Sew Ono eco apparel

SATURDAY!!!

2011-09-29T17:05:00.000-04:00

I'll be there!!!

Custom Skirts will be available for the first time ever!

Come check it out.

My Mother CAN Sew!

2011-06-29T14:42:00.000-04:00

My mother didn't teach me to sew. My mother doesn't know how to sew. Or so I thought.

A few months back my mother called to tell me she was getting a sewing machine for herself and going to learn to sew. That was exciting, random, but exciting. She also seemed to be lacking direction when she told me she had no idea what she wanted to make and was just going to play with the machine.

This, my friends, was a BIG, FAT, LIE. She was secretly making me a quilt for my baby shower.

Months had gone by with her pretending to be "practicing sewing straight lines." In reality she was struggling her way through making her first quilt, her first ANYTHING. Although she did have her quilt-making best friend to call for guidance, she did all of the sewing herself.

Stunned!!! Shocked! My mother could sew. She had bought a new machine, learned to sew on it and produced a quilt for her first grandchild in just a few months.

My mother really is amazing, but she already knew that.

a skirt made for le squirrel

2011-06-07T10:48:00.001-04:00

When one of your best friends graduates from college, again, and her party invitation reads "no gifts please," you just smile and nod and start formulating a plan to make her something you know she would love.

After all, this is the same squirrel who was my maid of honor, threw me a bridal shower and is in the process of preparing my baby shower, ha! no gifts indeed. What is a days work in the studio compared to all of that.

I am loving this new design for summer and had to share it with her, especially since I won't be wearing it until next summer due to my growing belly.

I coaxed her into picking out her own fabrics from whatever I had in the studio and I think this combination suits her perfectly. There is something about it that says "I speak French, I love to cook, and look fabulous doing it."

It's cotton and light for our heinous hot summers and the pockets make it perfect for any squirrel on the go.

PAGEBOY PGH

2011-05-23T10:45:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to announce our new partnership with Pageboy Salon & Boutique in Pittsburgh, PA!!!

They even honored me with my own vendor page!

This summer they will be carrying our skirts, dresses, and tanks. If you're in the area you need to check them out. Here is a little peek of what you'll see there!

Come See Us!

2011-04-14T09:21:00.000-04:00

Grab your bag and grab your coat...We are headed North.

Tagging, pricing, packing, sewing in labels, sewing on buttons...we are almost ready!

Purple & Red: The Perfect Couple

2011-04-11T13:09:00.001-04:00

I have been a fan of Purple and Red since 1989, seriously. I was eleven and wore a Purple and Red floral print dress to my best friend's recital. That night I was also rocking purple tights with lace ankle trim and clear jelly shoes, hot.

Purple and Red have made a recent push for recognition in my work. Since all of my materials come to me preloved I don't have the advantage of choosing a collection's color palette. I literally work with what I find and this spring it was Purple.

A good purple pairing proved to be a tough order though. I went through all of my fabrics, matching it with every color, a feeling of defeat looming until I came to the Red, they were a perfect couple.

I should have started at Red. After all, I love Red and believe it goes with everything, even Pink, just try and stop me.

Getting Personal

2011-03-24T13:22:00.001-04:00

My life has had some big changes since my last post and although I am back in the studio I would like to share what I've been up to:

The biggest bump in my life, baby news, I'm Pregnant!!!

After a miscarriage this past June, Dana and I were excited, and nervous, to find out the morning of Handmade Holiday that I was pregnant again. So far so good, and after a rough first trimester of all day nausea I am feeling pretty great, although I would love to have some of my old energy back, I am one sleepy mama.

We moved!!! We were able to score a greatly reduced house in a fabulous neighborhood on New Year's Eve. It needs a lot of work but it's going to be awesome when we are done.

I finally unpacked the last of the boxes on Sunday but that doesn't mean everything is put away yet. It seems everything these days just takes longer to do.

One more family addition: our New Dog Tucker! He was an unexpected arrival but has settled in nicely to our new home and is quite lovey. He is also helping me to maintain a normal pregnancy weight by taking me on daily walks. He looks sad here because he hates my camera, he really is the most optimistic dog ever.

So there you have it, where I have been for the past few months and what I've been doing. New House, New Dog, New Baby...easy right?

Now to get back to work and get ready for Handmade Arcade!!!

Pinning Up for the Holidays

2010-11-29T10:53:00.001-05:00

Alberto Vargas 1945

With Holiday Heap and Handmade Holiday headed my way I've been pinning up a storm to make some great new
Feather Sweaters.
Arrange, Pin, Shoot, Sew.

Designing one-of-a-kinds is time consuming but I am loving them too much to stop.

The Thrift Report

2010-11-11T13:47:00.000-05:00

Over a year ago I publicly committed to buying Only Used Clothing for a year, underwear and shoes were the two exceptions. Here is my report:

Although I am a long-time thrifter, and sustainable fashion is my business, I was a bit hesitant to go sans new entirely. If I knew then what I know now I would have fearlessly charged ahead sooner. Finding great pieces for myself while I'm hunting down materials to recycle is like the homemade icing on the all natural cake.

It helps being the size of a modern day teenager. I have a woman's body, but thanks to hormones in the milk so does the average teen girl and most of them live for mall consumption. Cute Forever 21 top $2.99 and Anthropologie skirt $4.99, found months apart at the same Goodwill.

Not to give away trade secrets but a friend of mine turned me on to The Bins and I am hooked. If you have a Goodwill Outlet in a 50 mile radius you must take the trip. You should bring gloves and hand sanitizer, and don't skip breakfast because it is a workout, but paying by the pound is the next best thing to free.

I found this lightweight Blue Dress a couple of weeks ago, brand new Target, took a chance for less than a dollar and when I got it home it looked fantastic on me!

"What about jeans?" My dearest friend asked me.

I have actually had better luck finding jeans at the thrift store than anywhere else.

My two favorite pairs that get the most action were both thrifted from the same Goodwill about a year apart. The pair pictured above were Brand New Converse jeans $5.99. A little long, but everything is long when you are 5'3" ish. The other pair are Nine West skinny jeans $6.99! These were like new but had a splash of house paint on the knee which didn't come off when I washed them. Hello Sandpaper, a few rubs and good as new.

I am all about an Off-Season deal! You are way more likely to find a sweater half-off during 90 degree heat than in December. Take Advantage. I don't ever pass up a great garment because of season.

I found this Brand New Ann Taylor sweater in July when we were hitting record temps everyday. I swear the original owner bought it for it's belt because that was missing, but I had no problem finding one in my closet.

Did I mention it was also Half Price! That's right, I paid $2.50 for a great wrap sweater that I am loving wearing in my chilly studio, right this minute actually.

Speaking of not passing up an off-season item... This is another new Target dress that I found last December when I was on the hunt for a New Year's Dress. Knowing that I had two warm weather weddings in my future I didn't even think about passing up this party dress for $6.99. I got a lot of compliments and couldn't wait to tell girlfriends where I got it and what I paid.

I am clearly having Way Too Much Fun in this picture snapped by wedding photographer friend Nick Kessler. (ps. the man leering in the background is my husband.)

I did find that New Year's dress after all at Clementine consignment boutique in Carytown. My brother-in-law gave me a generous gift card for Christmas and I wasted no time in buying the dress I had my eye on the week before.
Note: if you ever find a great party dress at a second-hand-store right before the holidays consider yourself extremely lucky.

To conclude, thrifting has actually made me more stylish. It's great to spend five bucks on something I could never afford at a mall. Like this Anthropologie skirt for $4.99 that fits beautifully and looks great with brown boots. Not to mention that I am keeping all of my clothing budget in my own community.

I can't believe how easy it is to keep it thrifty or local. When I leave the house I want to be wearing something handmade or thirfted, my Old Mall clothes have become second-class citizens. It is hard for me to imagine shopping any other way now.

We Can Do It!

2010-11-01T11:45:00.001-04:00

The last Halloween that I wore a store bought costume I was 2.

My mother was great and would rummage through her closet to transform me into Cleopatra, a punk rocker, or a lady wrestler in under 10 minutes.

On a thrifting trip in August I spied a pair of brand new coveralls relatively close to my size. I was a little hung up on their high price tag, $12.99, but once I had the vision it couldn't be ignored.

I had to be Rosie the Riveter.

Sorry to deny you the pleasure of seeing my actual bulging bicep but I was a little chilly.

