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BRING YOUR BACKGROUNDS TO LIFE
BY SUSAN PORTRA
First we must define the meaning of "backgrounds" in realtion to needle art. Backgrounds are the connecting areas between the focal point on a handpainted canvas and the finishing. A well-chosen background should enhance, create a subtle statement, set a mood, cause movement and complement the subject matter.
On choosing or creating an appropriate background for any canvas, ask yourself these questions:
- What mood or movement am I trying to achieve?
- Does the needle art dictate subtlety or boldness?
- What weights and colors of yarn are available to create a special effect?
- How much background is needed (not to distract from the focal point)?
- What finishing application is appropriate for this piece.
Guidelines to Follow
Choose a handpainted canvas which makes your heart sing (one you simply can't live without). Study the canvas, identify the primary and secondary focal points and look for a connection to draw you eye back to thers points (examples: shape of an area, direction of stitch, open area to stitch a background motif). Then select a yarn for the background that is not in competition with any area on the canvas (not too heavy or high in sheen).
Select a stitch (or create your own) suitable for the yarn you have choosen, a stitch that will not overpower the three factors above. If your subject matter is high in texture with numerous colors and makes a very bold statement, the background may be worked in a heavier weight yarn with a stitch that covers every canvas thread. If the subject matter is soft and delicate, an appropriate yarn and texture must be chosen to enchance this look. For example, the diagonal darning stitch in both directions using a single strand of Flower Thread (in the same color value as #18 mono mesh canvas) will make your background appear like fabric instead of canvas.
Stitch a background that draws the viewers' eyes in the direction you want them to move.
Dimension in needle art is achieved through color, depth, texture, light play, stitches and weight of yarn. Allowing the canvas to show will also accomplish this. All of these, including framing and finishing, become an integral part of transforming a painted canvas into needle art.
In Conclusion
Above are a few examples and suggestions for effective use of backgrounds. Experimenting on a doodle canvas (same mesh as your project) offers you the opportunity to change stitches, yarn weights and colors prior to stitiching that special look for your background, without "reverse stitching" (ripping out) on your original piece. Expertise comes through unending practice, patience and the will to strive for excellence. Examine every stitch as you're doing it. If it's not right, now's the time to rip it out. Don't wait until it's framed.
A delicate balance of subject matter, background and finishing must be achieved to advance the needlecraft of yesterday into an accepted art form of tomorrow.
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