Denim experiments

We experimented with lots of different ways of using the denim, including making it into yarn. I was particularly keen to explore the potential with this as I felt it would reflect my specialism of knit and play to my strengths.

We encountered several problems with this though. The denim obviously doesn't have as much stretch as a proper yarn so when cut too finely would snap; the edges also frayed like mad with some of the denim which looked messy. We trialled potential ways to overcome these issues, including stitching the yarn and bleaching it, I even tried to ply the yarn together although was unsuccessful.

The most positive outcome was to fold the yarn in half and stitch along with yellow thread. This produced a stronger yarn with one clean edge that contrasted nicely with the softer fray. The sample below is knitted on large needles with an open structure; it could become a blanket or covering for something.

(photo credit: Molly)

Although we all liked the knitted structures, we agreed it would be too time consuming to create a large scale piece, so decided to keep them as samples to visualise potential alternative outcomes. 

We also experimented with crochet and macrame knotting to create potential fastenings or details.