I start with white silk charmeuse that is known for its luxurious drape, deep luster, and strength of fiber. The silk is stretched like a canvas on a steel frame, and held in place with magnets. The colors and designs are applied by hand, directly to the silk surface, using bamboo brushes, stamps and other traditional silk painting techniques. Each piece of silk is an original work of art, that I sign when complete.
Silk textiles produced in my studio are steam set to permanently fix the dye into the fibers of the silk. It is then washed until the water runs clear. Unlike commercially dyed silk, my silks can be hand washed and ironed without worry. The finished silk is then carefully cut and sewn into everything from scarves and capes, to gowns and lingerie.
Health Benefits of Silk:
Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, and is a great choice for people with asthma, allergies, or sensitive skin. This is because silkworm cocoons mostly consist of a protein called sericin, which is naturally designed to shield the worm from dangers such as mold, mites and fungus growth.
Beauty Benefits:
Silk helps to keep your skin hydrated and plump, due to insulating properties that keep moisture close to the skin. Other fibers, such as cotton, tend to absorb moisture from your skin, and can leave it feeling dry.
Silk fibers are smooth in texture, and won’t rub or irritate your skin, which is why silk pillowcases, sheets, sleeping masks, and hair bonnets are desirable. Wearing silk against your skin is a simple way to love your body and enjoy one of life's pleasures.
The beautiful sheen of silk is created by the triangular prism-like structure of silk fibers that refracts light at different angles. The natural shine reflects light up and around your decolletage to create a glowing effect around your face.
Available Silks :
I typically use:
19mm-16mm silk charmeuse,
16mm crepe de chine
12mm silk chiffon.
About mm (weight of weave):
The average momme weight for silk ranges from 8 momme - 22 momme. The higher the momme weight, the denser and more durable the weave. Low grade silks are easily damaged, hard to work with and wear thin quickly.
Dye:
I use Jaquard Red Label ~ Fiber Reactive Dye that is non-toxic and environmentally safe. The steaming process permanently bonds the protein in the silk to the dye molecules so it will not fade, although darker colors do sometimes run a bit when submerged in hot water.