As the crow flies, brooch.

This printed map design on a pre cut copper bird is one of my experiments using digitally produced transfers from my own images. I have a fascination with old postcards (pre 1940), maps, and hand written text.

The content of the written card allows a glimpse into the thoughts and feelings of an individual from a bygone age, often revealing a small piece of domestic, romantic or personal social history. The postcard was the equalivant of modern email or text but yet seems to carry more meaning, probably from the character of the hand written word and the evidence of it's journey through time, the stamp and franking, all add to its authenticity as a document from the past.

   

Design development-Print and Stitch.

Visit to C.I.R.I.C ..the home of the water jet cutter! and Illustrator training

This process is becoming a little clearer to me now. It has been worth while visiting CIRIC before I start the IllustratorCS5 workshop, as there are certain design perimeters that I need to consider first. This could greatly effect cost of the cutting. If I don't stick to these restrictions I could waste time and money.
As for illustrator...it's practice, practice  all the way hope I can crack the pen tool soon!!

Above are some pics from a previous visit to CIRIC. I was experimenting with laser etching a lace pattern into wood and lino cut. I have also acid etched this image into copper for blind printing.

Transfer printing onto vitreous enamel

Previously, I have screen printed my own transfers, although a lengthy process they seem far more user friendly and more robust in the kiln. The decals I have had digitally printed are difficult to get spot on and a little frustrating to use.
I intend to experiment with the kiln ramp rate, slowing the temperature up to max to see if that helps.

These photo's are my first experiments with my new kiln showing both types of decal, hand printed and digital.  I have used imagery from vintage postcards and handwritten lists, showing measurements and weights of wool and knitting yarn! the names of the different types of yarn are great, Big chief, Penguin Tweed, Beehive Bouclet.