A PEEK INTO MY PROCESS
initial sketch
Each piece starts with a rough sketch, either on paper or digitally, to create the initial idea for the composition, build out needed shapes for appliqué, and map out how the pieces will need to be cut, overlapped, and layered.
photo editing
I often incorporate photographs into my work, which I typically source from photos I’ve personally taken, old family photographs, historical and museum archives, or “found” photographs and ephemera from antiques stores. I scan and edit these digitally for color, contrast, and texture, inspired by 19th century tintype development processes.
fabric prep
Once I have an idea of how the piece will be layered and arranged, I search through my felt and fabric stash for coordinating colors, patterns, and textures. Most of my fabric collection consists of upcycled scraps from past projects and thrift stores.
With materials selected, it’s time to cut out my shapes from the fabric for appliqué. Sometimes, I cut freehand for an organic feel. For more intricate shapes or puzzle-pieced designs, I draw paper patterns or create reusable templates first, which I then trace onto the fabric before cutting. At this stage, I also transfer my photographs to fabric to be cut.
For works incorporating transparent “windows” like the one shown, these are planned and cut at this stage, too.
appliqué and embroidery
Next, I fuse, baste, or otherwise temporarily attach the cut-out pieces to my base material or garment. Then it’s over to the sewing machine where I appliqué them on using various stitches and techniques, depending on the look and final use case of the piece. I often incorporate free-motion embroidery, and/or machine-embroidered elements like typography or digitized handwriting.
finishing touches
I add any finishing touches like hand-embroidered details, beadwork, edges and decorative trims, and grommets inspired by traditional felt camp banners to make the piece complete!
Finally, I photograph the piece (while procrastinating cleaning up all the scraps and tools that have collected in piles across the studio).