Showing posts with label fabric art. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fabric art. Show all posts

Thursday 22 February 2024

Material Musings - Stay Inspired with Slow Stitching and Fabric Art

 



Welcome to this weeks Material Musings, I'll be sharing some of my projects that feature stitched faces, These pieces reminder us of the possibilities that slow stitching and fabric art offer.

As you check out the video, also take a look at 4 ways that you can paint and stitch on fabric and tell your story:

1. Embrace the Storytelling Aspect

Each face stitched onto fabric tells a unique story, capturing moments, emotions, and memories. Slow stitching and creativity allows you to express those things that words might not be able to express. Using needle and thread enables you to weave tales of love, loss, joy, and resilience. As you bring your stories to life through fabric art. let the storytelling aspect of slow stitching fuel your creativity and expression.



2. Experiment with Texture and Depth

Explore possibilities of texture and depth with wax resist hand-dyed fabric, you can get some amazing effects. This technique adds a layer interest to your fabric art. Play with different colors, patterns, and resist techniques to achieve unique effects. Experimenting with texture and depth opens up a world of creative possibilities that will keep you inspired and engaged.


3. Add Beading

The addition of beads not only adds visual interest but also infuses your creations with additional pops of color. Experiment with bead placement, size, and color to enhance the beauty of your stitched pieces and bring them to life.



4. Therapeutic effects

There is also the therapeutic effects of slow stitching and creating on fabric to consider. The repetitive motion of stitches brings about a calmness that you can dip into whenever the mood takes you.


As you step into your own fabric art journey, remember to embrace the storytelling aspect and experiment with texture and depth. Let your creativity flow freely as you explore the endless possibilities of slow stitching and fabric art and watch as your imagination takes flight. So, grab your needles, threads, and fabrics, and let's dive into a world of creativity, inspiration, and endless possibilities together.



You can check out my Fabric Fragments kit which includes a selection of fabric both hand painted, dyed and pre printed. It has also included one of my painted and stitched pieces and videos on working with your fabric. Patrons get a discount on all courses and digital products on my course platform. 

I would love to see what you create, let me know what you are working on.
Blessings!

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Tuesday 6 February 2024

Material Musings - Wax Resist Reveals



In Material Musings I share several projects that use combination of wax resist dyeing, clay baths, and tea solutions! The results were gorgeous and I show some of the designs that are my favorite.  There are endless possibilities when you take the time to experiment with your supplies.


Here are some suggestions for using your wax resist creations:

  • Wall Hangings - I hope to use some of the larger fabric pieces as wall hangings, adding to their backing and maybe adding some beading or other embellishments.
  • Quilting - You could incorporate the wax resist dyed fabric as part of the fabric for your quilt 
  • Make one-of-a-kind clothes using your dyed fabric. 
  • Collage - Layering, using different dyed pieces to create a fabric collage.  You could add additional elements such as paints, paper, or found objects. 
  • Slow Stitching - This is such a peaceful activity.  You could use your wax resist dyed fabric as a base or cut out shapes and stitch them onto the chosen fabric

I worked on the woven piece and will take a break from it while I think about the next steps, and maybe add beading and other embellishments. 


Fabric Fragments - I am putting together a series of fabric bags that showcase a mix of wax resist, avocado-dyed, and hand-painted fabrics. In another accompanying bag, I have placed a selection of printed fabrics The bag holds a special stitched art piece, making it a collector's item.  

Keep an eye out! These fragment bags will soon be available for purchase on my course platform HERE. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of this artistic adventure!

Before You Go






Sunday 4 February 2024

Wax Resist - Material Musings Short

 


Here is a snippet showing how I create my wax resist pieces and add clay to dye the fabric, the wax stops any color from adhering to the fabric.  You can see the full video HERE


I would then use some of the dyed fabric in some of my stitched projects.  This one has a clay dyed piece of fabric and a conventional dyed piece (the blue element) which has been stitched onto the fabric.


This meditative prayer wall hanging was initially wax resist dyed and then I added the stitches over time.  Come and join me for Material Musings to see some of the rest of the projects, on my YouTube channel.

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Friday 2 February 2024

Arts and Wellness Cafe - Words, Creativity and Art Events



Looking forward to having you join us in the Arts and Wellness Cafe.

