A part of creating original designs is figuring out how to accomplish them. I always say I have a huge tool box [of ideas and resources] I can use for my art. The ideas don’t always work as planned. Its OK, because sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn’t.
Right now, I have an idea that’s pretty solid in my head. I want to create an art quilt using a photo I took at Muir Woods. First I need to make the background. I want it to appear as if the sun is beaming through the trees. I want to use pieced wedges of fabrics. Brilliant idea … I “think.”
Well the bugger is I don’t have a lot of yellow fabric. So, I went shopping at NC Quilt Symposium 2 weeks ago. They usually have some great vendors … not so this year. Sadness.
So, then I decide to use what’s already in my stash and make it work. Yes… Yes… I think I can do this. I spent an entire day cutting, piecing and sewing (remember I’m not using a pattern). I’m confident its looking good … but … not … so … fast. The final outcome failed. More sadness. The piece is not large enough to cut square and get the effect I desired. I don’t have enough yellow fabric to try again. The nearest fabric store is an hour away. With this “trial” run, I’m sure the idea will work, but I’m stuck until I can get out of town and go fabric shopping. Even then, there’s no guarantee that the store’s fabric selection will work with my idea.
I’m not defeated…just feeling challenged at the moment. I will get this one done, but for now its on hold. Sometimes that’s just the way it goes … this one may take awhile.
I know exactly what you are going through! What I do when this happens is, set it aside and do something else! I hang it up so I can see it in the studio , but, don’t dwell on it or think about it. I know my subconscious is working on it and one day it will “hit me” as to what I need to do!😘 Joan