HATalk Competition Entry 2024

Gaynor Ackers

Maker
Gaynor Ackers

Country
UK

Name of Hat
Turbulent Waters

Description

My design focuses on representing the movement and reflections in water. Having observed and photographed streams and rivers tumbling over rocks in detail in the Lake District, it is based upon natural streams which have constant movement and flow. I wanted my piece to demonstrate the infinite shades of colour and tone seen in nature as the light constantly changes, yet also retain an element of translucence, hence my choice of sheer fabrics. I have also incorporated materials which will catch the light to add a slight sparkle, to represent sunlight hitting the water surface / splashes of water, further enhanced by small glass beads and pearls. The silver wire also reflects light and has twists and turns in it to further emphasise the swirls, splashes and droplets created by the water. To show the dynamic nature of moving water, I have designed 35 individual panels to add dimension and shape to the piece. Each panel has reflective lines and ripples sewn into it. I wanted the piece to be textured and very three dimensional, designed to be viewed in 360 degrees in its entirety. It retains the ability for each panel to move very slightly as the wearer moves to give it life at energy.

Techniques:

  • Free machine embroidery
  • Hand embroidery
  • Wire work

Materials:

Organza fabric (multiple shades and opacity)
Wire
Embroidery threads (cotton, rayon, metallic)
Polyester and aluminium metallic strands
Freshwater pearls
Glass beads
Millinery elastic

Materials:

Organza fabric (multiple shades and opacity)
Wire
Embroidery threads (cotton, rayon, metallic)
Polyester and aluminium metallic strands
Freshwater pearls
Glass beads
Millinery elastic

Note: Entries have been not been edited or proofread to protect the integrity of the maker's original meaning. 

HATalk Competition Entry 2024

Gaynor Ackers

Maker
Gaynor Ackers

Country
UK

Name of Hat
Turbulent Waters

Description

My design focuses on representing the movement and reflections in water. Having observed and photographed streams and rivers tumbling over rocks in detail in the Lake District, it is based upon natural streams which have constant movement and flow. I wanted my piece to demonstrate the infinite shades of colour and tone seen in nature as the light constantly changes, yet also retain an element of translucence, hence my choice of sheer fabrics. I have also incorporated materials which will catch the light to add a slight sparkle, to represent sunlight hitting the water surface / splashes of water, further enhanced by small glass beads and pearls. The silver wire also reflects light and has twists and turns in it to further emphasise the swirls, splashes and droplets created by the water. To show the dynamic nature of moving water, I have designed 35 individual panels to add dimension and shape to the piece. Each panel has reflective lines and ripples sewn into it. I wanted the piece to be textured and very three dimensional, designed to be viewed in 360 degrees in its entirety. It retains the ability for each panel to move very slightly as the wearer moves to give it life at energy.

Techniques:

  • Free machine embroidery
  • Hand embroidery
  • Wire work

Materials:

Organza fabric (multiple shades and opacity)
Wire
Embroidery threads (cotton, rayon, metallic)
Polyester and aluminium metallic strands
Freshwater pearls
Glass beads
Millinery elastic

Materials:

Organza fabric (multiple shades and opacity)
Wire
Embroidery threads (cotton, rayon, metallic)
Polyester and aluminium metallic strands
Freshwater pearls
Glass beads
Millinery elastic

Note: Entries have been not been edited or proofread to protect the integrity of the maker's original meaning. 

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