3.18.2009

Printed Tote




A little peek at my screen printed linen tote


For those curious about the printing method, I use procion dyes which are different than pigmented textile paint. Dyes come in powder form that you mix with water and thickener (sodium alginate). The fabric is activated in a soda ash soak and dried before printing. After printing there is a curing period, and then another laundering. A lot of steps, but I enjoy it and love the results.

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

The colour goes so well with the material. I love the clear outlines of the print. It is mellow and strong all in one go. Processes are such an important thing, I feel! Lovely work!

Nazara said...

what a well done work! congratulations on the result.

Ritva said...

i admire you!

Sohvi said...

I just read about sculpturing glass fiber - so many steps, and so fascinating... This reminds me of it. These days it's luxury to do something slowly.

I don't like egg plant on my plate but as a colour - marvellous!

Jennifer said...

I'll have to try this!
The dye looks beautiful. I'll email you if I have more questions. I love process...all the little steps that adds up to a piece of art.
Really, really lovely bag.
Gorgeous color combination.

Thanks for describing the dye process!
xo

Janis said...

Jo - Oh yes, the process is so important - I agree completely! Thank you...

Nazara - Thank you very much!

Ritva - So sweet of you to say, thank you!

Sohvi - Yes, you are right! It is such a luxury - a gift in fact! Thank you...

Jennifer - If you try the dying process, I'd be more than happy to answer any questions you might have. So glad you like my tote! Thank you! xo

Anonymous said...

I am really impatient to see the full bag. Printing result looks great (like a purple cucumber ... from Natsumi ...)

natsumi said...

Your bag looks really lovely!

natsumi said...

I just realized that your flower patter is so similar to my tag and cucumber.... yes, it does. haha..

K. said...

I like the cut-out shape of the print! and the colour! aubergine is one of my favourites.