The shoulder of the coat is adorned with an appliqued sun, created using manipulation techniques to pucker and alter organza into interesting surface shapes. Free-motion thread painting further enhanced the fabric. Decorative stitches and rhinestones add sparkle and interest.
Custom designed applique house was fashioned from photographs taken of homes in my childhood neighborhood. Each piece was carefully cut and appliqued to create perspective with shadows and angles. Trick or Treaters and quilts were machine embroidered to add life to the setting.
The colorful fall tree appears on both sides of the front opening, and care was taken to make sure it all lined up when the coat is closed. Texture for the trunk and poofs of leaves was achieved by scrunching and stitching wet cotton fabric. Couching of cords and embroidered leaves and beads add detail.
As the scenes around the Seasons coat travel from fall in the front to winter in the back, it culminates in a Christmas celebration. The large tree is three dimensional with the "branches" gathered at the top of each tier so they stand away from the coat. The tips of each layer are covered in free-motion stutched silver thread. The ornaments are all machine embroidered and rhinestoned for sparkle.
