Dry Process on Denim (Part-3)

Distress Denim:

·         Distress is involved with the partial removal through wash and friction of the superficial layer of indigo and sometimes breaking of the filaments/yarns and controlled fraying. All that it takes is abrasion!

·         We can use any of several tools, just be careful. They are sharp. Also be careful not to overdo the rubbing, no matter what tool we use, and to do it just where natural wear would occur.

·         First practice with an old pair and then with an inexpensive new pair. we need to get a handle of exactly how much each of the following tricks will affect the look of our jeans.

Procedure:  

          Here are some suggested tools and techniques:

·         A knife: We will need to place a block of wood inside the leg to offer some support and an adequate surface to press against. Rub the surface of the pants as though “shaving”, in any direction. Achieve the look we want, but respect the integrity of the fabric.

·         A cheese grater: With some practice, we can achieve some very special looks with a cheese grater. The rougher side will produce a very interesting pattern of abuse on the denim.

·         Sand Paper: This is my favorite tool, as it comes in many different “grits”. "Grit" refers to the number of abrasive particles per square inch of sandpaper. The lower the grit the rougher the sandpaper. Start with a medium grit and work up to a finer one for more control. We will achieve better results than with a knife. We can also find abrasive “sponges” in different grits. These are great to work with, as they are very easy to hold. The more localized control that sandpaper offers will allow us to selectively fray pockets, hemlines, or any other part that we think will add to the natural worn look that we are after. We will also be able to more naturally blend the worn out areas with those not so worn out. Do not weaken the stitching, this will only shorten the life of your creation. Place objects in the pockets, such as a round or rectangular drink coasters, and sand around their shape. This gives a very realistic worn wallet effect.

·         Pumice Stones: These are also very effective tools for sanding denim. They work great for roughing up the edges of cut holes. As with the sandpaper, we can moisten the pumice in bleach.

·         Power tools: We can also use power tools with grinding tips or other abrasive attachments. They will help to do things faster, but at the risk of overdoing. A Dremel Moto Tool is probably the easiest to handle and there are special tips with sandpaper attached.