Hi Friends,
Many years ago I did some experiments with textile paints on pima cotton, using a process that’s similar to some of my paintings. I applied the paint to two pieces of clear Plexiglas, pushed the pieces of Plexiglas together, and pulled them apart. That gave me interesting organic patterns, and I then laid the fabric on top of the paint to pick up the design.
The effect was quite beautiful, but I never found a use for these pieces of fabric, and they sat in a box for a long time.
I came across them in January when I was cleaning out my studio, and decided they were too pretty not to be used. So I sent them to my aunt’s sister, Louana, who’s an avid quilter.
Louana has since made three beautiful quilts using this fabric, including the one below for my Uncle Allan, in honor of his birthday a few weeks ago.
Allan was delighted and surprised, and sent me the picture to share with you.
When I was creating the fabrics, I also tried the technique on t-shirts. It’s harder to do larger pieces, because it requires big sheets of Plexiglas that are heavy. It’s also difficult to keep the shirt flat and not get folds in the fabric.
I wonder if I can incorporate this technique back into my paintings. Something to play around with!
What have you been experimenting with lately? I’d enjoy hearing your thoughts. You can share them with us in the comments section below.
With love and appreciation,
Cassandra
This is a technique that I used years ago in my paintings, but never on fabric. I love the results that you got on the t shirts; particularly the brown and rust ! This why I can never throw anything away!!
Hi Naila. Yes, it is tempting to save everything! But then I just have too much stuff, and I have to get rid of some of it. Fortunately I can usually find good homes for the stuff I can no longer store.
I am so impressed with your work, website, newsletter….thanks so much. I will respond more when my head is clearer. Carry on!
Thanks for your kind words, Sherry! I appreciate you following along.
The quilt is beautiful I was wondering if you need to treat it with any thing in case you had to wash it
Hi Shelley. The fabrics are printed with textile paints, which are permanent. They do need to be heatset before washing, and after that they won’t wash out.