Create Stunning Evergreen Trees in Landscape Quilts

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Making Foreground Evergreen Trees
3. Choosing Colors for Evergreen Trees
4. Differences between Evergreen and Deciduous Trees
5. Creating Structure for Stitching the Trees
6. Stitching the Trees
7. Adding the Evergreen Needles
8. Preparing and Placing the Trees
9. Stitching Down the Trees
10. Quilting the Landscape
11. Binding the Quilt
12. Conclusion

Introduction

In this video, we will be continuing our landscape quilt skill building project by creating foreground evergreen trees. We will be using the Bernina number 43 couching foot to sew yarn onto the Fabric, giving the trees a realistic texture. Before we begin, let's discuss the importance of choosing the right colors for evergreen trees and the differences between evergreen and deciduous trees.

Making Foreground Evergreen Trees

To create the foreground evergreen trees, we will be using the Bernina number 43 couching foot and a variety of Threads and yarns. The yarn will be sewn onto the fabric using the couching foot, allowing for flexibility in placing the trees. We will start by selecting the threads and yarns that we will be using for the trees, ensuring that we have a variety of greens and browns to create realistic-looking evergreen trees.

Choosing Colors for Evergreen Trees

When selecting colors for evergreen trees, it is important to consider the lighting and the desired effect. Evergreen trees usually have tall, straight trunks and branches that grow at the same angle to the trunk. However, artistic license can be taken when creating the trees to make them more visually appealing. In contrast, deciduous trees, like fruit trees, grow slower and often have thicker trunks and branches that can bend and split.

Differences between Evergreen and Deciduous Trees

Evergreen trees and deciduous trees have distinct differences in their appearance. Evergreen trees have tall, straight trunks and branches that often grow at the same angle to the trunk. The needles of an evergreen tree tend to grow in layers, similar to the branches. In comparison, deciduous trees have leaves and flowers that cluster in clumps, and their branches and trunks can bend and split.

Creating Structure for Stitching the Trees

To provide flexibility in placing the foreground trees, we need to create a structure that will allow us to stitch the trees onto the fabric like an appliqué. This structure will ultimately disappear once the trees are in place. We will be using wash-away stabilizer and nylon mesh to create this structure. The stabilizer is dissolved later, leaving behind the stitched trees.

Stitching the Trees

Using the Bernina number 43 couching foot, we will begin stitching the yarn onto the fabric to create the trees. It is important to have a fair amount of yarn unwound and piled up loosely to prevent it from getting tangled and to allow for flexibility in stitching. The trees can be stitched with a variety of threads and yarns to achieve different textures and colors.

Adding the Evergreen Needles

Once the trees are stitched onto the fabric, we will add the evergreen needles. Using a medium green 12-weight wool thread, we will stitch back and forth to create the illusion of needles on the ends of the branches. This thread painting technique adds depth and realism to the trees. For more intricate detailing, a darker green thread can be used to create shadows and highlights.

Preparing and Placing the Trees

After stitching the needles, the trees are ready to be placed on the background fabric. It is important to adjust the placement of the trees to ensure that they do not cover up important elements of the background, such as the background tree line or ledge area. Once the desired placement is achieved, the trees can be glued down using a basting glue that dries clear and washes out.

Stitching Down the Trees

To secure the trees to the background fabric, we will stitch around the edges of the trees using Superior Monopoly thread. It is important to use a larger needle size to accommodate the thick layers of material. Stitching in the ditch along the appliqué background tree line can help create a seamless integration between the trees and the background.

Quilting the Landscape

Once the trees are stitched down, it is time to quilt the landscape. We can use a variety of quilting techniques to enhance the appearance of the quilt. For the rocky foreground, a stone pattern can be quilted to add texture. The mountains can be quilted by echoing the horizon lines and adding swirls for interest. The sky can be quilted with a loose meander to create a breezy feel.

Binding the Quilt

After quilting, it is time to Bind the quilt. The binding strips can be cut and folded from a coordinating fabric, such as the medium green cotton used for the mountains. The binding is sewn onto the quilt using a decorative stitch that both secures the binding and adds a decorative element. It is important to ensure that the binding is sewn evenly and securely around the edges of the quilt.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating foreground evergreen trees in a landscape quilt can add depth and visual interest to the project. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create realistic-looking trees using a combination of threads, yarns, and stitching techniques. Remember to consider color choices, create a structure for stitching the trees, and secure them to the background fabric before quilting and binding the quilt.

Highlights

• Creating realistic foreground evergreen trees in a landscape quilt
• Choosing the right colors for evergreen trees
• Understanding the differences between evergreen and deciduous trees
• Stitching the trees using the Bernina number 43 couching foot
• Adding evergreen needles for texture and realism
• Placing and securing the trees onto the background fabric
• Quilting techniques for enhancing the landscape
• Binding the quilt for a finished look

FAQ

Q: Can I use different colors for the evergreen trees? A: Yes, you can use a variety of greens and browns to create different shades and textures for the trees.

Q: What kind of thread should I use for stitching the trees? A: You can use a combination of threads and yarns to stitch the trees, such as wool threads and acrylic yarns.

Q: Do I need a special foot for stitching the trees? A: The Bernina number 43 couching foot is recommended for stitching the yarn onto the fabric, but other variations of couching feet can also be used.

Q: Can I add highlights to the trees? A: Yes, you can add highlights to the trees using a lighter thread or yarn to simulate the direction of light.

Q: What stitching techniques can I use for quilting the landscape? A: You can use a variety of techniques, such as echoing the horizon lines, meandering for the sky, and adding texture for the foreground rocks.

Q: How do I secure the trees to the background fabric? A: You can use a basting glue that dries clear and washes out to secure the trees in place before stitching them down.

Resources:

• Bernina number 43 couching foot
• Superior Monopoly thread
• Quilter's Dream batting
• Roxanne basting glue
• Sulky KK 2000 temporary spray adhesive