I take you through the word of the week and look at ways in which we can use the inspiration around us in our work.  Who are your favorite artists and what influence do they have on your growth?  I share some of mine too.

The other things that we look at in this episode is:

  • Art journal process -  we look at how we can explore the different effects we can get with the supplies that we have including graphite, and water-soluble graphite tints.
  • Fabric Art projects and resist dyeing sneak peak!
  • Question and Tip for the week to encourage and motivate you - What would be your dream collaboration?
  • Arts and Artists spotlight, lots of things are happening in Barbados with the Artists Studio Tours happening over the weekend - 3rd and 4th of February.




Take a self-guided tour of the many artists' studios scattered throughout Barbados. Meet the talented artists, view their galleries, and bring home a beautiful piece of local art to cherish. In addition, this tour provides the bonus of experiencing the beauty of Barbados itself!  Hope you can join us in this adventure!

Before you go:

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Saturday 27 January 2024

Material Musings: Weaving Big and Dyeing with Wax Resist

 


Welcome to Material Musings! This week, we're diving into two exciting textile adventures: a larger weaving project and wax resist dyeing with tea and clay.

Weaving in a Bigger Way

I originally created a series of smaller looms and wanted to increase the size so created a larger one from the wood from a canvas frame.  When weaving on a larger scale you can explore the possibilities that come with using a wider loom and thicker yarns. I have used the yarn I currently have and found ways to increase the size which you will see.  I hope you are inspired to try some of the techniques for yourself.


Wax Resist

I have been experimenting with wax resist techniques for a while now and I will show you an easy way to apply it to your fabric in various patterns and creates a barrier that prevents dye from reaching certain areas. You can create stunning designs, and unexpected color combinations.


Wax resist and clay dyed

We'll be using natural and readily available materials like tea and clay as our dyes! This allows you to experiment with unique color palettes and textures. from the earthy browns from the tea and clay, and shades of pink from avocado pits – the options and combinations are endless!

Join the Fun!

Come join me in this Material Musings adventure!  Be inspired, learn new skills, and create something truly unique and beautiful.

So, grab your favorite cup of tea (or maybe some clay!), and get ready to join me in Material Musings! I can't wait to share this journey with you, and don't forget to share your own textile creations with me on social media . I'd love to see what you come up with!



Tuesday 5 December 2023

Creating Fabric Beads: Material Mondays

 

Creating Fabric Beads: A Sustainable and Creative Project

Ever wished you could transform your leftover fabric scraps into something beautiful and useful? Look no further than fabric beads! They are surprisingly easy to make and offer a fantastic way to recycle unwanted materials, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Scraps into Treasure:

This project starts with a simple base, like a recycled plastic tube, or check if you have any plastic drinking straws in one of those draws in the kitchen. They offer a sturdy core for your fabric bead. Wrapping thin strips of fabric around the tube with glue or stitching creates the foundation of your bead.


Working with Embellishments

Here's where you can go to town in your art supplies! Grab those forgotten seed beads, ribbons, and any other embellishments you have lying around. Each bead becomes a canvas, waiting to be shaped with contrasting threads, seed beads, or even bits of wool, the possibilities are endless!

Benefits of Creating your Beads:
  • Creating fabric beads offers more than just artistic satisfaction. It's a fantastic way to:Reduce waste: By repurposing scraps, you give new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfills.
  • Develop crafting skills: Learn basic sewing and beading techniques, perfect for future projects.
  • Enjoy a mindful activity: The repetitive nature of beading can be quite therapeutic, offering a moment of calm.
  • Create unique pieces: With endless combinations of fabrics and embellishments, every bead is a one-of-a-kind treasure.

Getting Started: Check out the video to see how I created them.  Here are some of the supplies that you will need.
  • Fabric scraps: Any fabric will do, from cotton to silk.
  • Embellishments: Beads, buttons, yarn, ribbons, the possibilities are endless!
  • Needle and thread: For stitching the fabric and securing embellishments.
  • Glue gun (optional): Offers a quicker alternative to stitching for some steps.
  • Recycled base: Plastic tubes, paper or plastic straws

Your finished fabric beads can be used in countless ways stringing them together to create necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.  You can also use them as embellishments and sew them onto clothing, bags, or pillows for a unique and personalized touch.

