Textile artists create art using fiber-based materials, such as yarn, string, and fabric, and techniques, such as weaving, embroidery, quilting, dyeing, felting, and sewing. When people ask what I do I use this umbrella term.

Here are a few out-of-the-box signs you are a textile artist.

1. Like every artist, you’ve reached a point where you have so many things you’ve made, plus supplies and tools, maybe even with two studios and junk in your trunk you are still running out of room. Yet, you continue your education in your field, which means prolifically making more stuff you may not have room for.

2. The community knows you as ” That ____ lady or guy.” Insert your craft. Your work is compelling and innovative. They gift you an abundance of textile supplies. You may rarely purchase supplies.

3. You have a style people recognize. Your friends know your style and gift you even more textiles. You love this!

4. Your online presence has you participating in groups and activities like The Dayton Garment Designers, Declutter Challenge. 

5. You focus on a set of limited techniques and push their boundaries through experimentation.

6. You may have trouble staying focused and easily get sidetracked by the next shiny thing. You want to make everything.

7. You practice your skills on others and they truly appreciate your time.

Bonus – Your work engages the viewer on a multi-sensory stage with shapes, patterns, colors, and textures. If you are into fashion you may study color and book a session with a local leading image consultant, Caitlin B to have your colors analyzed.

What did I miss?

Behind the scenes~

Here are some lessons I’ve learned recently. Patch pockets can not be added to a cape, or they will mess up the drape and style lines. I love to rip!

I also learned lapped seams. They are easy: mark your seam allowance, lay your no-fray fabric over the line, and double topstitch. This works best with heavy fibers.

On my underdress, I learned the color gold and a loose fit, were poor choices for me. A little blue dye and fake out smocking fixed that painful disaster.

On my over-dress, I aquired the skill of fork pleating. No measuring or marking. I put my fork in and roll!

I also made Jeffrey a hooded wool cape, too. I am so happy he loves it.

 

Thank you for reading!

Tracy McElfresh
Dream it! Sew it!

 

 

 

Tracy McElfresh
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