Art Diploma Blog Ellie Fisher: Devore Sampling

Devore is the process of sampling within the Textiles studio to create screen-print samples through a different perspective. The process includes the Devore' paste being transferred onto the surface of the design through the chosen screen onto specialised fabric for the process to work. The task and method has allowed me to work independently within the Textiles studio to produce the range of sampling with my chosen screen. Also the task has allowed me to plan, prepare and organise for the task with carefully selected fabric and purchasing them through my blue card. The task has allowed me to problem solve and resolve solutions when creating the samples in previous project but also the current project outcome. It has allowed me to demonstrate practical skills to produce further sampling within my technical file and progression towards my final piece. It has allowed me to evaluate my samples and understanding of the process to develop a final solution and progression towards my final piece. It has given me the confidence to experiment with the process and develop a further understanding through adding more elements within the design including dyes and a range of fabrics.

To start the task, I planned and prepared for my chosen fabric which has been organised within my sketchbook and blue card availability. The samples of materials included:

Devore Satin

Devore silk viscose

Devore Velvet

All the samples obtained were A4 samples because I was restricted to the cost implications of the fabrics as they were expensive. These needed to be taken into consideration when completing the task as I am limited to the amount on my blue card for sampling. To produce the samples I organised my chosen screen to be used for the designs. I decided to use the black layer as I felt the screen outcome has the most intricate details will be featured well within the process. Also I decided to use this specific screen as I can capture each detail of the design well and surface accurately. To place the screen layer well, through the surface each individual material was taped down to the Textiles surface to allow the process to work accurately. To plan the process ahead the Devore sample was mixed before the task to ensure an accurate substance. Next the substance was placed on the surface with a squeegee and fed through the design well. To ensure the fabric appearance worked well, the squeegee process was transferred accurately onto the surface. Then the screen was removed to reveal the outcome and was left to dry naturally within the surface. Next the process was repeated on a variety of surfaces and materials to produce a diverse range of fabrics. The Satin material was difficult to read because the surface was silky causing the design to move when in the process and damaging when folded. However the process was solved when taped on the surface well. I explored the range of surfaces with different designs and was transferred onto the drying rack to dry naturally. When observing the design, the "coal not dole" piece worked well as the surface produced intricate details and the small surface designs well compared to others. As this layout as the most exposed area within the surface more details were shown better. Next the design was place underneath the heat press to reveal the burnt areas and where the chemicals have been breaking down the surface. Health and safety was maintained throughout the task to ensure the risk of burning. Hands were placed away from the surface of the iron to ensure the risk of burning. Also my hands were washed after dealing with the chemicals to ensure safety. These were maintained throughout the task when completing the process. Once the piece was created it was transferred back to the sink quickly to remove the burnt areas and give a clear design. Once the elements were washed thoroughly they were placed on the drying rack to dry naturally. Through the process problems were faced which was that I didn't reach the sink quick enough causing the fabric to stain and not achieve its full potential. This was developed and resolved as I gained confidence with the process to produce effective outcomes of the designs. When washing a piece I decided to expanded my knowledge further to create a dyed fabric Devore sample. To produce the design I used procain Scarlet and worked into the design with a paint brush. The dyes were prepared before the process in order to achieve a rapid outcome when drying. At first the piece looked least successful as the colour covered the Devore sample which wasn't seen well within the surface. To solve the issue, the sample was left to dry and I discovered that the design worked successfully presenting the layout clearly and efficiently. I was pleased with the independent develop towards this outcome and the skills I have achieved within this. The process of the sampling is presented below: