Woven Experiment No.65 - Larger open freeform without a core
The aim of this experiment was to see if a larger form could be woven without the use of a core and if it would hold itself without sagging. It began with lengths of 6mm wax held together with figure 8 weaving in 3mm wax. The spaces left between the guide lines were then filled with crochet work.
There were movement in the wax and it required a more delicate touch with the wax, but the result is much more fluid than working the wax over a core. It is more organic in appearance and the weaving is more open and light.
My only concerns if the weave is too open, will this cause a problem for the foundry? will it cast well?
There is a degree of movement even after the piece is complete, so to hold the shape I have inserted a plastic bag in the inside space and filled it with polystyrene chipping, and then fastened the bag. It seems to be holding well, the foundry may even be able to invest the outer areas of the piece first, then remove the bag and its contents before completing the investment stage.
