The first tests
June 17, 2021
I have taken a range of fabrics that I want to use for my portrait embroideries and tested the paints and pens that I have. I didn't know that I had so many, enough for a whole box full.
I tried to keep the test consistent by replicating the same paints and pencil tests on each test fabric.
I used 2 different types of linen, 2 cottons and one cotton/linen mix. The results for each were predictable according to the fabric fibre source but just how each product performed was not. This will be a valuable resource for future work. Hopefully this will cut down on mistakes in the future but one can never be 100% sure. In fact I think this is activity has been an exercise in procrastination on my part. I just don't want to start. I hate making mistakes but you never learn unless you take a chance.
I might put this away now and do some quilting.
It is important to feel comfortable about when to start a project. Leave the test pieces for a while, look at them again and if you feel like it, dive in. If not, wait a bit longer.
Posted by: Queenie Patch | June 17, 2021 at 12:07 PM
Thanks Queenie. I needed that permission.
Posted by: Carolyn Foley | June 17, 2021 at 12:16 PM
There are so many interactions here, between fabric and paints/pencils. I think you will find that what you have discovered will sink into your mind if you leave it to one side for a bit, and then, when you feel ready to start, more of the knowledge will be internalised and ready for use.
Posted by: Rachel | June 18, 2021 at 01:11 AM