Silk painting allows for an unusual interaction of colors.
According to "Introduction to Silk Painting" by Li Newton, the technique of silk painting dates back for centuries in India and China and is popular the world over today. Silk painting is an art in itself, and it is important to practice the technique to get a good appreciation for the process as well as understand its limitations and challenges. Silk painting kits are available at craft stores, or you can buy supplies individually at art suppliers. Hand painted silk scarves make beautiful gifts. Once you have mastered the basics of silk painting, the scarves you create will only be limited by your imagination.
Instructions
1. Prewash the silk in preparation for painting on it. Cut a piece of silk allowing an extra 2 inches on each side, in addition to the size of scarf you want. You can customize the scarf to any size you want. Rectangular scarfs are usually around 12 inches wide and 60 inches long. Square scarfs are around 36 inches by 36 inches.
2. Prepare a work surface large enough to hold your piece of silk. Cover the surface with a plastic drop cloth and then cover that with a cotton sheet.
3. Pin the silk to the cotton sheet. Use super fine silk pins to minimize causing runs in the fabric.
4. Melt the wax in an old crock pot, electric skillet or double boiler. Soy wax melts at 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer to check the temperature and ensure that it does not rise above melting point. Using wax that is hotter may damage the silk.
When applied to the silk, the wax will resist the paint and remain the color of the silk. Use a natural bristle brush to paint your design onto the silk. Allow the wax to harden. Think of the wax as the pencil lines you will paint between.
5. Apply the Dye-Na-Flow fabric paints, creating the patterns and color combination you want. Unpin the scarf and hang to air dry.
6. Place newspapers over the cotton sheet on the work surface and place the scarf on top of them. Lay another layer of newspapers on top of the scarf. Use a hot, dry iron to heat set the paints and remove the wax, by ironing over the newspaper.
7. Cut excess fabric from the borders of your scarf and hem by hand or machine. Wash the scarf in hot water to remove any remaining wax, air dry and then press for a crisp finish.