I had to do some simple alterations for a better fit which included taking in the waist (this sounds hard but I cheated.) I made a quicky head scarf from scrap fabric in the studio, set my hair on curlers and hit my nails with some vintage looking pale pink polish.

I searched through my collection of punk pins looking for something that would do the costume justice and I almost couldn't believe what I found. Pinned to the right side of my collar was a pink pin that read : A woman's place is everywhere. Rosie couldn't have said it better herself.

The Great Pumpkin Surprise or Another Reason to Compost

2010-10-29T11:12:00.000-04:00

It's been a grueling 3 and a half weeks without my camera, but it's back and I can commence with reporting on all of the eco-goodness in my life.

Last Fall we were in NC visiting family where we were treated to a trip to their farmer's market. I was hosting Thanksgiving and so I purchased 6 tiny white gourds to substitute for candles on my dinner table centerpiece.

They looked great, but when the season was over we threw them into the garden (our lazy winter composting) to break down and nourish our soil for spring. We never expected to they would plant themselves and grow in the garden this year.

We ended up with about 17 total pumpkins! All much larger than the originals but no bigger than 8" in diameter. We've given some away and I think a couple even made their way to Maine.

I love a compost garden surprise. Just in time for Halloween, best day of the year.

Crafty Bastards! All I ever dreamed it would be.

2010-10-04T12:07:00.000-04:00

WOW! What a fantastic day at Crafty Bastards we had! Met great people and had great sales, totally worth getting up at 5 AM ! I heart DC shoppers! Here is a short, but happy, recollection of our day.

Smiling, but still sleepy. Enjoying the crisp air and stealing a zen moment minutes before show time at 10am. Finishing off my first cup of warm local coffee delivered by my husband on his way back from scoring free DC parking.

It wasn't long before the scene looked like this, and Woo Hoo, remained that way all day.

WORKIN' IT!!!
Selling so fast we spent most of the day rearranging racks.

Thanks to everyone who came out to CB! We had the best time!
Don't forget you have until October 8th to VOTE to make me this years Craftiest Bastard!

Countdown to Crafty Bastards Preview : Friday

2010-10-01T08:51:00.000-04:00

Fabulous Feather Sweaters

Countdown to Crafty Bastards Preview : Thursday

2010-09-30T08:47:00.000-04:00

Signature Jackets

Countdown to Crafty Bastards Preview : Wednesday

2010-09-29T10:11:00.000-04:00

The Return of the House Dress.

Countdown to Crafty Bastards Preview : Tuesday

2010-09-28T09:39:00.000-04:00

Bring on the Sweater Weather

Countdown to Crafty Bastards Preview : Monday

2010-09-27T09:54:00.000-04:00

Skirts that used to be Shirts!

Labor (of love) Day

2010-09-08T10:39:00.000-04:00

I spent my Labor Day with these vintage apron scraps of my grandmothers' that have been waiting me out, for a decade. Now that I have sworn to never bake from a box mix again it was time to bring them out of the scrap drawer and into the kitchen where I could show them off, 1960's sauce stains and all.

Pink was apparently a popular color for ladies in the 50s and 60s kitchen.

A little inspiration from my local library.

And... TA-DAAAAAA!!!

It took a lot of piecing together but I got there. Now to track down more scratch recipes, hmmmm.

Who needs a milestone...

2010-08-19T13:44:00.000-04:00

...to have a fantastic birthday? Not me!

This year, my fabulous husband treated me to a beach weekend complete with ocean front room, walks on the beach, and fireworks viewed from our balcony. Okay, the fireworks were coincidence but wonderful none the less. Fireworks and my birthday go together, they were exploding outside of the hospital window while my mother was giving birth to me.

My birthday didn't end at the beach. When we got home I was treated to dinner and fabulous fashionista gifts from family and friends.

READ

This book is gorgeous and I can't wait to read it.

RELAX

I love love love this movie! Seriously, if you haven't seen it you must.

ROCK ON

Photo by Chris Whalberg

I am so psyched about these cuffs! They are made from vegetable parchment and copper, and like these, mine is made from Beets. They are by artist Margaret Dorfman and you can get your own at uncommon goods.

RENEW

I have blogged about Worn Fashion Journal before and receiving a renewed subscription for 2 more years made me happy as a lark. It is truly the best independent fashion magazine I have found.

REFASHION

Also available at uncommon goods, necklaces by designer Laura Skelton made from recycled ties. She is a thrifter, like myself, and also committed to using sustainable materials. Green Girls Unite!

So, I say YAY! to random birthday ages and the beauty of the unexpected. I think I'll do it again next year.

Subtle Details

2010-08-05T10:57:00.000-04:00

I thrifted this dress the week before I went home. It wasn't horrible but it needed some help if it was going to be wardrobe worthy. The hideous metal belt buckle (which was also bent) was the first thing to go along with the excess pleated fabric that ran through it.

I removed the entire waist piece and replaced it with a similar fabric that I had craft swapped 2 years ago. I had been hanging on to this fabric for just the right garment because I love it so much. I also took advantage of the deconstruction process to replace the acetate liner fabric with cotton, much better for the summer heat.

After shortening the dress 5 inches I added lilac lace trim to the liner fabric and lilac ric-rac to the dress hem. I love secret trim and subtle details on any garment, it makes me feel extra pretty.

I removed some green silk pieces from a top in my closet (it had bad karma) and made ties for the waist to form a bow at the back. More silk was added to define the V-neck and the last extra piece was ironed into a pleated ruffle for a feminine touch. I completed the dress with found buttons sewn onto one side of the V for my signature asymmetrical look.

I was so excited that I finished it before we went up North. Here I am showing it off at a family cookout.

No Place Like Home

2010-08-02T15:40:00.001-04:00

On a quick trip home to Lake Ontario we managed to squeeze all of our favorite things in. The weather was gorgeous too! I can't remember the last time we slept under covers with the windows open.

After checking in at home we headed out for some unexpected treats at the Thursday night Farmer's Market . We scored some very local honey from Hives of Howard. Howard even brings a section of hive with him to show off, awesome. Next we purchased some syrup direct from the trees at Willow Creek Farm where they also raise alpacas and give tours.

Dinner at Rudy's makes everyone happy, even when I'm annoying them with my camera.

Bev's Dairy Treat is definitely my favorite ice cream in the whole world, not including gelato. I look forward to that small twist with rainbow sprinkles from the minute our travel plans have been confirmed.

We went as a family, all 6 of us, and it was just like being a kid again. However, now there is a sign promoting ice cream in a cone over a dish that reads : It's Environmentally Cone-sious. No dish, no spoon, equals less waste. If this means I can eat ice cream cones guilt free then I'm sold.

My favorite part, working off those ice cream calories skipping stones at apparently lighting fast speed.Well, let's be honest, Dana was skipping them and I was lobbing them into the lake. And yes, it is still as much fun as it was 30 years ago.

Q: How long have you been doing this?

2010-07-28T12:18:00.001-04:00

Photo by Jason Belknap 2000

I get asked this often. It is a very different question from, "How long have you been sewing?" That is much easier to answer.

To say "all my life" sounds unbelievable and is untrue. If I think back hard enough I can remember using a hemmed pant cuff to make a skirt for a doll or cutting "lace" into my 2nd grade dance costume, but do these experiments count?

I started sewing, by hand, when I was 16. I wanted to make a duvet and matching curtains, and so I did. I got my first sewing machine after freshman year at college and it is still in use in my studio. Right away I started doing "this," making skirts from pillowcases to wear to my summer job. I was teaching myself to sew and it was slow going.

By my senior year in college I had improved and was ready to take on a solo fashion show. I had a budget of zero dollars but I had lots of friends and a mother who was happy to clean out her closets and ship me all of the discarded clothing and textiles she could find. 32 recycled garments and a lot of studio hours later I had my show. Pictured above is one of those pieces made from a vinyl tablecloth and fabric remnants.

A: It's been 11 years and I've never stopped designing clothing from other peoples discards. Now I'm just motivated by something more important than myself.

New Favorite

2010-07-20T11:05:00.000-04:00

Presenting the Bluebird Belle, my new favorite dress.

Although it may be a wee small on my dress form it fits me perfectly and I am having some trouble parting with it. It's not easy making one-of-a-kinds, I can't make a second one for myself to wear. This particular dress uses recycled pieces of the following; a man's shirt, tank top, skirt, scrap fabric, found buttons and ric-rac trim.

