The Dark outlets Lords

The watercolor technique was used to create this scarf. In the watercolor technique, the dye can “flow” on the fabric without resist. This gives the artist the freedom to intermix different colors of dye to create unexpected colors. The turquoise background color was applied, allowed to dry and then steam set (See Note). Once the background was set, I over dyed the scarf with French Blue and purple. Since the dyes are transparent, a “new” color was created. While the fabric was wet, I added salt. The salt attracts the dye creating a unique pattern of light and darks. Once the fabric is dry, the salt is removed; and outlets the fabric steam set. As a final layer, I added black using the technique of Arashi (horizontal stripes) Shibori. Again, the fabric was steam set.
Arashi Shibori is an organic and fascinating process. The basic technique is simple. You wrap silk on a pole, tie with string, and apply liquid dye. Variations in color, caused by the various values of dye and the interaction of the dyes with the fabric, are characteristic of this dyeing process and should not be considered flaws.
While the technique is simple, there are many variables. The size of the pole, the weight of the silk, the size of the string, the value/intensity of the dye bath, for example, affect the outcome of the finished piece. The technique is simple, but time consuming. The fabric must be prepared for dyeing prior to being dyed. Background colors are applied by direct application and once the dye has been applied the fabric must be allowed to dry. When dry, the dyed fabric is steam set, then wrapped on a pole, tied with string, compressed, and liquid dye is applied. The fabric is left to dry. This may take several days. Once the fabric is dry, it is removed from the pole, stem set, and prepared for the next step in the process. It is not unusual for a scarf to take 6 or 7 days to complete.
While the technique for each piece may be the same, the outcome is always different. As no two people are alike, no two designs are alike. Each piece of Arashi Shibori is unique. Other Arashi designs may be similar, but they are never identical.
Wearable-art silk scarves are fashion statements. A silk scarf gives a perfect finishing touch to any outfit and can update your wardrobe. A silk scarf can also be worn as a belt or a hair band. A silk scarf makes a wonderful one-of-a-kind gift, because it fits everyone. Silk scarves are also attention getters! If you want to be noticed, looked at, or talked to, this is a great way for others to approach you.
My designs are worn by women who have a sure sense of themselves, know their own minds and are not afraid to express themselves. Enjoy your new “art wear” and wear it in confidence, knowing it is as unique as its wearer.
Dye: Acid
Colors: Black, French Blue, Purple, Turquoise
Fabric: 100% China Silk Measuring: 14” x 68”
Technique: Direct Application-Watercolor technique, Over dyeing, Salt, Arashi (horizontal Stripes) Shibori
Dry Clean Only!
Note: Steam setting required wrapping the dried fabric in unprinted newsprint and steaming in a vertical electric steam for five (5) hours.