Step 1: Conceptualize the idea

This is by far is the most challenging step of the process as I contemplate how best to reflect intangible thoughts onto a tangible surface.

Step 2: Selecting the silk

Depending on the definition and effect of the images I want to achieve, I select the weight and type of silk.  The outcome of the painting is highly dependent on the fabric as silk fabrics behave differently during the painting process.  My favorites are habutai and crepe de chine because of their lustrous and sheer qualities.

Step 3: Stretching the silk

The silk is stretched directly onto the stretcher bars.  The stretcher is essential for silk painting as the fabric must be raised above the work surface.  The tension must be adjusted to achieve an even and taut canvas.  If the fabric is not precisely stretched, the flow of dyes will be affected during painting.  This tension must be maintained throughout the several layers I use in the painting process. 

Step 4: Employing various techniques

I use several techniques, including resist, alcohol, salt and sun in conjunction with watercolor for the textured yet translucent properties of my works.  For outlining images my preference is gutta.  For the most vibrant colors I use dyes specially made for silk.  By layering the different methods and dyes each artwork is painted over several days.  Each layer becomes increasingly more complex as more detail is added without over-working the piece.  In essence each work is a composition of many paintings on a single canvas.  For more depth and to increase the play of light\shadows, organic materials such as ground minerals, sand, salt, crystal spheres are added.

For the multi-dimensional pieces, each silk canvas is individually painted on separate stretcher frames.  I paint the works simultaneously to achieve a balance in the overall design and color consistency.  The works are then removed from their stretcher frames and re-stretched into a single stretcher frame.  Re-stretching must be carefully done so as not to warp the individual piece.  By tiering individual pieces I create an illusion of depth and movement.