Thursday, 30 August 2018

Suitable Summer Fabrics

Here are some suitable summer fabrics to keep you cool!
breathable summer fabrics

1. COTTON

Where to Wear it? 
Cotton is perfect for all climates, which is why it’s widely worn & loved. Wear this in dry heat or humidity, too.
What’s The Benefit?
This natural fiber allows air to circulate & move freely through the fabric, which makes heat more bearable. It’s like a built-in air-conditioner for your body!
Stylist Tip: Remember, cotton can shrink in the dryer! In the summer, take the extra minute to hang dry your cotton garments (it’s hot anyways!).

breathable summer fabrics

2. CHAMBRAY

Where to Wear It? 
Because this is cotton, it too will keep you cool in dry heat & humidity.
What’s The Benefit?
Chambray often comes in a higher thread count, which means it’s a finer weave & more breathable fabric.
Stylist Tip: Chambray has a similar look to denim so you can get the look without feeling weighed down.

breathable summer fabrics

3. RAYON

Where to Wear It? 
Rayon is best in dry heat. Since it’s still not a natural fiber, it won’t wick away moisture as well as cotton.
What’s The Benefit?
Rayon is a thinner thread than cotton, so it’s great for delicate, lightweight clothing that drapes ever so well.
Stylist Tip: Light-colored garments in white, cream & pastels don’t absorb sunlight like dark colors do. Wear them to stay cool.

breathable summer fabrics

4. LINEN

Where to Wear It? 
Anywhere! Linen was made for the heat.
What’s The Benefit?
Linen textiles are some of the oldest in the world—people have been wearing it for centuries, and for good reason. The natural fiber and light weave allow for maximum breathability; the coolest of the cool.
Stylist Tip: Wrinkles are part of the carefree, lived-in beauty of linen. Hate to iron? Lightly spray your garment with a water bottle and smooth over wrinkles with your hand.

breathable summer fabrics

5. BLENDS

Where to Wear It? 
Synthetic fabrics are known for detracting moisture (think: athletic wear), so they’re great in humid climates.
What’s The Benefit?
Blended fabrics keep their shape & require little to no maintenance (like ironing!).
Stylist tip: Blended fabrics resist heat well, so you can wash and dry garments without worrying about damage or dreaded shrinkage. Machine washable = huge time-saver!
Information sourced from: https://blog.stitchfix.com/fashion-tips/guide-breathable-summer-fabrics/

Monday, 20 August 2018

Screen printing with paper stencils


Screen printing with paper stencils

This video is an example of how to screen print using paper stencils and multiple layers.
Watch the video below and answer the following questions:

- Name 4 things you will need
- What is the cello-tape used for?
- What areas do you cut out first?
- What do you need to think about when attaching your stencil to the screen (frame)?
- Why were a few layers of tape used to attach the stencil?
- How should you prepare your fabric?
- What is used to add paint to the screen?
- How many passes of the squeegee should you do, what type of pressure should you apply, and how should you hold it?
- How do you lift the frame off?

Tuesday, 14 August 2018

Finding Patterns Online

Finding a pattern you like can be tricky. Use the links below to direct you to some great websites that have a range of patterns for your next assessment. You may need to create an account in order to view everything the website provides. However, don't sign up if there is a payment involved!!

Pattern Postie is an easy website to navigate when you are looking for patterns. 

Sew Cool in School has a small amount of patterns, with some gorgeous simple dress patterns for this Spring/Summer.

Butterick has a range of patterns that suit various ages - you may have to scroll through to find your style.

Calico Shopping/Tote Bag

Term 3 – Calico Tote Bags are replacing the previous Year 9 Drawstring Bag assessment. Below is a tutorial that describes the materials and equipment you will need and the construction process. The finished prototype will still feature applied designs such as screen prints and appliqué. 

Watch the tutorial below and take notes about the resources you will need and start thinking about the types of designs you would like to apply to yours.