Fabric block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

Flight Of The Tree And A Giveaway

Fabric lino block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

Hello Everyone!  All Hallows Eve for me is the time when fantastical things can happen.  All you have to do is stretch your imagination a little.  I love decking our house with a myriad autumnal and magical decorations.  My husband and I carve pumpkins and happily dole out candy to all who stop by, children and adults alike.  This year however, I had been feeling very lackadaisical about my favourite day.

Carol’s announcement of the Ghastly Ghouls blog hop was exactly what I needed.  I love her blog hops, she makes them fun.

 

 

 

The Idea

 

Fabric lino block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

I have been doing block prints on paper for a while.  Printing on fabric would be new to me.  This was just the occasion for trying that out.

 

The Raven was certainly going to be a central part of the picture, but the context was not quite clear to me at first.  Visiting a favourite spot, a grove of oak trees, sparked an idea.   What if, on All Hallows Eve, for that one night, the spirits of the trees are set free as birds!  They get to spread their wings and fly across the world.

 

Who else but the adventurous Girl and her Cat would venture into the woods to witness such a magical moment, perhaps even talk to the raven spirit of this ancient tree.

 

Then, one Sunday, the idea materialised into a drawing.

 

 

The Making

 

Fabric lino block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

 

I find block carving extremely calming.   Just like the Girl and her Cat, with my kitty right beside me, I ventured into the world of bringing the spirit of a tree to life.

 

 

The Printing

 

Fabric lino block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

This is the part where I stepped into the unknown territory.  The new Speedball fabric ink I got kept drying out on me, causing very blotchy prints.   After a few test prints, I gave up and went back to my favourite ink which tends to stay wet longer.   That way I could mix a couple of inks to get the right colour and pull a few prints with ease.

 

 

The Not So Magical Moments

 

Of course, there had to be a few hiccups.  Two of my sweet kitties got sick at the same time, both needing a lot of TLC.  Tight on schedule, but I made it.

My iron decided to stop working at 10:30 at night, right before I started ironing the fabric pieces for printing.  My dear husband mended the cable while I got everything else ready.

 

 

Fabric lino block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

I had to wash the old Speedball ink off the block before I could restart with the new ink.  That caused the block to bend, making it impossible for me to apply ink properly.  After several unsuccessful test prints, I had to call it a night.  I set the block under LOTS of books to try and make it flat again and went to bed.

 

 

 

Fabric lino block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

These are the test prints.   With the slight changes I made on every print, I saw improvements. That was extremely encouraging.  I wanted to do a few colour fastness and wash tests, but I ran out of time.   The bottom three I saved for a later day for that purpose.

 

 

The Joy of Success

 

Fabric lino block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

 

Next day, much to my delight, I was able to very successfully pull a few prints by applying all the modifications I figured out the night before. 

 

 

Fabric lino block printing @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

I set them to dry on the laundry drying rack.   The texture of the canvas fabric gave it a tapestry style look which I really love!

 

 

The Finish

 

Fabric lino block printing on canvas @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

With the prints almost dry, I started working on my finished project.   Using one of the prints, I made a  bag with pockets.  The canvas fabric is stiff enough, but I still used interfacing to give it a sturdier body.

 

 

 

Here are a couple of photos of the inside and the back of the bag.  Please click on them to see the larger phtos.

 

 

A Giveaway

 

Fabric lino block printing on canvas @ inktorrents.com by Soma

 

 

As I was making the bag, I thought it would make the perfect giveaway for this festive event.  It’s a 11″ x 9″ sturdy bag made of canvas fabrics with three generously sized inside pockets.   I can think of so many things to use this bag for.   (Bag contents not included)

 

My giveaways are for those who subscribe to my blog via email. This is where I share my photos and work in context and communicate with you directly.  Thank you for reading and for all the wonderful comments!

 

The giveaway has now ended.

 

 

 

Just Let Me Quilt

 

I love taking part in Carol’s Halloween blog hops, and I am so glad that I got to participate this year again.  She keeps the event fun  and open, which lets me try out new ideas for my project.  She also makes fantastic quilts and patterns, specially Halloween themed ones.  Make sure to visit her website see her beautiful works.

I am sharing this day with these wonderful ladies –

 

Creatin’ in the Sticks

Inflorescence

Samelia’s Mum

Songbird Designs

 

The Girl And Her Cat witnessing Flight of the Tree has become one my favourite Halloween stories.   I love those magical moments!

Happy Halloween Hopping!

-Soma

 

I am linking up with the linky parties on my Events And Links page.  Please pay a visit to some of them.

 

76 thoughts on “Flight Of The Tree And A Giveaway

  • Connie Griffin October 31, 2021 at 06:59

    Oh my you are so creative and talented. Your carving is just wonderful and I love the imaginative story that you have behind it. Wow you had a lot going on during the whole process, glad you were able to figure everything out and hope your kitties are feeling much better :)
    Your bag turned out terrific, great end result!

