Stitch Machine Blog

Vintage Spring Shopping with the Ladies!

2012-03-07T13:52:00.003-05:00

Pastel Vintage stockings and my vegan Dr. Martens. Can't wait to team them up!

We hit the vintage and thrift shops along Central Ave. (in Charlotte) yesterday in search of some spring vintage goodies. My sister-in-law Megan found a black and white lacy camisole at Buffalo Exchange, I found some pastel stockings at Century Vintage, and at Hong Kong my niece Louise got a red plaid shirt. That little strip of stores along Central Ave. between Pecan and Thomas Street is a fun little afternoon shopping spot if you're into old treasures!

Ms. Louise!

Hey Stranger!

2012-02-28T12:30:00.002-05:00

Wow! Has it really been almost two months since I posted this? Well, I am finally getting used to my new schedule and my new position at the grocery store, so you'll see me around these parts more often. Hey! Did you happen to see that I reshot my Etsy shop and added some vintage accessories while I was away? The photos finally match the true colors of my bright accessories, and you can see all the details more clearly. I think it is looking just dandy!

Rethinking Acrylic Nails

2012-02-27T21:53:00.003-05:00

I had fun keeping up acrylic nails for several months after my wedding. (See the different colors here, here, here, and here.) I loved the length and the millions of color combinations to choose from. But when I asked the salon to remove them, this is what I was left with...

...not a great look. And what's worse is my natural nails started breaking because the sanding process has thinned them so much.

After I took these photos I invested in some nail strengthener polish and it has taken some patience to grow back my natural, strong nails. I am going to try to use the strengthener to legthen my natural nails in a much healthier way- and then paint those babies bright colors! Acrylics were fun, but not worth the havoc they wreak on my natural nails, I've decided. Live and learn!

Holey Hearts!

2012-01-27T14:56:00.004-05:00

Thanks to Emily of By Emily for leading a fun Crown Town Handmade Make Out Craft Session last night! We stitched up these pretty fabric valentines at MoNa (FYI: Plaza Muse has recently changed its name to MoNa). I used some old calico fabric with yellow and teal flowers that my dad had stored away for years. I love how these came out!

These stitch up quickly, so there is still plenty of time if you want to make one for your sweetie:Fabric Window Valentinesinstructions from The Purl Bee.

2012 New Year's Resolutions

2012-01-26T09:54:00.001-05:00

photo by Bryan Phelps

Personal Resolutions:
1. Spend as much OFFLINE time with family and friends as possible.
2. Eat even more meals at home.
3. Have confidence in my abilities.

Business Resolutions:
1. Block out more time to physically craft and develop new items! (Less office time.)
2. Give extra love and attention to the stores that carry my products.
3. Stick to my decision to not sell at craft fairs this year. After a major rut and some
soul searching I have decided that I am more productive and happier when I focus consistent energy on my online shop and
independently owned brick-and-mortar shops. I have done many craft fairs over the last five years, and they were fun and
created a lot of opportunities for me. But I believe this is still the right decision for my business.

What are your New Year's Resolutions?

Movin' On Up

2012-01-06T09:53:00.005-05:00

Good News! I got a promotion at the grocery store (where I work at night). My schedule will change a bit as I get trained for my new position, so bear with me while I get adjusted! On the days where I'm at the grocery store during the day, I will work on Stitch Machine at night, and vice versa.

Fabulous Free Haircut via Twitter!

2011-12-28T21:05:00.015-05:00

I logged into Twitter on Tuesday and I saw this in my Twitter Feed from a local tweep:

I didn't have anything scheduled Wednesday morning and was in major need of a trim, so I responded. A few tweets later I was connected with Alana's friend Erica, a stylist at EIGHT the Salon, who was learning new techniques and needed to practice a straight line cut. She texted me Tuesday night and gave me details, and Wednesday I went in for the cut. She did a beautiful job, and the salon's owner Rodger Azadganian was right there the whole time giving guidance and showing her how to become a better stylist (he owns the salon with his wife and color director Amy Troutman) . Listening to the instruction was very interesting!