The Bluebird Belle will be for sale at ecologic until August 6th and if she hasn't sold by then she will become the star of my closet. I think that's a good compromise.

Favorites from Asheville, NC

2010-07-15T15:36:00.000-04:00

We Made It! Asheville didn't seem that far when I applied to The Big Crafty but in reality it is 6.5 hours away. It was worth the drive though and I was grateful for Asheville style being any which way you like it because needless to say I was a little rumpled.We had a short and sweet trip but were able to see a lot of new and different vendors and made some friends along the way.

Heroes and Criminals Press by the awesome Jessica C. White.

Sometimes moral is hard to define.

Wendy of Miss Fitt makes the most fabulous handfelted hats and accessories of which I am now a proud owner. One more reason to want all of this heat to end. Look for her on the streets of Asheville rocking the Sew Ono Frenchy dress.

Firestorm Cafe & Books!!! This worker owned community event space was representing in the basement of Pack Place with books and, to my delight, tasty treats. Their Peanut Butter Blondie was Vegan, Gluten Free, and Delicious! Oh, and they were SUPER nice!

So many great places to go and people to meet in Asheville I can't name them all but here are few of the greats; The Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It was our first stop, they had an amazing furniture exhibit, I have never been so moved by a desk before.

Buncombe Buckles owned by artist Celia Gray whom we enjoyed a drink with at Lab the night before.

AND the Double Decker Coffee Company located in an actual blazing red double decker bus (only a few blocks from Pack Place and an easy walk for Dana to grab me my show morning coffee, thank heavens.)

Recycled Wonders

2010-07-08T09:18:00.001-04:00

Ms. Erin Taylor rocking my recycled wonder at Worn Again on Friday night. This mini-dress with removable skirt was recycled from a pair of jeans, vintage jumper, dress shirts, pillowcase, and vintage drapery fabric.

More of what you missed...
Check out the awesome headdress on the right made from book pages by Julia Dent.

I LOVE these three. Definitely my favorites of the night.

Check out the video and pick yours.

Worn Again 2010

2010-06-30T12:53:00.000-04:00

Come check out the fabulousness that can be made from a bag of discarded clothes!

Look for redhead erin taylor wearing my design.

Head to RVA for...

2010-05-27T13:15:00.000-04:00

This Weekend!!!

Weekend Tease

2010-05-07T09:17:00.001-04:00

OH MAMA

2010-05-04T14:54:00.000-04:00

The very first Sew Ono maternity item, ever.

For the eco-mom-to-be!

You don't have to be from Georgia...

2010-04-27T15:35:00.000-04:00

...to be a Georgia Peach!

The Frenchy at Spring Bada Bing

2010-04-16T15:35:00.000-04:00

Grab your bowling shoes and neck scarf to rock a retro look with The Frenchy debuting at Spring Bada Bing this Sunday!

Do you have a Checkered Past?

2010-04-02T11:25:00.000-04:00

Checkered Past available at ecologic

Spring Has Sprung...

2010-03-25T13:38:00.000-04:00

...at ecologic!!!

Aqua Lumiere Dress

the It garment

2010-03-18T09:33:00.000-04:00

Sometimes a piece of clothing in a woman's closet is so notorious it comes to have it's own title, becomes an It garment.

In the late 90's my friend Maria had this gorgeous blue silk dress that she referred to simply as The Donna Ricco. Although not as glamorous, the It garment of my life is Gram's Yellow Sweater. Or as my mother calls it, that ugly yellow sweater.

I'm not quite sure when my Grandma Angie bought the Sears sweater, maybe before I was born, but I know she wore it to Mount Rushmore in the 80's. I love gram's yellow sweater. I coveted it so much as a teenager that I would pretend to be cold in summer just to wear it at my grandmother's house. Always crafty herself, she caught onto my game and gave me the sweater, to my great squealing teenage delight.

In the past 16 years I've worn it with everything and almost everywhere. I cherish it like couture. I won't wear it camping or take it on a plane for fear of lost luggage. When I first acquired it I spent the summer pairing it with jean short cut offs, red flip-flops and a matching headband.

There is no doubt that gram's yellow sweater is the It garment star of my closet and will remain so for years to come, or at least until it gets a chance to visit Mount Rushmore again.

What is your It garment???

First Friday Fashion

2010-03-05T10:22:00.000-05:00

The first dress of my spring line, To be Worn with Lipstick, will debut tonight, first friday March 5th, at Galley 5. Opening reception for the Model Citizen show is at 7pm. Look for Texas Two Step on a live model tonight and on the runway tomorrow night, March 6th, at 9pm.

give a little love, get a little love

2010-03-01T16:25:00.000-05:00

My livelihood revolves around one woman's trash being another's treasure. Nowhere, for me, is that craft circle of love more complete than at the Crafter's Anonymous Craft Swap.
It was a fantastic day of hunting, rummaging and collecting fabrics, trims and the oddball 1970's sewing book. It was also great to catch up with crafty friends whom I hadn't seen since the holiday shows.

My prize of the day was a fabulous collection of yarn! I am getting reacquainted with crocheting and am attempting to use only "discarded" yarns just as I sew with preloved fabrics. I have a lot to learn but can't wait to get started on my next afghan.

For all my great finds, I still managed to down size. I arrived with 5 bags and left with 1, it was a big one, but I still consider that an accomplishment.

I already can't wait for next year.

craft swap photos by tasha mckelvey

In The Details

2010-02-24T17:21:00.000-05:00

My favorite part of recycling clothes is when I am almost finished and I get to add all of the details; the trims, buttons, and closures.

I love pouring out my bags of buttons and searching for that perfect compliment of color and texture. Or pulling the trim drawer all the way out and onto the table to rifle through seemingly endless lace and ric-rac to find the piece that is long, or short, enough for the job.

This is why I am so excited about my new spring line. It's all dresses, so far, and they all employ multiple trims and buttons from my stash. I think this season is going to be the best one yet.

I Heart Recycling

2010-02-12T16:03:00.000-05:00

I'm kicking off the Spring/Summer 2010 collection with this super girlie Queen of Hearts Dress! The red dots on the skirt are tiny hearts.

Many more dresses are in the works and I can't wait for warmer weather. I know more snow is in the forecast but I'm optimistic.

In the mean time, cuddle up with someone you love because baby it's cold outside. Happy Valentine's Day!

Featured in Altered Couture

2010-01-23T17:27:00.000-05:00

The Spring issue of Altered Couture has arrived!!! Check out my KISS inspired, reconstructed Strutter jacket, on pages 115 and 122-123, with tutorial.

Admit Your Addiction

2010-01-18T17:18:00.000-05:00

I'm really hoping the winter weather won't interfere with the Crafters Anonymous Craft Swap on Sunday. Here is my pile of goodies to swap, I have 3 bags in total to share and hope to return with a lot less.

I thrifted these vintage purse handles years ago and never even attempted to craft them into something fabulous, but I know someone out there will love them.

Another awesome thrift find, a bag of memorabilia from someones 1960's Asian adventure tour. Emergency Water Landings, Yikes!!! A great score for found paper crafters!

Here's hoping for good driving conditions! I'll see you all on Sunday!

The Top Ten of 2009

2009-12-29T15:46:00.001-05:00

I have had a list brewing for quite some time of my favorite things, but that will have to wait. I cannot let 2009 pass by without mentioning my best acquisitions of the year.
Half of the year was all about spending, for the wedding and honeymoon, and the other half all about saving, unemployed and wardrobe refashioning.
Here I have defined "favorite" by those things I have worn repeatedly throughout the year and would love to own forever.

10. Fabulous handmade glass heart necklace by Isabels Rose gifted to me at my Richmond wedding shower by Beth. I do believe it goes with everything.

9. Very feminine yellow dress from Anthropologie. Expensive, but it was for my trousseaux after all.

8. Scarflette made by me. Loved them so much I had to keep one for myself.
7. Gorgeous black slip lingerie from VS, again for my trousseaux. Perfect for my honeymoon, it folded into the tiniest space in my backpack, weighed nothing, and doubled as a slip.

6. Calvin Klein bra, in nude. Best bra I have ever owned, I asked for 2 more for xmas. 5. Brand new Converse jeans that I thrifted for $7.00 at the Goodwill. Perfect dark blue and they make my butt look good, what more could a girl ask for.

