"Using Acrylic Wax on Textiles"

This week we had a little workshop on the use of acrylic wax in Textile Art.

Having completed an embellished chess set box I was looking for advice about keeping the stitch work protected from discolouring with dust. It was suggested a covering of acrylic wax would do the trick.

Acrylic wax dries quickly to provide a protective finish.

It can be used on any porous surface – paper, wood, plaster and fabric. It dries quickly to a warm, silky finish similar to beeswax, but with the heat and water-resistance of a varnish. 

I worked on three textured sample pieces before finally painting the chess box embroidery. 

The wax does dry hard and gives the stitching a firm feel, and there is a slight discolouration of the white fabric. The colour dye of the threads should also be tested before applying. Despite these draw backs I felt the overall finish would be in keeping with the colour of the wooden box and softened the glare of the white aida.

 

In our group we discussed what other uses there were for the acrylic wax?

1.Coating a textile rug to keep it dirt free

2. Strengthening paper to make it look translucent

3. Adhering paper to fabric

4. Strengthening leaves before embroidering

5. Coating fabric book covers to secure the sewing, give it a nice finish and to making the cover pliable. 

6. Coating the bottom of a textile bag to keep it clean from dirty floors

7. To give a nice finish to pelmet vylene vases 

Fabric Sealant Spray

It was also suggested that I could use a fabric sealant spray. This is a versatile hydrophobic textile protector spray coating. Designed to provide a protective barrier against water and grime. It effectively repels water and general soils and is ideal for all types of exterior fabric vehicle hoods and interior carpets, fabrics, and upholstery including alcantara and suede. It protects quilts and needlework from dirt and UV rays. It does not stiffen as the acrylic wax and does not discolour the fabric. Information on the can says it is ideal for cross stitch, drapes, upholstery and plush toys.

Stitching together is an essential way of sharing ideas. One of our members brought in her tote bag and it inspired me to create my own Christmas tote bag for next year.

Yorkshire & Humber Embroiderers’ Group Residential Summer School Friday 15^th July to Sunday 17^th July 2022

Bishop Burton College, York Road, Bishop Burton

Please contact Pauline Heywood pauline@whitgifthall.co.uk for more details

Tutors

Georgina Bellamy, Tracy A Franklin, Joanna O'Neill, Shelley Rhodes