I have recently completed my second commission, another silk blouse. This blouse was dyed using plant material, including prunus leaves, eucalyptus leaves, lavender sprigs, and brown onion skins.
All went into the dye bath, and more prunus leaves were bundled in the silk to cause an "eco-print". That happens when the leaf is pressed firmly against the fabric, and as the colour is released during the dyeing process it prints onto the fabric. Sometimes the print is so effective I try to remove it thinking it is a stray leaf left behind.
front view
back viewIt is difficult to see the detail of the print and the effect of the colours, it was very soft and subtle. As I type she is on her way to Germany, to a friend's wife. This blouse is looser and less tailored than my previous commission. I am hoping that the design suits the recipient - one of the difficulties with making a blouse for someone you have never seen in the flesh. It must also be said that the dress form never does a garment justice!
The silk has beautiful drape, and feels soft even after dyeing. I have bought two rolls of this silk...all the store had...and just love it.
I hope you all had a lovely Christmas, and New Year :-)
This is just awesome! I really love your work, and silk is so lovely to work with, I'm surprised it isn't more widely available. Keep up the fantastic creativity!
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