These are the tools that I use to grommetize my work. A cute little hammer, an awl that actually does have a really sharp tip (I have no idea why I didn't show it), grommet couples and the very important smooshing thingamabob. I can't remember what it's actually called, so "smooshing thingamabob" must suffice. I also use a scissors, but that was much too pedestrian a tool for my photo.
Here you see the grommet couple. As in real life, one of them has a longer element than the other (risque for some, inaccurate for others, but just go with it please). You push the longer shaft through the fabric and then cap it with the other one. Then, pound the smooshing thingamabob with the hammer and you have set your grommet. Highly technical.
On big pieces, I like to mark where I'm going to place my grommet with a black dot made with a Sharpie.
Then, I use the awl (I told you it had a nice sharp tip) to spear an initial hole through the fabric. This particular section isn't thick, but the awl is INVALUABLE for those dense sections. It is my constant companion when I embroider.
Once again, I have dissed that poor scissors, but you can see that I cut a little hole where the awl poked through the fabric. It's easier to cut after poking the hole. In the past I've made my grommet holes with a simple cut, but usually that slice is a bit too large. This way is best for me. Then the hole doesn't get too big.
Stick the long shafted grommet half through the back.
Take the short shafted one and cap it off on the other side.
Bang, bang with the hammer and the smooshing thingamabob.
And there you have it. A perfectly grommetized art quilt. Please note that there will be a test on the vocabulary in boldface.
5 comments:
I wonder about how galleries feel about this hanging technique? I usually see 2D pieces hanging from wires suspended from the ceiling. Do you worry that your pieces will bow or droop if suspended this way instead of being nailed or screwed to the wall?
I love this new piece,btw -SO much energy and purposeful movement.
Funny story about my awl... I went into the hardware store to buy one and was looking at the appropriate wall of tools when the shop dork came up to me and asked if he could help. In VERY clear English I said I was looking for "an awl". He says "Oh! The laundry detergent is over there!" pointing to the back of the shop. I looked right at him and said, "Noooo... A-W-L. My husband does the laundry". Aren't grommets fun!?! By the way, you piece might have "No melody to follow" but it looks like it's singing a very merry tune! I like!!!
Thanks for the tutorial, Sonji. I'd been wanting to use some grommets on a purse, and it really helps to see someone else's demo.
where'd you get your smooshing thingamabob?
I just had to get out my grommet thingie for a "grommetization" of my own....LOL
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