Chapter 11 Composite sheet and completed accessory

Following on from the design ideas in Chapter 10 developing different ideas for bracelets and cuffs, I finally decided to make some watch straps for a 24 cm wrist

A chunky detachable watch strap

A delicate lace-like strap from water soluble fabric

Composite sheet

A chunky detachable watch strap

• Source: harp, scroll head with spiral column
• Used scribbler web site and PC package to manipulate the shape
• Initial ideas were to have a plain strap using designs from mono-printed papers or mono-printed fabrics from earlier chapters

• A 3-D spiral column however could be made by cutting cardboard tube at a slant

• Each piece was wrapped with wadding
• The selected fabric, one purple and one yellow, was machine stitched then cut into strips and rearranged to wrap around the wadding

• I decided to alternate the colours

• Leaving a spare piece for the watch face
• Each section of the strap was joined to the next with beads; the left length a mirror image of the right.  Started with a single row of beads.  Putting the beads between the sections not only provided joints but also ensured the beads did not scratch the arm whilst wearing the strap
• To allow more give so the strap would bend around the wrist used a double row of bead then larger beads (purchased) from the outer edge of the strap towards the watch face.  The last two rows of beads were hand made using Tyveck which was painted and machine stitched and wrapped with wire

• The spiral scroll for the watch face was made using felt and Lutradur Bondawebbed together, using the extra circle as a frame.  It looked like a large toggle which was stitched in place with beads
• I hand sewed a watch face into the space
• At this point I decided to keep these straps separate, making two 6-stranded plaits (150cm lengths of machine stitched cord) over which the tubes could go

 

• Attached the plaits to the watch face using hand stitching
• Each plait was finished off with a gathered gold thread twisted around then to keep the plait in place a second yellow ribbon thread
• Beads both purchased and handmade using left over Tyvek toggle type beads were added.  The cords were too thick for sewing through the beads some some were stitched on to the cords or put on extra threads
• Made a ball button to fasten the strap (shown above) which slips through spaces on the other plait to wrist size needed (no extra holes needed)

The resulting watch and straps are quite chunky, especially with the tubes added.  The tubes can be left off or pulled on to the plaits.  However this can be quite difficult!

 

A delicate lace-like strap from water soluble fabric

This was designed for those that prefer a lighter strap and can be used with existing ladies watches to give it a bit of decoration maybe on a special occasion

• Source: scroll head of a violin
• Developed the water soluble strap made in Chapter 10
• Added beads around the edges
• Shi sha pearly shells added to the centre of each spiral

• The fabric is quite firm so adding four slits for the watch allows the watch to sit on the strap
• Nothing needs to be added to fasten the strap as the existing watch holes and buckle can be used

• I only have the one photo showing me working on the straps.  Hand sewing the Shi sha

In addition to the above I also started a cuff, based on the harp design, but have not completed this.

However I will include a photo of where I am at:

The intention is to turn it inside out and machine a seam along its length

• Turn it the right way on to make a double layer
• The top and bottom of it shown above were to be hemmed then, either to have 4 buttons with corresponding button holes (I had some deep purple to use)
• Or, eye lets using a cord laced through to fasten the cuff on to the wrist
• The cuff could be used on its own, with a watch fastened on top, or a range of bracelets.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this module.  It has taken a while, but the techniques can be used in so many combinations

I have never before worked with the complementary colours of purple and yellow and I love them, and it was great fun exploring spiral designs

I also love seeing the inspiring designs and finished items on Facebook - Distant Stitch forum

 

Total time taken on Chapter 11 was 23 hours

Total costs for this chapter £35