will help you move forward. 

I spend time writing in my journal (my morning pages) this sometimes helps me to get to the root of the problem.  I gain insight and renewed direction, and I lean into God, as the foundation of my life I always find understanding and a new look at what ever it is that I am trying to do.

I will also do something totally different like going out for a walk in nature, or spending time in my art journal, giving myself a break from the focused concentration.

Another helpful strategy is to seek feedback from others - be selective (you don't want a pity party), but someone who may be on a similar journey and understands some of the valleys and peaks that you will come across. Sometimes a fresh perspective can provide new insights and ideas that can reignite your creativity. Don't be afraid to ask for help or collaborate with fellow artists - you never know what new possibilities might emerge from sharing your work with others. 

Above all, remember that art is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the imperfections and embrace the process of creating. By approaching your art with curiosity and a willingness to learn from your mistakes, you'll find that even the most challenging blocks can lead to breakthroughs that will enrich your artistic practice and not only be a blessing for you but helps someone else on the journey as well.

While you are making the changes to suit you, come and join us as a FREE member on Patreon, where you get to see behind the scenes and early release content.  When you're ready there is a 7 day FREE trial of the $3 tier that has patron only video content, digital downloads and more waiting for you.

Second Saturday Art Journal Page - Tulips

 

If you didn't catch us in the live premier this afternoon you can take a look at how I created this page here which was part of a collaboration for #secondsaturdayart.  Click on the video above or HERE

It started out with the digital download page I created of the tulips, which is part of a kit that I created on my Patreon platform you can check it out HERE.

For $3 each month they have access to a new set of digital download background papers, tags and videos giving ideas for how they can be used. 

I had fun creating the image and incorporating the tulips with the figure.

It is all about creative play and experimenting with the supplies that you have.  These papers will be then added to my art journal.  There are tags and other elements that can be added when the digital download pages are cut up.

If you want to check out the FREE members page of my Patreon you will see early release and posts there first.  If you want to access the digital papers and others in the series you can check them out using the 7 Day FREE trial which will give you access at the $3 tier, and you have over 400 posts, videos and downloads to check out in the meantime.

The page was great fun to create, and I look forward to creating more using this technique.

Who's Tune are You Dancing To?

Who or what are we allowing to have influence over our lives - its a question for reflection.  Have there been times that you doubt the journey or direction that you are going?

If we Imagine life as a giant, noisy orchestra, with everyone playing their own tune, shouting their expectations at you. In a quiet moment we take a breath and ask ourselves 'Who am I even trying to please and What song do I want to dance to?" It is a gentle reminder to reflect on the source of influence in our lives. Are we marching to the beat of our own drum, or are we swaying to the rhythm of others' expectations?

As artists and creators, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of external pressures—the need for validation, the pursuit of perfection, the desire to fit into a particular molds. But in the midst of this chaos, it's crucial to take a step back and reconnect with our inner tuning our melody. What is it that keeps you awake, what are you longing to create?

Take a moment to listen closely to the still small voice. What are the passions, dreams, and values that drive you? What sparks joy and ignites your soul? It is here, within the depths of your being, that you will find the ideas that will really move you.

Express yourself through your art, and allow it to speak and express where words can sometimes fail? Join us in our online creative community, we offer a myriad of opportunities to explore and unleash your artistic voice. Some FREE courses to get your feet wet and more exciting courses to come.

Take a look in the Art Resource Hub and you will find monthly digital downloads, prompts and quotes to encourage and motivate you, learn more HERE

So, my dear creatives, I ask you again: Whose tune are you dancing to? Listen closely, for the answer lies within. And when you find it, dance with joy and conviction, knowing that you are living your truth, one step at a time.