Batik & Ink...

The photo included on this post is of a hand carved ink and batik stamp imported from Asia for our Global Collection. These stamps have been used for centuries to create designs on textiles. You can use ink to dye the fabric directly or melted wax for a batik resist.

I just think these are so cool as design elements for your shelf, desk or table. I could even envision these as a wall grouping in large square pattern.

The three patterns we have in stock are listed on our website - I am so excited to see how you use these! We are buying more designs too so bookmark that page!

Enjoy!

Lise

New School Artsy Eggs

When I was young, I always looked forward to making colored Easter eggs to fill my Easter basket. I was a young adult before I realized there can be much more to creating easter eggs than I once imagined.

So this year, in addition to the normal easter egg batch, I'm going to try my hand at a slightly different type of easter egg. This year I'm taking my inspiration from mud cloth designs, which I have in my fabric arsenal. (You can also use a favorite knit pattern, floral pattern or any simple sketch from your journal).

I'll need to buy:

eggs
straight pins
wax (beeswax and parrafin)
dyes
paper towels

After I'm finished with the batch of our traditional dyed eggs, I'll save a few unboiled eggs and take the yolks out.




I have practiced mudcloth designs on paper before, but never on an egg.
The lines on the egg will be created by the wax resist (similar to a batik technique). I will apply the melted wax to the egg with a writing tool (toothpicks, skewers, pins) and then soak the egg in a single dye to keep things simple.



To remove the wax, hold the egg near a flame (but not close enough to burn it), and wipe away melted wax with the paper or cloth towels. Then apply 2 - 3 coats of clear water-based varnish.

Be Creative,

Lise