In the last two posts, I printed a photo on fabric and embroidered over it, then I printed a watercolor on fabric and embroidered over it. Today I wanted try try going freehand using a very minimal outline and a photo reference. I had so much fun and the result was a much looser and more abstract embroidered painting.
I started by choosing my reference photo of a ruby red grapefruit. I cut a piece of white cotton fabric to fit into a six inch hoop and another piece of fabric the same size to layer under the first piece. It acts as a stabilizer and to make the fabric less transparent. I fitted both pieces of fabric in between the two pieces of the wooden embroidery hoop and then pulled the edges to make the fabric nice and tight. I tightened the screw at the top and pulled the fabric tight again.
I grabbed my mechanical pencil and made a sketch of the grapefruit pieces in my reference photo.
I went to my thread stash and began putting together my color palette. I used one thread of the six stranded fabric for the whole piece. It takes a lot longer but I love the finer detail it creates. I started off with a coral color.
Not sure how I am going to display this. I may frame it and group it with the apple and strawberry as kitchen decor. What is it with me and fruit?
I actually think the realism of the other fruits makes the grapefruit look more realistic or is it the other way around? The grapefruit makes the other fruit look more whimsical? Oh well, either way I think they compliment each other somehow.
Thanks for following the journey along if you made it this far! Explore fearlessly, you have nothing to lose!!!
Warmly,
Pam