Sunday
22Feb2009
I Can't Resist Resist!
Sunday, February 22, 2009 at 8:38AM I've always said that I can resist anything but temptation. Now I cannot resist resists!
Here is a report on my recent explorations with Elmer' glue, water soluble, and gutta resists. All projects shown are on 100% cotton PFD fabric and Pebeo or Jacquard Dyna-Flo textile paints.
1. Jacquard Clear Gutta resist: Used in the Mardi Gras Mandala in the header of my blog.
Pros: The real deal, works very well since it is a rubber-based product.
Cons: Gutta resist must be removed by dry cleaning or resist solvent. It is a flammable liquid and vapor with a flash point of 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Must use in a well ventilated area.
Note: I don't like the vapors and solvent.
2. Saber Silk Colorless Water-Based Resist: Skyler's Fantastic Pink and Purple Horse
Pros: The water-based resist is non-toxic and odorless. Safe to use around children. Resist is removed by soaking in water.
Cons: It may not hold as crisp a line as gutta although I did not have any problems.
Note: This piece was done with 10 year old Skyler; she also named it. Great fun for both of us.
3. Jacquard Black Permanent Water-Based Resist: Mardi Gras Mandala Deux
Pros: Resist is permanent and dry cleanable. It can also be added to a piece after dyeing.
Cons: It is permanent so mistakes are permanent also! It has a slight shine but this may be because I have it on too thickly.
Note: The resist was thick and needed to be thinned for good adhesion. If I had heeded the instruction I would have not had a problem. However, I did not so it just sat on top of the fabric, did not provide a resist and the Dyna- Flo flowed outside of the boundaries. Next time I will test more thoroughly to ensure I have it thinned properly. I'll try a thicker fabric paint that will not spread to see if I can salvage this piece.
4. Elmer's Gel School Glue: Spirals
Pros: readily available, low cost, safe for children to use. Resist is removed by soaking in water.
Cons: The glue spreads while drying so the results are somewhat unpredictable. I probably used way, way too much glue.
Notes: For full instructions on glue resist refer to the article by Cynthia St. Charles in Quilting Arts Magazine, February/March 2009. You will note my spirals are very similar to the technique in the magazine! When trying a technique for the first time I try to follow the example somewhat before I get too creative. This process was really fun and low stress. I'll experiment more with the technique. I plan to look for glue at the Back To School sales this fall when they usually have Elmer's 2 for $1.00.
Let me know if you have experience with these or other types of resists. I'd like to learn more.