Making Nodes
I decided that I’m going to try mini-vids to document the progress of the artistic process. I’m all for photos when they work, but to demonstrate how something is done…well there’s nothing like a video. Besides, I don’t need three hands for a demonstration video and I would need three hands for demonstration photos:-) So, here’s my first mini-vid on making nodes (the areas on a cactus pad where the spine protrude). You’ll need a non-flammable form (I used a piece of aluminum foil wadded up into a shape that kind of resembles a chocolate kiss), synthetic fabric (no natural fibers…the idea is to melt the fabric over a shape not set it on fire), and an easily manageable flame source (I use the same lighter used to light a gas stove). BIG TIP: Keep the flame moving so you don’t melt through the fabric. BIGGER TIP: Obviously the flame is hot, but so is the fabric once it starts to melt. So be careful not to burn yourself. Once you get the hang of it, it’s pretty easy. I’ve tried this technique using larger forms as well. Larger forms require more patience and a lot more butane, but the process works just the same. I’ll post another mini-vid when I get to the next process after I burn the 120 nodes into the cacti:)
Great video! Thanks for the tutorial, I’ll check back later and see what other tutorials you might add. Was it hard to make the video? You didn’t hesitate at all but talked your way right through what you were doing. Nice job!
Hi Leah,
Thanks for your comments. I have a pretty good camera, but it’s not a video camera. So, I’m limited to recording in 60sec intervals and then putting all of them together on my Mac:) There are probably easier ways, but this has worked for me so far. I just completed the piece featured in that tutorial. You can check out the final piece and the close-up photos on my site at: http://www.textileartistmx.com/work-16-las-tunas-grande.php
Look forward to hearing from you again.
Best,
Wendy