Textile Practice and Play - Material Musings

 

Fabric Play: Use What You Have and See What Happens

Creativity is not always about starting something new.  You can very easily start pulling out fabrics, threads and your scraps and give yourself permission to play - right where you are.

I have been working a lot with stitched projects - I am one of the teachers in the upcoming - Making Zen - Find out more HERE.  I have been experimenting with the hand dyed fabrics and wax resist, and my favorite beads and other embellishments, and I am having so much fun.  

One of my biggest reminders is to not 'save' everything for that perfect project that never materializes.  I have so many fabrics that I became (or still am) too precious about, and this is something I have also done with art supplies - then when I go to use them, they are dried up and you have to throw them away.  

Sometimes you don't know exactly what you want to do with that 'special' piece of fabric, you don't want to cut it, but eventually I reminded myself that I could always create more eco dyed and wax resist fabric, but if I never used them then I would not discover what the pieces might become. 

Creative play is also one of the ways we learn.

We discover how our threads behave, which colors work together, how stitching changes a fabric and what happens when we combine things we may not normally put together.  Here is something you can try:

Make a Mini Fabric Cluster

• Gather five small fabric scraps from your supplies.
• Choose different colors, patterns or textures and arrange them into a small layered cluster.
• Add a few stitches to hold everything together.
• If you have them, add a bead, button or small piece of ribbon.
• Don’t plan too much. Give yourself 10-15 minutes to experiment.

Your little cluster could eventually become part of a journal cover, fabric book, textile collage, tag or larger stitched project.  With the scraps I had above I made a couple of snippet rolls that I will use in some of my projects.

Most importantly, allow yourself to play, there are no mistakes only opportunities to learn a little more about your supplies and your own creative style.  Use what you have! experiment, stitch, and see where your session takes you

Before You Go

I am teaching in Making Zen Online Retreat that is free to join.  We will be creating mini trinket tags, we will be gathering our fabrics, slow stitching and adding our embellishments, so if you like you can join us and practice some more with what you have.

Sign up to Making Zen HERE

If you sign up for the VIP Pass you will also get access to my course showing you how to make additional embellishments for your Trinket Tags or creative projects.

Learn More about Making Zen Here

Give Yourself Permission to Experiment - Material Musings

This week’s Material Musings has been full of fabric, thread, slow stitching, beads, eco dyeing and plenty of experimenting.

I’ve been working with Seth Apter’s One Layer Away fabrics and Aurifil threads, creating everything from small fabric clusters to a stitched landscape filled with flowers, a little house, prickly pear and wisteria.

I’ve also started another piece using the patterned fabrics to create a face, experimenting with translucent paint over the fabric before adding more stitching, words and beads.

And, of course, there has been more eco and solar dyeing, that I will be using in future creative projects.

 

I used Avocado, neem leaves, annatto seeds and aloe vera, which have all produced their own colors which I am really excited to work with.

We can learn so much about how our fabrics will respond when we take time to play around with them and the rest of our supplies.  We can ask ourselves the question 'What if' and do something totally different to your work, sometimes you will like the results and sometimes not. 

 

What happens when you fray the edges of the fabric, or combine fabrics with beads, stitching or a discarded piece of jewelry? Sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone try it to find out. 

Here is something that you can try: Choose three scraps from your fabric collection and spend a few minutes layering them together, don’t think about making a finished piece, and just ask yourself 'What could this become?' and you might be surprised where it will lead. I have shared three creative activities inspired by this episode over on Patreon, including a small fabric storytelling exercise, a fabric cluster activity and a simple 'What If…?' experiment. 

Head over to my Patreon post after watching the video and choose one of the activities to try.  And most importantly give yourself permission to play.

Stay blessed and be a blessing!

Wax Resist Projects - Material Musings

 

Mark Making on Fabric

Working with natural fibers

Come and join us in Material Musings today!

Material Musings - Leather and Textile Crafts for Inspiration

There are times when you need to inspire and motivate yourself and going through past work always helps me and gets me going.

I get out some of the old projects and take a look through them seeing what needs to be finished and what can actually be called done.

Come and spend some time and check out some of the projects that lit a creative spark

Adding More Jewelry to Fabric - Material Musings

Today we look at some of the jewelry and beaded pieces and how we are going to attach them to fabric.

These are pieces that you can do ahead of time, look through your supplies and see what pieces can go together. The more time you spend in you supplies and materials, you will begin to get more and more familiar with what you have and which pieces might work together.

Do not worry about changing your mind either if you don't like where you have placed an item, you can take stitching out and reposition the beads or change the colors it is up to you!

That is experimenting is about an you have to give yourself space and time to do so.

Enjoy!

Attaching Jewelry and Beading - Material Musings

Join us in this weeks Material Musings where we look at the beads and the scrap jewelry that we may have that we can add to our projects. 

