Sunday, April 7, 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.

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.

Smocking. In this kind of manipulation, the artist stitches together fabrics by creating areas that release a sculptural effect. The effect can lead to raised squares, pinwheel, tubes and other shapes that one will manage to make. You can as well adapt complex patterns and grids that will define where to place the stitches and put the materials together. Look for a material that is not too stiff or thick such as cotton, silk or linens.

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.

Acquaint with pleating. Pleats are folds turned against a material. They create impressions that can move to a particular point of a material or through the whole surface. Artists can press the pleats to create a more distinct style or leave the creases to adopt a more natural appearance. One can develop pleats by hand, machine or use patterns based on experience and convenience.

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.

An artist can adopt as many techniques as he or she can. However, one has to learn a particular method before proceeding to the other to get enough experience and use the method effectively. Look for relevant and reliable sources that you can use to learn these techniques. The best sources include apprenticeship and videos since they have a visual and verbal approach.




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