Contemporary patchwork projects are everywhere these days. Even the artists contributing to our sister publication, Cloth Paper Scissors are getting into the act--but they're using paper!
This paper patchwork corset is just one of the pieces by Michaela Laurie, a paper quilting specialist, featured in the March/April issue of Cloth Paper Scissors. Patchwork quilting with paper is a great way to incorporate a lot of fun found papers or leftover scrapbook papers into a piece of art.
Instead of stitching the papers together, Michaela tacks them down with a glue stick, sort of like tiling. Then she stitches them to the substrate using a zigzag or decorative stitch. Finally, she adds touches of paint and hand stitching, and embellishments like crystals, charms, and lace.
The first time I ever stitched on paper, I was very nervous. Would the paper fall apart? Would it ruin my machine? With some experimentation, I learned the answer to both questions was "no." But there are certain precautions you want to take, and you should practice before jumping in.
Here are some of Michaela's tips for stitching on paper.
- Practice on a piece of scrap paper until you get the zigzag stitch small and regular. Write down the machine settings for later reference.
- If you are using metallic thread, loosen the top tension of your machine. Use a universal 80/12 needle or a metafile needle.
- Stitch slower when sewing with metallic thread.
- Pure cotton seems to work best in the bobbin as its small fibers attach themselves to the paper layers.
There are so many techniques and projects in Cloth paper Scissors that transfer well to fabric and quilting. Upcoming issues focus on lettering, digital collage, art journaling on canvas, fabric art cuffs, surface design, and more.
If, like I do, you walk on the mixed-media wild side, Cloth Paper Scissors has a lot to offer you.
P.S. Have you ever stitched on paper? Metal? What is your advice? Please share your thoughts and tips in the comments section below.