Welcome Package Challenge Aurifil Artisan 2023-2024

Self Portrait Quilted

When I opened my Aurifil Artisan 2023-2024 Welcome Package the big bold cone of 2225 Salmon and large spool of 1104 Neon Orange immediately caught my eye and I knew they would pair perfectly to quilt my recently made Self Portrait fabric collage.  

Aurifil Artisan 2023-2024 Team

You may have seen on my Instagram feed and stories the unboxing of this beautiful selection of thread including thread weights 80 wt, 50 wt, 40 wt, Forty/3, 28 wt, 12 wt, floss and monofilament - and the assortment of colors, just wow! 

I'm not sure how else I would have been able to decide on which weight and color to start with for our first challenge so it was nice to have a clear direction.

Color 2225 Salmon Cone 

Without a lot of experience working so literal rather than abstract, I have to admit that the entire process including stitching free-style on my self portrait was a bit unnerving.  The small patterns and cross hatch in the fabric was my quilting motif inspiration, especially for the background. 

It made sense to simply use a cut off chunk from a quilt project since I only needed a small piece.  Hobbs 80/20 batting and flannel backing did the trick.

Stash Binding 

Another light bulb moment happened when it was time to bind.  Years ago I picked up a roll of ready made double fold bias tape from our local quilt show sale.  

The Backside

For the hand stitching of the binding to the back, I used 2692 Black 50wt.

Finished Self Portrait

The close crop at the top was intentional when I printed the pattern to cut out but I'm not sure it looks as successful as I had hoped it would and my forehead feels awkwardly interrupted in the composition.  Experimenting is a good thing when trying new techniques and there's a lot that I am pleased with especially my threads - so it's all good. 

 Paper Parts

Orange you glad that I turned my UFO into a finish? I know I am.

Happy Stitching, Karen