4. Nine West knee high leather boots, love, love, love. Birthday gift from my mother. Hotness!
3. New favorite, 3/4 sleeve navy dress by Laundry by design with gold trim. I tried it on 3 times at Clementine consignment shop before buying it. I just had to shorten it 2 inches and it is going to be fabulous on New Year's Eve.

2. Cropped black leather motorcycle jacket that Dana bought me in Florence, Italy for my birthday. I love this jacket so much there aren't words to express it. It is truly one of the best pieces of clothing I have ever owned.
1. Speaking of best things I've ever owned...the number 1 spot has to go to my wedding band. The most beautiful piece of jewelry that I have ever worn, it made all of the those months of searching worth it. Like my husband and wedding dress, when I saw it I knew it was the one.

ecological

2009-12-14T14:47:00.000-05:00

After re cooperating from Handmade Holiday, kind of, I've reorganized my inventory and taken a whole bunch of holiday wear down to ecologic on Main St. including these two pieces.

I'm so excited to have my work in their shop! All of my winter items will be there through the new year so stop on by, try some on, and pick up something one-of-a-kind, handmade and eco-conscious for your holiday parties.

Come & Get It

2009-12-10T11:51:00.000-05:00

Only 1 more day until Handmade Holiday folks! Do you have your Xmas shopping lists ready? I think I'm actually prepared this year to sell and buy, that is a first. Can't wait to see everyone there! It's going to be a great handmade year!

Urban Samaritan

2009-11-30T17:57:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows I love eco friendly gift giving of all sorts and this year Santa came early. My childhood friend, Bekki, and her mother sent me this fabulous Urban Samaritan tote. I can hear you all groaning at the thought of yet another tote, but wait, this one is special.

Urban Samaritan makes their totes from recycled banners that promoted exhibits or events at a museum. Once sold, the proceeds go back to the museum that donated the banner, the people who actually made the tote, and the homeless in New York.

Bekki just so happens to work for the Harn Museum and this tote was made from one of her favorite exhibits; Promises of Paradise: Staging Mid-Century Miami.

Talk about a feel good gift. Best present so far this Winter Solstice.

sweet finds

2009-11-19T15:06:00.001-05:00

All this week I've been rushing around getting ready for the sweet finds show on Saturday in Charlottesville.

Next week's chaos: Our First Thanksgiving.

Minor Accomplishments

2009-11-16T09:44:00.001-05:00

With the days until our first Thanksgiving ticking away every weekend has become a whirlwind of activity.

I now feel the need to revel in a list of this weekends accomplishments:
1) Dana finished our kitchen floor!!!
2) I finally hemmed and hung a pair of shears that we bought 2 years ago, seriously.
3) Designed and completed another scarflette.
4)Finished decorative holiday banners for next weeks dinner.
AND...
5) After 2 weeks of staring, and deciding, I put the finishing touches on this recycled plaid skirt. I'm not sure if this one will end up on etsy or in my closet because I am so in love with it. It's made from a vintage wool skirt that was floor length and stained, another skirt from a friend that was way to big for me, and scraps of red ribbon. Lined with salvaged liner fabric and even the zipper was from another old garment. I may not be done with it yet though, it feels like it may need some buttons.

Crafting for a Cause

2009-11-06T16:11:00.000-05:00

The LINC handbag auction was last night and not only was it a fundraising success but a fabulous time as well.
Dawn Anderson of Lark Studio posing with her awesome recycled vinyl sign carry-all bag.

You know you are famous when a bidder is wearing a dress that you made. Go erin taylor go!!!

Wow, I look REALLY happy here and I swear that is water in my hand, it must be the bids on my bag that are making me smile.

Modern June, Nicole Lee Designs, Lookability, and Artwork by Andrea also represented and I'm proud to say all of us indie craft chicas had great bids and did our part in crafting for a cause.

Photos not of Dawn Anderson are by Dawn Anderson

why YES, my purple hair IS natural.

2009-11-03T10:25:00.000-05:00

Aside from this picture being atrocious, I'm pretty satisfied with my new purple chunks. I'm actually surprised at how natural they look on me. My in-laws didn't even notice, or maybe they just thought it was for Halloween. It really blends in nice when my hair is curly in it's Flapper bob style too.

I don't go to the salon often, for many reasons, but when I do I go Aveda. And because I go natural it makes it really hard to dye hair an unnatural color. So, I'm happy for as long as it lasts, however long that my be.

Fiberama Photos

2009-10-23T09:43:00.000-04:00

From the moment I finish one issue I look forward to the arrival of the next Fiberarts in my mailbox. Like any favorite magazine of ones trade it leaves me feeling excited, inspired, and full of hope for my fiber future.

The November/December issue arrived early this week bearing an extra special treat: pgs 28-29, How to Photograph Your Fiber Art.

This is a very timely article. I recently set up a small photo space for shooting in my studio on a dress form. I love my model but I would need to actually pay her to be available all of the times I need her.

Since my indoor photography could use a little help I immediately read the article and got prepping. My photos are improving already with just a couple of easy tips and camera setting adjustments. I may need to rearrange the studio again but it's a small price to pay for good photos.

Thank you so much craft goddesses and thank you Fiberarts!!!

I Call them Scarflettes

2009-10-20T15:35:00.000-04:00

I am such a sucker for Jane Austen.

I say sucker because she has a way of getting into my subconscious and effecting my work.
Case in point, my latest scarflette design, or what some would call a cravat.

Scarflette made of recycled jersey from various t-shirts and tank top, also includes a piece of scrap lace and a velvet covered button closure.

cravat [kruh vat] - n. 1. necktie. 2. a cloth, often made of or trimmed with lace, worn about the neck by men esp. in the 17th century.

Just last week I was reading Mr. Darcy, Vampyre by Amanda Grange, a continuation of Austen's Pride and Prejudice in where Mr. Darcy is found out to be a vampire. In this same week I abruptly decided that I hated all ten scarfs I had previously made and hence went on to rework them all into this cravat style with which I am so in love that I had to make one for myself.

It is actually a thrilling revelation that Jane Austen, like any general exposure, is infiltrating my design aesthetic. Now if I'm having a creative block I'll only have to go as far as the bookcase for inspiration.

loose ends

2009-10-14T14:47:00.000-04:00

Rock & Shop Market is Saturday in Durham! This being my first show of the Fall season I am spending my week tying up loose ends.

Loose ends include; finishing up garments, restocking promos, and sewing in new labels. Promos were Friday, labels are today, all the other details will just have to fall into place.

And of course I couldn't resist reworking a jacket today that seemed lack-luster next to the others. I will never learn to leave well enough alone.

So much to do, I better get back to it!

Photo by Kelly McCants

Columbus Day Camping

2009-10-13T16:30:00.000-04:00

First camping trip with my brother ever! YAY!!!

The Wooly Bears were out in force.

My bro and his g-friend were so much more imressed with

the mountain they had climbed once they saw it from the bottom.

Cooking steak over the open fire after a long day of hiking, delicious.

Brothers-in-law, partners-in-crime, same difference.

Green is the New Black

2009-10-08T13:31:00.001-04:00

Best bridal shower prize...ever!!! I am a little bit partial though since it was a bridal shower for me. I didn't think I got to win a prize with all of the gifts coming my way, but my MOH, erin, thought otherwise. Hooray for Erin!!!

With all of the books on my plate, or nightstand rather, I finally got around to reading Green is the New Black. Fabulous, really.

After reading it I have a totally new shopping mindset. That is, of course, if I ever actually buy anything new again. It is a definite must read for anyone who suspects they are only wearing 20% of their closet, like me.

Home Grown

2009-10-06T09:52:00.000-04:00

October makes me nostalgic.

With Halloween approaching I feel like a kid again. It is also when I miss my upstate NY hometown the most. It seems to be when I made the most memories growing up. Being back at school provided football games, dances, and plenty of drama. In truth, my youth was as all-american as it gets.

Every autumn I have to squelch an incredible homesick urge to jump in my car and head straight to Wadsworth's farm for some apples and their haunted house.

This year my parent's brought home to me in the form of pumpkins from my father's garden. They are fantastic! I can't wait to carve them and cook their seeds, delicious.

This Fall I'll get to be a little closer to home without the travel.

Crafty Momma

2009-10-02T15:07:00.000-04:00

Craft Night is always a treat. Working on a project that has no deadline, no price tag, no need for perfection. This week was a special treat because my mother was visiting and came along for the evening of needles, gossip and Dawn's delicious lemon cake.

