Keywords: bc, british columbia, canada, felting, katazome stencil cutting, shibori, wool, yvonne wakabayashi, dresses, katazome, shibori

Wearable Lace Fashion

Yvonne Wakabayashi

Dimensions

Materials

Dresses (2): katazome stencil cutting, felting and shibori using Kiryu wool/wool knit jersey

Artist statement

‘My visual expression is a blending of cultural sensibilities, ideas and processes from East and West, old and new. The textile history of Japan inspires me, connects and fulfils me in belonging to a familial heritage.

My exploration of shibori continues to evolve from the traditions of this process. My goal is to explore its possibilities, to combine it with Western ideas and aesthetics, and always to respect and honour its beginnings.

With my background in shibori and katazome stencil work, I am presently challenged to find aesthetic solutions to combine hand-cut lace patterns with katazome-inspired stencil work. I then add elements of shibori-resist patterns and finally use fulling to seal the raw edges of the lace. This has allowed me to use a fusion of techniques that I have been exploring over the span of my career.’

Behind the scenes

Explanation of Lace Techniques