Let’s Explore – Transparent Fabrics

** Note: this activity has been rescheduled to 5 January 2025. 

This month Sue Roberts will lead us in exploring ideas for using fine, see-through fabrics in creative ways. We will be focusing on very simple hand stitching rather than machine stitching during the Sunday session.

Examples of transparent fabrics include organdy, organza or similar sheer fabrics including ribbons (commonly used by florists), tulle, fine lace with larger holes, and scrim (open weave bandage fabric).

These fabrics can be:

• layered to alter the colour or shade of the fabric underneath
• stitched over with decorative stitches
• roughly torn or neatly edged, depending upon the effect you like
• twisted and shaped
• made into light-weight three-dimensional shapes that can be attached to a base fabric
• used to cover and hold small lightweight objects in place with simple decorative stitching
• stitched by hand or machine

Inspiration

What to bring

We have provided a list of materials to consider bringing. There will also be fabrics and some thin quilting available to share, so please don’t buy.  Just bring what you already have in your stash!

• Two pieces of fabric around 30 cm square to use as a base (eg. patterned cotton patchwork or fabric you have dyed)
• A piece of thin quilt backing around 30 cm square
• Small pieces of transparent fabric as listed above (eg. organdy, organza, tulle, fine lace, scrim, gauze)
• A few finer threads such as sewing machine thread, stranded cotton, perle 8 or 12 embroidery thread
• Small lightweight smooth objects to anchor in place under fabric (eg. beads, shells, foam shapes)
• Pins, needles, and scissors
• A medium size embroidery hoop if you like to use one
• Pieces you have made incorporating sheer fabrics, scrim etc to inspire us all!
• Your lunch (there are also shops nearby if you prefer) Note: your membership provides tea, green tea, instant coffee, milk and mugs

• Alternatively, bring your choice of another project

Upcoming Explore Days

• Stay tuned for updates!

How to join KWC and attend our regular Explore Days

• Any financial Stitching and Beyond member who is also a member of the Kingborough Women’s Club (KWC) ($40 per annum) is welcome to join our monthly Let’s Explore Sundays at no extra cost.

• If you aren’t already a KWC member you can apply here then scan or photograph your form and email it to sandbmemberships@gmail.com with “KWC Application” in the header.
  Alternatively, you could bring the form with you on a Let’s Explore Sunday.

• Once we reply to your email, then please make payment directly to KWC.
  The annual fee is $40 and is due 1 July each year.