We have been asked to select a shape, form a rigid outline and wrap, bind, interlace or criss-cross threads between the frame.

Having read the next exercise I know that I’m soon to be making a rigid grid which, obviously, will include straight solid lines of some sort.  So for this exercise I decided to concentrate on ‘broken’ lines and try to make something linear but without single long continuous bars.

I set myself numerous criteria before starting:

• Incorporate minimal materials to create the desired effect.
• Use shiny against matt.
• Use hard against smooth.
• Use rigid against slack/soft.
• Use thick against thin.
• Use an analogous colour scheme with one complementary.

I found that this stopped me becoming overwhelmed by the possibilities of material choice.  By setting limitations it speeds the process up (for me) because I already have a base to work from without agonising forever over my large array of available items.

My slightly offset diamond-shaped frame is made with 1.57mm galvanised steel wire – essentially fence wire.  This was wrapped with strips of dyed muslin to give a base for the final layers to adhere to.  The two visual materials are a loosely woven, fluffy, thick wool yarn variegated in my chosen colour theme and 20 gauge colour coated copper wire.  Opposites in every way except colour scheme.

I have broken the lines by wrapping each around the other and then continuing them on their journey from another point.  I finished the wire off by wrapping it back around itself and leaving short tails with loops hanging.  Reminds me of snapped piano wires or guitar strings that have twanged back onto themselves.

I’m very happy with the outcome and it has given me ideas for the next stage.