How To Use Padded Structure and Surface Contouring In Textile Art

As a textile artist I use the traditional method of quilted applique (adding a layer of wadding between the background and design fabric) in order to cushion the surface. ‘Green Buddha Temple’ is an example of individual panels with a depth of 1.5 inches.

Each panel of Buddha is quilted with a layer of wadding, creating a plinth where he sits in contemplation. — A layer of wadding creates a cushioned surface

What Is Surface Contouring?

Stuffing structures to create real depth raises the surface away from the flat background creating a contoured sculptural quality. ‘Vibrant Buddha Temple’ is a simple design with a depth of four inches. A play of light casts shadow over the undulating surface which changes throughout the day.

Individual panels in Vibrant Buddha Temple are stuffed with wadding to form a contoured surface of peaks and troughs adorned in light reflective beads and sequins. — A contoured surface of peaks and troughs

The hood in ‘Mother and Child’ has a depth of six inches. The structure is manipulated and moulded to appear naturally contoured with deep folds.

The hood of 'Mother and Child' is moulded like a soft sculpture, the padding manipulated to produce deep folds. — Figures peep out from the depth of the hood

What Is A Padded Structure?

A padded structure can be created from individual parts, stuffed and stitched together. ‘Old Ted’ has a total of eight body parts and a depth of three inches.

'Old Ted' has a total of eight body parts and a depth of three inches. — Individual segments are stuffed

A single structure can be stuffed and moulded like a sculpture. The outer skin of ‘Tomato’ has an internal wall (red satin adorned in sequins) between the padded external structure and the internal cavity. A depth of five inches raises the structure from the flat background.

The outer skin of 'Tomato' has an internal wall (red satin adorned in sequins) between the padded external structure and the internal cavity — A padded sculpture

The vagina in ‘Gang Bang’ is not as densely packed but achieves the same depth through careful manipulation of folds and pleats within the contoured surface.

Using A Layered Structure

‘Breast Cancer 2: Mastectomy’ has a depth of six inches constructed from layers of fabric, plastics and wadding. I enjoy seeing the creative process along side the finished product. An element of voyeurism is created, enticing the viewer inside.

Layers fabric, plastic and wadding creating the padded structure of 'Cancer 2: Mastectomy'. — Internal layers represent the absent breast

I enjoy the challenge of creating textiles with real depth and sculptural beauty. The play of light upon a contoured surface changes with the weather and time of day.

Examples of padded 3D Textiles can be found in both the Natural and Womanhood Collections by Christine Cunningham.