These photos are from the 2nd week of papermaking studio. I had been all prepared to enjoy pulling paper with moulds and deckle for the more traditional (flat) compositions that I'm accustomed to making. Then, he wanted some 3-D pieces and suggested molds or casts. I experimented with a few flower molds and kept racking my brain for something to cast.
Finally- it hit me! Kim's wire dress form has had my intrigue ever since she purchased it, to be honest- I've wanted one ever since!
Now, how to get the dress to stay on there and come out of the form? Well- why not a half dress? The first day molding went well and it only took one day to dry. Day two was spent with more experimentation and the overbeaten abaca moulded a little thicker seems to work better. Seeing retired instructor, Ed Martin's, studio and his methods and meticulous documentation of each project makes me realize I need to document more indepth.
Mid-day, I realize I want to do this project as my series but will need more forms. Called Kim and she knew just where to find them at Hobby Lobby, and it was my lucky day since they were on clearance! I loved the differences in sizes and shapes that she found.
The first two are the dresses in progress. The third photo is the dresses drying. And, the fourth photo is a mounted piece.
What a surprise to discover that I really did enjoy the 3-D process and now look forward to sculpting and ceramics when it's time for those classes.
