Unit X - Mid-Point Evaluation

I have learned a lot from my practice unit, which has changed my attitude towards my unit X project. I will refrain from being too ambitious regarding work load, and instead focus my energy into my weaving. This will ensure I am using my time to thoroughly develop and resolve my samples.

Time management plan

The digital designs that I have produced are time efficient, because they will enrich my weaving compositionally, whilst also allowing me to participate in an outward facing project. I aim to produce a collection of digitally printed designs on fabric to enter into the 'Limitless' brief by i-Dott.

My digital drawing designs

I am focusing on my strengths of using unconventional yarns and combining crochet elements. Instead of surface embellishment, I am embellishing the weave from within the structure. This will push the boundaries of my weaving, challenging what is practical, whilst providing me with a structured format to work with.

Lily Tennant

I aim to produce a collection of meter long passementerie weaves, inspired by Rebecca Louise Law's installation consisting of mass amounts of long floral forms hanging from supports. I intended for my weaves to become jewellery or fashion pieces, however, it was suggested that I display my work on bobbins, because it is more practical, similar to how Lily Tennant presents her work.

Unit X - Week 4

I noticed the quality of my weaves improved with the black warp, as they had the dramatic aesthetic that I desired. The varying yarns have resulted in obscure and abstract interpretations of my inspirational images, whilst remaining true in terms of colour and surface texture.

Inspirational photo, my drawing, my weaving (beads & cord)

I developed my drawings in Photoshop to create compositions to help me visualise the structure of my weaves. My compositional skills have improved and strengthened my direction. I noticed they capture a quality of Alexander McQueen's printed fabrics.

Alexander McQueen garment

I would like to create a series of digital fabric prints, using these designs to create a collection for the 'Limitless' brief from the i-Dott competition. This will be an efficient use of my time, because the designs can help enrich my project by informing my weaves, whilst allowing me to engage in outward facing activity.

My digital drawing designs

Practice - Week 16

I revisited my Hand & Lock competition, focusing on hand embroidery techniques instead. I was inspired by previous winner Devi Vallabhaneni, who created a 3D beadwork installation. 

Devi Vallabhaneni

I created a fabric manipulated brooch, influenced by Vanities: incorporating floral inspiration in response to the 'celebrations' brief. My colours gradually fade from bright pinks and yellows to symbolise how life and death is celebrated. I incorporated beadwork and wire to strengthen my reasons for choosing the hand-embroidery category.

Board submission for Hand & Lock Competition

I think my concept was strong, however, I struggled to create a successful final piece because I did not leave myself enough time to develop my work. I was too ambitious with my time, and failed to organise this live project.

Practice - Week 9

I began a work placement for a bridal studio 'Sandra's Studio' in London. I found the inspiration boards interesting, and compared them to the final garments. I helped to stitch inserts of a bodice, which required thick, strong thread with small, hidden stitches.

I practiced stitching lace onto fabric and was introduced to new machinery. I learned the importance of ironing seams in certain directions, as it affects how the garment hangs and avoids puckering the fabric. I was also introduced to lace and silk suppliers and participated in a client's fitting, where final adjustments were made to the bride's dress.

Pattern cutting

I was taught how to create my own pattern for a child's dress, which requires careful calculations and proportions. I ensured I cut out the fabric on-grain, to keep the pattern consistent. I attached the underlay to the outer layer using an industrial Brother machine, which allowed me to accurately sew. I found the overlocker difficult to use, as it required precision and excess fabric to work properly. Mistakes would ruin the garment, considering the machine cuts the fabric whilst it stitches.

My dress modelled on baby

I am pleased with the result I obtained, but found the process tedious and difficult. The floral pattern links to the Hand & Lock 'celebrations' brief, as flowers are used to celebrate special events such as weddings and birthdays. It also relates to the idea of "play" mentioned within the brief: my response being 'child's play'. My dress demonstrates technical construction skills, but is not an appropriate entry for the competition, because it lacks an innovative use of these skills.

Practice - Week 7

I was satisfied with my white floral samples, and decided to explore something more colourful. I focused on a different flower, dissecting the two tones of pink of the petal. This translated well within my weaving and created a distinct two-tone effect. The wool I originally used was unsuccessful, because it failed to capture the quality and elegance like the mercerised cotton did.

My weaving

I created crochet chains in response to the remaining colours of the flower. The centre of the flower was translated with yellow French knots to capture the rich texture. I altered the placement of my weaving on the body, as the structure makes it more suitable as a decorative cuff.

Embroidered weave modelled as cuff

I reflected on my aims and divided my time for the remainder of this unit in conjunction with my proposal. I aim to finish my first self-initiated project, enter two outward facing projects, participate in a bridal studio work placement and produce a darker second self-initiated project in relation to the commencing winter month, inspired by Alexander McQueen.

Time management plan

I discussed my proposed schedule with my tutor about my outward facing projects. I was advised to participate in work experience for one week, so that I learn essential skills within a reasonable time-frame. I was also advised to extend my time frame for my Hand & Lock project, to ensure I spend enough time developing a final piece.