EIGHT, the Salon was posh and welcoming. Based on the hands-on training the owner was giving, it was clear to me that he wants each of his stylists to be great at what they do, simply for the sake of being great. There was no doubt that Rodger was in charge, but rather than a salon owner he reminded me of a restaurant manager moving from customer to customer making sure they were each having a great experience. He would periodically walk the entire place scanning for anything that might be the slightest bit amiss, ready to take corrective action. At the same time he was at ease in his salon, sipping tea and cracking a quiet joke with an employee here and there. Discipline, intent control, and serving the customer seem to be the methodology at this salon.

Anthony Burrill says...

2011-12-27T11:59:00.005-05:00

...and I couldn't agree more!

Woodblock Poster by Anthony Burrill; printed by Adams of Rye
Buy This Poster Here

About Anthony Burrill

Read His Blog

Introducing my newest worker bee...

2011-12-26T15:09:00.014-05:00

These bright red pods were growing in the woods behind my mother's house.

I got something for my blog this Christmas that I've been wanting for a very long time...a new camera. I know this camera is going to be a workhorse for my business. I can't wait to play more with my new toy!

Hot Mint Green Tea on a Cold Morning

2011-12-21T11:05:00.006-05:00

Hot Green Tea with Mint is perfect for this cold, rainy morning. It's my last official day of work before taking a few days off to bake, visit family and just enjoy the holidays. I can't wait!

***As for my Etsy shop, I can no longer guarantee regular shipping before December 25th, but if you are interested in expedited shipping or are local to Charlotte, there is still time to get Stitch Machine for the holidays!

Holiday Shipping Deadlines

2011-12-14T17:31:00.002-05:00

The holidays are here! I'm gladly accepting custom orders until Friday, December 16th! Ready-to-ship accessories can be ordered until Tuesday, December 20th for Christmas delivery. And if you're local to Charlotte, get in touch and we may be able to cut it even closer :) Let's begin crafting a custom accessory just for your unique loved one!

Crown Town Handmade + Queen City Crafters

2011-11-29T14:54:00.005-05:00

Crown Town Handmade will be teaming up with another local Etsy team, Queen City Crafters, to provide instruction for a Nationwide Handmade Workshop on Thursday, December 1 from 6pm-9pm. Our local Charlotte event is at the West Elm on Metropolitan Ave. Stop by to make and decorate an origami ornament for yourself, and one for the charity tree. Myself, Shelley, Liz, Rachel and Martha from Crown Town Handamade will be there to instruct & help!

Sanitizing Guinea Hen Feathers

2011-11-22T13:59:00.011-05:00

In order to use feathers from my mom's free-roaming hens in my designs, I first have to put them through a sanitization process so that all of the farm yuckies don't end up in my customer's hair. Here's how I clean them:

These are feathers collected over time by my mom and I. Feathers constantly fall off of my mom's Guinea Hens as they are running around and we pick them up off the grass.

First I rinse them in warm water to remove debris= grass, hay, mud, and sometimes even dried guinea poop. Nice.

Into a pot of boiling water they go...

Stir, stir, stir for quite awhile. Boiling cleans and kills any germs that may remain.

When I remove them from the pot of water they are in a soaking wet heap.

I smooth out the feathers one by one...

....and lay them out to dry on cotton towels.

After 24 hours or so, the beautiful feathers are clean, dry, and naturally fan out a bit....

...and they are ready to be made into funky hair accessories!

Current Obsession: Bill Cunningham

2011-11-21T07:05:00.002-05:00

(Image is property of The New York Times.)

2011 November 20th On The Street spread by Bill Cunningham. Hear the photographer's commentary. (Image is property of The New York Times.)

5 Reasons I'm Obsessed:
5.Bill Cunningham marches to the beat of his own drummer and approaches life with so much enthusiasm!

4. He is a former milliner (hat maker).

3. In a digital world, he still shoots with 35mm film.

2. He lets the street talk to him. New York Times doesn't say: "Hey Bill, find people wearing fall reds for us." Instead, he spends a ton of time on the street and when he begins to see a theme emerge, that's what the story becomes.

1. He is more fascinated with the fantastic things women and men are wearing in their daily lives than with celebrity fashion.

This Film will Inspire You:
Bill Cunningham New York

Studio Pics

2011-11-18T17:25:00.009-05:00

Here's what I've been working on today:

Pinwheels in progress.

