Records effort to make artwork (8)
I believe the answer is:
tapestry
'make artwork' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how one could define the other.
'records effort' is the wordplay.
'records' becomes 'tapes' (taping is a kind of recording).
'effort' becomes 'try' (synonyms).
'tapes'+'try'='TAPESTRY'
'to' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for tapestry that I've seen before include "Party set (anag)" , "Ornamental textile" , "decoration" , "Piece of strong material with picture or design woven into it" , "Ornamental wall hanging" .)