The patterns and motifs are created by using a
wax-resist technique.
I use cold water wax, and apply it using a pipette.
This wax can also be coloured with dyes or fabric paints. Using heat, the wax is then fixed into the fabric.
The wax stops or “resists” the dye.
In other words, it contains the dye into specific areas of the pattern.
Once the fabric is dried, steamed and washed,
the fabric is soft to the touch and there is no residue of wax left in the surface.
All my colours and designs are permanently fixed into the fabric.
And most of my patterns are influenced by my surroundings, my garden, and New Zealand culture.
