I narrowed down my choices to print on to silk satin and silk broadcloth. The satin was shinier and a brighter white; the broadcloth had a nice tight weave, more of a matte finish, and was just slightly off-white.
For both sets of prints I set both the digital photo and the printer saturation levels above normal by a bit. For the satin set I also upped the contrast...it would have made a difference in the broadcloth but I had forgotten to do it.
The satin was my favorite...but because the broadcloth came out so muted, I tried defining the flowers and bringing out their color with some NeoColor Wax Pastels. You draw right on the fabric and then iron it to make it permanent. These "crayon" looking lines gave a different feel to the prints which I'm not sure, but I might kind of like....
This is the silk satin print set.
Here are the pastels...
And here is the pastel-enhanced silk broadcloth print. You will probably need to click on this to see the effect of the drawing.All I can think is, "Hmmmmmmm....."
Now, if those dang roses would hurry up and start blooming!
gorgeous color arrangement. you know i'm a purest so i go for the unenhanced
ReplyDeleteHmmn...I like both but you are right, there is something about the pastel enhanced versions. Are you treating your fabric with anything before printing?
ReplyDeleteI could choose either one, I think. Nice to know that the silk satin works best; I guess that's not surprising really since it has the least absorbent surface. Thanks for sharing all your experimentation, and I covet that big box of new pastels!
ReplyDeleteI too covet the pastels - that could lead to a whole new "binge" of artistic activity. I rather like the enhanced version, as it is subtle and not obvious. JAH
ReplyDeleteoooh i have these crayons! and i would love to try drawing on fabric. here comes the stupid question. how do you iron it? since they are so waxy do you place a blotter of some kind between the iron and the drawn on cloth before setting the pigments? how hot should the iron be?
ReplyDeletethis path (garden path) you are on is wonderful.
Hi Belvedere Beads!
ReplyDeleteNormally I respond to questions people post in the comment section here privately via email...but when there is no email in the commenter's profile, what can I do? I will answer here:
I always put "release paper" under and over my fabric when I iron these pastels in. The paper is just the backing that comes with fusible web, like wonder under. I use a hot iron. I haven't gone too heavy with these pastels, so a lot of wax hasn't been in issue. I suppose it could be..what I love is that the "hand" of the fabric isn't affected at all by the pastels; it stays fluid, not at all stiff...
Mmmmmm... I like the enhanced versions best, I think. I love the green piece on the left!
ReplyDeleteI had just the same reaction as Belvedere Beads!
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting the info ;o)
I forgot to say that I find both trials fantastic!
ReplyDeleteI definitely like both sets. I'm sure each would be a favorite with someone, and all will be used in something wonderfully beautiful by you. =) I'm going to try to resist the urge to buy this set of pastels. =)
ReplyDeleteI like both! I enjoy reading about your printing projects. Thanks for sharing. I'd like to try it someday!
ReplyDeleteDelicious! And fascinating. I think you should write a book on your discoveries and techniques. No, really.
ReplyDeleteI am with Rian; you definitely need to write a book. Your techniques are different than I see anyone else doing and there would be a lot of interest because they are so gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteMust be those spring flowers - looks like you've really kicked into creative gear!! These printed flowers are gorgeous. I've played with the neopastels a bit...they are fun!
ReplyDeleteAnd I have to agree with Rian and Granny Fran on the book idea. Your work is unique and beautiful.