Ethereal Layered Bottles – Guest Blogger: Alana Koehler

Level 3 Advanced Studies in Experimental Stitch – Class Name: Bachelor Buttons – Blog 4 in a Series of 8

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  Ethereal Bottles – Floating Panels Layered Over Stitched Background © Alana Koehler

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  Ethereal Bottles – Detail – Machine Stitched Bottle on Sheer Fabrics © Alana Koehler

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  Ethereal Bottles – Detail – Layers of Sheer Fabric Mimic the Hardness of Glass © Alana Koehler

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  Wave – Applique and Hand Stitching © Alana Koehler

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  Color Study -Machine Stitched © Alana Koehler

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  Color Study – Machine Stitched with Cut Back Applique © Alana Koehler

When I first started the bottles project I was intrigued with how the lines from the fake stained glass window were distorted through the clear blue glass of the various shapes of the bottles. I was inspired to take the photo when I walked in the room and saw how beautiful the light was coming through the window. Then I became interested in the contrast between the hardness of the glass of the window and bottles, and in my piece, the medium of soft cotton cloth with batting and free floating translucent chiffon and tulle. I wanted the bottles to hang loose from the top, and catch the air currents and move gently.  The background in the original photo suggested watercolors, which inspired the final piece. The colors I chose were pale and ethereal, so I call it Ethereal Bottles.

The waves project was based on a sketch I did in Art & Design Level 3, of a Japanese-inspired stylized sketch of waves.  I first made a paper version of the piece, then did a version with handstitched appliqué on cloth that I dyed. Alana Koehler