Have you ever had a piece of fabric that you absolutely love, but just can't seem to find the right spot to use it? 🤔 That was the case for me and this lovely (though quite busy) nostalgic print. 🐎🌾  The way the fabric designer built the print was brilliant, with one part of the scene leading into the next, but it created quite the challenge for me in my work, as I wasn't wanting to use the pre-printed windmills, horses, fences or barns!

I did however, love the geese and the meadows with the speckled flowers, and I was determined to finally use them. I love to mix a good printed cotton into all of the other fabrics I use, and the colours were perfect for my blue summer sky. I decided to cut very narrow strips of the fabric avoiding all of the parts I didn't want, and by laying and appliquéing very small sections of the fabric, I was able to create a serene, winding river...and even save a few geese! There are 6 separate pieces of this fabric in my landscape, with each layer strategically building the peaceful scene I had envisioned.By adding embroidery to the scene (you know I love a good French Knot!), I was able to add plenty of detail to draw the viewer in for a closer look. I embroidered over the geese (which were  printed on the fabric!), and they create such a special focal point that I know I will re-use this wonderful trick in a future scene. The silk ribbon flowers in the foreground were stitched last, and I love how they add some depth and interest. 

I framed this little piece of art behind a mat and glass, and it sold within days. Who can resist the calming view? It was a good lesson for me to resist the temptation to tuck this fabric back in the drawer (I have pulled it out many, many times) and use some creative thinking to figure out how I can to use what I have and focus in on what it was that I loved about this fabric in the first place.🖼️🧵