Tag: silk

So Excited About Silk!

Art : Drawing; Painting; Fiber; Etc., Awesome Upcoming Classes, Workshops

As I study other fiber artist’s work online, I have noticed how some of them use patterned sections in their scarves and I wondered how they got those effects.  Knowing they use silk and merino as I do, I realized they must be using printed silk.  I went online and found beautiful old sari’s for sale, so I picked out my favorites (pictured above) and ordered them!  I also saw some gorgeous iridescent silks in solid colors and ordered some of those too.  I am very excited about incorporating these exquisite colors and patterns into my scarf designs!

I have some silk already, for my scarf designs and for use in the workshops, but in the very near future I will have even more!

Silks for Nuno Scarves

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My sister gave me a silk scarf the other day, which was delicate, sheer, and one of those treasures women cherish for their beauty. It is a gentle creamy white with small pink accents and grey and white filagrees printed on. To make it even more beautiful, there are little clear but reflective sequins sewn on here and there to give a bit of sparkle.

Inspired, I decided to invest in some sheer silks to attempt to create some equally charming scarves but of a different nature. I found a company called JRB Silks online and ordered these colors. The silk material will be used as background for the merino and silk fibers. I will felt merino wool and silk fibers onto the sheer fabric to create what is known as Nuno felting.

Nuno felting can be seen on many you tube videos and is not difficult.  I will post my results when I have experimented with this fun new creative process.

Finally . . . My First Felting Workshop in Oregon!

Art : Drawing; Painting; Fiber; Etc.

thumb_IMG_5265_1024 thumb_IMG_5317_1024 thumb_IMG_5358_1024Michele Ballantyne Felt Scarf-1

 

 

 

 

Saturday, April 30th, 2016, I will be holding a scarf felting workshop in my home in Salem Oregon. The time will be from 9am to 3pm, and will include a half hour break, in which a light lunch will be served.

Pictured are some examples of the types of scarves that can be made in this workshop. The maximum size for layout will be 9 feet long and 12″ wide, which results in a scarf that is approximately 8 feet long by 10″ wide. They can be made smaller, however, based on your preference.
My very large assortment of merino, and merino silk fiber blend, colors will be available for each of you, up to 5 ounces for each scarf (most that I make weigh 4 ounces), and in any color combination and as many colors as you like.
The cost of the workshop is $75 and these scarves are more beautiful, in my opinion, than similar fiber scarves found in the nicer stores for upwards of $200.00, because they are handmade and works of art rather than machine manufactured. These scarves reflect your tastes and color preferences, besides being a lot of fun (and a bit of work) to make.
The more the merrier (up to six attendees) as we visit and work together. The time will fly!
Please call or text me to reserve your place in the workshop.
407-766-2588
Or, if you prefer, you can email me at micheleballantynedesigns@gmail.com