My first attempt at producing a laser engraved image taken from one of the photographs taken to record the process of appliqué based on Claire’s work.

We were asked to choose an image from our work that we could develop and re-produce using the laser cutter. Firstly the image needed to be manipulated within Photoshop. The information would then be downloaded into the laser printer, when the correct parameters in ratios were put into the laser printer we would be able to see our work either laser cut or engraved.

All seems very straight forward.

For me the most useful aspect of this excursive was to use illustrator for the first time on my own, as previously I had always work with the tutor. However this proved to be very problematic, I did think I could follow the steps shown to me as well as following notes to produce what was required. Unfortunately this was not the case, but with some help from my peers and the tutor the required files were made. I found this very frustrating and can only hope that practice will help me to remember the correct steps to take as well as the correct order.

Note to self: - find YouTube videos to explain the different steps and practice. This should help as I do find that in some cases that repetition of tasks is the best way to remember what is required.

Having overcome the initial problems with the setting up of the file the laser printer I now realise how versatile this process can be, in relation to producing fine, delicate and intricate work. Furthermore I have learnt that once I have mastered the art of using Advanced Computer programs there is no limit to what can be produced.

As for the sample produced I am pleased with the results. As we only wanted to engrave the image not cut it, the colour of the engraved areas suet the natural fabric. This was a deliberate choice as a brightly coloured or man-made fabric would not have had the same effect. If the process has not taken so long I would have produced other samples using man-made fabrics as well as a wide range brighter colours.

laser engrave on calico 

engraving image 

laser ready to show engraving parameters 

Reverse appliqué is a technique I have used many times however the task I set myself was to produce a sample as close as possible to the original art work. For me the most important elements to this sample were to use fabrics with a similar in texture and colour to the original art work.

Initially this was not an issue as I had a varied range of fabrics to choose from meeting both the need for texture and the correct colours. I did find however that I needed a single coloured fabric with a small repeated pattern which I did not have in the required green.

I overcame this problem by scanning in a piece of fabric that had the design requirements but not the correct colour infect this fabric was red.

Once the fabric was scanned in I transfer the image into a word document and manipulated the image to the require colours and printed it onto printable fabric.

Having completed the sample and analysed the outcome I now realise that the sample would work much better if I produce a larger piece. Allowing larger areas within the sample to work with as well as showing more of the patterns within the different fabrics. Additionally I have learned that I should not use my sketchbook to determine my sample size as this restricts the technique as well as the flow of the sample. 

Completed reverse appliqué 

Before cutting out required areas to show fabrics within the reverse appliqué.  

The reverse

Outline completed and most of the paper removed

Photocopy of the image is used to sew through. 

http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/i/interview-claire-heathcote-embroiderer/