Design
elements
The best design is usually simple. Trying to fit in too many ideas or techniques can
muddle the overall effect and detract from your main intention. As with all artwork. You
need to decide what it is that you arc trying to say or communicate through your idea If
it is a fabric to use in clothing then you need to determine how the final function
affects your design. A cushion cover for instance could have a specific format that might
not do fort. bedspread or a dress material.
The design needs to be considered - am I going for a
"picture" or something abstract or a combination of the two. Spending some time
to work out a design or pattern beforehand will benefit the final product. It is also time
well spent to experiment and do actual "trials" of images on fabric to see if
you like the actual finish. Colour comes into this and is an important consideration for
textiles. How many colours or overlapping of colour will make a huge difference to The
piece. So, initially, keep the amount of colour simple.
Listen to what your materials and techniques are telling you. The
materials that you use will have certain limitations or sometimes, it is possible to use
materials. That you might think were alien to fabric design such as plastics and metals
Never be afraid to experiment - There is no such thing as right or wrong as long as it is
important to you to express it. You will soon find out if a "fabric" will take a
dye or paint. Other factors include washing, wear ability, clarity and use of the final
fabric. The variety of techniques is legion and again, you will need to consider why you
are making the fabric and which technique fits best. Will you be able to acquire all the
tools, equipment and materials you will need to do a particular technique and do you have
appropriate facilities in which to carry them out?
Cost made be a factor. What can I use that will extend my budget? There
are always alternatives arid cheaper ways to create the same idea. It is the composition
and your input that will make an interesting image, not the amount of money you spend on
materials. While it is important to know what is available and how to use it for the sake
of most financial purses, it is not possible or necessary to get the message across
Alternate materials: Try fabric warehouses, Trago Mills for cheap
cotton and silk Nurseries for material to print on (the white gauze plant protector).
School paint with PVA added to it makes good fabric paint. Try natural plants &
veggies for dying or coffee and tea including fruit teas, which give lovely colour.
Institutional catalogues can be good, but be careful, as they do not always represent the
cheapest way to buy. Keep your eyes open as the most unlikely places can be a source for
materials.
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