Joan Brailsford – Decay #6
Tattered and Torn
For the last in the Decay series I have again opted for a more abstract design. I wanted to show an assortment of things that can be found on a pile of scraps and that may be discarded or thrown away after other projects. Such scraps would demonstrate the decay of unwanted and untidy things.
In this case I used hand dyed fabric as the background, then added torn and ragged fabric, vintage table linens, and paper. I stained some fabric with tea, and some fabric has been printed. The paper is from a random selection that I have. I attached all of these items to the background using ‘invisible’ tacking, then added straight lines of machine quilting but with the ends of the threads left free. I then couched the ends very loosely, leaving some of the threads unattached, to indicate frayed and disintegrating threads when fabric breaks down or is torn.
The piece took on a life of its own as I was working on it, and I was surprised to find that it turned out as I hoped.
Detail views:
FIFTEEN BY FIFTEEN 
Great choice for this theme, those discarded bits and pieces that we all have are well illustrated in your quilt. Bravo
Great picture of artful decay!
I really like the thought process behind this and you have really captured the decaying remnants with your choice of materials. The stitching adds another dimension. Love it!
That’s the fun quilt to look at and egzamine all the pieces and the interaction you created. It’s alive!
First of all, I would like to compliment you on the colors you have chosen throughout the series. This latest addition fits so well into the whole.
Very fascinating use of materials and stitching that give a beautiful end result.
You managed to express the theme of decay well with the variety of materials you put into the work. Excellent execution.
A great collection of discarded scraps – looks like the end of a big project. Lots of detail to see and good colour choices.
Such a great idea ! and yes we all have discarded scraps that could be transformed in a piece of art ! well done !