In the video I share some of the projects that I have added jewelry and beading to and how I have attached them to projects.  We also include some handmade elements that you can make out of recycled materials and some practical tips for attaching them as well.

 

We end the video with lots of eye candy that will be included in future projects.

Come and join us and let us see what you are creating.

Using your Fabric to Uplift - Material Musings

 

In Material Musings I look at some of the ways that I use my fabrics and projects both finished and unfinished to lift my spirits or encourage myself.  We know that art heals and encourages and enables you to express yourself when you do not have the words.  I find that even if you are not able to do a creative project then even sitting with your supplies can help.

What are the things that you do when you need to give yourself a lift?

Material Musings - Cardboard projects and slow stitching

In today's video we explore the use of cardboard in mixed media art.  In one of my pieces, I combine fabric, cardboard and clay.

Let me know if you use cardboard in your creative projects

If you would like to see some additional ways you can join us on Patreon for behind the scenes and early release content.

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!! 

Managing Waste for Creative - Projects Material Musings

In this week’s Material Musings, I share some of the ways of incorporating fabric into mixed-media artwork. I use natural fibers alongside paper clay to create 3D sculptures and share some of the figures like “Stilt Walker’s Treasure” and “And Still I Rise.” Alongside experimenting with a self-made fibrous pulp, 

I also use natural dyes (henna, avocado, tea), and techniques include wax resist, stenciling, and bead embellishments. 

It has become increasingly important for me to consider sustainable sourcing for my supplies, and I experiment with techniques and recycling materials either from my own supplies or thrift stores and also revisit unfinished projects for renewed inspiration.

Before You Go....

Check out the FREE Mixed Media Art Tags Course

Slow Stitching and Crochet Threads

 

I have been trying out some new crochet yarn that I came across and I enjoy using it in my slow stitched projects.  In the video I talk more about some of the threads I have been using.

They come in a wide range of colors and this is just a small sample I purchased to use in some of my slow stitched projects.  Obviously, there are quite a few brands as well.  These are the ones that I have tried out so far.  

I also use a range of embroidery threads as well in my projects.

You can check out the Supplies Here I created an amazon list for the ones I have brought which you can check out.

This is my project so far.  I have been sharing the progress on my YT Channel during April and you can see the progress videos and a couple of projects on creating your own wax resist projects. 

Fabric Art Journals - Material Musings

 

Here is Material Musings for this week. I have been slightly snowed under, but I wanted to get a start on the topic this month.

For May we will be looking at additional ways that you can work on the fabric in your journals if you make them and use some of the supplies that you may already have.

I will be sharing over the coming weeks the following, and anything else that I may have that can make marks on the fabric and create some unique and individual pieces for stitched projects:

• The use of Glitter on Fabric - Most of us have used glitter in the past, I am sure you have some lurking in one of those draws

• Derwent Inktense Pencils and Inktense Bars - these are two of my favorite supplies, they are highly pigmented and permanent once dry

• Neo Colors

• Gesso

If you would like to know more about the supplies, I have linked them so you can check them out. Essentially, I want you to try some of the supplies that you may not have thought of using and that you already have - experimenting and playing.

Did you miss last weeks Material Musings - check it out below:

Before You Go - Check out the Art Resource Hub and the FREE online classes we have available. Learn more HERE

Wax Resist - Material Musings - Project 2

 

Join us for the next part in the Wax Resist Series on my Channel, sharing how I work on one of my projects and the techniques used to create a wax resist/batik piece.

You can catch the first episode below

You can catch us live in the chat, stitch along with me and have fun creating.  I will also be sharing the main project that I am working on.

Looking forward to seeing you in the studio. 🤩

Material Musings - Textile Art Project Update

 

Welcome to Material Musings where we will see the progress made in the current projects that I am working on in the studio.

I have been moving each of the projects on a bit at a time throughout the week, each of them has something different, and I tap into that depending on the sort of work that I want to do on each.

I have added the beading to this one and additional stitching and I think that it is finally coming together.  It definitely has been a journey getting them complete, I think that I assumed that they would take less time to complete.

This piece is made up of wax resist and dyed fabric, lots of slow stitching, and beading.  The figure that I use on the piece is one of my digital downloads available on my Etsy store - HERE

When you are approaching your projects don't try and rush through them, especially if you work somewhat intuitively, there is always something that catches your eye that wants to be added, so I just enjoy the process.

Next week on Material Musings I will be sharing some of the ways in which I source my fabric embellishments.

Before You Go

Do you want to see behind the scenes and Early Release Posts? Join us on Patreon

Benefits of Slow Stitching Projects, Words and Figures - Material Musings

 

The Benefits of Slow Stitching Projects

Welcome to Material Musings! Check out the new video where I some of my latest slow stitching projects. These projects bring me a lot of joy, and I'd love to show you what I've been working on. Plus, I have a little technique to share on creating words with stitches that we'll get into at the end of the video.