My mother, like me, is learning to crochet. My deceased grandmother loved to crochet and it may be that the best way to honor her memory and spirit is to learn for ourselves. In my case with her needles and yarn.

I may never get beyond a chain stitch though, but that may be all I need. My mother on the other hand I have more faith in, I witnessed the macrame animals she whipped up in the 80's, they were fabulous.

Photo by Kelly McCants

Exactly

2009-09-28T11:47:00.001-04:00

"Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening." -Coco Chanel

The Clutch

2009-09-24T17:51:00.000-04:00

Designing handbags has typically not been in my repertoire. However, the LINC handbag auction is coming up and I wanted to contribute.

I had a rough start and a couple of failed attempts. Eventually I decided on a clutch and grabbed a pair of denim pants and a vintage VERA scarf for the liner. I was still struggling by the end of day 2, and reminding myself often of the good cause I was working hard for. Then came Day 3.

Day 3 I remembered this owl tie I had grabbed up at last years craft swap. Day 3 I was meeting with my crafty girlfriends Lark Studio, erin taylor designs, Nicole Lee Designs, and Modern June to work on all of our handbag designs. Day 3 was fabulous and inspired.

In the end I am quite pleased, so pleased I might make others for my etsy shop...might.

Can't wait for auction night ladies!

Meet Carla

2009-09-16T18:01:00.000-04:00

I was too sick to report, or even to be excited, about my new dress form arriving last week. A birthday gift from my mother, she has been assembled and is hard at work.

I christened her Carla after a nickname I had in undergrad. My grandmother named my purple form Rosa many x-mas' ago and my undergrad loner was named Juanita, so Carla was a perfect fit. I love names that end in vowels!

An extra bonus for those of you who complain that my clothes are made for teeny tiny girls you will be happy to know that Carla is a size 12, that's right, a 12!

Now, to just catch up from my sick time-yikes!

Wardrobe Re-Fashion

2009-09-08T16:28:00.000-04:00

The wedding and honeymoon shopping are over and I am ready for a break from consumption.

I made a pact with myself that after we returned from Italy I wouldn't buy any new clothes or accessories for a year. The exceptions to this rule are underwear, socks, shoes, gifts for or from family, and of course anything handmade. I've been at it since July 4th and I'm going strong.

To further cement my decision I joined Wardrobe Re-Fashion for the next 6 months. Knowing that I will be held accountable for any mall shopping will be helpful as the stores roll out their new Fall lines.

Recycling clothes is what I do, now I am finally focused on doing it for myself.

New Fall Line Peek

2009-08-26T10:19:00.000-04:00

I finally photographed elma. It is my only proof that I actually have been in the studio since returning from Italy.

Can't wait to get everything uploaded to etsy!

Distress

2009-07-31T16:28:00.000-04:00

From the first time I even held a power sander to a theatre costume I knew I was born to distress clothes. Not to mention that Sew Ono is founded on the belief that you have to cut up a garment to make it fabulous again.

Last week a had a burning desire to rock a pair of jean short cut-offs, something I haven't done since my teens, but I couldn't get the idea out of my head.

Since most of my jeans are slim in the leg even my old pairs weren't going to work this project. So I headed out to my fav thrift store and among the endless pairs of jeans I found $5 worth of happiness.

Before I tossed them in the wash, I deliberated on length (start long and inch up, it's easy to go too far) them lovingly cut and pulled threads one-by-one to get the desired amount of fringe. A little rasping on the the pockets, front and back, and into the machine to fluff out all of those pulled and ripped fibers. So simple, and WAY cheaper than the $58 mall version, suckers.

My lunchtime guilty pleasure is watching Rachel Ray, check out today's guest Kevin Christiana, and some of his distressing techniques.

I'm Back!

2009-07-22T11:01:00.001-04:00

It is official, I am back!!!

After all of the chaos the wedding went perfect and was beautiful.

I am still waiting on prof. photos and of course there aren't many

from my camera, so these will have to do for now.

More to come later and some pics from Italy...fabulous, oh

and my vintage bridal portraits too, I have a lot of posting to do.

But right now I need to get back to work in the studio on the new fall line!

My favorite picture so far, thanks erin!!!

Wedding Madness

2009-05-24T17:07:00.000-04:00

I apologize for my lack of posts in the past couple of months but my bride-to-be status has really taken over my life. The big day is in 2 weeks and I can't wait to have my life back. I had no idea how much work a wedding was and if I had known we would have eloped, seriously.

Here is a picture from my first shopping trip with my MOH, erin, and bridesmaid, Dawn. We were on the hunt for erin's dress, it is the bag in her hand. Ah, the days when all of this was still fun.

So, I will probably be MIA for a while, at least until after the honeymoon. But never fear, I shall return...in July!

Spring Bada Bing Ready

2009-04-18T21:14:00.000-04:00

I'll be up bright and early tomorrow to help set up for Spring Bada Bing. With all of the wedding planning I never thought I'd be ready for.

I've been blogging a lot about the new dresses I will be revealing tomorrow but I thought my new vests should get some play too.

This one is my absolute favorite of the bunch, for today anyway. It feels Gucci, like I may need to bring it to Italy.

I've been focused this season on utilizing my vast collection of trims and this piece uses 3 different kinds.

I managed to crank out 4 one-of-a-kind vests in the past 2 days and I am looking forward to showing them off.

Can't wait to see you all at Plant Zero tomorrow!!!

Sweet and Sassy

2009-03-27T13:57:00.000-04:00

This is one of my newest dresses and so far it's my favorite. I finished it up while visiting BRCC. I was so excited about it that I set it up on the manaquin in the gallery as soon as it was done.

I loved the pattern on the bodice when I found the top at a thrift store and it just screamed to be made into a dress.

The length of the dress is from a skirt that I used to wear to work. It was way too big on me and had developed a tear at the waist where I had been pinning it down to my size.

I know what you're thinking, " you sew, why not fix it?"

That is the story of my life and a blog post for another time.

Some vintage lace makes it extra sweet and a couple of buttons on the bodice draw attention to all the right places.

I swear if I don't sell this one by the time I go to Italy it will have to come along with me!

I heart Weyers Cave

2009-03-22T20:30:00.000-04:00

I had a great time as a guest artist at Blue Ridge Community College this past week! Super thanks to my friend Jessica, prof of ceramics, for making me feel so welcome. I may have to blog about this trip to the hills more than once.

Here are my pieces in the Kinetic Gallery. It was shaped like a cube when I arrived, super cool.
Demo-ing for students and staff is how I spent most of my time. I was able to chat with people all day about what I do and what they do. I also got to lecture about my eco clothing line and how my work has evolved over the past ten years; with a laser pointer and everything.

I met some really fabulous people, including Cheryl, who gave me some great vintage trim and buttons.

Theatre Prof. Randy told me about this thrift store gem. It was super clean and organized and they had a whole section for sewing and craft supplies. I also scored vintage long, black gloves and an apron with wedding bells embroidered on it.

Even though it was work, with very long days, how could I not have enjoyed myself.

I can't wait to do it again.

1 Dress is Better than 2

2009-02-27T10:44:00.000-05:00

Recently, I admitted to being in a girlie kind of mood. And with such mood came the urge to make some dresses.

This dress is actually made from 2 other dresses, both of which happen to be in my closet and in serious need of help. I hadn't worn either one in the past 2 years and now I think I'm going to have a hard time parting with their finished combination.

This picture doesn't quite do the new garment justice: the lace waistband, made from craft swapped trim, is a brilliant blue color, there are 32 buttons sewn into the skirt, one for each eye of a blue circle and the bodice is red and yet manages to match the orange skirt perfectly.

Never fear, I am still making my signature jackets. I am just really feeling the feminine this season and it feels good.

Because Every Couple Needs a Logo

2009-02-23T20:33:00.000-05:00

Dana and "K for my first name" Ono have there own logo! For the wedding anyway. Crafted by Jen of Miss Pickles Press, our stationary is looking earthy and fantastic. Printed on recycled paper, of course.

In the Mood

2009-02-16T16:37:00.000-05:00

The wedding creeps into every aspect of my life and it has become hard to focus on making clothes for Sew Ono and not for my honeymoon. However, after another weekend wedding planning in NY I am happy to come home and focus my attention on designing my spring line.