This one is inspired by the fascinator I made for my wedding a few months ago. On the left-hand side you can see my "photo studio" where I take all my Etsy shots. It's really just a piece of white poster board on the table curved up against a tupperware box, with some white tissue paper taped on the window to diffuse the sunlight.

Picking out vintage buttons from my stash.

Soon-to-be: a necklace.

It all starts with a pile of vibrant fabric!

Another accessory using feathers from my mom's guinea hens. I'm incorporating copper beads from Beadlush this season.

Fall Transformations

2011-11-16T13:30:00.002-05:00

While taking out the trash in the rain this morning, I came across some vibrant leaves changing colors. They were too beautiful to just pass right by without talking a closer look!

As much as the fashion industry would have us beleive that it's already time to start thinking about Spring, in North Carolina, Fall is really just getting into full swing! Dan cooked up some carrot and cilantro soup yesterday (I'll bug him for the recipe), and I think it's time again for homemade tart cranberry sauce (I'll share that recipe later as well)!

Watching the Game!

2011-11-11T16:43:00.001-05:00

Cutting out a little early this Friday to watch the USA vs. France soccer game at Jackalope Jack's. Have a great weekend!!

Now That's What I Call 1920's!

2011-11-09T15:30:00.001-05:00

While planning our Crown Town Handmade member holiday party, a Roaring Twenties Prohibition Party, I've come across some fun 1920's hairstyles and music! Enjoy!

Music
I bought this New Orleans 1920s Jazz album off of iTunes for the party. It's kind of like a Now That's What I Call Music of the twenties, but anyhow, these are the kinds of songs on the album...

Hair
I hope to incorporate one of these styles into my 1920s starlet costume. My hair is very straight so I'm not sure if I'll be able to pull it off.

Tutorial by ilovegerado.

Tutorial by LisaFreemontStreet.

Tutorial by LisaFreemontStreet.

Starlet Fashions
I have a long navy stretch velvet dress I found at Salvation Army awhile back, and I'm trying to come up with some type of white faux fur caplet or stole to wear with it. I have a rhinestone vintage brooch that would look nice as the closure.

Museum-Worthy Headwear

2011-11-07T01:26:00.000-05:00

While Dan and I visited the Chanel exhibit that Amanda blogged about last month, I wandered next door into the Fashionable Silhouettes exhibit. I loved perusing the ever changing headwear that women and men wore through the ages. According to the Mint Museum website, Fashionable Silhouettes is an acclaimed historic costume and fashionable dress collection featuring garments and accessories spanning three centuries of fashion history.

The styled white paper "wigs" on each mannequin were great too!

The Fashionable Silhouettes exhibit runs through December 31 at the Mint Museum on Randolph Road in Charlotte.

Etsy Banner Design

2011-11-03T07:15:00.000-04:00

I finished designing a couple of banners this week for Trish of Creative Love, and I am thrilled about how they came out. One of them is already up in her Etsy shop! The bright handmade magnets look awesome against this vintage blue refrigerator.

Want to work with me to design a banner for your etsy shop, blog, or a logo for your business? Hop over to my Graphic Services page!

My New Tool> Curved Upholstery Needle

2011-11-02T10:00:00.005-04:00

After making countless hair bows this past year, I've identified one step in the construction that I really dread: hand sewing the back of the bow together before sewing on the snap clip. I would get piles of bows to this step, and then they would just sit and sit because I would put off sewing up the backs. Why do I dread it? Because there are many layers of fabric, a layer of felt and a knotted thread bunch under there, and I have to pass a needle point down, catch those layers, and pass the needle point right back up in one motion before pulling the thread through, without piercing through the front of the bow. Basically, it means that there is a ton of resistance and tension on the straight needle I use to do the job. I always have to muscle my way through it.

I got the idea that maybe a curved upholstery needle would make the job a bit easier. I had never used one though, and wasn't sure if it would work for what I was doing. And then I would get under pressure to finish that pile of bows I mentioned earlier, and I wouldn't want to run out to the store or change up my process with a deadline looming, so I would just muscle my way through it with a straight needle yet again.

Well, I FINALLY bought a pack of curved upholstery needles this week and gave one a try, and it worked like a charm! I am so excited that I can now use the curved needle to sew my bows without using my (huge) muscles. And it's much easier on my fingers too. Yeah!

Battle of the Virtual Nail Salons!

