ï»żEpisode Transcript
E3 "Why Now Is the Time to Explore Fabric Arts"
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Today we are exploring a timely and exciting topic: âWhy now is the perfect time to either deepen your expertise or in a fabric or fiber arts field or re-engage with them.â So, from sewing and quilting to mixed media fabric art, these crafts are making a comeback in a big way. They're no longer seen as practicalities or budget solutions, but as true forms of artistic expression - and for good reason. Fabric and fiber arts are experiencing a renaissance of sorts.
I recently had a conversation with a friend who shared her decision to get back into sewing for herself, inspired by a growing desire for individuality and quality in her wardrobe. And she's not alone. In reality, sewing and fabric arts are no longer thought of as those utilitarian skills, but as deeply creative and expressive crafts. And her words echo a big and very growing trend.
A study published in the Clothing and Textiles Research Journal highlights that individuals that individuals are increasingly engaging in garment sewing. And that's driven by the desires for customization, quality, and personal fulfillment. The study revealed themes of being invested in something, having a sense of control, and empowerment all as key drivers for the increase.
It's not just about sewing clothes. It's about taking charge of what we wear, and how we style our homes, and how that represents us. Additionally, thereâs the concept of (and this is a tough word to say) prosumerism. That's the concept where individuals not only consume goods, but produce value. It's a combination of the two words, and it's contributing to the growing interest in sewing as both a personal and creative pursuit.
Research also supports the therapeutic value of textile crafts. According to the Journal of Leisure Research, engaging in these activities fosters positive emotions and provides a means to organize your life, so to speak. This is something many of us can relate to. It's that finding peace and purpose in the rhythm of creating with our hands.
Another fascinating shift comes from the sustainability movement. This should come as no surprise. An article in Sustainability, a magazine, called Revolutionizing the Textile and Clothing Industry, described how disruptions in the global supply chain have sparked a renewed interest in traditional textile crafts.
This shift is part of a larger transformation, or transition, from eco efficiency to eco effectiveness. Moving towards practices that are regenerative rather than extractive. The resurgence of sewing and fiber arts is tied to these values. Offering a way to create while respecting the planet. And then, there's the growing trend of using deadstock fabric. Now, I'll define that in a second. An article in the Times highlights how businesses are breathing new life into surplus designer materials, also known as deadstock, that might otherwise end up in landfills. This practice not only supports sustainability, but (here's the fun thing) it also offers sewing enthusiasts the chance to work with these luxurious fabrics at a fraction of the cost.
I mean, imagine creating pieces from the same high-end fabric used in major design houses. The fact that it's now easier than ever to get your hands on this stuff is exciting. It's kind of a blend of creativity, thrift and sustainability that's really incredibly rewarding.
Now, another consideration is the rise of the âmaker cultureâ and the value placed on artisanal goods. In the simplest definition, this maker culture is one meant to reignite that artisan spirit. It pulls communities of any career or skill level into making something with their very own hands, and that could be anything from calligraphy, to furniture, to sewing, to technology.
There's this emphasis on learning through doing, created to address the need to get our hands dirty and pull together as a community. And technology has made it easier than ever to learn and practice more fabric and fiber arts. From online tutorials, YouTube, to specialized tools, there is a wealth of resources available to help you get started and hone your craft.
A thesis written by a student at OCAD University explored how textile-based crafts connect modern practices to historical traditions. That knowledge sharing through online communities, workshops, tutorials is actually revitalizing these crafts and building bridges between generations of makers. This is a sense of connection that I see daily in my work as an online entrepreneur, and I see people sharing their passion and inspiring one another to grow every day.
Now let's ask, why is this the perfect time to do this? Why is it the perfect time to deepen your expertise in the fabric arts? Well, let's break it down.
First, access to knowledge has never been simpler. We've established that. With online courses, ebooks, virtual communities, learning's never been easier. You can find guidance and inspiration online. And here's the key part, from anywhere in the world, not just your local community.
