Tuesday 20 October 2015

Fabric Printing in Style


Mid September I completed an enlightening and inspiring printing workshop with renounced fabric printer Jenny Stringer.
Drawing up outside her beautiful old Manor House in the heart of the Cotswolds, I felt a little intimidated by its grandeur. Jenny's welcome and the homely interior, soon calmed my first day nerves! The homemade shortbread helped too!
Jenny's studio is up in the attic rooms, the biggest room is the working studio, one tiny room off to the side , holds all her Lino plates, neatly filed away and clearly labelled, in the recycled wooden tomato boxes. A second room to the back is set out like a little showroom, printed fabric, cushions, wallpapers, pillowcases and remnants, displayed in old baskets, draped over an old baby's cot.
In a little recess , off the main studio, hang samples of Jenny's work.
I have always been interested in printing on fabric, the photo shows my design, first draught.

 

Monday 5 October 2015

Linocut Preparations

It's been many weeks since I've been in the studio, working. I've tidied up and prepared for my new teaching term but haven't been producing any art!
Yesterday I spent  the day drawing and placing, drawing and erasing, planning a new Linocut design. I love Nasturtiums, which is just as well because there isn't much else in my garden at this time. I love the shapes, how they twist and trail and of course, the yummy colours of the flowers, from creamy yellows through to the darkest reds, with all the vibrant shades in between.
I am heading away next week to study with a printer who specialises on printing on fabric. I have tried a few things in my studio but my lack of knowledge produced disappointing results. Luckily I have found a wonderful  artist who lives near my daughter, who designs fabric and wallpapers! 
I'm happy now the design is complete......all set for next week...I will keep you posted!