The Faience Hippo Finished
The Faience Hippo Finished
So here is the Faience Hippopotamus finished. That is, unless I decide to go over him with another layer of long and short stitch to break up some of the patterning even further…
I’m reasonably pleased with him, as a matter of fact. The loose weave of the base fabric was sometimes challenging to work on, and it isn’t at all a hardwearing piece – some of the stitches are half an inch long, which would be bound to catch on something – but as it will be part of a carefully protected wall panel if it makes the final piece, this is not going to be a problem.
I enjoyed doing it, as well. It was fascinating to see the colours change more subtly when I started using the thread turned end-for-end, and this vibrant turquoise/teal colour is one of my favourites.
And, yes, I did manage to work an entire piece in long and short stitch. It is fair to say, I think, that it will never be my favourite stitch, but it does have its place, and I am certainly happier to use it now I have had Tricia’s instructions on the Floral Glove Needlecase Course.
Your stitching is really neat and very effective. You’ve really managed to show the contours of the hippo. How will individual pieces like this become part of the larger panel? Do you have some method of piecing in invisibly…?
I like your hippo and am wondering how large is he?
Also when working long and short stitch 1/2″ is not over long, especially when you are trying to blend the stitches smoothly into one another. I personally enjoy Long and short stitch and the way that it can be manipulated to follow the curves and flow of animals and flowers to look very realistic.
If your base fabric is too loose a weave, but a perfect colour, you could always back it with another layer of something else, ie calico or sateen curtain lining (or whatever you have lurking 🙂
Posy
Such a beautiful hippo!! And another person who loves turquoise/teal like I do. This is really beautiful and your mastery of long and short stitches is wonderful. I certainly hope he makes it to the final piece!
Whaddya mean, IF it makes the final piece?
Love the colour, vibrancy and texture! Adorable!
Love it! 😀
What a great hippo. I think he’s fab.
Well done. A nice solid little chap with a slightly iridescent appearance. Dare I say – hippo-hippo-hooray?
This is just beautiful Rachel! I can imagine holding his 3D version in my hands!
I’ve just spent the last 45 minutes reading your blog – wow!