question about batiks
#1
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2014
Posts: 9
question about batiks
I have quite a few beautiful batik fat quarters which I would like to use in a lap quilt. Is it a good idea to mix them with calico type cottons? Should they be used alone with a plain background? I don't mean this to be a quilt police question but rather how to get a feeling of movement and depth. Thank you in advance for any suggestions you can offer.
#2
I like to use batiks with batiks, but that's just me. I think they would look good with solids as well. Part of my reasoning is that it seems like batiks tend to be a tighter weave and I like to have my fabrics be more consistent in terms of shrinking and wear.
#6
Super Member
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Illinois
Posts: 9,312
I think mixing is dependent on what your batiks look like and what you are looking to mix. Like any fabric , some go together and some don't. As for mixing because of the tighter weave of batik,... not an issue.
#7
I've definitely done this. The tone on tones can pull out the more subtle colors in the batiks, but not make the whole quilt to mushy. I personally prefer quilts with a bit more contrast and definition so I personally don't make a quilt with all batiks. This is, though, a personal choice... I've seen amazing quilts with all batiks, so it depends on the look you are going for.
#9
Power Poster
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Northern Michigan
Posts: 12,861
I mix batiks into almost every quilt I make, seldom make an * all batik* quilt. I use them to blend, sometimes they are appliques, sometimes backgrounds. Use them anyway you want. They are simply more cotton fabric to add to your quilt.
#10
Super Member
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Central NJ
Posts: 5,572
I agree with this thought process as well. I've never had a problem with the weave of one vs the other in the same quilt being combined.
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