    Reply
  • Angie October 26, 2021 at 10:43

    Soma – a wonderful design. Congratulations on your perseverance – it paid off in a professional-looking, whimsical bag. The person who wins it will be very blessed! Thanks for linking to Mosaic Monday!

    Reply
  • Michelle Keltner October 26, 2021 at 10:12

    That IS a lot of work that goes into the block carving, but I admire your talent. Thanks for linking up.

    Reply
  • Dee October 25, 2021 at 13:47

    First of all — wow!
    The carving is so so impressive. Great work there.

    That’s a lot of work, and after all that trouble you have a fab. result there!
    And that’s a lovely idea for the theme. :)

    Reply
  • BLOGitse October 24, 2021 at 23:40

    Huh, a lot of work but the result is amazing!

    Reply
  • Michelle October 24, 2021 at 11:00

    OMG Soma! This is fantastic! And the process is so interesting. May I ask what it is you are carving into?

    Michelle
    https://mybijoulifeonline.com

    Reply
  • Wendy K October 23, 2021 at 10:38

    Fantastic, love your print. I don’t find carving very easy now with my arthritic hands, yours is amazing.

    Reply
  • Thunder October 22, 2021 at 18:57

    I love trees, and I am rather fond of birds. perfect combo, beautiful print.

    Reply
  • Susan October 22, 2021 at 15:28

    What a lovely project, especially with your artwork.

    Reply
  • Tracey October 22, 2021 at 13:27

    What a beautiful hand carved design, so magical the gold ink is a stunning contrast on the blue. Such a lovely handmade creation from start to finish, you will make someone very happy with your giveaway.
    Thanks so much for sharing creative wishes & Happy PPF Tracey x

    Reply
  • Christine October 22, 2021 at 12:48

    beautiful work!

    Reply
  • Gillena Cox October 22, 2021 at 12:15

    Beautiful are your painstaking art making and your generosity. Have a nice weekend

    Muchlove

    Reply
  • Linda Calverley October 22, 2021 at 11:59

    I love your beautiful art and bag.

    Reply
  • Joan October 22, 2021 at 06:37

    Your prints and the bag are absolutely fabulous! How brave you were to try printing on fabric for the first time for this blog hop. My daughter adores ravens and crows and it would be so special to share your beauty and creativity with her.

    Reply
  • Betsy October 22, 2021 at 05:04

    God bless your creativity! That is the most unique way I have ever seen of making a print. I’d love the bag for my small projects.

    Reply
  • Valerie-Jael October 22, 2021 at 02:01

    Fabulous fabric prints, your carving is fantastic. Love the pouch you made. Happ PPF, hugs, Valerie

    Reply
  • riitta k October 22, 2021 at 00:59

    I love your raven & the girl and cat print, on blue with golden ink. And the bag is beautiful and so well done. Wishing a nice weekend.

    Reply
  • Beth MacKenzie October 21, 2021 at 18:41

    I love your story that the trees get to become birds. The block print is absolutely stunning. I love reading about the process. I always find it encouraging to hear about trying and refining

    Reply
  • Linda K October 21, 2021 at 14:00

    wow- that was some process and you have created a gorgeous linocut and fabric bag!! Ravens are magical indeed and I love your charming design.
    Hope your kitties are doing much better. Hugs!

    Reply
  • Alison Hall October 21, 2021 at 12:07

    Such a beautiful design Soma!

    Reply
  • Shiju Sugunan October 20, 2021 at 23:41

    Nice to read about the effort that goes into making such nice prints. Really well done despite the hiccups.

    My latest post:

    Reply
  • Julie R October 20, 2021 at 22:03

    Super unique work!

    Reply
  • Tammie October 20, 2021 at 09:20

    Also I do follow you on IG. yea.

    Reply
  • Tammie October 20, 2021 at 09:19

    Your print and bag are wonderful. I enjoy looking at the striking design. So creative of you. And nice that it came to a place that you were happy with it.

    I would love to be included in your give away, so generous of you.

    Reply
  • Susie October 20, 2021 at 08:24

    This is an amazing fabric and pouch, Soma!!! I love seeing your whole process !! And the Girl and her Cat… adventuring into a new medium!!
    Your truly are a Renaissance Lady
    And, I do hope your kitties are feeling better.
    xoxoxo Susie

    Reply
  • Dixie October 20, 2021 at 08:03

    A lovely design, Soma. Wonderful story too!
    I hope your kitties are well and happy now.
    Enjoy the hop. It looks like fun.

    Reply
  • Selina October 20, 2021 at 06:06

    This is amazing. The work and talent involved is wonderful. Thanks for sharing the process with us.

