Shells & Thread 2

Washed Shells & Threads

Mixing threads and shells together has been interesting and exciting. I searched through my boxes of threads and fine wools and choose those that I felt would work with the shells. I also used some small metal files which I have for crafting to remove sharp edges. You need to be gentle with shells as they can crumble easily. You can also try using a small nail file.
I also decided to add so beads as I felt they created a texture on the shells just like the sea creatures that attaches to them in the sea.

Woven patterns

As I worked on the shells, I found that I had to weave the threads around the shell and through the holes to create a foundation for sewing with finer threads. I used a very tiny crochet hook and fine threads to fill in the underneath of the shells. It was interesting and intriguing to hold the shells and decide on colours and beads to use. My mind was full of ideas on what to do with my stitched shells. I decided  I will add some to textile pictures to create texture and others I will make into brooches. 

When adding beads to the stitching on my shells I used a long beading needle. This is a very long thin needle which allows you to sew on seed beads which are very fine. As I was working on my shells the smell of the sea filled my studio even though I had washed the shells. It was a pleasant odour which evokes childhood memories of playing on the beach. I also thought about the life of the shell and it’s inhabitant. From a tiny shell being washed daily by the tides and pecked at by birds , them picked from the shore by a hand and now being treasured. A journey from from shore to land.