Ikat is a method of weaving developed in Indonesia that involves resist dying in alternating bands both the warp and weft yarns before weaving. The resulting woven fabric has this blurred or uneven look where the bands in the dyed yarns interweave and create the pattern.
As I was researching and sketching ideas for a Make it in Design Winter School design brief, I wanted to recreate an ikat pattern using watercolor. I started with a loose and undefined background, using lighter value colors, and I used a series of higher value layers to recreate the idea of woven yarns.
Watercolor In Process
Final Watercolor
The finished watercolor art was scanned at 600ppi and designed into a technical repeat pattern using Adobe Photoshop. I envision this pattern would work for either statement cushions or for fashion designs, like a summery sundress.
This pattern is available for purchase by established businesses only. Please contact me about your interest.
Want to learn more about how I use my traditional art in digital projects? I have collected a list of tips for turning your own traditional art into a digital asset in this inspiration article.
