lundi 8 avril 2019

Approaches Considered By Fabric Manipulation Textile Artists

By Jason Butler


As an aspiring fashion artist, you have to learn different ways to manipulate fabrics to meet a particular design. It is vital for an artist to learn these methods to have different creations that help one complete in a demanding market. Anyone who intends to learn different fabric manipulation methods should have enough time and tools to make this process a success. This article provides various techniques used by fabric manipulation textile artists.

Consider the applique method. The artist has to sew different types of fabrics on one underlying material. One can stitch the fabrics using hands or sewing machine based on the size of material that one is dealing with and convenience. There are different types of stitches that one can use. This includes the buttonhole, satin and zigzag. Use colors that correspond with each other to create an aesthetic appeal.

Use the smocking process. This is a traditional Anglo-Saxon method that artists have adapted to create a sculptural effect on a cloth surface. One can produce different results such as tubes, pinwheel, square or any other shape. Professional designers can use complex grids and patterns that indicate where one should place the stitches to put different materials. Consider a material that is not too thick and stiff such as linen, cotton or silk.

Decide on using the patchwork. Patchworks have a similar approach like the appliques but rely on various patches that one should sew together. Choose fabrics that have contrasting colors to create a uniform design. You can also refer to the technique as piece work. You should adopt a stitching technique that is not conspicuous enough to create a bigger impression compared with the colors used in the patchwork.

Embroidery. In this method, the artist uses different stitches to have a unique texture. Some of the embroidery techniques include Kantha embroidery, Chikankary, shadow, and sashiko. As a beginner, you have to look for the simplest methods that suit your knowledge and the kind of machines you have. Some of the natural techniques that a beginner can use include the bullion stitch, French knots, and knot stitches.

Pleating. Pleating involves folding the material back on itself to create a dimensional impression. The artist can press the pleats or iron to make a sharp effect. One is also free to leave the creases without pressing to create a more natural and softer impression. There are three types of pleating methods that one can use namely the pattern, hand, and machine pleating.

Decide to use painting. Fabric painting has been a conventional technique used in contemporary material manipulation methods. The best material to use is cotton because of its tight weaves that provide an ideal sticking surface. Look for quality brushes, paints, and materials to get the best effect on the clothing.

There are quite a lot of other techniques that one can use other than the one highlighted above. As an aspiring designer, it is recommendable to learn one technique one by one to be sure about your suitability before you start learning the other. Look for reliable sources such as videos and even a professional that you can use to learn these techniques.




About the Author: