Its the little things

A couple years ago, I was looking to explore new fiber techniques. I had been casually exploring fiber and hand needle felting. I saw a class offering at a Randy’s Quilt Shop in Greensboro, NC and decided to try this new technique called embellishing or machine needle felting. I was fascinated by the instructor’s skill, Margo Duke’s work is elegant, fiber rich and full of texture. I didn’t own a embellishing machine so I just enjoyed the adventure and walked away from the class happy to be exposed to a new technique.

Over the course of the next year, I debated if I should buy an embellisher. Would I use it? I caved in last year at the International Quilt Festival. I found a good deal on a Janome machine.

Flash forward another year…I used my machine maybe twice. I was wondering if I wasted my money on this toy. It helped me with editing a couple books, but not enough to account for the price I paid. I saw that Her Majesty Margo was coming back to Greensboro to teach some more classes at a quilt show. I had to sign up. Of all the machine felting I’ve seen, Margo’s was the most inspirational to me.

All I can say is…YES!…Taking the class again reminded me of the steps I had forgotten from my previous lessons. Light bulbs have been firing since I left the class last night. Using Margo’s techniques and an uninterrupted day of creativity, I was able to produce two completely different works. I’ve included the pictures of my final products. Thanks Margo, you are an inspiration to me in many ways.