Second from last for a reason - I get to put it all together.
Those of you who know me will most likely understand the yoke on this dress. I may be big on machines, but there is a love of the hand-made-itsy-bitsy in me. The technique is North American Smocking. It's unlike traditional English smocking. The finished product has no elasticity, and is usually worked on a straight checked fabric. The fabric here is printed on the diagonal and produces a straight basket weave. Honestly I don't know what comes over me sometime, just thought it would be cool. All you need to know to do this is tie a knot with a needle.
The dress pattern had a smocked dress look to me (the whole fabric collection too), so I fiddled a bit with a few ideas. This type of smocking seemed better suited to applique. Now since Tim Holly lives a hop skip and jump from me you know I had to "work it". She was even kind enough to make me the pretty poet's bow.
Now if anyone is actually interested in the technique I would be happy to post further - just leave me a comment.
Back to the workroom.....Cheryl
Oh, my goodness! I love that smocking!!! Please tell us how to do it....it's great!
Posted by: jan | October 09, 2008 at 11:16 AM
Will do!
Posted by: cheryl | October 09, 2008 at 04:04 PM
It's adorable Cheryl! I'm a traditional smocker -- this new way (is it new?) is very interesting!
Posted by: Thimbleanna | October 09, 2008 at 07:24 PM
Hi Cheryl!
I'm totally new to your blog - I LOVE your work! Do you do long-distance quilting? Also, please show/tell us how the smocking is done? Darn cute!
Bernie (Washington)
Posted by: Bernie Shell | October 09, 2008 at 10:49 PM
As someone who enjoys heirloom sewing and smocking, I was thrilled to spy your special block on Holly's blog! I normally refer to this as lattice smocking, since the finished project resembles lattice work. I love your use of it. Great tutorial and explanation, too! Can't wait to see the completed quilt!
Posted by: Jan | October 12, 2008 at 03:48 PM
Hi, I live in Brazil, I think the very interesting point smocking.
As people are creative!
I embroider cushions, and I would like to learn the technique of smocking. You can teach me how to do this?
Thank you so much!
Kisses
Posted by: Sandra | April 05, 2009 at 05:22 AM