The hydrangeas know just what to do when the days get shorter and the morning air is crisp. The bright blue and lavender slowly grow deeper and take on a dusty hue.
The colors blend like a watercolor.
And there are a few holdouts mixed in that haven't heard the news.
When a hard frost holds off they sometimes reach a deep maroon before they are done for another season. Every bit as pretty to watch as the turning leaves on the trees!
And speaking of unexpected colors, here are some unexpected RESULTS. I am working on outfits for my little steampunk art room companions. These dresses and bonnet all started out white. I wanted more of a sepia tone and I had a bottle of tan Rit dye on hand so decided to give it a go. The little dress and bonnet appeared to be cotton but the bonnet must have been a blend considering how different the colors turned out. I knew the flower girl dress was a crap shoot since it was clearly nylon, taffeta and various man-made fibers. I thought it might not take the dye at all but was quite surprised when it turned GREEN. The satin ribbon on the bottom of the skirt turned bright GOLD.
This photo doesn't show it very well but the lining and ribbon around the waist turned GRAY. It wasn't what I was hoping for but all three pieces are being altered so I'm rolling with it.
This project has been rattling around in my head for a long time and won't likely get finished all at once but I will keep you posted on the progress.
I hope you are enjoying the colors of autumn!