Creating fabric beads is a fun, sustainable, and rewarding activity, it is a great time to express your creativity, so, gather your materials, unleash your imagination, and let the joy of fabric bead making take over!

Stay blessed and be a blessing.

Before You Go



Wednesday 27 September 2023

Material Mondays - Part 3 Stitched Wall-Hanging - A Journey of Creative Serenity

 


Welcome to Material Mondays, we are nearly at the end of this project and it will be great to see how if feels once it is completed.

As a mixed media artist, I have found great solace in slow stitching and textile creativity, and I love the whole process from start to finish, finding the fabrics, painting and creating designs to the gentle rhythm of the needle weaving through the fabric, the soft touch of the threads, and the meditative state it brings have become a cherished part of my artistic journey.

You can start with any sized fabric, but you might want to take it slow with a small piece and grow into a larger more complex fabric.

If you're seeking a creative outlet that allows you to unwind and connect with your inner artist, slow stitching might just be the perfect match. This art form is not about rushing to finish but about savoring each moment of creation. Take a moment to breathe, let go of the stresses of the day, and immerse yourself in the world of slow stitching.


Adding the beading and other creative stitches is definitely a part of the process that goes hand in hand with slow stitching and brings a great deal of satisfaction when you step back and look at your piece.


If you have missed the previous posts where you see me first working on this project you can do so below

Part 2


Part 1

I hope you managed to check out some of the other videos in this series.  I thought that I would share a creative task with you, for you to consider:


Creative Task: Find a quiet corner, gather some fabric scraps, threads, and a needle. Take your time, create a small slow stitching piece, and let the process guide you.  Do let me know how you get on.




Saturday 9 September 2023

Discovering the Magic of Fabric Artistry: A Journey with Beads & Paint

 


Welcome to the second installment of my stitched project. In case you missed the first part, you can catch up by clicking - HERE.


There is joy in sifting through a selection of beads, hunting for that perfect piece that will complement your work. Over time, I have curated an gorgeous collection of beads and jewelry, each with its own story and charm.

As I work on a project, I often rediscover hidden treasures from my collection, and it's such a delight to find just the right ones that resonate with my current creation.



The joy doesn't stop at beading and slow stitching. Painting on fabric opens up a world of vibrant possibilities, bringing each piece to life with color and texture. Every brushstroke and dyed elements add a unique touch, making the fabric tell its own tale.




I've learned to give myself time when making decisions about which beads to incorporate. Sometimes, I step away from my work temporarily, and return with fresh eyes that reveal what's truly working harmoniously within the project's overall aesthetic.

My wish for you is that you, discover materials that resonate with your creative spirit and rediscover forgotten gems in your supply stash. There's a thrill in unearthing hidden treasures that can add a touch of magic to your artistic projects.

Happy crafting!





Thursday 24 August 2023

Stitch and Play - Part 3, Material Mondays

 

Welcome to Material Mondays, this week I am completing the project and will share with you how I had the borders and additional beading to the project.


These projects are great fun, and I usually have an audio book or music playing in the background while I work.  I also think it is important to be able to step back and come back refreshed to a project.


There are some lovely areas of stitching that are my favorite.  I haven't yet chosen the next project to work on.  I will be sharing a sneak peek on my Patreon

Did you miss the previous episodes, you can see how the project went through the creative process.

Part 2


Part 1


Before you go



Monday 7 August 2023

Slow Stitching: Completing Textile and Fabric Artwork

Welcome to Material Mondays! Today, we are delving into the world of slow stitching and completing textile and fabric artwork. You can check out the accompanying video below, I'm excited to share with you the process of working with different materials and adding intricate stitches to create textile art pieces.


Last week, we looked at an incomplete piece that I've been working on, in this video and I'm happy to say that it's now complete! I added additional stitching along the figure's body and clothes, defining the edges and creating shadows with darker threads. The completed piece measures nine inches by nine and is titled "Rest A While."


I'm considering framing it, but it will also be available for purchase unframed on my Etsy shop or website.

Here is last weeks video if you missed it

New Textile Art


Working on small stitches, is something I find incredibly enjoyable. It allows me to add intricate details and textures to my artwork, giving it a unique look and also enables me to experiment with various stitches, threads, and materials.



I enjoy working on multiple projects and I find that when I come back to these unfinished pieces, that I am able to look from a new perspective. Stepping away from a piece can be a refreshing way to gain new insights and inspiration.

