Tuesday 16 July 2013

Ombre and shibori dyeing

I have been trying my hand at some ombre dyeing but with mixed results:

Dip dyeing
The dip Dyeing method was not very successful (above) and it was very time consuming.  I might have to create some sort of pulley system as holding the fabric for 20-30 minutes at each gradient was hard on the arms.
Next I tried laying the fabric out on a piece of black cardboard and sprayed the colour from dark to light on. Unfortunately the black cardboard bled into the fabric.  Hmm I think that is a piece that will have to be overdyed!
Shibori Ombre 1
 Next up was the shibori (pole wrapping) using  fuchsia and diluting the dye as we worked down the fabric.  Very happy with the results and the colours blend nicely without leaving a distinctive line.
Shibori Ombre 2

Shibori Cobalt/Golden Yellow
 Next up: Shibori (pole wrapping) using cobalt and golden yellow.  Still one of my favourites and a best seller! I have 3 of these for sale and will be posting them on etsy soon, or email me if you can't wait that long!

Cobalt gradient
 Lastly the cobalt gradients - I haven't done a set like this in ages but its a good way to build up the stash.

I have also been working on my challenge quilt for the art quilts around the world and will post at the end of the month (don't want to let the cat out of the bag!!!!)

The re-organisation of the sewing room is on going and have finally got the comic book backing boards that I will be folding the fabric on - acid free of course!

Happy Quilting!

Tuesday 9 July 2013

Back to work!!!

The last few weeks have been busy as I have had visitors since the end of May for my daughters high school graduation.
Now that calm has been restored, its time to get back to work and do some dyeing!
Devore cut silk rayon scarf


Shibori - Turquiose and Fushia

I also converted the bedroom back into a sewing room and reorganised it with a lot of help from my friend Jesse:

Thanks Jesse!!!  I hope I can keep it looking this good!!!!

I have been doing more sewing lessons over the holidays and have some really lovely students, sadly one of them is moving back to Australia.  I will miss her and I  hope she will continue sewing.

Well that's it from me - time for ANZA Quilt group.....