Contour, Movement and Tone:

Experiments in “water marbling” aka let’s play with seaweed sauce…

Water marbliing - Jacquard kit

Marbling, the ancient art of floating ink or dye on a surface to create intricate patterns, has captivated artists for centuries. This technique, which has flourished in various cultures, is particularly renowned in Turkey and Japan.

In Japan, marbling is known as Suminagashi, a practice that dates back to the 12th century. Artists float ink on water to create mesmerizing designs on paper. Meanwhile, in Turkey, the art is called Ebru and has been a staple of marbling paper since the 13th century, traveling along the Silk Road.

My passion lies in fabric dyeing, specifically with silk and linen. Unlike the oil-based inks used in Suminagashi, fabric dyes or paints are water-based and don't float naturally. This posed a challenge, as fabric isn't compatible with oil either. Fortunately, fiber artists have developed methods to create a "Size"—a medium for dye to float on. Experimentation is key, as different sizes and dyes yield varying results.

Currently, I use a slurry to thicken water enough to keep fiber dyes or paints on the surface. Popular methods include methylcellulose, carrageenan, shaving cream, and glass. My preferred choice is carrageenan, derived from red seaweed. Though pricey, it's eco-friendly, non-toxic, and forgiving. Fun fact: carrageenan is also used as a thickener in many processed foods, including chocolate milk.

Here's a glimpse into my marbling process:

1. Prepare the Size: Mix carrageenan with water and refrigerate overnight.

2. Prepare the Mordant: Soak fabric in a solution of alum and water, then hang to dry.

3. Set Up the Tank: Pour the size into the tank and let it sit while mixing paints.

4. Mix the Paints: Use pipettes to drop paint onto the size. If it sinks, add synthetic gall or GAC 900.

5. Create Patterns: Use various tools to move the paint until satisfied with the design. Work quickly—no more than 4 minutes.

6. Dye the Fabric: Lay the fabric on the surface, then rinse and hang to dry.

I've experimented with several types of paints, including Jacquard's marbling set, Dy-Na-Flow, and Golden Liquid Acrylics. Each product offers unique colors and can be mixed to create new shades, though I avoid mixing brands.

Size Recipe: Mix 3 tablespoons of Carrageenan per gallon of water, plus a teaspoon of water softener. Blend until smooth, then refrigerate. I use a blender that I set aside for only fiber projects.

Mordant Recipe: Mix 1 tablespoon of alum per gallon of water. Soak fabric for 10 minutes, squeeze out water, and hang to dry. Please note that a gallon of water is a lot. I usually only need a quart for the silk scarves and cotton linens I’m using.

Tank Setup: Use smaller tanks for initial experiments. My permanent tanks are 37"x37" and 25"x61", but aluminum foil pans or plastic tubs work for smaller pieces.

Tools: Professionals have fancy combs that they charge a ton of money for, but mine are really simple. I duct taped nails to a board, used wooden skewers, and dollar store combs to create fascinating patterns.

Fabric paint floating on the Size before combing.

Marbling is both an art and a science, forgiving to those who dare to experiment. Dive in, explore, and let your creativity flow.