A Peek Into my Creative Process
"The object of art is not to reproduce reality, but to create a reality of the same intensity." – Alberto Giacometti
When it comes to making art, there’s so much happening behind the scenes that it’s hard to capture it all. But the heart of my process lies in the physical making—choosing, cutting, stitching, and layering materials into something new. Each piece is a journey, combining intuition, inspiration, and a whole lot of stitching! Here’s a glimpse into the highlights of how it all comes together using images from my Flowerecent Collection.
1. Selecting the Palette
It starts with fabric—kimono scraps, upcycled pieces, or my own hand-printed designs. I pull out stacks of possibilities, playing with color and pattern combinations to create a palette that matches the type of composition I have in mind.
2. Prepping and Playing with Composition
Next, the process gets hands-on. I iron the fabric, cut it into shapes, and start arranging compositions. This part feels like solving a puzzle—experimenting with placement until everything clicks. I often reference nature photos I’ve taken for inspiration, but eventually, I let my intuition take the lead.
3. Stitching It All Together
Once I’ve pinned everything into place, the stitching begins. I use free-motion embroidery—a technique that feels like drawing with thread—to secure the pieces and bring the composition to life. This is where the texture and detail truly emerge, turning the flat fabrics into something dynamic.
4. Adding the Finishing Touches
Sometimes I’ll go back in and print or paint over the fabric, adding even more depth and detail. Then it’s back to stitching—layers upon layers until the piece feels complete.
5. Calling It Done
The final step is finishing the edges or wrapping the work around a frame. Deciding when a piece is 'done' is always the hardest part, but there’s a sense of satisfaction when it all comes together.
Each piece I create is a blend of structure and spontaneity, planning and play. It’s a process that evolves with every project, and while it’s hard to capture it exactly, I hope this glimpse into my studio helps to understand it better!
What part of this process sparks your curiosity? Connect with me on Instagram—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Energy of the Lotus
Butterfly Dance to the Chestnut