The Process

Inspiration begins in the garden, lovingly planted by my husband Bob each spring, providing an explosion of color and an endless supply of motivation. Even the weeds are tended to often producing unexpected blooms and at the very least, lovely texture. I take hundreds of photographs, cataloging them where they wait patiently for their debut.

Using several graphic design programs simultaneously, I begin to cut, paste, apply filters, and manipulate color. It is at this point I decide whether the design is strong enough to stand on its own or if other artistic elements are essential. Many of these designs move on to be layered with hand painted or hand dyed backgrounds. I paint and dye everything; fabric, interfacing, fusible web, paper, dryer sheets and lutradur. My husband and grandchildren frequently join me for these painting sessions. We also use these paintings to create origami, cards, jumping jacks and other fun projects for children. These days are the most inspirational and provide piles of potential design elements which are scanned and then layered with the prepared photographs. The process of cutting, pasting, applying filters and manipulating color is repeated many times until a final art piece emerges. Not all of my designs end up in my art bin. Many take a trip to the trash can or are filed away as “works in progress” to be used as inspiration for future designs.

Once I am satisfied with all aspects of the design I print directly onto 100% cotton fabric sheets. Printing on fabric allows me freedom of expressions and provides the base for a serendipitous adventure. These designs have endless potential. Among them are postcards, wall hangings, quilts, home décor items, wearable art and accessories. I prepare a fabric sandwich and use rayon threads to free motion embroider and quilt. Thread colors are very carefully selected as they must enhance and strengthen without competing or interfering with the base print. Sometimes these art pieces are a combination of complex stitching balanced with a simple background, a complex background with simple stitching or a combination of both.

The entire design process is very intuitive and full of moments of whimsy.

the foundation for creativity drifts upon dreams made from quilts.
Beverly Massey