Thursday, April 19, 2012

Shell Pink

My next crazy quilt journal block is underway, inspired by these gifts from the sea...


And gathered by my husband Jimmy, one of the most persistent and patient treasure hunters I know.

He'll spend hours at the water's edge...stooping, selecting, pocketing, and stooping again.

He surrenders his stress down there by the sea...and finally relaxes, settling into the repetitive, meditative activity that is shell collecting.

It's a joy for him to go to the beach every day and gather these gems.


And lucky for us, my father lives near one of the best shelling beaches in the world.

I'm not sure yet how this block is going to evolve.

I just know that I'd like to honor my father's home, my husband's practice and the beauty of these shells...


See you next time.

25 comments:

Sandye said...

Beautiful, soothing colors - love your inspiration.

Lorraine said...

As always, look forward to the progression and what your imagination comes up with!

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

I know from your past creations that this one is going to be stupendous, especially because it is done in love for you father and your husband. I love the colors already.

FlowerLady

Mouse said...

gosh some how missed you were back .... love that family photo ... and love the colours of the shells too so peachy and soothing .... used to shell seek when younger and lived near the sea .... can't wait to see how you get one with this one :) love mouse xxxxxx

Wendy said...

I love your shells, they are so beautiful! What a great perk living so close to the sea and a beach where you can collect shells! Your block colors goes so well with the shells.

Sarah Sequins said...

Beautiful colors and a wonderful concept! I can't wait to see what you create.

One of the first pieces of jewelry Mr. Sequin made for me when we were dating was a shell necklace, made from one he picked up on a trip to the beach -- which was one of our first dates. :)

Miriam said...

What a wonderful variety of shells.
You have captured their colours perfectly with your fabric choices.
I'm looking forward to watching you create another masterpiece!

Laurel's Quill said...

knowing you, it will be lovely. I never find shells like that.

char said...

What fabulous shells. I too am a shell seeker, however, the shells I find here in Alaska are not that colorful, but I love each and every one of them. My husbands always tells me "Don't look down" when I say I am off to the beach, but how can you not. There is always some beautiful treasure to find. I look forward to seeing what you come up with, your work is so very inspiring. Have fun.

Judy S. said...

You did a super job choosing fabric to match your shells, Susan. I am curious how you are going to attach them to your block...like you did with the rocks on your last block? I know it's going to be fun to watch you work, that's for sure!

black bear cabin said...

what a lovely collection...both fabrics and seashells! when i went to California in November, i was entranced by the seashells and rocks and had a similar vision, though with watercolors...now i need to put that vision to paper (what can i say...im slow) :) Looking forward to watching this creation bloom! Though im still totally in love with your January tree piece!

Teresa said...

Love the colors. Can't wait to see what wonderful work you will do to honor the sea.
Teresa's Heartfelt Stitches

FLOWER FRIEND said...

Shells always bring back happy memories don't you think? I love your colour choices already Susan.

Angela said...

I can't wait to see how this evolves. Thanks for taking us along again!

Mary Ann Tate said...

I love the colours you have chosen...very soothing and tranquil.

Rachel said...

lovely delicate colours - looking forward to seeing this one grow!

wendy said...

Love the colors! I can't wait to see what you do. I am also a shell and beach glass collector, just never quite figured out how to attach them to fabric. Keep us posted!

MeganH said...

I like how the different textures of the textiles in the block invoke the textures of the shells....

btw, the Marilyn Garrow collection highlighted on Needleprint today has 3 18thC chenille pieces....I can't remember if you are interested in chenille. Send you the direct links if you are :-) Nice close-ups.

Suztats said...

The shells are gorgeous, and I'll be watching for the magic to begin.

Elizabeth said...

What glorious inspiration for what is sure to be a fabulous block!!! I do so wish that I could spend some time on a beach like this!!!! Someday!!

the colors are so soothing and lovely. It is so very nice that Jim can relax at the beach, he needs it!!!
Hugs!!

Createology said...

How beautiful the subject matter that will all come together in one of your amazing pieces of hand stitched art. The base fabrics of your block are so representative of the seashells. Blissful thoughts...

Barbara C said...

Great color palette. I can imagine you'll be attaching some shells to your piece using the same technique you used to attach the rocks to your January piece.

JennyPennyPoppy said...

I live in the middle of the prairies and rarely get an opportunity to go to the ocean but when we do we love looking for shells as well. Your collection is beautiful :)

Catherine said...

Oh this journey is going to be so fun ~ especially with those colors and shells, not to mention that personal side ~ your hubby and dad!

coral-seas said...

The fabrics you have choosen for this block are pefect shell colours.

I love the shell with the open spiral.

Can't wait to watch this block progress.

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