Since last week I have set aside the Flower Diamonds pillow I was stitching on and am trying to make a start on a smaller new rose design (tentatively called Funky Rose).  Only a few more weeks remain before it is time to mail off design proposals.  This new one is another idea I have been wanting to try for a while.  

In my classes students ask how designs are developed. One thing I usually do is to start collecting materials for a design for up to a year or more before the final designing and stitching happen.  In this instance I just couldn't seem to get the right mix of theads and embellishments.  But some new paints - Polished Pigments -came out which I'm using on parts of the background.  This are pigments with mica added for a little "glitter"to which you add a Simple Solution medium.  This "glitter" doesn't show up in the photos.  These pigments helped me along with the design....as well as finding a website for all kinds of sequins!   

I'll be posting pictures as I move along.  I plan to paint more in some areas and add sequins, beads, and possibly wire. After the design proposals are mailed I will return to complete the stitching of this design and Flower Diamonds.  

If readers have any questions about products used I have listed my sources in the Links section under Arts and OtherTextile Related Crafts