Slow stitching is an art form that emphasizes mindfulness and creativity over speed and perfection. As I’ve worked on these projects, I’ve discovered many benefits of slow stitching.  Check out the three key benefits of slow stitching projects on my Patreon Page for FREE HERE and also find out how you can add contrast to your slow stitch words

READ MORE HERE

Slow stitching is not just about creating beautiful art; it’s about the journey and the joy found in each stitch. Whether you are adding fine details to a large piece or working on small, slow stitching offers a world of creative and mental benefits. I hope you’ve been inspired to start or continue your own slow stitching projects. I would love to see how you get on, so feel free to share your creations. Until next time, happy stitching!

CHECK OUT THE 3 KEY BENEFITS HERE

**********************************************************

Before You Go - Join us for Embroidery Extravaganza - 8 August 2024

Creativity meets craftsmanship at Embroidery Extravaganza on August 8, 2024!

Join us for ten expert-led workshops to ignite your imagination and elevate your embroidery skills. Whether you're a novice or a pro, there's something for everyone. Connect, learn, and get inspired!  Students get access to all event presentation recordings with no expiration date BUT only if you get your ticket before the event date. Don’t wait! Space is limited.

Learn More 

To get $20 Off using my code: ee24reality  Sign up HERE

Making Zen FREE Online Retreat - 27th May - 31st May

 

Making Zen online retreat is in full swing with Day 2 in progress, you have 24 hours to watch the videos before they go. So naturally you would want to make the most of it.

If you want to have more time to watch the video then getting the VIP pass is a great idea. You might have thought that the Making Zen Online Retreat from @zenstitching couldn’t get any better - after all, it’s hard to top five days packed with 20 inspiring workshops! But I’m here to tell you it can, with… 

💙 Early access to all of the content

💙 Special bonuses like freebies and discounts from the presenting artists

💙 Access to the workshops for life

Check out the VIP Pass

For $97 USD, you get to re-watch those presentations to your heart’s content for years to come, and having done this retreat before it really helps to be able to watch the videos in your own time.

The extra bonuses provided by the artists are awesome, too - you couldn’t purchase some of them alone for the same price you’re getting with the VIP Pass! Totally worth it.

Join Us Today

If you can’t wait to get started, you can LEARN MORE HERE to get your pass and start Making Zen right away!

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

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.

Before You Go

Join us in the Art Resource Hub

Material Mondays - Intertwined Fabric Feasts

 

Welcome to Material Mondays, today we get to look at a few projects and we start a new fabric panel with hand dyed and wax resist material.

I previously shared a review of the book Intertwined which looks at how you can spin your own yarn and also gives examples of things that you can make.  I have been collecting wool over time and wanted to look at ways I could use them more in my stitched projects.

I will be showing you some of the mini looms that I have created and some of the sculptural looms that have been further embellished.  There are many ways that the woven projects can be used and you will be shown a few examples to encourage you in your creative projects.

Sculptural Loom and Slow Stitched Project

Check out the video and think about some of the supplies you have in your creative space and the ways in which some of them can be used.

Before You Go

Join us for Artsy Meetup Marathon

Crafting Narratives: Exploring Fabric Projects and Book Inspiration

The Art of Slow Stitching: Elevating Painted Fabric

Welcome to Material Mondays, a world where creativity meets meditative stitching - today, we dive into a series of slow stitching projects on painted fabric. This combination brings together the joy of stitching with the vibrancy of painted fabric - both while painting on the fabric and also using it.

Slow stitching allows you to interact with the painted fabrics, experimenting with color, stitch and thread, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. The stitches weave through the painted surface, adding depth and dimension. It's a tactile experience that goes beyond the visual, inviting you to explore the different mediums.  

Stitching has a meditative quality. As you navigate the needle through the painted fabric, there's a sense of mindfulness and focus.

Benefits of Slow Stitching 

Expression - Slow stitching allows you to infuse your personality and creative spark into the painted fabric. Your choice of stitches, thread colors, and patterns becomes a personalized expression of creativity.

Relaxation - Engaging in slow stitching on painted fabric is a therapeutic practice. The repetitive nature of stitching combined with the visual feast of painted colors creates a relaxed state of being.

New Ways of Working - The fusion of slow stitching and painted fabric offers a unique way to work with the materials and add texture.

Slow stitching on painted fabric is a journey. It's about savoring each moment, exploring the colors and stitches, and allowing your creativity to flow organically. So join me each and every Monday.

Before you Go, Check out

Check out the Art Resource Hub on my Realityarts Course platform with FREE Weekly resources