Beachcombing the tideline is one of my favourite things to do on any beach and I wanted to create a high tideline that looked like a dark scribble across the sand.
Layers of feather stitching, both underneath and on top, straight stitches, couching and needlelace created the look I wanted, with a twisted cord made from turquoise sewing cotton to look like washed up fragments of fishing nets.
More twisted turquoise cords held down wherever the other stitches crossed them and an orange needlelace section for a piece of smashed buoy.
The top section is fly stitches on vintage silk grosgrain.
The fabric pen bled badly but the outlines of the traced clipart footprints are still clear enough to see. I tried satin stitch initially but couldn’t get the sharpness I wanted so I’ve back stitched them with tiny stitches and used bullion knots and french knots for the toes.
I might satin stitch inside the outlines after they’re all stitched and the pen is washed out to see how that works.
Under A Topaz Sky 
oh those footprints and toes are just delightful. thanks for all the comments on my blog.
I love your little footprints! And the rest of your stitching! I would like to email you to ask a question but can’t find an email address anywhere on your blog. I have come here via Deanna.
They are cute, aren’t they!
Deb: Thank so much for visiting and commenting. I’ve added an email address to my side-bar. Been meaning to do it for a while but you’ve given me a push!
Your hanging is so inspiring; I’d love to try something like this (when I’ve mastered a few more stitches maybe 😉 )
Love those little feet especially!
I love all the wonderful textures you have on here….
The blue puddles remind me of walking on soft wet sand when water fills the dents you’ve made as soon as you pick up your foot.
You’re so good at layering textures….i’m glad this piece is moving to the front. I have a Carribean garden piece I want to start soon but I have a few “must do” projects before I can start that one.
I’m glad to see you’re doing well and your New Year is off to a great start.
It’s all looking very interesting…!
Beachcombing is such great fun, you have really captured the edge of the tide.
Spot on Penny – they really do, don’t they!
Thank you all for visiting and leaving such lovely, encouraging comments.
You did a great job; it’s beautifully stitched and you have some really thoughtfully worked textures there. I really like the footprints!