Yoga mat quilting

It's a gorgeous, hot, sunny day in Gig Harbor and I'm taking advantage of it by sewing outside. I've started on my second "yoga mat" quilt, so named because I've been inspired by the flowing design on my yoga mat.

I started last night by selecting a background and motif fabrics from my stash that I've painted over the years. The orange fabric has a little sparkle from Setacolor pearlescent paint.

I ironed paper-backed fusible web to the back of the motif fabric, folded it in half, drew a free-form design and cut it out.

Surprise! A happy face emerged,

with a Jimmy Durante nose.

... then a sad face ...

... and here is the final version, with a chunk relocated from the middle of the nose and the eyeballs moved.

Then I loaded a tray with my embroidery threads, scissors, and ice water and settled in the back yard to soak up some rays while adding the hand stitching.

(The thread is hand-dyed by Laura Wasilowski at www.artfabrik.com)

Have a colorful day!