New Textiles 2011

The pattern that I used to generate this code was a old data set that I modified to allow the results I wanted. The data set is a text file that is read by processing though the help of tabs. I acquired the data from a questioner I sent out to friends. Each anwser corresponded to a letter and the letter a value. After I visualized the file with processing I played around with he data to make the visual out put more desirable. When I was satisfied with the results I clicked on the window and close it to save a PDF of the pattern.

After creating the PDF I knew I wanted to use the knitting machine to realize the pattern as fabric. Once bringing the file into the embroidery software, I wanted to use texture  and stitch pattern to create different topographies. The first time I embroidered the patter I used black thread for both the top and bottom threads. It was very simple to use the machine and i did not encounter manny problems. After on pattern was completed I decided that I would like to add to it by embroidering a second pattern. This time I wanted to change the color of the thread. I left the bobbin thread black and changed the top thread to blue. This created a nice affect allowing the textures to become more visible.

The second pattern caused me more problems but allowed me to lear a lot about the machine though the encounters. First the bobbin was not wound correctly causing the a massive tangle. I had to stop the machine and rewind the bobbin (with Hanna’s help). Next the paper separated from the fabric and I need to iron a new piece on. Lining up the first pattern with the begging of the second was also a challenge. The next issue I encountered was the embroidery attachment, though the vibrations and maybe the prqsserfoot hitting the hoop, knocked itself off where it sits and though the pattern of. I had to pause the machine and move it back to where it belonged. I am guessing this occurred because the scaling of the pattern was a tiny bit off allowing it to be slightly bigger than what actually fits in the hoop with the presser foot inside at all times.

In all, I found this process very enjoyable and exciting to see the translation from screen to tactile fabric. Though the issues I encountered I learned a great deal about the machine and could now used it for more complex things.

See a video of the machine working on my pattern HERE: