Module One. Chapter Eleven

Resolved Sample
First thoughts – paper experiments
I used brown packing paper to try out various methods to make paper disintegrate. I included threadless machine stitching, needle felting, a hole punch, tearing, snipping, burning, stabbing, pleating, crimping and machine stitching with areas rubbed away.

This was a useful exercise for trying out methods that might be effective when translated into fabric.
Second thoughts – paper shapes
The image below shows the results of taking a square of paper and tearing it in increasing amounts to disintegrate the shape.

This exercise is a revelation – I have worked the exercises in this chapter in a random order, I have also worked on ideas for my resolved sample and I find myself going around in circles not quite satisfied with any one of them. Looking at these samples I really like the patterns created by the ‘fracture’ lines – the original cross shape is still apparent despite the increased disintegration in each version.
Third thoughts – different ways of disintegrating a square of fabric 

The images above show my samples of fabric squares disintegrated using fraying and a page of samples using other methods such as stitching with thread the same colour as the background fabric, bonded thread snippets, a needle felting tool and stitching combined with fraying.
I still have some samples to work but below are some of my preliminary ideas for designs to show growth and disintegration.



Following on from the torn paper exercise I decided to revisit the designs for my resolved piece. I particularly like the patterns created by the 'fractures' in the paper exercise and I think this effect could be suggested by using chenille effect. Below is my design idea using this technique.

The dotted lines for the part shapes around the edge of the piece represent stitching - I think cutting a layer back to reveal a printed layer as with the central shape would tie the piece together quite well.

Reviewing the sketch I think some hand stitching would further add to the piece so I tried this out using Photoshop.

 I think this does look better - there is an increased feeling of disintegration/growth as the eye travels around the piece. I am undecided about adding hand stitching around the central shape, I think this may emphasise the solidity of the shape but I think I will make up the sample and decide when I see how it looks.