2011-11-01T07:01:00.034-04:00

My two favorite nail polishes at the moment, OPI and China Glaze, both have a website feature where you can virtually "try on" shades before buying them. I'm not sure who copied who here, but both virtual nail salons are pretty fun to play with. Let's nerd-out and do an analysis of each company's web simulation, OK? In real life, both polishes are of equal high quality, so I'll determine the winner based purely on web functionality.

OPI
http://www.opi.com/
Scroll to the right and click the "try it on" tab on the far right right border of the website.

PROS
+ The shatter function is realistic, complex and cool. You can see what a shatter polish would look like on top of any shade. The shatter polish effect reminds me of the snakeskin trend.
+ Neither simulation does a great job depicting glitter on nails. But OPI makes up for that by allowing you to click on the bottle icon, where you can see an actual image of the bottle of glitter polish as you would see it on a store shelf.
+ Overall layout is more organized than China Glaze's simulation. There is an option to see all polishes OPI offers at once, which is a plus.

CONS
- A larger spectrum of skin tones is available here than on the China Glaze site, but to be realistic, the slider should include even darker skin tones.
- There is no direct url for the "Try It On" function, so it is hard for me to share this online. See how I had to describe exactly how to navigate to it above?

China Glaze
http://www.chinaglaze.com/try-me/

PROS
+ Allows you to simulate a longer nail length than the OPI site. Looooonger length in this simulation would be even more fun!
+ There is a direct url to this simulation, which makes it easy to share.
+ I personally like the position of the hand and nails better here.

CONS
-Unrelistic spectrum of skin tones.
-Overall layout is fine, but you have to page through the colors, which is a bit annoying. The dropdown feature, which lets you see the most current lines, is nice but I would rather see the new polishes more seamlessly integrated into the existing navigation.
-Again, glitter polishes aren't illustrated well, but on this webisite it is worse because the bottle image is not actually a photo of that particular shade in a bottle- it's just a bad glitter graphic superimposed onto a bottle. (See below.)

See the difference?

AND THE WINNER IS...
*****OPI***** gets the edge in this particular contest. OPI's virtual nail salon is more versitile and does a better job highlighting the product than China Glaze's virtual salon.

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T10:53:00.007-04:00

Here are a few images from our last Crown Town Handmade Make Out: Zombie Makeup & Zombie Walk. There were many in attendance who transformed themselves into scary zombies and terrorized the Plaza-Midwood neighborhood! So much fun!

From our rooftop patio spot at Plaza Muse we could see the skyline.Vanessa gave us some insight on applying makeup correctly and got us thinking like zombies.

"Like" Crown Town Handmade and see more photos of the Zombie Make Up Session on Facebook!

Dan and I met up at Snug Harbor after the zombie walk. This photo was captured by Carolina Nightlife at Snug's Thursday night party: "Shiprocked!"

Oh yeah, and if you're wondering about my shirt, watch this: Zombie Kid Likes Turtles.

Yippee!!

2011-10-24T12:32:00.011-04:00

I wanted to share a few photos from our engagement photo session (just before our wedding) with Lindsay Wynne. This one was taken on the back patio of Snug Harbor.

In front of a storage shed near the old apartments where we live.

Cozy up to Ecolicious

2011-10-21T09:37:00.017-04:00

I just dropped a bunch of hair accessories off at Ecolicious in Plaza-Midwood (1916 Commonwealth Ave. Charlotte, NC 28205). Stop in and check out the store for lots of eco-friendly baby products, handmade bottle lamps, accessories and vintage clothing, just to name a few.

There are several Crown Town Handmade folks represented, as well as other great local designers. And the store is just so gosh darn cute! The Ecolicious mantra is "cruelty free and eco friendly products for you and your home."

A closet full of vintage finds from Urban Gypsy.

One of the owners, Marley, rings up a customer's new gifts for a baby shower.

Charlie & His Plastic Bags

2011-10-19T05:00:00.001-04:00

Charlie loves plastic bags so much. I don't get it.

Old Milwaukee

2011-10-18T12:00:00.002-04:00

I went to see some friends play at Snug Harbor this weekend after work. What a great time! Their band Old Milwaukee just finished recording their first EP called Hide A Light.

Album art by Adam Phillips. Get the album here.

Halloween + Kelly Keith = Awesome!

