Details to think about
String Padding with Test Masts
While I was working on the string padding and testing the placement of the vessel section, I was able to test the placement and height of the masts.
These are too high, but they are in roughly the right place, which is a step in the right direction, at least!
And, however much I may have wished to, I can’t simply use twisted cord. I’ll have to cover the masts with something…
Planning Wreath Placement
Leaving that point to ponder, I finished the string padding and removed the vessel section, leaving its shadow in place. You may note that I’ve added a funnel, and a bit of extra padding for the deck cargo!
I want to weave a wreath around the rope frame, in such a way as to set off the ship, rather than argue with it. The green tangles of thread helped me to do so…
WatchKeeper
Finally, I had another hard look at the photo and realised there was a watchkeeper on deck.
So here he is: buckram painted with inktense, a French knot for a face, and a knot of white thread for his scarf.
I’m going to say that this is Great-Grandfather, on watch as his ship leaves the Tyne.
I like the effect on those masts.
I’m delighted that your grandfather gets into the picture. How it has grown since I last looked! The balance looks good. I hadn’t realised how large the ship was compared to the headland. I like the colour of the masts, but my thought is that they need to be smooth not twisted. I’very never seen a ship with barley-sugar masts. Raised stem stitch, perhaps?
This piece is getting more and more impressive. Good to see your great-grandfather on his watch.
I’m interested to see how you make the wreath.
Your attention to details is amazing!
Another lovely post Rachel! How about painting a thin wooden rod for the masts? Or rolling a piece of paper and covering with fabric? I really like grandpa :). He reminds me of a column in National Geographic where they looked at old pictures with a magnifier and found all sorts of terrific “hidden” things.
I’m so glad you have been able to work your grandfather into this piece Rachel. And what a great use of a French knot!
Always amazed when I see pictures of this piece. All the different layers add so much life to it.
Always so nice to see how you made it.
Every detail is impressive. So much going on this this piece!
That has turned into a lovely piece Rachel with lots of details to explore. Just love ‘Grandpa’.
I love going at this backwards, as it were, knowing how perfectly all your choices turned out, yet seeing what was involved in making some of them. I don’t know how you came to choose a French knot for his face, but in the final post when I looked at it up close, though I knew it was a French knot, I could almost swear I could see features on a face! That’s a great effect. You were right that the twisted cord wasn’t quite right all by itself. I think the silk ribbon was an inspired choice.