Spring Bada Bing is only 2 months away so I need to get a move on.

I was going to keep it simple this season with some recycled, short-sleeve, V-neck sweaters, but I am just not finding the right materials to make them. More true is the fact that I secretly keep wanting to make pretty, feminine dresses.

So, that's what I'm going to do...anything my heart desires. I don't need more stress right now, so I'm just going to create whatever I'm in the mood for and not worry about it.

This picture is something I just tacked on the mannequin today and I already feel more relaxed. I know not having a specific spring line is a gamble, but during this season of stress I'm willing to role the dice. I just might get lucky.

Thrift Score

2009-02-05T12:09:00.000-05:00

It is of no surprise that my future wedding has taken over every inch of my life. That includes my trips to the thrift in search of textiles to reconstruct.

Like any Victorian era bride, I have put away some money for my trousseaux. I have been eagerly awaiting the spring collections to come out so I can treat myself to beautiful, honeymoon ready attire. But why wait?

I have been speaking of this skirt since I happened upon it 2 months ago. A brand new Anthropologie skirt , the tags still intact read $88.00, my Goodwill price was $5.00.

Recently, I found this lightweight sweater that I believe to be handmade in fantastic condition, again $5.oo.

My greatest treat from that same trip was definitely the 2 brand new, Ann Taylor, silk camis with lace for 3.oo each.

Since my goal is to look as feminine and beautiful as possible I think I'm on the right track. And being eco-friendly is actually saving me money!

Pieces and Parts

2009-01-30T15:06:00.000-05:00

Although I apparently did something shocking by not making my own wedding dress, (excuse me for not putting a nervous breakdown on the registry) I had always planned on making some garment somewhere along the way.

Enter the beginnings of my wedding day jacket. Sticking to the green theme of the ceremony, and like all of the jackets in my line, it will be 100% recycled.

So far it's pieces and parts include:
*a hand-me-down blazer from my mother, ivory and in impeccable shape.
*gorgeous silk from drapes that made their way to me via friend of a bridesmaid.
*hem tape find from the craft swap.

Of course there will be buttons in its' future. Stay tuned.

You've Got My Love to Keep You Warm

2009-01-25T19:26:00.000-05:00

Growing up on one of the Great Lakes I consider myself an expert on the cold, or perhaps more accurately avoiding the cold. I like to share this expertise with those I love, especially my husband-to-be, Dana.

What better way to say I love you on our 5 year anniversary than to patch up some of his most beloved, and well-worn, wool sweaters before we headed to the woods for the weekend.

Two of the sweaters had their own built in ventilation system with large elbow holes. I patched some soft wool on the inside and a durable rough wool on the outside. The two combined only took me a half hour to repair and Dana was psyched when he saw them laid out on the bed when he came home, good as new.

I was also prepared with extra mittens for him and I don't travel anywhere without my father's green, puffy down jacket from the 70's, which really came in handy when the wind picked up. It may just be where I was raised, but I believe that if you love someone you keep them warm. It really doesn't get better than that.

Out of the Box

2009-01-22T10:56:00.000-05:00

Working with patterns has never been my thing, I avoid using them at all costs. They seem so unnatural, like square watermelons. However, I do need to make my own patterns from time to time. As much as I dislike this process I have found that if I can make something eco-friendly it instantly becomes fun. Yep folks, just like little kids are tricked into taking their medicine by an airplane sound.

Here at the Mangano/Parent household we are big fans of breakfast and especially cereal. That means there is always at least one empty box hanging out in the recycle bin. It is amazing how easily their glue pulls apart and ta-da...you have a good size piece of easy to cut cardboard. I just draw or trace the shape I need on the plain side and slice away.

No worries that it can't be pinned to the fabric, my sewing weights seem to work just fine, and even my pin cushion will hold it in place. I am sure their are those pattern purists out there who would find this idea deplorable, but I sleep well at night knowing that my patten "paper" is 100% recyclable.

Craft Swap State of Mind

2009-01-19T10:45:00.000-05:00

Looking at this picture now I really wish that I had taken another one an hour later. The fabric pile remains the most loved spot at the RCM Craft Swap and this one in particular grew to great height. You could barely see over it once all of the swappers had arrived and dumped their overstock.

We had a fantastic turnout!!! I love it when crafty folks get together and mix it up. We all have that unused tool or fabric in our craft drawer and it's great to know that you're bringing it to just the kind of people who actually know what it is. Not only do they need it, but they've been looking for it.

I strongley encourage other crafters to host their own swaps, like Fluer Fabrics' Fabric Swap this past weekend. It's like thrifting in a store that is filled with exactly what you were looking for, at a fraction of the price. I can never find vintage trims or zippers in the second hand shop (I have several theories on why this is that I'll blog about later.) However, at the swap I never fail to score zippers and trims and crafty books, and tools, and buttons, and etc.... You don't even have to fight over them, the craft love is so great that people will hand over a find if they know someone else wants it more.

Hey, I'm a huge fan of anyplace that will allow me to fill a grocery bag for a dollar. All proceeds benefited ART 180 and I know they're fans too.

Ancestoralbilia

2009-01-16T21:51:00.000-05:00

Some things were just meant to be.

Nope, I'm not talking about true love.

I'm talking about owning something that my ancestor purchased and has remained relatively untouched in the last 80 + years.

And not just any ancestor, my great-grandmother. The one I look like and was named after and subsequently named Sew Ono after, Onofria.

I was recently gifted with this comforter set, complete with matching curtains and vanity scarves. Purchased in 1926 (proven by the NY state inspection sticker) and given to my grandfather's sister on her wedding day. It remained in my aunt's possession for the past 50 years in her cedar chest and since Christmas it has moved to mine.

It may be the fact that it looks brand new, not the slightest bit discolored or worn, because it's easy to forget it's age. Then my mother said "Just think, your great-grandmother touched this." For me, it's like owning something that Elvis wore or Abraham Lincoln signed. There is a level of celebrity for me with my deceased ancestors and I cherish all my ancestoralbilia.

Craft Swap Time of Year

2009-01-08T16:08:00.000-05:00

TRIM DRAWER BEFORE
It is officially January and therefore all of my projects that I put off throughtout the year have come due. This includes cleaning the studio...DUM DUM DUMMMMMM.

This year, however, I had added motivation with a timeline: the annual Richmond Craft Mafia Craft Swap is being held on the 18th of January, so I had to get a move on.
I have long believed in the theory that a messy studio is a fruitful one. I had been very productive this past year and I had my work cut out for me.

There was hardly room to walk and the guest bed was unsleepable. Piles of clothing were everywhere!!!

A trip to the thrift store and 3 bags for the craft swap and I am almost done! I just keep reminding myself that it has to get worse before it can get better.

I still have one more round to the thrift store and recycling center before I can call it a day. But my trim drawer is looking great and I expect nothing less from the rest of the room. I am feeling so very pleased with myself.

TRIM DRAWER AFTER

Needles and Pins

2008-12-07T19:30:00.000-05:00

I know that I am officially too busy when I start making Sewing 101 mistakes. Like last night when I almost went to bed with a needle in my pajama top.

If anyone questions how much time I'm spending in the studio they just need to look at my hands for the answer, they look like I've used them for a pin cushion.

I also recently shoved a seam ripper into my finger, I do not recommend seam ripping when in a hurry.

But this afternoon's disaster was a new one for me. I apparently left a safety pin in a pair of pants, unhooked, and proceeded to throw them in the wash. What came out of the laundry were my dress pants, pajama pants, sweater, and 2 socks all twisted and connected by a single, knotted and deformed, safety pin. Luckily no harm came to any of the garments.

So, for the rest of the week I am vowing to slow down because my week so does not need a Tetanus shot.

Fawn Shop Fabulous

2008-12-07T12:11:00.001-05:00

The Fawn Shop is up and running and looking great!

Erin, Dawn and Deanna worked super hard to make the shop a success and it payed off! Great job ladies!

The First Friday scene was rocking ! Lots of shoppers and lots of buyers!

The Fawn Shop is Back

2008-12-02T18:32:00.000-05:00

Only 3 more days until The Fawn Shop opens!!! Fellow Craft Mafia girls Erin, Dawn and Deanna have been hard at work organizing, decorating and lighting up 201 West Broad Street.

