Using paper patterns Richard sets out the layers within the appliqué emphasising the background, stems leaves and finally the flowers.

From these patterns Richard chose where to place the varied types and colours of fabrics, starting within the background and moving on through to the top layer of flowers. Using a small amount of PVA to attach the collage to the substrate fabric usually Hessian. Then using a sewing machine with the feed-dog’s down and a darning foot he uses both straight stitch and different widths and length of zig-zag stitches to securely attach all the fabric pieces.

Richard clearly understands colour and the relationship with the different fabrics and treads he uses within all his work. Using contrast threads in some areas as well as metallic threads and fabrics to make an area stand out where needed.

Within my initial sampling based on Richard work, I tried my hand at producing a watercolour based on his style. This was not as successful as I hoped as I found Richards’s style of painting quite hard to emulate. I found myself reverting back to my style of painting which is too realistic compared to Richard paintings. However some small areas of my painting I feel can be used to try and emulate Richard styles of appliqué in free hand embroidery.

I tried to use find a fabric that was as strong and flexible as the Hessian that Richard uses within in his work. After trying small sections of appliqué on Hessian I had. I found it to have a more open weave than the Hessian Richard use within his work. (This I discover by watching a DVD called Picture It In collage and stitch)I found that using two layers of calico glued together with bonder-web stood up to the glued fabric pieces as well as the large amount to stitching required to complete the my work.

I feel the collage of my water colour has work well however in hindsight I would not nave used such small pieces of fabric to make up the shapes within the flowers and the ground. Perhaps using a larger piece of ground fabric and adding small pieces of the greyed green and accent colour would help with time as well as the thickness in the fabrics when collaged together. I did cut larger shapes out for the smaller flowers however this was nearing the end of the college stage before I realised this would have been a better way to go.