Creating Mixed Media Art Dolls - Material Musings

 

Creating Mixed Media Art Dolls

Welcome to today's Material Musings, in this video we will be taking a look at a variety of different ways to create art dolls and a bit about the technique.  Have you made mixed media art dolls yourself?  They are really fun to create, and practically all of my supplies are recycled or repurposed.

Where to Start?

You start with the armature, which can be made out of a range of materials - wire, foil, wood, clay, paper clay, foam, plastic and once you have the base you can decide the other materials that you want to finish your mixed media art doll with.

In the examples that I share in the video we have ones made from foil, foam - (fiber) and plastic.  I then cover them with fabric, paper clay and even wrap some with scrap fabrics and yarn and embellish with beading.

I hope that you see how fun and straight forward they can be to create and I hope that it inspires you to make your own - you probably have all the resources around your home already.  You can check out the previous art doll video below:

If you are interested in making your own, I will be creating a mini course to take you through the steps.  You can join my course platform and will be alerted when the Mixed Media Art Doll course becomes available.  

Join the course platform Here

In the meantime, why not check out some of the other slow stitched and fabric course available on the platform.

Stitched Folk - Online Class

On a tight budget? Come and join me on YouTube and see all of the textile and fabric art videos I share as part of Material Musings, my weekly textile and fabric art adventure.  You can find my full Textile Art Playlist on YouTube Here

Want a Behind the Scenes and exclusive access? Then my Patreon Tiers would be great for you!

If you want a behind-the-scenes look at my work and practice, you can join us on Patreon Here and while you are there you can check out the FREE Digital Art Sampler Edition in the paper Collection for July.

Whatever you do, take time out each day to do something creative, experiment and step out of your comfort zone.  What are you waiting for???

Making Fodder - Inspiration Squad - Fodder School 5

This month I am one of the Inspiration squad members for Fodder School and I get to share my take on a lesson by Roxanne Stoute.  As a previous teacher on Fodder School 4 - it is full on, so it is great to be a student and savor the projects.

We are currently in the 'Make Fodder' phase and I have been busy painting, marking fabric, paper and playing with elements from nature.

You can also check out Fodder School 5 HERE, there are some fantastic teachers

Here is what I have so far

Mixed Media Art Papers

Here is some of the natural materials that I worked with as well, and the papers that I painted and added marks using different supplies

All in all it is great fun to look through some of the things that you have to create new looks and combine elements that you might not have before.  I now have a lovely collection that will go to some of the other projects that are calling..... will you join us?

What about those Fabric Scraps? Material Musings

 

Welcome to Material Musings, in this episode we are talking about the scraps we often amass in our fabric or paper stash.

I also touch on the broader issues of fast fashion and waste management and the impact on developing countries that deal with the fabric waste of so called 'developed countries' and what impact can we make on a local level.

I share a lot of the projects that used a lot of these scraps and I am looking at many of the ways in which I can make the most of the supplies I currently have. There are time stamps in the description of the video for reference.

Before You Go

Creative Vision Retreat Summit

Art Journals for your Visions and Goals

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Too Good to Use? Exploring Eco Dyed Fabrics & Garden Plants

Have you been sitting on your creative projects?  Maybe you have tools, supplies, or even beautiful pieces you’ve already created, but you’re “saving them for best”? I know that feeling well and am there too!

Recently, I got all excited about starting some solar dyeing (which I am still going to do), but in the process, I almost forgot about the eco dyeing projects I had already worked on and the joy I found in creating them. 

Hand Dyed Fabric 

Do you have fabrics you’ve dyed that feel too good to use because the colors or patterns you created can’t be repeated? That’s exactly where I’m at. I have a box full of fabrics that I hold up and admire now and then, but I never use them in my creative projects… until now.

So in today’s Material Musings, we’ll:

• Explore some of my favorite past eco dyeing projects.
• Take a walk through the garden to identify potential plants for solar dyeing.
• Open up my stash of “saved” fabrics and bring out some stamps to play and experiment. 

It’s all about remembering the joy of creating, exploring what’s possible, and actually using what we make. Will you join me?

Join us on the FREE Tier Patreon for behind the scenes and early release content.

Join us for FREE on Patreon HERE 

Playing with Fabric - Having Fun!

 Playing with Fabric and Having Fun

Weekly Material Musings

With September moving fast, things are busy and so exciting  - I am in my fabric element! 

In Fodder School, I’m sharing my fabric lesson as the final teacher for Fodder School 4. All through September, you join me for a month of fabric play and creativity.  We have had so many gorgeous examples of how students have worked on their own fabric - it is wonderful to see how we can have the same instruction and create so many varied outcomes.  You can check them out on my Instagram Highlights

In the first part of the month we dive into ways to work with the fabric.  No experience is needed, just bring your curiosity!  If you’re already comfortable with fabric and mixed media, you’ll have plenty of room to add your own spice to the fodder we make together - in fact it is a must!  we focus on making our fabric fodder and seeing how many different ways we can make marks on the surface with the tools that we have.  I’ll guide you through ways I use my own stamps and stencils on fabric and we make a handmade stamp that you can keep using for future projects.

