That ain't plaster, it's trapunto!

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I was going through my fabric stash hunting for something, and I found this little trapunto sqare I made a long time ago. I think I made this when I was learning, and that it was a class sample. As you can see, my dragonfly obsession goes back a long way. How long? I thought about that for a minute after finding this tucked between some fat quarters, and suddenly realized that I must have made this sample in 1993! Or maybe even a bit earlier, judging from this trapunto picture I made just afterwards, which I called "Wild Horses" back then (thinking of my late mother, who trained horses in her youth). At least I dated this one. I think you should always date the stuff you make, because you won't believe how fast time flies, especially if you're only 20 or 30 right now. I really like this piece. It took a lot of stitching and stuffing to complete, which you can see better close up. It's funny because from far away, some people thought this thing was actually made out of plaster of all things- the absolute last thing you want to hear after making something this detailed!
In France trapunto is called "boutis", (pronounced "booTEE" more or less), and French women seem to be extremely good at this technique. My little horsies are small time- if you really want to see some fabulous trapunto check out this amazing and beautiful fairy quilt by Martine House. Have a look at the rest of this French fiber artist's site while you're at it, and don't miss the gallery!

Comments

[kimc]

The trapunto is great, very time consuming - I am sure. I love the horses.

[Sonji Hunt]

I adore trapunto. I doubt that I would ever have the patience to do even the smallest of pieces. I thought that I'd pee my pants when I clicked on the link to the quilt. Good Lord! Meticulous technique. Thanks for posting it. Your horses are beautiful, too.

[Nikki]

Martine is the best! I learned trapunto from her at Quilt University. It's a beautiful technique, but tough on the hands and wrists. I love your horse piece.

[alfine]

Hi,

Ttrapunto is so beautifull. Did you do another one ? Bravo.The border is really fine.

[Nicky Perryman]

Love this trapunto - very nice images.