TECHNIQUES

Wax, heated to 100°C and maintained at this temperature, forms a water-tight barrier when applied to woven fabric. The initial design is laid down in wax using brush or tjanting. When immersed in dye, the material absorbs colour, except where it is protected by the wax. More wax is applied to the design to seal and protect areas of colour and to add to texture and design. Immersion in another dye creates further colour. This overlaying process of wax and repeated dyeing takes place several times until the piece is complete.

The fabric can be ironed at various stages and the protective layers of wax removed, so that when it is re-waxed and re-dyed overlapping patterns are laid down creating added depth and three dimensional effects.

The final impact of the work is brought out most clearly when the work is displayed with light behind it, whether natural or artificial. This has the effect of 'pushing out' the colours, layers and textures inherent in the work.

It is a long and detailed process with each stage applied by hand. Each work is therefore unique and cannot be reproduced or even repeated exactly.