A Fishy Tale

Gosh this fish has been a long time in the making, but it is finally finished and enjoying his new surroundings.

 Since I started this project at the beginning of May two of my children have had birthdays and Brett, my eldest son, is currently enduring his first end-of-year university exam season with all the drama that, that entails.  However, he seems to be weathering the storm. 

 In addition to all the family theatrics we are having a bathroom refit following a shocking leakage into the hallway from the shower.  Of course much drama ensued with the removal of  the old bathroom suite, locating a new one to fit the all nooks and crannies and then discovering that it doesn't actually fit.

In the days gone by we have had visits from a plasterer, a plumber and a tiler.  Does this sound like a bad joke?  The plasterer erected the new walls, then the plumber cut out the new walls to fit the shower and suite, then the tiler remarked that for a successful finish the shower needs to be flush with the walls.  Oh, how we laughed.  

......the saga continues.  

This photograph shows the fish after the body has been shaped, stuffed and the fragrance sachet inserted.

This fellow took thirty-four pattern pieces to bring to life, eighteen of which form the foundation and are not actually visible.

 The fins and face are constructed in gold power-silk dupion, whilst the body is comprised from rescued silk pieces and has been assembled into a patchwork collage.  

A view from behind. 

An aerial view.

There are a total of one hundred and eighty-five sequins, three hundred and ninety-nine gold, glass seed beads and two black, glass seed beads embellishing this gaudy guy.

...... and three thousand, one hundred and eleven hand stitches attaching them all.

Close ups of the beading, which is different on each side.

A snug fit inside the gift box ensures minimal disturbance during transit and results in pristine condition on arrival. 

All dressed up and ready to go. 

More soon.

Silent But Not Slacking

Thirteen days is far too long a silence. 

 I have been very busy, however, gardening, completing my first tax return and creating another fish.

 Making the most of the fine weather in my garden. 

I let things slide, the weeds were taking over and it was reverting back to nature.

It took four long days to put it to rights.  I wish I had taken some before photographs to appreciate what has been achieved.

To keep it in apple-pie order I should to do a little every week. 

 Hopefully this approach may prevent another major overhaul, I simply can't afford the time. 

Sorting through the silk snippets for my latest fish. 

 The patchwork fabric is time consuming to complete.  It has taken four days for the selection, cutting, piecing and sewing.

 Another two days to cut and construct the face, fins and tail and one day to make the fish whole.  

 All being well I should have the fish complete by Friday, stuffing and embellishing are the final stages.