I wove and dyed two more sets of samples today, which came out significantly better. (That’s code for “The samples are gorgeous!”) I’m a bit frustrated, though, in that I still don’t understand the “rules” of woven shibori – it’s starting to become a little clearer, but it’s still like trying to see through mud.
But because pictures are much more fun than theory, here are a few photos:
I think that the widely spaced ties produce more diffuse, softer effects than the closer-spaced ties. I think that the diamond motif is more pronounced with the more closely spaced ties, but it’s hard to tell because of the irregularity of the dye job. Clearly I will have to get more consistent with my dye application before I can draw any concrete conclusions. 🙁 Next time, I will apply the dye to both sides using a paintbrush, not a syringe; I think that will give me more control.
Some notes on the dyeing:
- Sample #1 was dyed in an immersion dyebath using Lanaset Royal Blue 70%, Sun Yellow 30%. I tied the sample and threw it directly into the dyebath without presoaking, and squeezed the sample a few times in the dyebath (before it got too hot to handle) to encourage the dye to penetrate. Nonetheless the dye didn’t penetrate too far into the bundle. Large dye molecules at work, I guess.
- Sample #2 was briefly soaked in a 50-50 vinegar/water solution before being painted with Lanaset Royal Blue and Mustard dyes, 1% dye stock used directly from the bottle. It was painted with a syringe (in retrospect I should have used a paint brush for better control) and as a result the blue blended significantly with the yellow. The resulting color is very complex and fascinating – the photos, despite color correction, really don’t do justice either to the jewel-like glow of the silk or to the complexity of the color. I’ll try to take a better photo in daylight.
What’s next? Well, I have one more sample of the same cloth woven and ready to dye. Tomorrow morning I’ll tie it and dye it, either in an immersion dyebath of WashFast Acid dye, a mix of Magenta and Golden Yellow, or else paint it (using a PAINT BRUSH!) with those same two colors.
Tomorrow I’m also planning to start my drawing exercises again, and possibly make it to the gym. With chocolate season coming up fast, I’d better start working out again soon!
