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The lotus has long been a popular floral motif in many artistic mediums, but its root has typically been reserved for the dinner menu. Its graphic and beautiful shape, as well as its inkpad- like texture, make the lotus root an ideal tool for block printing.
Lucy McKenna shares with us an easy technique that highlights the beautiful pattern of lotus root on an elegant set of table linens.
Materials:
Fresh lotus root (available at many Asian markets)
Acrylic paint
Fabric painting medium (converts acrylic paint to fabric paint)
Napkins, runner or tablecloth (pre-wash without fabric softener)
Tools:
Sharp knife
Paint dishes
Paintbrush
Dish of water
Plastic tablecloth or scrap paper
Cotton swabs and toothpicks
Directions:
1. Mix two parts acrylic paint to one part fabric-painting medium. Prepare lotus root by making a smooth slice through its cross section with a sharp knife. Dab off any moisture from the cut with a paper towel. To make prints of varying sizes, slice at wider and narrower section of lotus root.
2. Use paintbrush to apply paint mixture to surface of lotus root. Remove excess paint from lotus root holes using a cotton swab or tooth pick to ensure clean graphic lines of root's shape. For printing multiple colors, prepare lotus root cuts for each color.
3. Press painted surface of root onto desired fabric with even pressure. Lift root and add more paint, clean holes if necessary and repeat printing process.
Special Thanks:
Lucy McKenna