Introducing my version of Carolyn Mitchell’s WILDEST DREAMS.
I discussed in my last post how challenging I initially found this pattern, particularly as it was designed on the diagonal. In retrospect, this was simply due to my inexperience and I expect I would not have a problem today if I were to stitch this pattern again. I used Carolyn’s stitches BUT in a straight grid versus the diagonal grid as it was designed. As a result my version looks quite different from the original design. What makes the pattern so wonderful is the use of a wide variety of threads, varying in values as well as colour and textural combinations. It was really fun to experiment with thread combinations. Did I mention, I LEARNED A LOT!
I used small left over bits in silk perle, perle cottons, very velvet petite, Neon Rays – whatever I found that worked with my chosen palette. As I progressed through the project, I came to appreciate Carolyn’s incredible design talents. There are over 100 stitches, some are repeated in varying sizes but most are different. Carolyn offers suggestions for fibers but also offers a list of substitutes so you can really create a very individual project. There are some challenging stitches but many are relatively easy. Did I mention, I LEARNED A LOT!
My greatest regret with this design is that I ended up cutting my canvas a tiny bit too small so I ended up having to modify the border to fit. So disappointed! Carolyn had designed a beautiful bargello border which I had planned to repeat but RAN OUT OF CANVAS! I LEARNED TO ENSURE YOU CUT YOUR CANVAS LARGE ENOUGH!!!
So, that is my Wildest Dreams journey. The pattern is available for purchase through your local needlework shop. Perhaps you are inspired to start your own Wildest Dreams! Thank you Carolyn for this beautiful design, your patience but most of all, the courage to experiment and challenge myself.
I do apologize that the photograph is not as clear as I would like it to be. I have yet to rise to the challenge of photographing completed projects well – practice and LIGHT!
I will be taking an early Christmas vacation this year effective today returning to posting December 18th. During this time the shop will be closed.
