The idea of a panel-patched scarf/textile came form an experimental piece I had made to put together my first Eco-printing experiments. After displaying it in Showcase (August 2012) I realised its too precious and meaningful to be sold so I began wearing it, and no sooner started receiving compliments and interest. Which made me think of doing a collection of patched panels.
The two ideas morphed together by serendipity. I was rummaging through my fabric cabinet when amongst the fabrics strewn, a pile that had just formed caught my eye. They looked like they belonged together. I instinctively reached for a strip of green and that's it!
These were, a beautiful rust coloured fabric bought from Orimono Blue (sourced from flea markets in Japan), silk eco-printed with eucalyptus to which I added another eco-printed with Eucalyptus+ pomegranate +iron nails and of course the green silk (dyed with Red onion skins), and a brocade border (which I happen to have and which was utterly perfect) which I bought a while back but can't remember when or where exactly.
The vintage fabric of course having been used before, had many stains and a few holes. I have used parts with the least amount of stains. I must admit when I decided to use it anyway, mend the weak parts and cover the stains I did feel like I was taking a risk. I mean, would people really appreciate the beauty and story of it like I do or will they simply see an old fabric with holes?
But I hope to encourage people to re-use, re-function fabrics so I kept at it and I have to say, after spending much time and love on these imperfections, I think they have become the tiny pleasurable details that add the specialness and the 'treasurable' factor. Here are some images. What do you think?
These two scarves can also be used as table runners, curtain panels and what else..?
There's a chance to see and feel these in person and they will be on show at the Made in Clerkenwell Summer Open studios from 16 - 19 May 2013 at Craft Central in London.