The Fawn Shop is an actual retail shop featuring an ecclectic mix of local craftsters open for the christmas season. The shop premires it's handmade holiday gifts this First Friday and will remain open daily until the 13th of December.

Come check out the crafty wares of the Richmond Craft Mafia, the Richmond Etsy Street Team and others and see what fabulous gifts Richmond handmade culture has to offer.

My Favorite Crafty Things: #1

2008-11-21T17:23:00.000-05:00

I know that I have mentioned how awesome Handmade Arcade was, but I feel the need to keep blogging about it. Also, with all of the indie craft holiday shows coming up I really wanted to focus in on some of my favorite crafters and artists that I'll be meeting up with in the next 2 months.

I met Jennifer Howison in Pittsburgh this year and fell instantly in love with her work. I was super pleased that she was my diagonal across the path neighbor and so I could quickly pop over and scope out my favorite pieces. She hand paints these tiny figures (fingerpuppen) and photographs then to make these digital prints on wood. I loved them so much that I had to buy two.

Jennifer being silly. Great work and a great neighbor.

My Absolute favorite piece! I LOVE the figure in the middle. She is so goth and Victorian and totally evil looking that I had to have her. There is so much life in this photo and I love the contrasting personalities of the figures. I've already hung it in the studio right over my work table. It makes me smile every time I look at it, although it should probably creep me out.

This piece was purchased for a family member, however I'm not so certain that I will ever give it up. The colors in this one are amazing from the natural light in the window. There is so much to read in this figure's expression. Love, love, love it. Sorry to gush, but I really can't help it. It is all just too freaking cool.

Holy Holiday Heap!

2008-11-17T19:24:00.001-05:00

OK, aside from personal pet drama, the last two weeks have been pretty freakin awesome. First Handmade Arcade and now Holiday Heap, both stellar shows.

I am actually going to have to seriously hustle to get ready for Handmade Holiday in 3 weeks. It sounds like a lot of time but when you factor in work and other holiday engagements it's really not. Yikes!

I am seriously down to three jackets and 2 sweaters and that's after I made more stuff in between Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Holy Moly!

I can't complain though, what a terrific problem to have.

Good Bye Minou

2008-11-13T10:49:00.000-05:00

I consider my blog to be a happy blog, but today I must take leave of happy status to report the sad news of the death of our cat, Minou. She had a sudden and tragic death at almost 17 years of age.We had honestly started to think she was going to live forever.

She was rescued as a newborn by Dana's family when he was 13-years-old and has been with him ever since. I met her five years ago, and although she bit me a couple of times in the beginning she always stayed by me when I was sick, however she may have just been waiting for me to get up and give her her next treat.

Minou's favorite things that she will be remembered for: Milk (of course), chocolate milk (birthday treat), ice cream, oatmeal, coffee (stolen, not given), spaghetti O's, people's feet, feta cheese, the outdoors, and being sneaky.

Man I'm really going to miss you Minou (aka; bebe, chubby, pumpkin, and le petite.)

Handmade Arcade Happiness

2008-11-11T20:36:00.000-05:00

HANDMADE ARCADE WAS AWESOME!!!!
Great sales, great people, great vendors. This is definetly my favorite show of the year, except for Spring Bada Bing of course. I had so much fun this year and met so many great people. I'm going to focus my upcoming blog posts on some of the great crafters I met so stay tuned. There is just something about Pittsburgh that feels like home to me. If only I could convince Dana to move there. Ahhhhh.

My jackets were a huge hit! I know what I'll be working on between now and Handmade Holiday.

Do you think you've made it big when someone has bought your clothing in a thrift store???Because it happened in Pittsburgh.

The new space for Handmade Arcade was fantastic. It was huge and had great natural light. Oh, and it was so much warmer too.

OH NO!!! Friend or Foe??? I love these little guys.

Richmond Craft Mafia's own erin taylor designs selling her goods with a smile. Erin had a banging weekend too!

Back to Pittsburgh

2008-11-06T19:32:00.000-05:00

I'm headed to Pittsburgh this weekend for Handmade Arcade, again, and I can't wait. Two full days of buying, selling, and just being part of crafty universe.

I'm looking forward to seeing some of the crafty chicas I met last year like L2 Design Collective, Sunstone Soap,
and My Favorite Mirror.

As always I'm looking forward to making new friends, especially with fellow green girl Shannon of Sweet Pepita.

And I can't forget my best craft mafia friend, erin of erin taylor designs, who will be heading to HA for her first time.

Less than 24 hours to go until we make the long car ride north. Good thing I'm too busy to think or I'm pretty sure I'd be too excited to sleep.

A Very Happy Halloween

2008-11-02T11:05:00.000-05:00

HALLOWEEN = The Best Day Of the Year!!!
It may be from my costume designer days but I can't resist the urge of the authentic. I had a last minute (3 weeks before) change of costume this year because I really wanted to build a costume around this skirt. I made it out of scraps a couple of years ago for Worn Again (you can see it on their website) and I really love it. After much deliberation Pirate seemed like the obvious choice. I am a huge fan of DIY costumes of course, my only purchases for this costume were the sword (because I was short on time) and my black nail polish.
The skirt is made entirely of scrap fabric, including sloppily hand sewn patches. I only had to change out the buttons I originally used with eight random old, metal buttons from my collection.
The bodice is a holey old tank that I sewed layers of scrap lace onto and the jacket is a bolero sweater that I added four metal buttons and scraps of crocheted lace on each cuff and a big metal button for the closure.
The Striped blouse, boots, leg-warmers, belt, bandanna and jewels were all in my wardrobe.

Here are some pics of my Halloween antics:

Axe Murderer or Logger? Really, without the tree Dana just looks crazy.

Yes, I still carve pumpkins too. Mine is the vampire, Dana's is the good one on the left.

Of course I'm jealous.

Zombie Biker, Pirate, Raggedy Ann, and a Squirrel... Oh My!

Poor Andy, who knew he was such a lightweight.

Historic Weekend Away

2008-10-19T21:59:00.000-04:00

In August, when I turned 30, one of my presents was a weekend away with Dana in DC. Yes, I realize that it is October, but this was the first weekend that I wasn't working and we weren't traveling for wedding or business. It was fantastic. Gorgeous weather and lots of walking.

I got to go to the Holocaust Museum...finally. I remember when a group of high school friends went right when it first opened and I was so jealous. That's right, I was 15 and jealous of my friends because they got to go to a new museum in DC. If you are shocked, you are not alone, I even shock myself. Frankly, my strange love affair with history and monuments and museums seems bizarre even to me.

And then there is my crazy love affair with all things Abraham Lincoln. I can probably pin point the beginning of this fascination to a trip to Gettysburg, PA in my teens (one of my all time favorite vacations) where I saw a stuffed figure with a projected face of Lincoln give the Gettysburg Address in a darkened theatre among wax dead presidents. Creepy, I know.

The Abe fire was later in life fueled by reading Sarah Vowell, another lover of Lincoln. The summer that I read Assassination Vacation I happened to be traveling through Illinois and came across a sewing kit with Lincoln's face on it, in a gas station of course. It remains one of my most prized possessions.

And now that I have exposed my historicrush, I think I'll run away and hide...

HISTORICRUSH
-the temorary love (crush) of an historical figure

In Our Blood

2008-10-17T12:37:00.000-04:00

The last time I saw my cousin Anne was at Renegade, the time before that was right before I moved out of NYC in 2001, and before that I think we were 10. Anne grew up in Ohio and I in upstate New York, considering we are from a very close knit Italian family it is the only acceptable excuse for our scant encounters.

Having only been in the same room with each other a hand full of times it becomes more interesting that we would both grow up to have careers in the fashion realm, she's "the industry," I'm indie. Further more to have named our companies after our heritage, me after my great-grandmother Onofria, and her after our motherland, and my future honeymoon destination, Lipari.

I knew that Anne had been working on her 2009 swimwear line, Cala Ossidiana, but was blown away when the website launched and I finally was able to see it. It's impressive and I love her line. Of course I have to say that because I'm family, the fact that we hardly know each other isn't important. But you'll agree with me when you check it out.

Hooray for Columbus Day!

2008-10-13T14:46:00.000-04:00

In these times working for "the bank" sucks, except when it's Columbus Day! Or any other holiday that only school kids and bankers get off. I am especially grateful for this Columbus Day because I've been sick since last Tuesday, the day after Craft Lounge at Fleur Fabrics where this smiling pic of me was taken by Dawn.. Although I've caught up on my reading (3 1/2 books down) I haven't been in the studio at all, that Monday night crocheting was my last crafty effort.

