The very first Alabama Chanin project that I attempted was a shawl from their book Alabama Stitch. I used two coordinating recycled t-shirts for this project, navy and periwinkle blue. The shawl consisted of three panels, two layers thick; the panels on either end were stenciled and appliquéd while the center panel was left plain. I also added fringe on both ends as well.
After cutting the pieces to size, I used a paisley design stencil and silver paint to transfer the design to the two navy panels. I also stenciled the periwinkle piece with the reverse of the design. These would become the pieces I would cut out and appliqué to the shawl.
Here are pictures of the painted fabric.
I then spent the next 8 months working on this project. I appliquéd the various shapes onto the background using a parallel whipstitch. I then added beads and sequins, leaving the paint to show on several of the bits. I used a variety of glass beads including bugels and seed beads. I also included a bit of hand embroidery.
I had completed all of the appliqué and beading when it was time to go to my workshop in Alabama, and I took this project on the plane with me to complete by hand stitching the panels together and adding the fringe. I put the last stitch in in my hotel room the first night in Alabama.
I’m really pleased with the way this turned out and would like to make another. I think the next version won’t have any beads so I can use it to snuggle up with on an airplane trip, like a wearable blanket. I’ve already got an idea for the design, too. A shawl is a great way to get started on hand stitching projects. Give it a try!