Layers of thread...

Machine Embroidery...varied thickness threads

Recreating layering with free motion embroidery

Inspired further by Leslie Shows gorgeous layering effect I have been experimenting with my beloved free-motion embroidery. Using varied threads to create extra texture and depth. I love the mix of the neutral pastels with the strong black contrast. I am also experimenting with new types of stabilisers, this one is burn off muslin which I haven't tried before. I have lots of ideas about how to incorporate this into both a garment and scarves...lots of experimentation to do first though!

Emma Lundgren

Wow I have just been exposed to the world of Emma Lundgren and quite frankly I have to say "what is there not to like about Emma's work?" It is scintillating beyond measure with a mash-up of print. laser cutting and embellishment all mixed with bold colour blocking. It's so edgy and graphic and yet the detailing in the etched leather is really delicate- LOVE IT! It has really inspired me to be much more adventurous with my own work and I would love to explore mixing these techniques for fashion accessories in my final major project.

Contrast...

Continuing to explore the concept for my colour palette I have found some images which use this type of pallet in a sophisticated and sensitive way...

http://sixandahalfstitches.typepad.com/














http://darrenbrownphotography.com/

Lou Medel- http://www.knoed.com/

Scarves, scarves, scarves....

Top Ten

For my final major project I am working in collaboration with an amazing local independent boutique, we have decided that I will design silk  scarves as part of my final collection which will be displayed in the shop...I am so excited and have been exploring this season's (SS12) bounty of scarves for inspiration...this is my Top Ten List...

Etro

                                       

http://www.net-a-porter.com/

Mary Katranzou

http://www.net-a-porter.com/

Edition de Luxe

http://www.editiondeluxecollections.com/

Hermes

http://www.disneyrollergirl.net/

Rihanna Phillips

http://scarfobsessive.tumblr.com/

Faliero Sarti

http://www.farfetch.com/

Swash

http://www.net-a-porter.com/

Wyart

http://www.wyartdesign.com/

Topshop

http://www.topshop.com/

Philip Roucou

http://www.philipperoucou.com/

Digital Prints v Traditional Techniques...?

I am the biggest fan of digital print, but lately I have been challenged to take a fresh look at traditional techniques. I have to admit that at first I was not enamoured with the idea being someone who prefers to work with dry media. Having played around with a few different techniques I then decided to revisit batik. I wanted to use the technique to create a layered look but also to incorporate references to architecture and landmarks from my hometown.

Fashion Designers who Rock!

Fred Butler

One of my favourite fashion designers has got to be Fred Butler. Her work is so 'out the box' and innovative. Her construction is in a world of its own and is haute couture with a capital 'H". The thing I personally most love about her work is her use of colour which is so bold and she capitalises by combining colour with geometric design making it truly striking. In her AW12 collection she uses quilting and fabric manipulation to emphasise both shape and colour which makes the design really strong. Having previously used quilting in a more conservative way within my work I would like to take inspiration from this work and be much bolder in using this technique within this work and in particular with fashion accessories.

More stunning street art...

Shok...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/shok-1/