Jenny Kee Inspired Aprons & Bags

Best known for her knitwear, Australian fashion designer Jenny Kee creates patterns that include repeated and stylised shapes – often inspired by Australian flora, fauna and icons. This project is inspired by Kee’s wonderfully bright and bold patterns and makes a fun and simple activity for students to create a contemporary colourful bag or apron.

Step 1

Make a list of what you typify as being ‘your’ Australia (e.g. sun, ocean waves, gum trees, leaves, pineapples, surfboards, waratah, etc.). Sketch out some designs of these icons.

Step 2

The ‘paper doll-chains’ technique can be used to make repeated and connected patterns. First, measure the design area on a calico bag/apron – this is how wide the iron-on strips need to be. Cut a strip from an Iron-on Transfer Sheet. Fold it up using an accordion fold.
NB: The folds can be in half, or in quarters – depending on how many repeated shapes you require

Step 3

On the shiny and coloured side of the strip, draw your simplified shape. Be sure that the shape extends beyond the edges of the folds so that part of the fold remains intact when cutting out the shape; otherwise, the shapes will not be connected. Cut out the shape. Open to reveal your continuous shape and pattern.

NB: As this is a shiny and slippery material, the folds may slip a little when cutting, but it won’t affect the overall design.

Step 4

Repeat steps 2 and 3 to create multiple rows.

Step 5

Arrange the patterns onto the calico (bag or apron) – shiny coloured side facing up. Cover with baking paper. Iron for approximately one minute (using the ‘cotton setting’). Once fixed, carefully remove the shiny protective film from the transfer. NB: Additional shapes can be added and layered onto the piece.