Several years ago, I created a collection called Halloween Town, which allowed you to design your own town using 20 different quilt blocks, each showcasing a Halloween character against a unique background. When stitched together, these blocks formed a vibrant scene. This collection has always been my favorite for Halloween, so I decided to give it a fresh, artistic twist.

I edited each design by removing the characters and saving them into a new file. Next, I updated the backgrounds, filling in all the missing details. I then stitched them as two separate files, utilizing the techniques I outlined in my Artful Embroidery book. This approach made the stitching process faster, as each design had half the original stitch count. As a result, this art piece will be crafted using just one quilt block.

Step 1: Stitch Your Quilt Block
Begin by selecting one block from your quilt design collection. Stitch this block as usual, ensuring it’s perfect for framing.

Step 2: Mount the Block
Once your block is stitched, mount it using a preferred method. You can use a fabric stiffener to ensure it maintains its shape, or place it on a piece of coordinating backing fabric for added durability.

Step 3: Prepare Your Embroideries
Choose a few small embroidery designs that complement your quilt block. Stitch these designs on fabric that contrasts or harmonizes with the block, adding variety to your artwork.

Step 4: Mount Your Embroideries
Similar to the quilt block, mount each of your embroideries. You can experiment with different arrangements to create an appealing display.

Step 5: Frame the Artwork
Gather your mounted block and embroideries, then arrange them in a shadow box frame. Ensure everything is securely placed, and consider adding decorative elements such as fabric-covered mats or embellishments to enhance the visual interest.

All of the techniques shown are featured in the Artful Embroidery Book!

Now you have the perfect gift for someone special! If you want to decorate a wall, you can create a themed scene with multiple framed pieces. Think about it: in the same amount of time it takes to create one quilt, you can produce 20 beautiful framed artworks.

Don’t get me wrong; I adore quilts—the designing, the embroidering, the crafting process. However, when I began framing pieces a few years ago, I discovered a whole new way to gift and present my embroidery work. There is nothing more satisfying than completing a project in an afternoon!

With the Artful Embroidery Method, you can create a stunning gift using just one block, a few small embroideries, and a simple shadow box frame. You could even apply this technique to your test stitch-outs and later complete the quilt if you wish.

Stephen WIlson