I have been upcycling denim jackets, with various embellishments, for a while. For example, below are some recent ones. For whatever reason, I have been inspired to embellish another, with an aesthetic that I would describe as abstract medieval. In particular, I like some of the bizarre characters. I also like the organic vine-like backgrounds. […]
Embroidered Applique DIY Adventures Read More »
I have done quite a bit of work with Sashiko, directly onto clothing, as well as Boro Sashiko. Below are a few examples of sashiko embroidery from Glen and I, that has been stitched directly onto thrifted shirts. This time, I had a vision of a sashiko shirt with more of a patched or Boro
Designing a Sashiko Patched Shirt Read More »
The Ainu People The Ainu are an indigenous people from the northern region of the Japan. The only thing that I know about them is from seeing their designs, when scrolling through pinterest, looking for Sashiko designs. Below is just one example of their designs, which I have used as inspiration. My Process I salvaged
Upcycled Chore Jacket with Ainu Designs Read More »
I made a Free-motion embroidered applique based on the Great Wave of Kanagawa. I then went on to add it to a denim jacket and did some other treatments. The jacket was more experimental than anything else and I was never really happy with the outcome. Experiments with Distressing Fabric I had become inspired by
Upcycled Obi Boro Sashiko Jacket Read More »
What is Boro Sashiko? Sashiko is a Japanese running stitch, usually seen as white cotton on indigo fabric; either in straight lines or as a pattern. Boro Sashiko is sashiko stitching used to mend clothing. Over time, as an item of clothing is mended many times, the effect can be quite beautiful and always unique.
Adventures in Boro Sashiko Read More »
Inspiration A few years ago, while we were out shopping at Japanache, we spied some vintage Fireman jackets. Of course, they only fit Glen! I am very used to this scenario, from our many trips in Asia and my usual solution is to make it myself! I have been into Sashiko for a while now
Sashiko Japanese Fireman’s Jacket Read More »
Fuzzy-Felt I have vague memories of playing with Fuzzy-Felt in the 70’s, when it was particularly popular. For a deep dive into all things Fuzzy-Felt, you can’t go past: https://www.ghostofthedoll.co.uk/fuzzyfelt.php .One of the sets that I salvaged was the Fantasy set. Inside was a handy brochure with some ideas for the fantasy characters you can
Adventures in Fuzzy-Felt Read More »
My upcycling journey, so far I have been needle felting 3D characters for a while; below are a few examples of my work. Since then, my values have shifted into supporting sustainable and eco-friendly fibres, textiles and fashion. My aims, now, are to upcycle and re-purpose existing clothes and materials. This latest project utilises a
Needle Felted Wool Painted Upcycled Tweed Jacket Read More »
Introduction I first encountered free motion machine embroidery in Nepal in 1998. These were produced by pedal-powered singer sewing machines and I came home with a number of these. Since then, my treasures t-shirts have been misplaced in several moves, so I decided that I could probably make my own. I gained further impetus from
Introduction to Free Motion Machine Embroidery Read More »