A few days ago just walking into the studio made my sinuses scream and so I stuck to the couch. But after 5 days of well needed rest I couldn't take it anymore, so with the first signs of feeling better today I hauled myself upstairs and into the studio. Although I will never make up for the sick days I lost I can at least feel productive today.

So, thank you Christopher Columbus, not for discovering America but for being the man the powers that be are willing to recognize by giving me the day off so I can finally get to work.

Back on Track

2008-10-08T17:55:00.001-04:00

Wow, it's been a crazy couple of weeks. I came back from planet pins + needles now and I'll be sewing and posting like normal. I had been keeping my new line of jackets a secret until they debuted at the pins+needles show, but now that they've been unveiled I'll be posting them here and on etsy. I'm hoping to have the pics from the show back soon so I can start posting them as well.

This jacket is one I made last minute before the fashion show and liked it so much that I changed up my whole line-up to include it. It began it's life as a basic black jacket with plastic buttons and a horrible sequin trim.

I removed the trim and sleeves and replaced them with the top of a pair of wool pants, back pocket still in tact. I wanted to emphasized the untouched belt loops so I threaded some scraps of grosgrain ribbon through them and added a cute vintage button detail. Remaining scraps of wool were used to cover the buttons and replace the plastic ones. Scraps of lining fabric from another garment were used to line the sleeves as a last minute comfort, because nobody likes an itchy jacket.

BIG TIME!

2008-09-16T22:08:00.000-04:00

Wow! I totally almost feel like a Richmond celeb! Our Mayor on the cover and the pins + needles girls on Page 9 of Style. woot! woot! So, that's me on the left and erin on the right. The jacket is my design, modeled by our lovely intern, Leilani. It is a recycled blazer with pant legs for sleeves and scrap pant fabric used to make covered buttons for the closures. The skirt is erin's, modeled by her sister, CJ. I think the girls look prettier with their heads, but that's just me. Check out my tee, it has a safety pin pattern, oh yeah. Man, I am psyched. Super thanks to Chris Dovi of Style for giving us the press! If you can't grab a copy on the street, check out the article here.
Photo by Scott Elmquist

Handmade Hat Hottness

2008-09-12T21:17:00.000-04:00

There is no such thing as a bad show, no matter how hot and miserable it is or how sick I get from it. Atlanta may have been the pit of hell during ICE but I met an awesome girl making fabulously retro hats. Even while my brain was melting I was still smart enough to invite her to show at pins + needles. Brenda of humblebumbleb designs 3 styles of retro felt hats made for looking hot not keeping warm. I knew the minute I saw them that I had to have one!
Humblebumbleb will be debuting in Richmond at pins + needles and on my head October 3rd. Look out RVA, West Palm Beach is bringing the hottness to you.

WORN to be together

2008-09-07T20:56:00.000-04:00

It all started with BUST, which I've subscribed to forever, then Craft was a birthday present, NYLON a Xmas present as was Mother Earth News, Modern Bride an engagement present, and Real Simple and Rachael Ray are monthly hand-me-downs from my mother. Not to mention local mags like Belle and fiance reads like Rolling Stone. You could say that my glossy plate (and recycling bin) were full... and then along came WORN, another gift, and it quickly rose to the top of my list. There is no longer a question of which to read first. I am in love with this fashion journal!!! It's indie and diverse and Canadian, and I couldn't be happier. Sadly, some of my subs might not see another year but WORN will be around for at least another 2, it's a keeper.

Room with a View

2008-09-04T20:34:00.000-04:00

I took this picture in July. Despite the temperature being 92 degrees today I realized that football on tv and my studio view are telling me that it is indeed Fall. There are barely any flowers left and I have a clear view into my neighbors window, well I would if they didn't have the blinds drawn-tee hee. I love Fall! I love football, apples, falling leaves and, of course, Halloween-best holiday ever! Most of all I love fall fashion and the pressure of upcoming shows to make me bust my buns in the studio. Cool weather is so inspiring, it makes me actually want to wear clothes. Now I need to take my shorty shorts self back upstairs and get to work!

Home again, home again...

2008-09-01T17:39:00.000-04:00

We traveled North this weekend for another round of wedding planning. But... I also got to celebrate my 30th birthday all over again with my family back home-yippee. My folks planned a great cookout and I actually got another cake. I think that makes a total of 5 cakes for this birthday, a personal record.
I received some awesome presents, but the one that was most worth the wait was a handmade wallet by Bliss By Heather. I have had this particular item in my Etsy favorites for at least 6 months and am super excited to now have it in my bag. YES!!!

Handmade Arcade 2008

2008-08-27T19:08:00.000-04:00

Woot! Woot! I got my email last night and I am sooooo excited to be heading back to Pittsburgh for another round of Handmade Arcade. It is definitely in my top 3 best shows ever. I love northern shows! Even though my thin blooded southern self froze my butt off for 2 days it was totally worth it all. I met some awesome crafty girls and some craft stars too. I found awesome gifts for my friends and fam and a few for myself, I can't lie. I came home totally exhausted and couldn't have been happier. There is nothing like a cold northern morning to make you feel alive and 2 days of terrific sales to make you want to keep living.

My Found Schneider

2008-08-22T21:07:00.000-04:00

Another birthday surprise!!! My friend, and RCM sister, Deanna found a monster for me, it's kind of her job. Deanna runs Missing Monsters, an orginization dedicated to reuniting kids (and adults) with their lost monsters. "I found him at a hardware store because he is a little self conscious about being peach with a floral pattern, so he was trying to prove his masculinity. But I am pretty sure he is useless with power tools," stated Deanna at a MM press conference. Needless to say, I was elated to be reunited with Schneider. Next step is to make him his own tool belt to help with his insecurity issues.

pins + needles blog

2008-08-21T16:16:00.000-04:00

The pins + needles idie fashion show blog is up and running!!! Check it out for all of the latest info about the show and interviews with our designers. Erin and I are hard at work, and what do hard workers get??? Assistants!!! Leilani is the newest addition to the pins + needles team and boy are we happy to have her. There are only 5 more weeks until showtime and I am really feally the crunch. Garments to make, models to get, decisions to be made, etc... But I can't complain, this fashions season is feeling like it's gonna be the best one yet.

The Big 3 - 0

2008-08-17T21:06:00.000-04:00

As of August 16th, 10:33 pm, I'm officially 30. It wasn't anywhere near as scary as I thought it would be when I was a teenager and I still only feel as old as one.

I must say it was a pretty good weekend. A small party with the richmond craft mafia girls and my only drunken regret is that I wish I had actually taken pics at the party, oh well. Some great gifts that included handmade goodness by fellow crafters like gemmafactrix, the House of Worn, and Swords Into Plowshares.

And...more of the birthday season to continue at a party in upstate NY with the family and a weekend getaway in the fall with Dana.

Best 30th birthday ever!!!

Fall Sneak Peek

2008-08-14T11:58:00.000-04:00

Yes!!! I am officially working on my Fall line! It is so good to be back in the studio, however short lived it will be until more wedding planning slows me down. This wedding stuff isn't for sissies ya know. I will admit that this photo is a little bit of a cheat because one dress isn't fall, but I love it and it hadn't been featured yet so I added it on. Not to mention that the fall line is top secret (not really) to be revealed at the pins + needles fashion show on October 3rd. So, like my secret wedding dress photos these too leave a lot to the imagination. I can say that I am going for a french revolution/burlesque/vampiresque stlye, yet totally wearable. I will, however, be adding fall non-fashion-show garments to Etsy weekly: because nobody likes a tease-Ha.

Wedding Dress Success

2008-08-05T19:14:00.000-04:00

No, I'm not making my wedding dress. I know that disappoints some of you but this wedding is overwhelming enough as it is. So, my mom came down from NY and we went shopping for the perfect gown last week. It took us 3 days and I tried on over 100 dresses, no joke, but I found "the one." And no, it is not in any of these pictures. A bride can't go showing the world, and her fiance, the dress she'll be walking down the aisle in. But believe me, it is beautiful and my mother and mother-in-law-to-be agree. Photos are of the back to protect the innocent, ie, my future husband from even imagining what my gown may look like. I can't wait until I can share it for real with everyone next June. One wedding task down, 3000+ to go.