On the next block I will put an interfacing on the back first and try a different thread for couching... I have found though that if I add a second row of cording I can ease the first row back into place...which will put the bells right again.. Right now it is being blocked and I'll let it stay there a few days before I do any more...
It has been great fun testing the different materials... Doing the bird on the heavy silk backed with fusible interfacing REALLY worked well and I am going to explore that more during this RR. I did the bells on felt without a chain stitch... A chain stitch under the cording would have worked better... Live and learn....
Gerry, this block is just amazing! Janet is going to love it! Your work is always exceptional and this block is stunning! I love the total block and it is hard to pick a favorite on this one as all the elements are awesome!
ReplyDeleteI find I have less shifting/buckling problems when I put the thread under tension. You might want to try putting the cording on a spool and couching while keeping the thread taut. We use spools called koma in Japanese embroidery to keep our gold threads taught while couching. I have modified this a bit so I don't always use a spool but I do try to keep the thread under a good deal of tension when I couch...not sure if you use a hoop or frame but it also helps to have the block under tension. Also, depending on the cording, sometimes couching stitches closer together also helps. Just my two cents...Have a good day good wife...xo Susan
ReplyDeleteI do love it, Gerry! My plan was to stitch the 3 Santas together as a Christmas present, but I'm not sure I'll be able to part with them!
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