DYEING OMBRE – Easy step by step with lots of pictures to show you how.

Tie the locks together and insert a skewer under the tie with the locks hanging free

Coffee brewing plus snack

Small amount of water in the pot , add mixed dye so that the tips of the locks are in the dye mix.

See the dye – line ….This is stage one. Allow the dye to saturate the tips of the locks

Interruption no. 1. A little chocolate thief.

The dye is starting to take on the locks – time to add more water.

Add more boiling water – about 3 cups full for stage two

Time for coffee and chocolate!

Add some citric acid or vinegar to help the dye take.

Interruption no.2 – the rumours of chocolate has spread…

The ombre look is starting to show and the dye mix in the pot is a lot more dilute.

Add more water, until the locks are as immersed as you want them . I wanted to keep the ends white, or I would have fully immersed the locks at this stage

The finished locks – ready to rinse and dry.



Advertisement

ART YARN

I have tried many different media in which to express my creativity.  I think the fact that I have an urge to do this is a given.  Even when working with something like metal.  I’m using this as an example, because it isn’t a medium that I have a natural feel for.  But if you put the tools in metal in the same room as me, sooner or later I will gravitate in that direction and start making something.

I think buying a spinning wheel and learning how to use it has been an absolute catalyst in my life,  and it has changed how I look at my life.  Yes, that is quite a bold statement!   Absolutely true though,  because I now live according to my creativity.  When I create yarns, or when I help to make a new spinner in my classes.  I am living by what I love doing, and that is a blessed place to be.

Auto ply super chunky thick and thin merino

Hyper texture. A huge array of wool, silk, fabric scraps, thread, to make a crazy batt to spin just how it presents itself.

Pastel coils resembling little seed pearls.

Bulky squishy super coils with all the colour

Loose and wild Masham locks in a tailspun yarn. Currently being woven into a scarf.

Inspired by Laburnum trees in bloom. Silk rods, yellow silk, shetland and felt inclusions. Textural joy.

Beautiful Teeswater tailspun on a Corriedale Core. Wisteria now lives somewhere in Maine with a happy new owner.

thks

Photo’s, rain and philosophy

Today has been a fascinating day, full of learning new skills, turning acquaintances into friends, talking, talking, whilst the rain’s drizzle couldn’t dampen spirits, or the dreams that will come true if there is enough support around.  Yay for good people.

 

I’m also doing an online photography course at the moment, but it has not taken my full attention for one reason or another.  So back to basics – looking at colour, contrast, proportions and texture.  What is the story behind the picture – is it obvious?  Well, this one has a lesson – 4 year olds don’t stand still for too long!  I know it’s a bit blurry, but I love it.