2011-10-11T10:36:00.021-04:00

Our new painting makes itself at home.

For a surprise wedding gift, Dan revealed this painting that he recently commissioned of us on our first Halloween together. Someone else at our wedding reception must have been a fan of the artist because as soon as the striped beach towel was dramatically pulled off of this huge painting, some drunk person in the distance shouted,
"Keeeeellly Keith!" Kelly is a Charlotte artist we both really love and have been following for a number of years. She did an incredible job on this one and I couldn't have been more shocked to see our mugs painted in her style! I especially love the layering of the shadows and the color pallet she chose. Check out more of her work: www.kellypaintsradstuff.com

For Halloween that year, Dan dressed as comic book character Marv from the Sin City series, and I dressed as The Garden of Eden.

See works by artist Kelly Keith in person now at:

This show (featuring a number of artists) runs through November 5th at Gallery Twenty-Two.

Join our 2nd annual Zombie Walk!

2011-10-05T14:32:00.018-04:00

We caught us a witch during the October 2010 CTHm Zombie Walk!

Join Crown Town Handmade for our 2nd Annual Zombie Makeup Lesson & Zombie Walk! This event is part of our ongoing series of monthly Make Out craft nights and is free to the public! Join us October 27th, 7:30 pm at Plaza Muse in Charlotte (1200 Central Ave, 28204). We'll be on the on the rooftop patio overlooking the Charlotte Skyline (weather permitting).

From last month's Make Out:

I wanted to share the Pom Pom Necklace I made at the last Crown Town Handmade craft night (spooky thermal camera style). Vanessa of Corvidae Jewelry was a great teacher, Beadlush graciously donated the jewelry components for this craft, and Plaza Muse welcomed our group as we made ourselves at home in their gallery space. What a great community we have!

Current Obsession: RuPaul

2011-10-03T23:08:00.031-04:00

The transformation RuPaul makes when he performs is amazing! He always looks great; especially the hair! I admire RuPaul for his very strong sense of self, his campy off-beat humor and wild & wonderful fashion. The more I learn about RuPaul, the more there is to love!

From Wikipedia:
"RuPaul is noted among famous drag queens for his indifference towards the gender-specific pronouns used to address him—both 'he' and 'she' have been deemed acceptable. [In a 1995 autobiography RuPaul said,] 'You can call me he. You can call me she. You can call me Regis and Kathie Lee; I don't care! Just as long as you call me.'"

RuPaul out of drag.

Big hair, loud dress and an expression to match...love it!

Ms. Center of Attention

My New Teal Nails

2011-09-29T09:57:00.008-04:00

I got professional full acrylics for the first time for my wedding and they looked amazing! The application process was fascinating and was more involved than I imagined. (Remember when I did the DIY variety?) For my wedding, the nails were hand painted in Purple, Gold and White. The artistry was incredible. But I was so busy that I didn't think to take a photo with my own camera. I'll share those once I get my professional wedding photos back.

BUT FOR NOW...I love my acrylic nails and I want to keep them! They are comfortable and more durable than the DIY glue-on nails. I went back to the nail shop yesterday to get them filled in (since nails grow) and got this color combo for fall- Teal, Rust and Gold. These babies would look great with a brown dress!

Shake Your Pom Pom!

2011-09-28T23:55:00.000-04:00

Photo from D.I.Y. Pom Pom Necklace by Cateaclysmic.

Have you got the balls to make pom poms? Balls of yarn that is!

It's that time again for another Crown Town Handmade Make Out! Come join us this Thursday in our new craft night spot, Plaza Muse (1200 Central Ave., Charlotte NC, 28204). Please note that seating is limited, so you may want to bring a pillow to sit on.

Join Corvidae Jewelry artist Vanessa Ross as she guides you through the simple, fun process of making handmade pompoms. After getting the hang of crafting these fuzzy guys you will have the option of turning them into a wearable art piece. Supplies will be provided including cotton yarn, wire, pins, jewelry findings, needle and thread. However, feel free to bring your own yarn if you would like a special color or fiber.

Shake Your Pom Pom Event Page
Thursday, September 29
7:30pm - 9:30pm

Our Lowcountry Honeymoon!

2011-09-27T10:30:00.012-04:00

Dan and I spent 6 wonderful days in Charleston, South Carolina for our honeymoon. Besides the regular newlywed stuff, here's what we did:

Lots of sleeping in!

