Fiber Art
A batch of daisy patches in progress on my vintage zigzag machine.
Free Motion Satin Stitch Embroidery
This is a technique that I first learned about thanks to artists like Ellie MacDonald (URL) and Rosie Brain (URL), both trained in free motion embroidery on a specialized industrial machine called an Irish Singer. There are some incredible vocational programs in the UK and EU for this specific skill, but it is very difficult to even learn about it in the US. I spent hours researching industrial sewing machines, even taking a workshop from Portland Apparel Labs on using industrial machines, until I finally felt confident to try it out.
Some of the first sketches and prototypes for this collection.
Psychedelic Spring Patch Collection (2022)
Having learned just enough to know what I didn’t know, I thought it would be fun to create a small collection of wool patches. It was challenging to try to achieve consistency with a old sewing machine that had been somewhat haphazardly retrofitted for this technique, but it was an excellent learning experience. My goal was to use 100% postconsumer materials, so the colors and designs were selected with that in mind. All materials came from Seattle ReCreative and Ragfinery in Bellingham.
Upcycled Garments
A truly upcycled garment, I think, is one that is transformed from a state of moderate disrepair into something useable and/or beautiful. In that sense, these are not true upcycles but more adornments of garments in decent quality. Free motion embroidery is apt for delicate repairs such as covering small stains or holes, and can either blend subtly or make a statement.