This month is extra special because I’ve collaborated with Fodder School and ArtFoamies to bring out my very own set of ArtFoamies! I share in a bonus lesson how I use my ArtFoamies on Fabric.   You can also explore my digital stamp sets in my Etsy store if you’d like even more creative tools - I have created a whole series of images that you can use in your creative projects.

ArtFoamies Variations

In the second half of September - which is fast approaching, we’ll take all of the fodder we’ve made and turn them into mini wall hangings, which you can hang as is or put in a frame.  They are also perfect for gifting, or simply adorning your creative space. You will have plenty of extra fabric fodder to keep experimenting in your other projects too - Wendy did a bonus video that shows us how to make a 'Side Kick Journal', which is so calling my name to be made from all of the fabric I have in my stash!  Susanna also shows us how she uses the ArtFoamies she designed in her projects on eco dyed fabric and watercolors.  Some great ideas to play around with.

Sunday Reflections & Material Musings

Sunday Reflections

Sundays are the perfect time to reflect on the week ahead, restore, and refresh your batteries. I’d love for you to join me in Material Musings each week, where I’ll share what fabric projects we’re working on next. It’s a gentle creative space to spark ideas, encourage your own practice, and remind you that making is meant to be joyful and part of your everyday activity.

Wherever you are at in your journey, come and join us and let us stitch, stamp, and play with all that delicious fabric we are sitting on!! 

Experiment Freely - Filling the Creative Well Series - Blog Series

How often do you try something different in your creative practice? Maybe today is the day to follow a new idea, to use a supply you’ve ignored, and I know I have quite a few of the supplies that have been neglected and that need to be rescued.

The fantastic thing about experimenting is that it can lead to unexpected breakthroughs and learning.  Can you give yourself the time and space to experiment on a daily or weekly basis?

What have you been curious about? That ink that’s still sealed? That stencil you bought but never used? Pick something that feels unknown and let it guide your creative play.

In this video I experiment with fabric

Where do you start?

•      Choose four materials you’ve never combined before—perhaps gesso, watercolor, tissue paper, and stitching. Or try drawing with your non-dominant hand. Or swap your brushes for sponges, twigs, or old toothbrushes, think outside the box.
•      The goal isn’t to make a masterpiece, it is to spark curiosity. You might discover a favorite texture, or combination of supplies that you want to try on a bigger scale.
•      Document what you learned, there are no failures.  Every step outside your comfort zone helps you to become a more confident artist.
• ·    As you will be doing this on a regular basis, why not dedicate a journal to experiments. Make it a space where you don’t judge yourself. Let it hold your trials, errors, and surprises.

Takeaway Nuggets:

1. Every experiment is a teacher - even the messy ones.
2. Curiosity is more important judgement - don’t hold back.

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Check out some of the free and paid resources below to enhance your creative journey 

Course Platform - there are a variety of FREE courses and resources for you to use in your creative practice.

FREE Tier - Patreon - I have a Free Tier on Patreon that has a selection of early release posts and monthly Digital Download Papers for you to use in your creative projects - Learn More Here

YouTube - Weekly Videos to encourage your creative practice, Slow stitching, art journaling and Artists chats - Learn More Here

Check out Filling the Creative Well which helps you establish your creative practice. In the course Filling the Creative Well, your journal is also a place to answer questions, encourage and motivate you, some days you need a reminder and so filling it with encouraging words so that you can come back to it, especially in those days where you are in a valley is really important. .

Abandoned Fabric Projects? - Material Musings

 Abandoned Fabric Projects? - Material Musings

Do you have any abandoned creative projects that need to be given a new lease of life?  Join us on Material Musings today!

Here are some of the projects 

Sometimes all it takes is for you to go through them, see what supplies you are using now, and you may get that spark to revisit and maybe even finish the project.  It works with any type of creative project!

Material Musings - Fabric Inspirations and Kawandi

 

Come and check out this weeks Material Musings. We look at lots of lovely dyed and hand printed fabric, and we start a Kawandi!

A Kawandi is a type of hand-stitched quilt traditionally made by the Siddi women who are descendants of enslaved Africans who were bought to India. 

Kawandi quilts are distinctive because of their vibrant, improvisational designs and the way they are constructed. They are made from layers of fabric scraps, often brightly colored, and sewn together with running stitches. Here's a closer look at their key characteristics:

Key Features of Kawandi Quilts

1. Construction Style:

   • Kawandi quilts are typically sewn from the outer edges toward the center, unlike many traditional quilts made from blocks or panels.
   • The stitching is done in a spiral pattern, ensuring all layers stay securely held together.

