to what extent can a method of repair become an outlet for creation?
mending at it's core is used to fix something broken but taken have moved beyond this into an art form
using a free motion quilting foot on a sewing machine allows for fast and freeform stitching. this can create a hand drawn appearance or for patches with complicated shapes
patches made with miscellaneous scrap fabric
scattered array of found buttons used to cover a super glue stain
the overall varied size and placement of the buttons work together with the original blue polka dot pattern to create visual interest
using leftover fabric in mending often means working with small pieces from a variety of different materials. while this may seem more challenging than buying new fabric, it can result in more detailed and textured patches.
screen printing
raw hem off shoulder sweater with custom drawn and printed cat graphic
screen printing is used by a variety of clothing designers and companies. it is one of the most efficient ways to get a bold and clean graphic. however there are also methods for those at home to screen print.
by securing some old tights around an embroidery hoop or an unused wooden picture frame, one can create their own blank screen printing screen. then use a water resistant glue/sealant - such as mod podge
screen printing can be used to cover larger stains or to add a personal touch to any article of clothing
in the digital age we are given mass amounts of content every second.
by making these methods of mending and alteration more accessible we can help dismantle microtrends and fast fashion
collaged phrases tank
this shirt was originally used to test screens but the contrast between repetition and different ink shade of text resulted in a new and unique graphic