Admired the antique southern decor as we waited for our elevator at the historic Planters Inn.

In the morning, we took a long walk past College of Charleston to Hominy Grill for a delicious breakfast!

We did lots of History stuff.
We spent time on the USS Calamagore Submarine (above) and the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier (below). We also wandered through graveyards in Charleston and visited The Old Slave Mart Museum.

This is where boots were repaired for the 3,000+ men onboard while out at sea during WWII.

Rambo?

We got caught in a tourist trap fishcamp while searching for a fried seafood platter. We sat at the same table that Neil Young did when he got caught in this same trap years ago. That made it a little better, I guess.

We still ate lots of GREAT food!
We'd made reservations at Husk months ago. Good thing, because in September it was named Bon Appétit Magazine's Best New Resturant in America, and the place was packed.

Happy at Husk! We also ate Charleston's signature dish, She Crab Soup, every chance we got. My favorite one was at Hank's.

After a busy couple of days in Charleston, we crossed the Cooper River Bridge into Isle of Palms where we would spend the rest of our vacation relaxing by the water.

Early morning crosswords by the pool.

And a little bit of beach time too!

It was a beautiful honeymoon, and we didn't even have to leave the Carolinas! I can't wait to visit Charleston again.

A Wedding, A Honeymoon

2011-09-19T14:57:00.006-04:00

Our wedding on Saturday was magical! More photos later!
(Photo by Megan.)

And now, we're on our honeymoon! See you in a week!

Crossing the T's, Dotting the I's.

2011-09-08T09:55:00.011-04:00

I'm finishing up alterations and repairs on my wedding dress. I have to say that this has been my favorite part of wedding planning! It's like my reward for working through all of the not-so-fun stuff. I still have one major alteration that I want to do today- changing the shape of the neckline. I'm half excited and half scared to start making the cuts this close to the big day. Wish me luck!

Here, I am removing some trim from the dress that I'm not too fond of.

I saw some flowery tissue balls hanging on my friend Melissa's porch and asked if she made them. The ones on her porch came from pomlove.etsy.com, but she also directed me to this Tissue Paper Pom-Pom How-To. I ordered bulk tissue paper in my wedding colors and went to town. They are really easy look so fun! And of course, Charlie and Cheezburger helped me (annoyed me) every step of the way.

The bright poms will add a much needed pop of color to my reception! Only 10 days until the big day!

Lookie, Lookie: CTHm has a new web site!

2011-08-30T12:23:00.012-04:00

Today Crown Town Handmade launched their brand new web site:

www.crowntownhandmade.com

The site was built by Laura O' Neil, with lots of help from Yvonne Brown and the Crown Town Handmade membership committee. Many hours were spent organizing ideas and thinking through ways that this site could best serve Crown Town's members and also the Charlotte area crafting community. I love it and couldn't be happier with the results! Click around and check it out!

Bridesmaid Dress Dye Day!

2011-08-29T10:19:00.027-04:00

Wetting down the original dresses in the sink so that they will take dye evenly. They have a sheer cotton white layer on top of the yellow. I'm a little worried about how purple dye will take to yellow cloth (will it turn brown?), but since there is a sheer white layer on top, I think it will be alright.

My dyes. I got these from Mary Jo's Cloth Store in Gastonia- they have a huge selection of dye.

Remember my online search for my bridesmaid dresses? I ended up going with The Lighthouse dress after my maid of honor, Megan, found this website and Amanda suggested that I dye this dress. After I ordered the dresses I had to have my bridesmaids try them on before I could dye them. This was a long process because one of the ladies lives in New Jersey and the others were scattered across Charlotte. But after a few trips to the post office and around town, a few exchanges at Shabby Apple and some waiting for the mail to arrive I finally had all of the dresses in hand in the sizes that fit the ladies perfectly. And now, for the fun part:

First I added salt to my bucket, this helps the dye bind to the cloth.

I filled the bucket 3/4 the way up with hot water, then in goes the liquid dye!

