19th C mini cushions at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

On a trip to Bristol Museum today I came across these mid- late nineteenth century textile cushions. They were no bigger than 12cm across but there was no information as to their purpose, however I think that they may be pin cushions. The samples include tatting, beadwork, netting, embroidery, canvas work and quilting which were popular needle work pursuits of ladies of the time.

Linda Kemshall - mini cushion

Linda Kemshall's lovely use of dyed fabrics, printed motifs and stitch in this mini cushion have inspired by recent work. I took apart my banner and used the combinations of contrasting fabrics to print onto, using stencils and lino prints.. I have also experimented with metallic powders, inspired by the beautiful way they have been used in this piece.

Lost in Lace - Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Lost in Lace in a unique opportunity to see exciting, international work that will make you think about lace in a totally different way. Featuring large scale, theatrical and visually spectacular work, this exhibition challenges perceptions of what lace can be, involving the visitor in an environment where spaces become fluid and thread creates entirely new boundaries.

The symbolic language, patterns and techniques of lace are represented through radical new approaches by UK and international artists. Featuring large scale, theatrical and visually spectacular work, this exhibition challenges perceptions of what lace can be, involving the visitor in an environment where spaces become fluid and thread creates entirely new boundaries

 Artists include Lise Bjorne Linnert, Tamar Frank, Chiharu Shiota and architecture studio Atelier Manferdini.

Lino print shell design

I created this print from a lino block and printed onto light tan dyed cotton. I applied the acrylic paint with print medium to the block using a brush. I really like this colour combination and have experimented with creating a repeat design with this motif.

Print Design Ideas

I made stencil prints on dyed paper and then used Photoshop to try out repeat pattern ideas.

original colours

inverted colours

Sea Shell Designs

I am interested in exploring the patterns found on the surfaces of shells in order to create some designs for printing. Here is a range of reference materials which have inspired my drawing.

Fabrics from Fabric and Art Website

Indonsesia Batik

Printed Quilting Fabric

 Aboriginal printed fabrics

 African Batik

http://www.fabricandart.com
This is a great website for printed fabrics.

Tie Dyed and Batik Banners

 Fabric banners made from tie dyed and batik cottons overlaid and hung against a white wall.

The same banners as above, but hung in front of a window.