So now you know something about me, here is an explanation of how I make stuff.
Trapunto is a quilting technique in which the stuffing is inserted after you sew. I begin by using fabric dyes on natural fabrics to create the image. The dyes handle a lot like watercolor, so I can use a brush, airbrush or dip pen. Once the image is complete, I sew it to a backing fabric, usually with my handy-dandy treadle machine. Then I stretch both layers on stretcher bars, slit the backing fabric carefully, and insert the stuffing from the back. Then, a third layer of fabric is added to cover up all of those little incisions. Because the dyes allow the fabric to remain soft and flexible I can easily add applique and embellishments. The finished piece becomes a soft sculpture collage.
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