Slow stitching and completing textile and fabric artwork is a journey and It's about finding joy in small details, experimenting with materials, and letting inspiration guide your hand. I hope this glimpse into my artistic process has inspired you to pick up your needle and thread and embark on your own creative adventure.


Join me next time on Material Mondays as I continue working on this piece and explore more stitching techniques. Until then, stay inspired and keep crafting!

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Monday 17 July 2023

Material Mondays - Stitch and Paint Part 3



Welcome back,  It's time for another edition of Material Mondays, where we delve into the world of slow stitching and painting on fabric. If you've been following along, you know that this is the third week I've been working on this project. It's been a delightful journey of progress, and I can't wait to share the latest updates with you!

As always, this project is all about taking our time and enjoying the artistic process. Instead of rushing, we've been adding small bits here and there, allowing the piece to evolve organically. It's a great way to stay in touch with our creative flow and not feel pressured to finish everything in one go.


In this installment, I'm excited to focus on adding some additional stitching and beading.  I will share the following:

1. Defining the Shirt: I'll start by adding more stitching around the neck to emphasize the shirt's bead details. 

2. Moving on to the head and body area adding more stitching

3. Bird and Beads: Our figure has her arm around a bird, and I'm eager to enhance it with possible beadwork in and will look at what colors I have. 

4. Detail on arm: To distinguish her arm from the body, I'll focus on adding intricate details between the existing stitches.

Throughout this project, I've discovered that it's essential to let go of the notion that everything must be finished in one sitting. Embracing the artistic process means allowing the piece to breathe and grow. It's been a learning journey to give myself the freedom to step away and return with fresh inspiration.

Adding extra beading on the collar

I have found when working on the fabric pieces, that rather than having a pre-drawn plan, I prefer letting the piece guide me. It's like an unfolding story where every stitch and bead adds a new chapter. This spontaneity allows for unexpected surprises and takes us on a journey of discovery.

We are approaching the finishing line with a few additional touches and completing this piece is my focus for the upcoming week, and I'm eager to see it all come together.

Remember as you go forward in your creative walk that art is about embracing the journey and enjoying the process. Don't rush; savor every stitch, bead, and brushstroke. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting, the creative path has something extraordinary to offer each one of us.

I hope you've been inspired to dive into your own artistic projects. Until next time, when we return to reveal the final masterpiece, happy creating!


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Wednesday 12 July 2023

Challenge yourself - Stitched projects and their positive Impact on Your Creative Journey



Welcome to Material Mondays, where we get to explore the world of mixed media art and the joys of slow stitching, painting fabric, and mixed media projects. In this blog post, you will get to see the next stage of this mixed media art piece and consider ways in which we can look at the benefits of engaging in challenging creative stitched projects and pushing our creative boundaries.

Finding Relaxation in the Challenge

I have a variety of challenging creative stitched projects and they offer a unique opportunity to find relaxation and mindfulness especially at those times where you may have a limited time.  Slow stitching allows us to make marks and doodle with thread, immersing ourselves in the motion and finding peace in the process.



Unleashing Creativity through Exploration

The challenge of a stitched project pushes us to explore new techniques and materials. I love practicing on smaller pieces as this takes the stress out of doing something new, or playing about with materials. I am now confident with adding beading to pieces because I spent time practicing on smaller pieces and looked at different combinations.  Equally with painting on some of my fabric pieces, I just look at it as another canvas and go with the flow of the piece.



The Thrill of Accomplishment

I find that when I have completed a challenging stitched project, it brings a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. I am hoping to have this piece completed by next week, and then select another piece that is waiting. It is important that we take the time to step back and admire our creation, and experience that sense of pride, seeing the growth that went into overcoming the challenges along the way.



Are you working on a Stitched Project?

Join me on this creative journey exploring the possibilities of slow stitching and painting fabrics and pushing our creative boundaries and start completing projects that you have laying around waiting for your attention.

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Thursday 22 June 2023

Material Mondays - Dragonfly Slow Stitching and Beading Project


I have a stitched project from my last Material Mondays to complete and in the video that I share I show you how I would continue to work on this project.

I share with you how I would continue to work on this project by adding beading to the surface. I love incorporating beads into my stitched projects and I have managed to gather quite a collection over the years. Beading enhances your project and enables you to tell your story, there is also a therapeutic experience that goes hand in hand with slow stitching and quite a satisfying feeling on completion of the project.

