Testimonials

Maureen won a scarf I had donated to a raffle, a few weeks later when I saw her at a function, she said to me "I would just like to tell you that whenever I wear the scarf I feel so peaceful".

Carol purchased a scarf from me for her sister-in-law's birthday. Recently I met her and she related to me how her sister-in-law had not been sure how to wear the scarf so she draped it over her bed head. She had been unable to sleep and had shoulder pain, once the scarf was there she slept without a problem.

It is always very rewarding for me to hear comments like the above as my joy is to pass on healing through the silk I create so please, if you have thoughts to share I would love to hear them.

Marlene

Merino wool wrap, (above) beaded, can be worn in different styles

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The Magic of Silk

Marlene page

“Real magic happens in the moment that a woman recognizes her value and chooses to express it by wearing something beautiful”

Silk for me is the most luxurious and sensuous of fabrics and this is what I paint on. Having explored Oils, Pastels, Watercolour, Inks and Printmaking, I am now seduced by the Magic of Silk. The journey has been varied and full of excitement at times and just plain hard work, but to be able to do what I love most is a wonderful life choice.

Some of my creations include scarves, wraps, sarongs, wall paintings and hangings cushions, men’s ties and hand painted cards. All available from my Studio or Web page. Visitors are very welcome to visit me in my Studio in Australia, to see me work or select that special gift. A recent addition to my range is Pure Merino Wool, available in wraps and Scarves. Workshops on Silk Painting are also available.

At present I am also captivated by Arashi, a form of resist dying and for this I use fibre reactive dyes, silk or wool usually I use a pre-hemmed scarf for workshops, the process is simple. I first of all twist the scarf (if a friend is around, use them to hold one end and twist till tight, also jammed in a door if by yourself. The silk is then wrapped around P.V.C. piping, I spray with vinegar (this is necessary if using acid dyes) then I drop the colour onto the silk (wrapped around the pipe). Once satisfied with the colours, I drain (do not over wet the piece of silk) then I ;place in the microwave oven for about 4 minutes on medium heat. The general rule I follow is if one item I only heat once if over 1 metre I do three times making sure I do 3 separate times in microwave not just 12 min straight. You will soon know by how the dyes hold. Generally I do not get much run off of colour with this method but each microwave is different and this is a general guide. The fun is when you unfold the piece of silk and see the magical patterns that have formed and how the colours blend. It is possible to overdye and do discharge with this method.

I have always explored different approaches to whatever I am doing and like to learn new things all the time. This is the fascination of the journey for me. Nature is my inspiration; the colour combinations, patterns and the peace found being in nature.

I am also, at present making simple clothing from the silk and wool I paint, styles that do not date, I love Kaftans, Jackets and at present am exploring more styles that flatter a woman without buttons and zips; the ageless classic, this is a new journey and will involve me getting out the sewing machine once again.

I am happy to pass on information and share whatever knowledge I have so please do not hesitate to contact me and I will help where I can. I believe in sharing what I have learnt. This is part of the joy, new friends are made and knowledge passed on ...

Website www.healingcirclesilks.com.au

East Freemantle, Western Australia.

Arashi scarves at a workshop (done by students)

Arashi on silk gauze 2 metres long 112cm wide with blue silk georgette shoulder wrap beaded.

Arashi on silk twill, can be wall hanging, wrap or used for clothing.

(Measures 190cm long x 90cm wide).