    Reply
  • Danice October 19, 2021 at 23:21

    What a beautiful and unique bag. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  • handmade by amalia October 19, 2021 at 21:06

    Amazing makes. And suitably spooky.
    Amalia
    xo

    Reply
  • Veronica Lee October 19, 2021 at 20:45

    I enjoyed reading about your process

    Love the beautiful tale of the tree spirit too.

    Reply
  • jean marmo October 19, 2021 at 12:02

    Wow – the detail in the printmaking is amazing. I love that cute little bag.Thank you for the opportunity!

    Reply
  • Fun60 October 19, 2021 at 08:44

    That made a fascinating read and how kind of you to give away that beautiful bag. I am sure someone is going to be thrilled to receive it.

    Reply
  • Lavender Dreams October 19, 2021 at 08:22

    It really is beautiful! I love that your little girl gets into so much of your art! And the cat is sweet too. Love the colors. Enjoy your day my friend!

    Reply
  • The Joyful Quilter October 19, 2021 at 07:16

    Thanks for sharing your process, Soma! I often think that a Challenge or Blog Hop is the perfect place to try something new. Thanks for offering a chance to win! The girl and her cat are so endearing.

    Reply
  • Carla October 19, 2021 at 06:48

    What fun to read about your process. Your tale of the tree spirit is beautiful and it’s amazing to see it come to life in your art. Every step of this process is inspiring and I so enjoyed it. Thank you!

    Reply
  • Ali October 19, 2021 at 05:18

    Wow I really liked seeing how you developed your image! Sew creative!

    Reply
  • Barb Kaup October 18, 2021 at 19:45

    Love your ideas with the Spirit of the Trees–your woodblock print is beautiful and you made a great bag!!

    Reply
  • Anorina October 18, 2021 at 19:13

    Wow, wow, wow! Your fabric prints are absolutely amazing. Thanks for sharing with us.

    Reply
  • Robin K October 18, 2021 at 18:55

    I really liked that you shared your ups and downs. We all like to know our designers are human and go through some of the same problems as we do.
    I adore this design of the girl and her cat. I’ve had cats all my life and walking in a forest makes people feel good during the day but at night.. imagination flies. A great pic I’d love to have.

    Reply
  • Colette October 18, 2021 at 18:38

    I am just passing through and saw your prints and your tale to go along and was just blown away. What an awesome project and you are so very talented!

    Reply
  • Nancy Sumner October 18, 2021 at 18:28

    I follow you on Instagram!

    Reply
  • Nancy Sumner October 18, 2021 at 18:27

    Wow! So impressive that you made your own stamp! And your bag turned out great. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  • Leah October 18, 2021 at 18:02

    These prints are really neat! The artwork is awesome and made a fantastic bag.

    Reply
  • Carol S. October 18, 2021 at 17:41

    Your work is so beautiful! So detailed and creative!

    Reply
  • Joan October 18, 2021 at 17:33

    Oh my gosh…I am so glad you joined the hop. This is absolutely incredible. What a lesson in patience as well… All good things do come in time. I have dabbled a tiny bit in artsy printing, but nothing like this. Now I want to play more! Thanks so much for the beautiful inspiration, you made my day!

    Reply
  • Robin October 18, 2021 at 17:32

    Wow! This was delightfully fun. I’d love to do something like this, it’s so creative. Your print turned out so wonderful.

    Reply
  • Mary October 18, 2021 at 16:36

    Your persistence and patience paid off magically. I’m fascinated by reading your technique and it turned out beautifully. What type of ink did you end up using? Happy Halloween!

    Reply
  • Cathy October 18, 2021 at 13:48

    I’m glad you found your Halloween mojo!

    Reply
  • lee October 18, 2021 at 13:14

    I am new to your blog – you are so very talented! I will subscribe! Thank you and enjoy the day!

    Reply
  • Lauren Renee Sparks October 18, 2021 at 13:09

    It’ gorgeous. Visiting from the link up potpourri.

    Reply
  • Kim October 18, 2021 at 13:05

    I think it was inevitable the girl and her cat were going to find their way onto fabric, Soma. So clever. Your patience and ingenuity has certainly reaped a beautiful result. Why, I think you have found a new avenue for your amazing creativity. A fabulous bag! I am saddened to read your sweet kitties were not well. I hope they are better.

    Reply
  • Denise October 18, 2021 at 12:29

    Very interesting and lovely.

    Reply
  • Michele October 18, 2021 at 12:23

    I find your blog so inspiring! From your photography to your drawings and paintings, and now block printing. You have such a great eye. Thank you for sharing with us all.

    Reply
  • Kathy Harris October 18, 2021 at 12:21

    This was a very interesting process about printing with ink on fabric. I think all your printed pieces turned out great and your bag is beautiful. I’ll be following you now and see what else you’ll be up to.

