My Canvas Collage

"Why not attach fabric onto canvas?" the inner voice spoke. Why not? The idea of fabric collage created on needlepoint canvas really excited me. The ultimate in fun would be working with threads, fabric and canvas. I was thrilled to anticipate adding fabric to my growing stash of threads. What great shopping fun!

So, Canvas Collage became the result of my evolving technique of combining surface stitchery, needlepoint, collage and quilting.

I attach fabric pieces to needlepoint canvas (18count mono canvas) by hand, using a sharp needle and a variety of decorative stitches and textured threads. I have used all types of commercial fabrics being…..quilting, designer, upholstery and also phototransfer of my own personal images.

I am fascinated with pushing the limits of needlepoint canvas. Canvas Collage allows me to create realism, action, surface texture and shapes that are free of the usual canvas restrictions.

I begin by randomly cutting the fabrics till I am satisfied with the shapes that have emerged. I thread my needle with various colors of thread as a painter would dip brush into paint. As I stitch, the piece takes on a life of its own and tells me what it wants to say.

The piece always has areas of basketweave stitch which helps to integrate the action happening on the canvas. Besides, basketweave gives me a welcome relaxation from all the tough decisions, not that color decisions are a lot easier!

"Why do I do Canvas Collage?" I love this comment by one needlepoint shop owner:
"I guess this is what you do when you run out of canvases to stitch!"

Rosalyn Cherry-Soleil