First I stretch the silk on a canvas frame using silk tacks or use Susan Lousie Moyer stretching system (wooden panels that are adjustable with special pin hooks that hold the silk tight.). Usually, I paint on white silk scarves that I purchase from Thai Silks and Co., which are already hand-rolled.

I use a combination of techniques to create my hand-painted silk scarves and bags, from a fluid-like watercolor method to a more controlled resist technique. I apply a clear or colored "gutta" or resist to the silk to control the flow of paints or as a highlighter in my designs. I paint on the silk using Tinfex Design and/or Pepeo Soie silk dyes that can be diluted (to make them lighter) by mixing them with a solution of isopropyl alcohol and water. Isopropyl alcohol is also helpful for removing unwanted drops of dye or mistakes.

Occasionally I add salt or drops of alcohol to create interesting effects and abstract designs. Sometimes, I will lie the silk flat and paint, instead of stretching the fabric. After a piece is complete, I steam-set it using an at home steaming process. To prepare for steaming, I roll my scarves in layers of fabric and newspaper and steam them in a pot on my stove for three hours. When done, I then them it sit for 24 hours, and then get the pieces dry cleaned.

All scarves and bags can be dry cleaned or washed or by hand in cold water.. Previously I mixed my own dyes by hand, but find that using manufactured products like Tinfex Design are easier to use and less messy.