I use the Dye-Na-Flow silk paints, which are NOT as toxic as they used to be when I first learnt this process, and the colours are quite vibrant indeed!
(PLEASE NOTE WELL: When selecting your silk paints or dyes, please read the label carefully, as to how the colours are ‘heat set.’ If you see that the colours must be ‘steamed’ to heat-set, this is NOT the steaming of a home iron, but an ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL STEAMER!)
I also use the Resisted Water-Based gutta, by Jacquard.
To prepare the gutta for use, one must use a 1:1 ratio; that is, one part water to one part gutta, and shake thoroughly for a good mix, before use.
The gutta is then poured into a small, plastic, applicator bottle, as seen in the video.
DO NOT fill to the brim!
Place your choice of steel stylus to the tip of the applicator bottle.
NB. The stylus ranges from 5mm, 7mm and 9mm.
The smallest denomination for fine, detailed linework.
I prefer to use between the 7mm and the 9mm for most of my work, as they do not clog as easily.
Plan your piece ahead of time, so that you know what size sumi brush you will need.
Sumi brushes are specific to the ‘gutta serti’ technique, as they tend to hold more dye or paint.
I also use synthetic textile brushes, for overpainting and detail work, which is done at the end of the process.
Therefore, one can use a range of brushes, round and flat, to paint a single art piece of art.
For designing, one you will need a cork-backed ruler, pencils, set square, a black Sharpie felt pen, and bright white drawing paper. The bright white paper enables one to see through the silk to the design beneath.
You will need a frame, on which to tape your design, and to stretch your silk.
I choose to use wooden artist stretchers for this purpose; so that, the design is taped to the underside of the frame, and the silk is stretched in the well of the frame, as seen in the video.
There is an adjustable metal frame, which may be purchased from Dharma Trading, CA, if this is more to your liking.
Please check out my Instagram page @claradesignsart for more samples of my work, and ‘works in progress.’
Do send me any questions or concerns that you may have, and I’ll be happy to answer them.
I am also thinking of doing a paid online course, so please let me know if you’ll be interested.
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See you soon.