    Reply
  • Susan October 18, 2021 at 11:34

    Oh, I just love the blue and gold prints you made. Your bag turned out great. I wish I had your art capabilities. I am glad you persevered through the trials. I pray your kitties are feeling better. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  • Teri October 18, 2021 at 11:25

    Thank you for sharing your whole process. I’d like to try block printing on fabric sometime.

    Reply
  • Margaret Andrews October 18, 2021 at 10:40

    What a fun post! The bag is just lovely. It is always fun to start on a new adventure when you get to test you brain and try and figure out the final steps. I have always loved your paper piecing patterns and have made them for gifts which are all loved and enjoyed. Thank you for sharing all of your art, your drawings, pictures, paper piecing and your talent! I am looking forward to what you do next.

    Reply
  • Kathleen Kingsbury October 18, 2021 at 10:37

    Soma, this is beautiful!! At first glance of the email, I thought this was an embroidered piece. What a process you went through to come up with the perfect print. They all look perfect to me.

    Reply
  • KJ October 18, 2021 at 10:12

    Wow. That is amazing. Thank you for showing us your process. I sure wish I lived in the US right now so might have a hope of winning this fabulous tote. :)

    Reply
  • Wendy October 18, 2021 at 08:34

    I love this! The bag is a great way to show off your talent. Will be looking forward to more of your work. Thank you!

    Reply
  • Anita L Jackson October 18, 2021 at 08:12

    I love Love this idea, and the block is gorgeous! I’m not an artist of this caliber but truly appreciate your work!

    Reply
  • Danette October 18, 2021 at 07:51

    That is very amazing how you develop this print! I enjoyed reading about the process even though you had some snags along the way. I hope your kitties are healthy and happy now!

    Reply
  • Karrin Hurd October 18, 2021 at 07:43

    Beautiful work, I love it. Thanks for showing your process!

    Reply
  • Becky Turner October 18, 2021 at 07:41

    One of the really neat things about blog hops is finding new blogs to follow!!!
    Your on my list now ( and I subscribed)
    Looking forward to seeing more of your work!

    Reply
  • Daryl October 18, 2021 at 07:29

    That is fascinating how you go from an idea to a finished print. The print is wonderful. The only kind of block printing I ever tried was carving out an eraser and a potato print, lol!

    Reply
  • Brenda @ Songbird Designs October 18, 2021 at 07:28

    I loved reading about your process! The bag is awesome. You are definitely one talented lady! Thanks for sharing. I hope your kitties are better now.

    Reply
  • Eileen Emerson October 18, 2021 at 07:22

    Very Impressive Soma, its magical and yet you’ve applied a very useable function for your art. It would be an honor to win your design. (Nothing ghastly at that, the girl and her cat, with the flight of the tree envisioned and the possibilities dreamt of and envisioned.)

    Reply
  • Rebecca October 18, 2021 at 06:23

    I was amazed by the process of making the block. You are truly an awesome artist. When I was in the tenth grade we were asked to recite a poem in English class. I choose The Raven. I am not going to talk about how long ago that was. LOL Keep up the beautiful work.

    Reply
  • Carol S. October 18, 2021 at 05:53

    This was totally spellbinding to read and see the process. Wow! I am always amazed at your ventures in different art methods and this one was no different…love it! Thank you so much for sharing this! xo

    Reply
  • Pam Richards October 18, 2021 at 05:40

    WOW – how beautiful – love what you did with the panel! How awesome!!

    Reply
  • Elizabeth Coughlin October 18, 2021 at 05:38

    Your wood blocks and fabric are amazing! You are so talented. And that’s a lovely bag.

    Reply
  • Nancy Lewis October 18, 2021 at 05:37

    I signed up to follow you via email. I am blown away with your talent!! Your drawing and bag is exquisite! Thanks so much for sharing your talent!

    Reply
  • Carol Kussart October 18, 2021 at 05:21

    Wow! I am so impressed with your artistry! The blocks are awesome–I wouldn’t get rid of any of them. I was very interested in your process–fascinating work. The bag you made is beautiful and someone will love having it. Thanks so much for sharing!

    Reply
  • Julia R Schweri October 18, 2021 at 04:38

    First of all, your bag is amazing. Secondly, but most amazingly is your printmaking! I remember doing that in HS and it was not my favorite. However, your process and results make me almost want to try it again. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  • Sue October 17, 2021 at 23:51

    Well done to master the process, your prints look wonderful and the bag is really special.
    Hope the cats are all better now.

    Reply
  • Luisella October 17, 2021 at 23:01

    Hello,
    You have made a beautiful object with your creativity and your insisting patience to try again and again.
    Hope your kitties are OK.
    Have a nice new week ahead!

    Reply
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