2019 - My 'Silk Road' Project
This project came out of two beautiful pieces of silk I received from the Technology Department, when I left Bexleyheath Comprehensive School, August 2005. For all that length of time I could not think what to make from the two pieces, that would do the fabric justice.
After reading this fabulous book, in particular the section 'Cities that Silk Built', it seemed so appropriate to make a kimono out of the fabric. I cut according to the fabric, all rectangles, with a small amount leftover and that was simply because a sample piece had been cut for someone and I needed to straighten the edge.
I have embroidered my style of the Obi sash with information pertaining to the history of the Silk Road and its Japanese connection.
This is a copy of the script I embroidered. I love the Japanese style font.
Once that was completed I got the idea to construct a pair of Tabi Socks. That was fun. Three shank buttons with threaded eyes completed the closure.
Hand stitched silk labels complete the inside section. A stylized map indicates the various countries Silk Road travellers might journey through. White dotted lines reveal characters and the tales of their experience along The Silk Road.
These are bigger images, which may help you to read what is written. The map and the images are from 'A Creative Guide' which I picked up, when viewing the British Library's 2004 exhibition, 'The Silk Road'. All part of my inspiration.
and the inside of my Obi sash, so you know where the middle is, when you wear it.
