Paula Telford

Paintings on Silk by Paula Telford.

Paula Telford is a silk painter from Rhode Island, on the east coast. She feels fortunate to have learned both silk painting and graphic design from two different and truly talented local artists who shared their own techniques with her and who have become good friends of hers. Living on a small island, Paula is inspired by the beauty of the ocean and the New England landscapes, and she often works from photos she has taken. Paula currently works as a graphic designer for a university, and enjoys time with her husband and three kids, but she still finds time in her home studio to pursue her passion of painting on silk.

Paula's works of art include brightly painted tapestries and window shades using Jacquard silk dye on scarves of chiffon and crepe de chine. Using water-based resists such as jacquard clear and pebeo colored resist in the tubes, the design is drawn onto the stretched silk. The procion MX dyes are mixed with water, using soda ash fixative and urea (see cold batch method and serti technique in the dharma catalog.) Once dry, the painted silk is left to cure for at least 48 hours (the longer the better), and then washed with hot water and synthrapol in the final rinse. Paula has found that the colors remain bright without steaming this way.

The silk is sewn with fine backing fabric and trim, or a rolled hem. Custom orders such as beautiful bridesmaid shawls and other gifts are a specialty, created with care at Telford Design Studio. Inspirational quotes and custom colors are some of the unique designs offered.

For years, Paula has relied on Dharma Trading as a great source for ideas, books, and supplies of all kinds. It's a terrific starting point for the beginner, and a reliable vendor with quick turnaround for the seasoned silk painter. The service is always prompt and courteous, and the catalog is a wealth of information. We even appreciate the environmentally friendly mailing/packing supplies that are used!

Website: http://www.telfordsilk.com