I thought I’d share the evolution of the Subtle Tees shirts featured in Volume 105 July/August 2017.
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When I am embroidering, I’m like a kid in a candy store. I’m overwhelmed by all the options – from thread colors to fabric colors and even fabric type. And before I can make a final decision, I have to try all the “flavors” and hope that I don’t get too distracted from completing the project. Anyone else have that problem? 😉
The photo below shows example stitch-outs from the Fascinator t-shirt. I spray painted the lace a light blue and used a variegated thread…because variegated thread has to be tried!
Then there are those moments when I go off the rails with crazy color selections. I didn’t see a need to complete the test stitch-out….I don’t know why I chose that fabric….
Here’s a look at another test stitch-out. I didn’t want to waste a good piece of lace so I used a piece of polymesh stabilizer as my applique fabric. For this example, I was double checking my thread color choices. The threads used on the bird and branch became my final colors.
You can appreciate how color choices and fabrics can transform a look. Compare the polymesh stabilizer applique photo above with the flowery lace applique below. The orange stippling pops while the blue stippling blends in. 
Here’s a look at the final design, shot on location. The airy, flowery lace applique makes a statement. The shapes can be interpreted as clouds and fits the theme for the shirt.
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Fulfillment comes not only from the finished project but in the process of experimenting and improving techniques!
9 COMMENTS
Karen James
7 years agoEileen, love your samples. You mentioned you spray painted the lace, what kind of paint did you Use? I need to try your sample as I love how it looks on the finished t-shirt.
Thank you for all your ideas.
Karen
Denise Holguin
7 years agoHi Karen,
Thank you for stopping by the blog! The spray paint is: Tulip ColorShot Instant Fabric Color Spray. You can find it at craft/hobby stores.
You can purchase the cans individually or in multi-packs of assorted colors. Lots of fun to use!
Give it a try!
Denise
Sara Redner
7 years agoDenise, I’m often nervous about changing colors from what the pattern designer used, but I seldom do tests. If my color changes are dramatically different, especially if the finished project is for a gift, I might do a test, or if I’m using a design from an unfamiliar digitizer. Otherwise I just “wing it” and hope for the best. BTW, I love the way your bird turned out.
Denise Holguin
7 years agoHi Sara,
Until recently I would wing everything! Seemed to be too much trouble to do a test but I’m finding the process to be a wildly fun and creative outlet. One of these days I’ll show you my test t-shirts. I have managed to squeeze all sorts of test stitch-outs on to a couple shirts. Would be an interesting fashion statement to wear them.
Denise
Carolyn Morgan
7 years agoDenise, I’m in love with this process! I’m anxious to try the lace with stipple and then embroidery. I “inherited” a stash of lace and doilies and they’ve just been lying in a drawer waiting for projects.
Denise Holguin
7 years agoCarolyn,
Thank you! Your comment made my day.
I think you’ll enjoy experimenting with the process. I’d love to see your finished projects. [email protected].
Denise
Gayle
7 years agoI live in Georgia, about 40 miles south of Atlanta. I can not find your TV show. If you still are on TV let me know, and help me find you.
Warner Brown
3 years agoThis is an amazing blog for embroidery
Threads and Arts embroidery digitizing service
3 years agoEmbroidered so well! Loved the designs.