INTRODUCTION TO FABRIC DECORATION AND PRINTMAKING

Introduction to Fabric Decoration and Printmaking

Words you will learn:

print making surface decoration pattern motif

impression block plate matrix

After reading this chapter and practicing its activities, you will be able to create patterns for decorating surfaces. You will do this by:

• exploring various traditional and contemporary techniques of printmaking.
• applying and documenting the process of print making.
• explaining the idea of printmaking as a method of surface decoration.

ZTZZnt is a process that is used to make images desired f_0r printing on a surface. It is one of the methods used in print making. Print making is used to produce various similar images. Each image produced is considered to be an original piece which can be transferred to _a different surface to create an impression.

There are several methods applied in printmaking based on the materials used, for example, block printing, stencil printing and screen printing. The surface on which the ink or paint is applied is called the block, plate or a matrix. In order to print, you must have prepared an idea on a surface which is called a motif.

Exploring motif making

Motifs may be made from either natural nr _m                                               ■   i<

Naturally occurring materials include                                                         ““T   _d

stone. Man-made materials include n                                                                             ’                                  a

linoleum. Some of the materials can h                        ^P‘^aSt,CS’ ^fabncS

others must be manipulated. ^{e used}their original form hile

Observe the patterns of Figure 5 i wu                                                                               f

What are the possible sour’ • ~

images in the motifs? What objects from your surrounding can inspire you to make a motif for printing? You need to find out more about print making and mot, designing from other sources such as the internet and school library before you do effective motif designing.

Patterns from Nature

You need to have an interesting idea to print. Your natural

environment is a source of ideas for you to observe objects for printing

You may be interested to portray shapes, texture or colour of an

object. You will have to simplify the object and re-arrange its appearance to suit your pattern.

Printing from nature

1. In groups, move around your compound and identify natural objects with interesting features such as shape,

lines, or texture.

2. Attracted by any of the elements mentioned in number ,

collect any object with interesting features.

3. Back to your classroom, apply ink or colour on one si eo the object and press it on a clean sheet of paper
4. Make several repeats creating a desired pattern
5. Display your work in class and discuss with friends your success and challenges

Designing a Motif

There are various stages you go through to produce a motif and later a print. Each of the stages has sub -types that achieve varying results. You need to do research as you go through them. In this section you are going to develop a motif for a mono-print.

“Mono” means one. Mono-printing is a technique that produces only one print because the ink or paint is transferred from a flat surface.

You may wish to begin your introduction to printing by creating a mono­print, because the procedure is simple to follow. Mono-printing will help you to learn and refine your understanding and skill in applying colour, transferring the image and approving the quality of registration.

You have to follow a process to create a good motif. Remember the ke mile stones: research, plan and sketch, transfer, execute the printin and display your work. These steps will enable you handle one activi

Designing a motif for a mono-print

Design a motif following the printing process:

1. Inspired by your surroundings, choose an object you intend to use as image for your motif as shown in figure 5.2
2. In your sketch pad, draw an object you have chosen simplifying it by removing the details.
3. Create positive and negative areas to make a pattern.
4. Transfer the image on another hard paper or surface and using a cutting tool, remove all areas that are negative.
5. Apply the colour or ink of your choice to the motif and press it on a clean paper to create a print.
6. Display your work and with friends in class discuss your success and challenges.

d)

natural environment

Activity of Integration

Context: The bedroom for your three year old brother has bare walls with no decoration at all. Inspired by your natural environment, design a mono colour print to be used to decorate your young brother’s bedroom.

Chapter Summary

In this chapter you have learned to:

1. explore various traditional and contemporary techniques of printmaking.
2. follow the process of print making.
3. explain the idea of printmaking as a method of surface decoration.

Tips:

• Lines, shapes and pattern are important while making designs. To make a successful motif these have to be artistically arranged.

[1]     printing ink paper

)iect to be cut