Second, the rewards of sewing and textile work go well beyond the finished product. Few things are as satisfying as seeing a project come together from your own hands. That sense of accomplishment goes unmatched.
Third, these crafts connect us to a rich legacy blending history and innovation. We talked about how knowledge sharing among textile craft practitioners is revitalizing these crafts.
And finally, embracing fabric arts can make a broader impact. It can reduce stress, spark creativity, provide a sense of purpose, and sharing your work inspires others and builds those meaningful connections. And on a global scale, of course, choosing to create rather than consume challenges the norms of mass production and supports overall sustainability practices. Developing your skills in fabric arts gives you the confidence to take creative risks and make meaningful pieces that you can cherish and share with others.
Now I want to emphasize one more thing. Any skill you develop as a textile artist offers an opportunity to teach what you know, whether it's through online courses or workshops or tutorials. Sharing your knowledge can open new income streams and expand the reach of your craft. It's a powerful reminder that we create and what we create has value - Not just in the finished piece, but in a way that can inspire and educate others.
The Times ran an article just this month, actually. Featuring the work of Youmeng Liu and her 3D embroidery sculptures. I'll link her in the show notes. She uses a unique punch needle craft technique that she discovered on a trip to her hometown of Kunming in southwest China in 2010.
Collectors and fans who follow her work on social media watch with astonishment as she embroiders a three-dimensional slice of cake complete with fragrant strawberries, the whipped cream, the soft golden sponge cake. Each piece, she says, can take days, plural, to complete. But fans have become so enthused with her work that she has created kits that she sells on her website, embroiderycode.com, and started online courses on Domestika.
So when you embrace Fabric Arts, you're not just making something. You're actually contributing to a larger movement of creativity, sustainability, and personal expression. Here is a recap of the ways that your practice can make a difference.
In your life, the Fabric Arts can reduce stress, boost creativity, and provide a sense of purpose and joy.
In your community, sharing your work inspires others and helps build a network of like-minded creatives. There's also an opportunity to teach others, as seen in the growing popularity of online courses and training programs.
In the world, choosing to create rather than consume supports sustainable practices and challenges, the norms of consuming mass-produced items.
By participating in this movement, you're not just learning a skill. You're shaping the future of fabric and fiber arts. So, what do you think? Are you ready to dive into this exciting creative resurgence? Whether you are sewing or quilting, or exploring fiber art, there has never been a better time to start or deepen your practice.
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00:00Â Introduction to the Textile Creative Podcast
00:49Â Host's Personal Journey and Mission
01:59Â The Renaissance of Fabric and Fiber Arts
04:00Â The Therapeutic and Sustainable Benefits of Textile Crafts
06:12Â The Rise of Maker Culture and Technology's Role
07:51Â The Creative Cloth Magazine
09:35Â Why Now is the Perfect Time for Fabric Arts
11:16Â The Value of Sharing Knowledge and Skills
13:51Â Final Thoughts
Links mentioned in Episode:
âWhy Do They Sew? Womenâs Motivations to Sew Clothing for Themselves:â Clothing and Textile Research Journal = https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0887302X19872552
Journal of Leisure Research = https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/ujlr20
âRevolutionizing the Textile and Clothing Industry:â Sustainability = https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/16/6/2474?utm_source
âHow surplus designer fabrics became the height of fashionâ The Times = https://www.thetimes.com/article/how-surplus-designer-fabrics-became-the-height-of-fashion-t8h2jdrv5?utm_source
STEPHEN, Paige Lauren - The Craft(y) Revival_ Community and Knowledge-Sharing in Textile-based Crafts.pdf = openresearch.ocadu.ca
âMeet the women putting embroidery in the art world spotlight:â = https://www.thetimes.com/life-style/luxury/article/female-artists-embroidery-art-world-spotlight-times-luxury-0vx7jqwmd?utm_source
Youmeng Liu, artist = https://www.embroiderycode.com/
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Website = https://www.virginialeighstudio.com
Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/virginialeighstudio/
Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/virginialeighstudio
