Panties from Claudine Lamothe on Vimeo.
So here’s a simple example of the panties under high temperature. The fabric is still drenched after 3 days of drying so it doesn’t look very good yet. This goes to show that cheap cotton is not the best canvas for thermochromatic dye. Also, because the cotton absorbs a lot, making one pantie takes an immense quantity of dye, which I have limited quantities of. This means that I will not be able to make 5 of 6 pieces, but more like 2 or 3.
I’ve also tested to see how I can implement digital medias into the project. I’ve made tests with conductive thread, but I’m perplexed about the NEED to use this technology. It’s one thing to put sensors everywhere, it might look cool, but why are they used? I feel like I can embed in this project digital typography in a different way. One that will have a direct relationship with the project. One of the options I have been exploring is of using an industrial embroidery machine. I could take digital text and reproduce it on the fabric with fuchsia thread. When the panties will be worn, the thread will remain the same color, and the fabric will turn baby blue. This, to me, would be a much better approach to this project as the intimate qualities of embroidery would enhance the properties of project.
Sketches are coming soon.