I dipped a corner of a white cotton towel in to check the color, adding more Wine Dye until the purple color came out about like I wanted. (This isn't a perfect test- the color does lighten once you rinse and dry the garment- but it's easier to see where the color is than by looking into a bucket of dye.) I ended up using about 2 1/2 bottles of Purple and 3/4 bottle of Wine color. Normally I wouldn't use this much dye, but I wanted to make sure the color came out saturated and bright. I felt like I only had once chance to get it right, so I wanted to be sure I had plenty of dye for the amount of cotton cloth I was dying.

I stirred constantly for an hour. This was the hard part. Keeping the dye bath moving means the cloth will dye more evenly. If you just let it sit, you will get some darker places and some lighter places. That's fine for tie-dye, but not for this job. Some people prefer to dye in the washing machine for ease, but I was too nervous for that- I wanted to see everything!

Taking a peek at the color. eeee! I made sure to wear gloves since my wedding is only 3 weeks away. Don't want to show up with purple hands!

After rising the dresses in the sink, and then running them through the washer for 3 cycles, then hanging to dry, this is how they turned out. Such a beautiful color!

Once they are dry cleaned they will look even nicer. I am thinking about running them through one more dye bath of denim blue mixed with a lot of water, to bring the final color down to a darker purple. But I also love the color they are now, so I'm not sure. What do you think?

A Feast for the Eyes

2011-08-28T01:01:00.013-04:00

Bright magentas, sunshine yellows, and all shades of green! Dan's grandmother organizes her colorful threads on a rack that was built by a loved one. We visited her (and her twin sister) last week and I had to go downstairs (as always) and see what was going on in her basement sewing space. Admiring her projects made me miss my studio so much!

P.S.- Only three weeks 'til my wedding! Things are finally falling into place after lots of hard work. I haven't been in my studio too much lately because wedding planning is ruling my life right now. I totally underestimated how much of my July & August would be spent on making plans for the big day!

Wedding Registry Whatnot

2011-08-19T09:48:00.008-04:00

I wanted to share some handmade things we put on our Amazon Wish List as part of our Wedding Registry:

Grain Sack Pillow by lesliejanson.etsy.com

Blue Heron Throw Pillow by Modern Folk Shop

Ticking Stripe Handmade Duvet Cover by Modern Folk Shop

Shabby Chic Party Pack Hooks by Monkey and Squirrel.

Claylight Sconce by lightexture.etsy.com

Seed Stone print by Brandi Strickland

We also set up more traditional registries with Home Depot, Target, and REI. I had to physically go into Home Depot and write down SKU numbers for their registry, but the others I was able to do online.

Current Obsession: The Foxfire Book Series

2011-08-18T19:26:00.006-04:00

The Foxfire Books are a compilation of interviews by college students in Georgia with local people about Appalachian culture. This series is nothing new to me- it's been on my family's bookshelf since I was a wee tot. The project began as Foxfire Magazine in 1966 and all of the articles were first published together as a book in 1972.

The series of books are like blueprints for sustainable and simple living. Page through one and you will find things like how to build a log cabin, tales about home baby deliveries, and how to grow the food you need.

In this age of apps for everything, GPS, and supermarkets, lately I am finding renewed respite in these books about "plain living".

My Wedding Invitations!

2011-08-12T12:59:00.007-04:00

I wanted to share the wedding portrait that is included in my wedding invitations. We didn't do a Save The Date, so I wanted to be sure to include a special keepsake print. I'm thrilled with how it came out, after much intense focused watercolor painting. I wanted to create a tribute to my maternal grandfather, who created beautiful stained glass creations for fun after his retirement from an auto plant in Detroit. I also wanted to represent some of our interests.

This is the invitation vignette I made! The beautiful and simple winery where we are getting married is the inspiration for the color theme, with deep purple and golden grapes growing there now.

A little mock-up collage I used as a reference while painting our portrait. I have long toes. :)

Recap: Team + one at 24 Hours of Booty 2011

2011-08-09T13:06:00.022-04:00

Ringing a bell for her daddy's team and wearing a Plus One/ Stitch Machine button snap clip!

I went out to the 24 Hours of Booty event (July 29th) to cheer on the Plus One folks that I'd partnered up with last month. It was so neat to see Bryan (who approached me awhile back about creating some custom accessories to help raise money for his team) gliding along with other bikers in the survivor's loop to kick of the 24 hour riding event!

team + one at 24 Hours of Booty 2011

Team Plus One's energy and enthusiasm was an incredible thing to witness! The team raised over $27,000 this year for cancer research and treatment and were #6 in fundraising of all of the teams in the event. Amazing!

biker booty

The Hindman family came decked out in their + one gear. Big sis says: no more pictures!

