Bushclover Part 2

Uncomplicated and modest designs such as the bushclover pattern were considered politically correct during the Heian period in Samurai history.

This photo shows the first three rows of ‘scales’ drawn directly on the page, the next two are cut out and glued down and the final two are free standing.


In this photo I have placed the scales differently. Normally they would overlap upwards to give added protection to the warriors. On the left they are still overlapping upwards but each of the rows covers the one underneath. On the right they are overlapping downwards.


These scales have all been made separately before assembling from two layers of tissue paper, crumpled then glued together. A strip of cartridge paper was put along the edge for stability. I used metal eyelets and viscose tape to join. I have threaded the tape through in one piece from top to bottom as per the detachable sleeves.


This piece was also made using two layers of tissue paper. The bushclover pattern was drawn on in oil pastel crayons before applying a coat of acrylic ink followed by a coat of acrylic wax. Gold thread was used in one continuous join as above. The close up shows the bushclover pattern. Not too sure about this one, I think it looks a bit heavy. I prefer the simplicity of the white, red and black samples.

This piece is another A1 size mock up as in the 3D model I made before. It’s pieces of card cut in the shape of scales, a strip of card glued down the side to strengthen and then all of them glued on to a piece of mount board. Before I decorate it I must decide which way up I want to work…

...this way or ...

...this way…

.. .and then try out some different techniques – not ink and bleach again!! Any suggestions welcome.