Wednesday, 10 April 2019

Six Methods Used 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.

Rely on the applique method. The applique technique requires the artist to use different patches on one cloth. The process is suitable for both hand and machine sewing depending on the number of spots that one has to make. It can fit different stitching methods such as the satin, buttonhole and zigzag. Make sure that the colors that you use are matching with each other to create an exceptional aesthetic appeal.

Consider the smoking technique. This is an ancient method that dates back to the Anglo- Saxon era. It produces a sculptural effect on a cloth by using different patterns such as square, pinwheel, and tubes. A professional designer can adopt more complex patterns or grids which can use different materials and stitches. Look for a material that is not too stiff such as silk, linen, and cotton.

Learn how to use patchwork. Patchwork provides a similar effect to the applique but relies on a different approach. In this case, the artist uses pieces of patches and sew them together to have one uniform fabric. Ensure that the patches have colors that correspond with each other to get a beautiful effect.

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.

Acquaint with the fabric painting process. In this technique, the artist uses special cloth paints to design fabric. Cotton stands to be the best material to use since it has tight weaves that allow the paint to stick on it. One should use quality paints, brushes, and design transfer materials to create a remarkable cloth painting.

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.




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