Monday, April 16, 2012

Playing in the Kitchen: Matzoh Resist Part 3


The painted, matzoh resist-covered fabrics are dry. Time to set them. The fabric paint must be set/cured so that it doesn't wash out when the matzoh resist is removed.

Setting the paint can be done a couple of ways. You can let the fabrics sit for a week and the paint will set on its own. The other way is to heat set them with an iron.


I sandwich the resist-covered fabric between two pieces of muslin to protect the iron. I iron this sandwich using the cotton fabric setting for three minutes on one side.  Then, I flip the sandwich over and iron for three minutes on the other side. The fabric paint is now set.


After I've set all the fabric samples, it's time to remove the matzoh resist. I have a plastic storage container that fits perfectly in my sink. I put the fabrics in the container and add a little bit of dishwashing liquid.


Next, I fill the container with warm water and let the fabric soak for 10 minutes.


I swoosh them around a bit to loosen up the resist.


I then pour out the dirty water. I usually have to do this a couple of times as well as rubbing the fabric to remove the very last bit of the matzoh.


Here's what the fabrics look like once the resist is removed.


To make sure they are totally clean, I put them in my washing machine at on a warm delicate setting with just a trace of soap. I dry them in a delicate cycle.

Here are the finished pieces.
Matzoh resist scratch technique over monoprint
Matzoh resist crackle technique over monoprint
Sampler of application techniques over wipe up cloth
Matzoh resist using scratch technique over white fabric


I'm starting my Arresting Resists class this week as well as my Exploring Surface Design class...a crazy back-to-back teaching arrangement. I'm sure over the course of the next several weeks I'll be sharing photos of student work, and especially resist work, with you.

2 comments:

  1. Swoosh...that a technical art term? Sorry, coudn't resist asking. I've loved watching this process.

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  2. Ha! Surprising what you can do with matzoh...whoda thought? I start my resists class Wednesday...gearing up. I've never had to pack up for 2 classes at the same time. Keep hoping I won't forget anything!

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