You’d be forgiven for mistaking these works of art for computer-generated or photoshopped pieces, but they’ve all been sewn completely by hand. Jane Sanders created each piece on a Singer Fashion Mate, a sewing machine over half a century old that’s still proving old machines were built to last.
“What I love about the older machines is that they are purely mechanical, not computerised and therefore not much can go wrong with them… my number one sewing tip for people using sewing machines is to get an older one”
Jane Sanders, who lives in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne in the United Kingdom with her two daughters and hyperactive greyhound named Fred, is a cleaner by day and a textile artist every other spare moment she has. We caught up with Jane to hear about what drives her passion for textile art.
Jane’s Greyhound – Fred
What got you into this kind of art in the first place?
I like to push the notion of textile work beyond just fabric use. I like to stitch unusual things and catch the audience by surprise. I think as an artist, if you like flowers you will paint flowers, you will always go towards what excites you. Well, i’m obsessive about music and the iconography of rock stars. I also have a love of sewing so i decided to marry the two together.
David Byrne
Can you tell us a little bit about your creative process?
Well, for the piece I did of David Byrne from Talking Heads (above + below), I decided to design a suit for him. I had a collection of vintage cigarette cards that I have collected from the Wills Tobacco Company, who were a huge employer here in Newcastle, a sort of homage to the region I live in. I used them in a way to make it look like a funky patterned material that I think captures his unique sense of style, which I love. I used felt for the face and shaded with graphite and chalk to add definition and realism. I also incorporate glass for the eyes.
Marianne Faithfull
How have people reacted to your work?
It’s been a real success, as people love to see their heroes depicted in a different way. Also, from a crafting perspective, some people don’t know the subject of my work, they just love and appreciate the stitching aspect of it. There’s something for everyone.
Any advice for people learning to sew?
My advice for people learning to sew is to have a look at handicraft books. As a child of the ‘70s and ‘80s, crafting was really popular. I was always making something from handicraft books. Many of the skills I use in my work today, I learnt as a kid doing little projects like beading, embroidery and applique. Every time you make something you will learn something new and get better and better.
For more inspiration, ideas and crafting goodies join our newsletter.
You can see more of Jane on her website here.
Or follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
MORE IMAGES BELOW OF JANE’S AMAZING WORK!
Marianne Faithfull
Michael Jackson
Nicky Wire – Manic Street Preachers
Otis Redding
Stuart Adamson – Big Country
Jack White – The White Stripes
Tom Waits
Keith Moon – The Who
