Posted on February 1st, 2012, by Lisa, the Web Gal
Negative space refers to the space around the subject in an image, what we sometimes call “empty space.” Some designers work very effectively with this space and intentionally design with it in mind.
The quilts below are great examples of employing negative space in an unusual or especially attractive way. Negative space can be used to focus attention on the main object on a quilt, create a feeling of restfulness, or provide balance in a design. Sometimes negative space is used to create an actual pattern.
Flag Quilt
Use the Accuquilt Go cutter to make this flag quilt from A Few Scraps blog. The negative space here enhances the sense of flags flying in the breeze.
Circles Quilt
The “Circles” quilt from the Contented blog adds interest to the negative space by echoing the circles of the main design.
Dogwood Quilt
This lovely limited palette quilt is featured on the Oh, Fransson blog. The negative space in what would otherwise be a visually busy design, allows the eye to rest.
White Wedding
The “White Wedding” quilt from the I Plead Quilty blog uses two simple curves and loads of bridal white negative space to give the impression of two interlocking wedding bands. It’s a modern riff on the double wedding ring design.
Patchwork Chevron
This Patchwork Chevron quilt from Moda Bake Shop is a perfect example of negative space being employed as a design element. The white fabric continues the chevron design of the patchwork.
More Negative Space
See the hourglass created by the negative space? Go to Julie Herman’s blog post at Lazy Girl Designs for more examples of quilts using negative space as part of the design.
Read the Wikipedia article on negative space.
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Posted on January 29th, 2012, by Lisa, the Web Gal
Look What Janet Made!
Janet knows just what to do when the weather is cold and gloomy. She made this colorful little table topper/wall hanging! It certainly will brighten up a grey Syracuse day. The embroidery was done on a machine, but you can also do it by hand. The Gals have the pattern, named “Loverly,” and it’s right in time for Valentine’s day. Call the Syracuse store if you are interested in either version.
Wear Red, Sew Red, February 3 – 5
Join Calico Gals on National Wear Red Day to support efforts to educate women and to fund breakthrough research by the American Heart Association. Heart disease is the #1 killer of women and we want to do our part to make a difference.
The National Wear Red Day is February 3, but we are celebrating Sew Red Weekend February 3-5. Stop in to the Syacuse or Oswego store for fun demos, this free quilt pattern and more. Make a donation to the American Heart Association and receive a red dress pin. Wear red just for the fun of it – you know we will!
A Night at the Theater
The Gals are going to see the musical, “Quilters” presented by the Syracuse University Drama Department. You are invited to join us at the Syracuse Drama Theater on Wednesday, April 4th, at 8 pm. We have reserved a block of 40 seats at the special price of $14 each.
Read more about SU’s production or watch a video segment from a former production. You will love it!
To reserve tickets for the April 4th performance, stop by Calico Gals in Syracuse with cash or a check for $14. It will be a fun night for all! Call for more info: 315-445-0617.
Starting this week in Syracuse
Blessings, Too, with Gay Silkey
Syracuse, first Thursday of every month beginning February 2nd, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
One of Calico Gals longest running and most popular clubs is expanding! Gay has decided to add Blessings Too to her schedule because Blessings Club has been full for years! If you love hand embroidery – no matter what your skill level – come in, sit a bit, chat a bit and stitch a bit! Fee: $36 for a whole year of club meetings. Call 315-445-0617 to sign up.
Debra Gabel’s Butterflies Block of the Month
How about a few butterflies to shake us out of the winter doldrums? Begin with the Monarch block in February and collect a new butterfly block each month for a year to create a quilt or individual small hangings, pillows or little quilts.
Just $12 per month includes the fabric and pattern for a 14″ block. Registration fee of $24 includes first and last month’s blocks. Butterflies are available in Syracuse and Oswego or by mail order. Call the Syracuse store to register: 315-445-0617.
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