"Transformation" is my Creative Crochet project from graduate school. It is the first piece of work that established me as a Fiber Artist. It has been the rock that helped me work on my art again.

I hung "Transformation" at Rain Bird Gallery, Blanco, Texas . Because I had the time, inclination and opportunity, I started working in earnest in Fiber Arts with a focus on clothing and accessories. What is Fiber Art Fashion or Wearable Art? According to Wikipedia, "Wearable art, also known as Artwear or "art to wear", refers to individually designed pieces of (usually) handmade clothing or jewelry created as fine or expressive art." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wearable_art

Out of my own need, I created NaturasArtClothes. In the past I made my own clothes because I was tall and clothes off the rack didn't always fit well. I could save money and I could express myself better if I made my own clothes. I use accessories to stretch my options for expression as well. I like to feel comfortable and healthy, look good, and feel good about how my clothing is made.

I use many Fiber Art techniques and natural materials to create comfortable, one of a kind and and flattering clothing and accessories. I use cotton, silk and rayon whenever possible. The main processes I use are Shibori, Tie Dyeing, Serti Silk Painting, Creative Crochet, and Recycling Handmade Crochet Pieces.

Creative crochet as I define this technique is a one of a kind, original piece of work. I may combine elements from other published patterns in a new way or completely make up a pattern using basic stitches or even create new stitches. I may use unusual materials or creative fibers including yarns, crochet thread and other decorative threads. I will also use beads at times. Recently I have begun to offer PDF's of my originally designed jewelry items. This has been a lot of fun and a challenge to me. Hopefully other people will enjoy making some of these items for themselves.

Recycled crochet is my way of honoring all those handmade items often made by women's hands. It is re-purposing wonderful pieces in creative ways to make something new like my Doily Purses. It also helps to lessen waste! I often find crochet pieces at garage and estate sales as well as in antique shops. Sometimes people donate the crochet to me and sometimes people ask me to make a something from a piece they already have.

In all my processes I try to be as environmentally responsible as possible. Customers can be assured that I chose supplies that use as little chemicals as possible and that I recycle as much as possible. My main suppliers are socially responsible through supporting sewing and weaving cooperatives as well.

I try to serve my customers by making healthful and comfortable products. I have recently started using natural plant dyes and offering a new line of loose clothing that might especially help people with health problems such as Breast Cancer.

Thank you for visiting Naturasartclothes! Let me know how I can help you!
Maureen