Fancy Fiber Rug Hooking
Fancy Fiber Rug Hooking
Rug hooking is conventionally regarded as a two-dimensional artistic expression. This class will delve into the utilization of a third dimension of depth through the application of intricate fibers. We will explore several three-dimensional techniques, including sculpting or proddy and utilizing intricate fibers.
Mixed Media
Mixed media refers to a visual artwork that integrates different visual art mediums that are typically considered distinct. In the realm of mixed media, artists employ multiple mediums within a single artwork, such as the combination of paint and ink or paint and fiber. The possibilities for combinations are limitless, and the utilization of mixed media techniques in a specific project is constrained solely by the artist's creativity and available resources. A significant number of mixed media artists opt to optimize their creativity by utilizing a wider range of mix options.
This study aims to broaden the scope of rug hooking techniques by incorporating sparkly fabric in conjunction with metallic or synthetic materials, silk, velvet, novelty fabrics, or novelty yarns.
Sari Silk
Sari silk possesses a lustrous quality or sheen that wool cannot. Silk sari ribbons are crafted from the remnants of silk sari manufacturing, obtained from large-scale weaving mills in India, and meticulously stitched together to create a seamless length. Select between a multicolored ribbon with sleek edges or one with delicate edges. The solid hues of ribbons have undergone dyeing to achieve a uniform color yet anticipate a wide range of color and texture variations, encompassing remnants of beading and embroidery originating from the original saris. Additionally, one should search for skeins of ribbons that are crafted from strips of patterned silk chiffon fabric. Likewise, numerous strips contain small gems of sequins and embroidery. Both the yarns and the ribbons are derived from the same waste ends. The yarn is manually tamped and subsequently spun by hand using a drop needle.
Although the ribbon strips vary in width, they can be at least one inch wide. You can get a completely different look based on how you hook them. To enhance a line, one may consider employing a low hooking technique, wherein the hook is positioned at the same height as the surrounding fibers, or a higher hooking technique. For a more polished appearance, you have the option to either cut or fold the silk in half, or simply pull up the loops as they appear for a more untamed appearance.
Velvet
Velvet Cutting: I employ a rotary cutter and healing mat to fold the velvet right sides together, ensuring that they are folded down to achieve a length of 10-15" units of measurement. Apply firm pressure on the ruler to cut the velvet. If deemed necessary, align and trim to achieve uniform edges. Using scissors may result in a more untidy and less precise outcome. Do not use your cutter, as it may result in a dull blade and wiggles.
Begin by cutting the velvet to a width of 1/4"- 3/4". If you are hooking on panel cloth, begin with the narrower width. For most of the hooking, I prefer a 3/4" width. When using both velvet and wool, it is advisable to cut the velvet approximately 50% wider than the wool cut, as the velvet tends to drape. You have the option to cut wider, particularly for borders, by 1 inch or more. Adjust the width to achieve a captivating impact.
The velvet contains a nap. To observe the distinction, position a portion of the fabric in one direction and another portion in the opposite direction. There is a disparity in the sheen between the two directions. Both options are acceptable, but it is advisable to consistently cut and hook in the same direction, unless you wish to vary within a single piece. Prior to hooking, you have the option to pull the strip, which will result in a less distinct curl and hook. However, it is important to note that over time, the velvet may undergo contraction or shrinkage in your hooked piece. I would rather refrain from pulling to provide greater clarity to the loops.
Elevate the loops to the desired height. To achieve a satisfactory drape, it may be necessary to separate the loops using a hook. The hooking can be either directional or 'higgily piggily', or it can be densely hooked and then snipped to create a sculptured effect.
Always pull up ends and cut off starts, and like how one would handle wool, pull to slightly stretch and get rid of or hide the beginnings and ends tails.
To incorporate an applique, you can delicately fuse it, although it may not be necessary.
Taffeta
Cutting: The fabric is easy to tear; it should be cut a few inches before it tears; remove any annoying strings. Alternatively, employ rotary, like how you did with the velvet.
A width of 1/2 to 3/4" is good to begin with for hooking, but it is advisable to experiment. To enhance the drape, it is recommended to use wider borders and pull and spread loops. To achieve clean edges, either fold the taffeta while hooking or leave it raw. When using wool and taffeta for hooking, it is recommended to use taffeta that is wider than the wool. Elevate the loops and trim them to achieve a sculpted appearance. The presence of ridges on this taffeta fabric adds an intriguing element, as it allows for hooking in either direction.
Cotton
The loops exhibit less fluffiness compared to wool, yet they possess vibrant colors and a unique sheen that sets them apart from other materials. Wool, which possesses a certain degree of elasticity, is more amenable to being hooked. Cotton, as well as cotton-based materials like denim or velvet, do not exhibit the same level of elasticity as wool. The statement holds true for both leather and Ultrasuede, although it does not preclude their utilization.
Spandex
The fabric commonly known as Spandex, or Lycra, was first developed in 1958. The lightweight synthetic fiber in question is commonly employed in the production of stretchable garments, such as bathing suits, yoga pants, and the notable incorporation of this fiber into jeans. Spandex exhibits remarkable elasticity, robustness, and longevity. It exhibits a texture similar to cotton rather than wool, lacking the soft and fluffy nature of wool. The ends are highly pointed and occasionally exhibit a white and rubbery appearance; thus, I refrain from raising them up and instead leave them down.
Steaming