All About Brocade
by
Rebecca Chulew
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Brocade is defined as "a heavy fabric interwoven with a rich, raised design." That is definitely it, and much more! Although its fraying tendencies make it difficult to work with, the dividends of using brocade on your OOAK doll costumes pays off with a beautiful appearance. There are different types of brocade, which include the following
Asian brocade — This brocade has woven designs of dragons, flowers, temples and other popular Asian styles. It is usually very soft feeling, thickly woven, and made of silk. American vintage brocade — This brocade can be found by taking apart vintage clothing. Often times this brocade is metallic, or mixed colors with metallic. Popular designs include stripes, paisleys, flowers and much more. Fraycheck or frayblock definitely helps when using this stuff! New American brocade — this is the thin usually metallic stuff they sell at JoAnn’s or Hancock’s. It comes in seasonal designs, stripes, plaids, and other varieties. It will do in a pinch, but doesn’t compare to the vintage kind!
Here are many examples of brocade for your visual pleasure:
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Artist's Brocade Projects
CDL Designs |
Kevin Kilmer |
Mari Rose |
Marsha Cash |
Silvia Cambell |
Good luck finding and using that perfect brocade in your design! We would all love to see what you make!