A little Secret Key.. Fabric Design - Part 1

I'm finalizing up my next fabric collection.  OH goodness.  I'm sorry, but I have to say it.  It's beautiful.  OK.  Big headed moment over.

I am asked all.the.time what my process for fabric design is.  I've tried to these answers, but still I get at least 2 or 3 emails a week about it requesting more info.  The tricky thing is - there is no real "method" for designing fabric.  Every designer that I have chatted with about their method has a different way of going about getting that yardage in their hands.

And so I am going to share the process of the print with you along the way.  (Assuming it doesn't get cut in the process.)  For all intents and purposes of "design & art", this is a huge no-no.  People just don't share things until they are done.  For one reason, to avoid the dreaded knock offs.  And for another reason, if it doesn't make the cut into the final collection, people won't be dissapointed.  It happens all the time.  I have ended up cutting prints from every collection I have done.  There are many reasons - it isn't necessary, it just doesn't go, or in the end - the colors didn't turn out right and there wasn't time to fix it.  So if you are willing to watch and not get too attached, I will share the process of this print coming to life.

I started this one last night.  My process starts with a sketch.  Sometimes from my imagination, sometimes from different inspirational images (photographs, vintage documents, even furniture sometimes) or in this case - antique keys.

In case you were wondering, I draw in bed at night.  Don't know why, it just happens that my best work comes to me at those dark hours of the night while Dustin is reading a book next to me.

So this was Step 1.  I'll keep you posted on the development of this print as it comes along.  Please know, it takes a long time.  I contemplated just showing this whole process when it was done, but I thought it would be more fun (and anticipating) for everyone to see it in real time.

So stay tuned!

 

Comments

[JennyG]

How long until we see the next fabric collection? :) I can't wait!

[Sandi Henderson]

OH its slated for Spring Market, so May-ish. Sorry, I know it takes a long time! And bringing everyone in on this print process may make it worse? Or better? Hmm.. not sure.

Sandi

[Leila]

It will be fun to see the process!

[Lisa]

Oh my gosh! What cool keys!!! I'm trying to imagine how you're going to work them in to your new line. I'll bet it'll be awesome!

[heather from arizona]

Oh this sounds fun!! Thanks for breaking the "taboo" and taking us all along for the design ride. I love seeing what inspires people and how the creative process flows!

[Nicole]

This is a very interesting post thread....waiting for the next instalment, no strings attached...

[Dawn Nikol]

How fun!

Totally off topic... will you have another bird ornament pattern by chance?? I made one for my little girl last year for her 1st Christmas and want to keep up the tradition... might just have to make the same bird w/different colors though if you have no plans on top of your other busy plans! :)

[Shari]

I love that you stay true to yourself and even though, this can be a "no-no", I love that you are sharing with others your awesome talent in how you get inspired to finish your piece! I work the same way, it's those dark hours where it's quiet and you are more relaxed in designing! :) You rock Sandi!

[mo]

Those keys look so great. I always draw in bed at night too. Even if it is 15 minutes in bed before sleeping it is more productive than an hour any other time of the day for me. Like the thoughts just have to get out before I go to sleep!

[Katie]

Why, yes, most people (myself included) cannot share any news before it's a done deal. No worries, you've just gotten us really excited and curious! I'll be looking forward to future posts on your creative process.

[Laurel]

Thank you for sharing, as a teacher of youth it is helpful to know how get from ideas to products. I am looking forward to learning from your future posts.

[Jessica]

That's fun! I have a girlfriend here who was trying to figure out what to do with a wall and I suggested antique keys. She would die to get her hands on those.

[angel]

Oh, it will be so fun to see and follow your process! Thank you for sharing with us, I'm sure we'll all be along for the ride no matter how long it takes. Exciting!

[Christine]

I'm looking forward to seeing the steps in your designing process. Thanks!

[Colleen]

It is so fun to see the process - extra for you to post but I appreciate it. LOVE the old keys - my daugther and I love anything with keys and collect old ones. Thanks for taking the time to share it and happy holidays!

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I just wanted to ask the same question as the ladies before me...I have been looking like forever to find a baby shoe pattern with no seam inside, so if you can tell us how to do that, I would be really grateful! Thanks!I just wanted to ask the same question as the ladies before me...I have been looking like forever to find a baby shoe pattern with no seam inside, so if you can tell us how to do that, I would be really grateful! Thanks!

[Jona]

I saw some old keys yesterday and I thought to myself "I wonder how Sandi is doing on that key fabric idea?" since I remember you picking up some keys at market. How fun to see you've started the process. I really can't wait to see what it all turns out to be (because I know it will be delicious)!

[naomig]

Oh, this is so cool! I always wonder about the process for fabric designs, so I'm really excited for you to share your "steps" with us. Thank you!

[Rebecca Makas]

I have a fascination with old keys, so even these photos are wonderful to me. I can't wait to see the process move along. For me...it's great to watch it evolve instead of seeing it all once it's over.

[Anneliese]

It is so generous of you to share a glimpse into your process! I love this type of thing! And I am really excited to see your new line!

[clothing labels]

I just have to agree with them that your words and article is truly inspiring. I adore this kind of talents that would really provide everybody with productive outcome and insights in life. And I just adore your work that is truly adorable and fantastic. Perfectly handed and touched, this would just be a perfect piece to give for someone as a gift. Thanks for inspiring me indeed.