Chapter 9 - Reverse Applique, Traditional & Contemporary Methods



I enjoy applique and have worked on projects using bonded and needle turn methods. I have tried reverse applique, but some time ago, so I was looking forward to this chapter. I ended up with  seven samples including two mistakes which came about from misreading the instructions. All notes are recorded on the working sheets.

9.1

 

 With the first sample, traditional method, I found the tacking stitches inhibited getting a nice clean edge and points. previously with needle turn applique I haven't used tacking and have found it to be an easier method as it gives the material more flexibility. It may of course not be as precise.

 

 



9.2                                                           9.3

 

With the next two samples I used similar layers to compare the results of cutting inside or outside of the stitching. It's quite remarkable how different the samples look.

9.4                                                              9.5

I really enjoyed the next two samples. I used random layers of fabric and felt these samples evolved the more that fabric was cut away. Sample 9.4 is my favourite, I like the way the colours merge together.

9.6                                                                 9.7

The last two samples are 'the mistakes' but I liked the results.

I really enjoyed this chapter, and again I got more adventurous as I went on. I particularly like starting with random snipping away of fabric, and then adjusting where to cut to make a more balanced sample. I liked the addition of metallic fabric which gave interesting contrasts and highlights, and also using dyed scrim which gives a good texture.

Chapter 6 - Use Of Bonding In Applique (b) bonding samples

I made seven samples using a variety of techniques for this chapter.

6.1 & 6.2                                                      6.3 & 6.4

 

For the first two samples I chose two of the units from my design sheets to practice relatively straightforward bonding and cutting. I used the fabrics in different layers as a comparison of how changing the layers changes the look of a design. For the next sample I looked at a more complex cut and fold design based on a unit from my design sheets using a printed fabric for the top layer. Then I used one of my bonded fabrics with torn painted bondaweb. I like using the painted bondaweb and once again there's plenty of scope for experimenting.

 

6.5

 

I was happy with this unit, although I only used two layers the bonded background fabric didn't need much added to it. The Steam A Seam was a little difficult to cut and fold because it stuck together when it was folded, but I like the effect. I could use a piece of baking parchment next time to stop this.

 

6.6 & 6.7



With Sample 6.6,  I used painted bondaweb as the top layer. I realised I had painted the bondaweb too thickly because it nearly covered the middle layer and the bottom layer of bonded fabric was lost completely. I need to thin the paint down in the future, although I did like the effect. So for the next sample I used the painted bondaweb as the middle layer on a plain cotton background and the bonded fabric on the top. This worked much better. With the leftover cut bits of bonded fabric I returned to sample 6.6 and I was surprised to find when I added them it became my favourite sample. It is definitely a good idea to keep the things that go wrong in your sketchbook, to learn from and to go back and adapt.