Mixed media consists of adding other materials, such as fiber, wood, metal, mica, beads, buttons and paper to fabric.  These items are wall hangings, art objects, postcards, clothing, sculpture and books rather than bed quilts.

My daughter, Beth, discovered the world of mixed media and began introducing it to me.  We’ve had fun exploring this realm and stretching our creativity.  We still can make bed quilts if we need.  But I find the smaller mixed media projects ones I can take with me when traveling.

For instance, here is a piece in which Beth incorporated a brown paper bag!

The center is a green piece of fabric with painted wonder under fused to it.  That is sewed onto a bronw paper bag that has been crumpled and colored with stamp pads and gold paint.  I added two gold skeleton leaves.  I still need to attach this to the fabric background.

Beth often adds pieces of wood, buttons, beads, and other embellishments to mixed media art like this.  To see more of her work, check out her Meandering Threads blog.

Post from: Blisstree

The Lure of Mixed Media for Quilters

 
This was suggested as one way to use up your scraps from quilting, fabric arts or dressmaking.  Simply sew the scraps together to make a piece of fabric and cut the pattern.  Or you can stitch these to a lightweight background from which you’ve cut the dress pieces.

 
Another method could be making the dress first, then adorning it with various pieces of fabric, trims, and other embellishments.  You can let your imagination have free reign and design many types of clothing.

 
Starting with a small dress isn’t so overwhelming.  However, you also can utilize fabric scraps in designing and making garments for yourself.

 
© 2006

 
(If you have questions or ideas to share about your projects, e-mail me, mary@b5media.com or leave a comment.)

Post from: Blisstree

Designing Scrap Dresses