Check out the video below to see how I go through the process of selecting the right beads for the project.



Here are some additional ways that incorporating beading to your project will impact in a positive way to your overall health and wellbeing.

Bead Selection

Choosing beads for your slow stitching projects can be a sensory journey in itself, carefully examining their colors, textures, and shapes, allows you to indulge in the pleasure of selection - deciding what looks best for your project. Each bead holds the potential to enhance your project and become a tiny work of art in its own right. As you take your time to select the right beads, you tap into your intuition and creative vision, creating a connection between your stitched design and the chosen embellishments.

A Meditative Process:

Incorporating beads into your slow stitching projects invites you to enter a state of mindfulness. As you thread each bead onto your needle and place it within the fabric, you focus and the repetitive motion of beading becomes a form of meditation.


Visual Delight:

Whatever type of beads you choose, each bead carries its unique color and sparkle. You spend time looking over your selection of beads and additional uses for projects come to mind. 


Completing a Project

Completing a slow stitching project already brings immense satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. When beads are incorporated, this feeling is magnified. The process of threading and securing each bead adds an extra layer of dedication and attention to detail. It serves as a testament to your creativity, patience, and the story that is told through your work.



Personal Style and Storytelling: 

Beaded embellishments offer a unique opportunity to infuse your slow stitching projects with personal style and narrative. With each bead, you have the power to tell a story, evoke emotions, or be reminded of a memory. The selection and placement of beads enable you to create a deeply meaningful connection between your stitched art and your own personal journey.

Incorporating beading into your slow stitching projects comes a transformational experience, intertwining creativity, mindfulness, and personal expression. The therapeutic effects of selecting the right beads, mindfully adding them to your stitches, and seeing the project completed is so satisfying.


So, embrace the magic of beading in your slow stitching journey, and witness how each tiny bead adds a touch of sparkle and soul to your stitched masterpieces.

Before you go...



Wednesday 14 June 2023

Material Mondays - The Joy of Textile Art and Slow Stitching for Health and Well-being.

Material Mondays



Welcome to Material Mondays, In this video I share some of the projects that I am working on and how I would take some of them forward.

I always find getting started on a new piece is an exciting, and I am inspired by the fabric, threads and embellishments.  I take a stitched piece to a particular point, then are drawn to other pieces. As artists, we often find ourselves surrounded by numerous incomplete projects at different stages. I find that there are quite a few benefits of having several projects on the go and will share some of them below. 



Variety is the spice of life:
Having a range of incomplete projects allows us to explore different techniques, themes, and ideas. Each project represents a unique creative journey, providing us with opportunities to experiment, learn, and grow as creatives. With multiple projects in progress, we can switch between them based on our mood, inspiration, or specific skills we wish to enhance. 


Inspiration from Different Stages:
Projects at various stages offer inspiration and new perspectives. When we review our incomplete projects, we gain new insights and ideas for their completion. The early stages of a project may spark our creativity, while those nearing completion motivate us to add the finishing touches - some of mine include extra slow stitching or beading.  We are then able to discover unexpected connections between ideas.

Stitched projects at their final stages

The Therapeutic Power of Slow Stitching:
I love slow stitching on projects, it provides a tranquil and meditative experience. Engaging in slow stitching allows us to immerse ourselves in the process, savoring each stitch, and enjoying the journey. This mindful activity promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances overall mental wellbeing.  What better way to look after yourself!

Health Benefits of Creative Activities:
Participating in creative activities has been shown to have numerous health benefits. These activities promoting feelings of joy and accomplishment, and boosts self-esteem. Art also serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, enabling us to express our emotions and thoughts.

Check out the work that I share in the video, I eventually choose to work on a dragon fly design that has been wax resisted on cotton, and I will be adding stitching. 


If you find you have multiple projects to complete, go easy on yourself and don't become overwhelmed.  Allow your intuition and creative spark to guide you and know that as you are mindful about your activities you are impacting your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. 

So, whether you're exploring new projects, revisiting incomplete ones, or immersing yourself in slow stitching, embrace the joy of textile art.

You can check out some of the other Material Monday posts on my YouTube playlist - HERE  You can also check out some of the videos below.





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