Under this topic, I began by stitching on a multifunctional sewing machine, exploring various pattern traces that emerged. One of these patterns is the zigzag line, which I can fold along its trace. By sewing along a trace twice, I create a cross-like appearance.

I drew inspiration from Deleuze’s “The Fold”: “between in two folds, in the in-between of the fold.” Thus, on the valleys and mountains of the fabric, I apply the thread as an adhesion between pleats. The small cross patterns strengthen the mountains, while the larger X-shaped lines resemble fish scales. If the design and thread are adequate, these can be applied without breaks, reducing the need for unnecessary knots, which can be quite bothersome.

The fabric I use is called non-woven paper, which combines the qualities of cloth and paper. It is as light as paper yet resilient like cloth when stitched through.

In the end, I achieve the desired effect by decorating both sides of the fabric with thread. During my exploration, I discovered that delicate silver jewelry complements this piece beautifully, enhancing its brightness and delicacy. Meanwhile, wire的加入增加了纸片的机械动感。

I'd like to highlight the difference between hand stitching and machine stitching lies in the action of the needle and thread. With hand stitching, the needle passes completely through the fabric in one continuous motion, forming a single, traceable path between two pieces. Conversely, machine-stitched seams are composed of two threads—one above and one below the pieces to be joined—intertwined in a loop. The former involves forward and backward movements, while the latter involves the needle passing through the fabric and then withdrawing from the same spot. 

Dormor (2020, p48) depict a subtle difference between these two methods, metaphorically mirroring the maker’s body in the stitching process. As a maker myself, I can't related this too much, especially with tons of needle work, the repeating boring me very much no matter by hand or machine. Ultimately, the choice between hand and machine stitching depends on the desired effect. Hand stitching tends to reveal itself more easily, while machine stitching conceals itself well.