For as long as she can remember, Susan has always
expressed herself through artwork. After many years of
experimenting with several art mediums at the Portland School
of Art and other local programs, she discovered that hand-
embossing velvet provided limitless creative possibilities.
The embossing technique involves “burning” unique designs
into solid pieces of velvet. Heated presses and rubber or metal
templates are used to “emboss” each piece of fabric, ensuring
that no two products are ever exactly alike.
The embossed material is then fabricated into a line of
accessories which are inspired by Susan’s passion for vibrant
colors and contemporary/eclectic designs.
The Material Girl line of hand-embossed velvet accessories has
grown to include scarves, evening bags, pillows, table runners,
headbands, and wine/gift bags. Designs include the ever-
popular spirals, botanicals, and numerous geometrical shapes.
All the accessories are offered in a provocative line of colors
including midnite blue, raspberry, red, espresso, and purple.
Products are available at several of Maine’s fine artisan shows
and at retail stores and galleries throughout New England,
Boulder and Aspen, Colorado.
Susan is also the owner/director of Studio for the Living Arts
Dancecentre in Gray, Maine, where she teaches jazz, tap, and
creative movement classes. www.studioforthelivingarts.com
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| “Material Girl” Hand-Embossed Velvet Designs Susan Cloutier |