2. Materials:

   • They are made using recycled fabrics, including old saris, or other discarded textiles.
   • The use of fabric scraps gives the quilts a rich texture and unique, look.

3. Aesthetic and Design:

   • The quilts are often colorful and feature bold patterns, with an emphasis on spontaneity and personal expression.
   • Small decorative touches, like folded fabric triangles called phulas (flowers), are added to the corners or edges.

4. Practical and Cultural Significance:

• Kawandi quilts are made for practical purposes, such as providing warmth, but they also reflect the Siddi community's history and artistry.
• The improvisational process mirrors storytelling and a connection to cultural heritage.

Let me know if you have made one and how it turned out.  Looking forward to sharing my progress with you.

Material Musings - Fabric Art Projects

 

Welcome to today's Material Musings, I am excited to share what I have been working on and learning in my fabric adventure.

I will be sharing some of the fabric art journals that I have been creating and I have made a couple that have been helping me keep my smaller projects and fabric ephemera in some order.

I also finished this fabric dragonfly inspired by a class on Making Zen by Lisa Goddard You can check her out on Instagram Here 

I hope you enjoy the video and check out some of the projects, and get to create some fabric journals of your own.

Before You Go

Join in the fun at Embroidery Extravaganza

Here are the speakers

What to Expect
At Embroidery Extravaganza, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Participate in workshops led by experts in the field.
• Discover new techniques and creative ideas to take your embroidery to the next level.
• Exclusive Student Benefits
• Gain access to all event presentation recordings with no expiration date! This invaluable resource is available exclusively to students who purchase their tickets before the event date.
• Giveaways during the live event
• Receive a digital swag bag filled with goodies
• Get Ready for a Day of Creativity

To make the most of your experience at Embroidery Extravaganza, here are a few tips: 

• Come Prepared: Bring your embroidery supplies, including needles, threads, hoops, and any other materials you like to use.
• Stay Open-Minded: Be ready to try new techniques and experiment with different styles.
• Take Notes: Keep a journal handy to jot down ideas and techniques you learn during the workshops.

Spaces are limited, so don't wait to secure your spot at this incredible event. Plus, you can save $20 off your ticket now by using the code ee24reality at checkout.

Sign up now at creativespark.ctpub.com.

3 Organizational Tips for Sorting your Fabric Stash

As you build your own fabric collect of painted fabrics and textiles while they can be the start of some beautiful creative projects you have to also think about how you store and maintain your collection.  When things are all over the place it can become overwhelming and a barrier to spending time in your creative space, so I have three simple tips to help you keep on top of your growing fabric collection and make them readily accessible: 

Embrace Categorization:

The first step is to create a system that separates your fabrics based on type of fabric and color. Group similar fabrics together, like all your cotton fabrics in one section, silks in another, etc. Within each type category, further subdivide them by color. This way, you can easily locate a specific fabric..

Clear Containers:

I found with the space I have that having clear plastic bins or storage boxes allows you to easily see the contents without needing to rummage through each container. I have two different sizes for the larger fabric and then smaller ones. Choose containers in various sizes to accommodate different fabrics. Think about the space you have and what would use the space more effectively.

Labelling:

Label each container clearly and you can go further to add the colors or type of fabric. You can use a label maker for a clean and professional look, or handwrite labels on sturdy cardstock and secure them with tape.

By implementing these simple tips, you'll transform your fabric collection from a jumbled mess to a well-organized haven of inspiration. Remember, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring your creative flow remains uninterrupted as you delve into your next creative adventure!


Declutter/swap:

Regular Decluttering and Donation: By regularly reviewing what you have you can think about ways to reduce, or you can do a swap with another artist and brings new and interesting fabrics into your stash. I find it difficult to part ways with my fabric but I guess it gets easier the more you do it.

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

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!

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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Before you go:

Free Course - Recycled Stamps and Stencils

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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Fabric Wax Resist - A Technique - Material Mondays

 

Have you tried a wax resist technique on fabric?  In week 20 of Material Mondays I share one of the techniques that I use to create the designs on my fabric.

Dyeing your own fabric is a great way to create your own designs, and the fabric can either be used as a whole or cut up and used in smaller projects.

I start out with an image loosely sketched on the fabric, I usually do a combination of faces and patterns

The next step is to add the wax either on the lines you have drawn or in-between the lines which will create varying patterns.

I combine a selection of dyes together to get the color that I want, you can do swatches so that you are able to recreate the colors when needed.

Once dried the wax is removed.  I use an iron and place paper over the fabric.  It is a great way to apply color and pattern to some of the fabrics that you may have, and you can experiment and see what effects that you are able to create.

If you are interested in checking out some of the supplies, you can check out my Wax Resist Supplies List on Amazon