Late Night Snacks: Even one of the food vendor folks supports the + one team with a Plus One/Stitch Machine wrist band.

It's my party

2011-08-08T11:53:00.017-04:00

A birthday package I made up for a customer a few weeks ago. Birthday card from Yee Haw Industries.

Yesterday was my birthday. 27 years, my-oh-my!

Dan and I visited my home town and did some intense wedding planning, after which we decided: no more wedding talk this weekend. Just fun. Dan and my mom surprised me with a cookie cake & birthday song while I was taking a nap, and later we had a spur-of-the-moment cookout on the back porch with family. Good times all around!

Some friends got me this antique egg beater at Sleepy Poet to add to my collection. It is the only old-timey one I have that actually works.

Where's Sarah?

2011-08-03T13:33:00.011-04:00

Loyal Friends,
I'm taking a brief blog and social media break this week to compile and send out my wedding invitations and finish wedding projects. The event is just weeks away, on September 17th. My wedding projects have been put off for way too long, and I've just got to take some time to get them done. You understand right?

I'd imagined myself multitasking like a champion this week: blogging, getting new Stitch Machine stuff out to stores and online, leading Crown Town Handmade, working my part time job, while also getting all my wedding stuff done. Unfortunately that has not been the reality- my stores are still waiting and the wedding projects are moving at a snails pace.

Bear with me this week while I power through my wedding projects and finish up my Crown Town Handmade leadership teams and website launch meetings, and I'll be back on my regular blogging schedule next Monday. I have lots of exciting stuff to share with you!

Miss you guys tons!
xoxo
Sarah

=
MY INVITATIONS!
(I'm not sending stained glass through the mail though- just watercolor images I painted of stained glass. I'll show you the finished invites next week.)

Eco Licious Grand Opening!

2011-07-29T10:18:00.007-04:00

Plaza-Midwood's newest boutique, Eco Licious has been open for a couple of weeks now (Charlotte), but they're hosting a Grand Opening Party tomorrow, Saturday 7/30/11 starting at noon. Eco Licious carries "cruelty-free and eco-friendly products for you and your home", including Stitch Machine! This shop began in the back of a used book store, and now they're expanding to their very own storefront. Drop by and help them celebrate!

Starting at noon, local musicians will be playing out front all day and food will be available from vegan caterer Fatty Dog Bake Shop. A bartender will be making organic mixed drinks and there will also be a revamped vintage clothing trunk show from The Frock Shop. Sounds like fun!

Eyebrow Work!

2011-07-28T11:15:00.000-04:00

I wish I could say that keeping my eyebrows maintained was near the top of my To-Do list. But obviously....

...it's not even close! I let it get really bad this time! I was blessed with extra dark locks, but that means scraggly eyebrows are more noticeable. (Shut it, blondes!)

A few weeks ago my tweezers were confiscated by the cats, then left in that moist spot behind the faucet (ew) and now they are lost for good. Yesterday, I bit the bullet and invested in a top-of-the-line pair of Tweezermans ($20). I'd read in Bobbi Brown's makeup book that they're the best, plus they have a good warranty and free sharpening for life. I'm keeping this pair locked away from those grubby little paws.

I plucked away all of the stragglies in between my eyebrows, under the arch and above the outer points of my eyebrows, letting my full, natural eyebrow shape emerge.

It didn't take much time at all, and the result of this small change is a much cleaner, more feminine look.

Add a touch of dark brown eye shadow on my brows to fill them in and...looks just dandy to me!

Do you pluck or wax your eyebrows, or do you leave them alone? Do you have any tips or suggestions from your past experiences? Any funny eyebrow stories?

WWWList: So Sassy

2011-07-22T11:14:00.003-04:00

Floral Gingham 1970's Shirt Dress

Large Hammered 18 Gauge Niobium Hoops

Hand Forged Cuff Bracelet in Sterling Silver

Vintage Black Studded Platform Sandal

Look Ma! I Grew This!

2011-07-21T04:00:00.000-04:00

Slicing up our first tomato from our container garden. Yippee!

Watch my first garden grow up:
July 13
June 20
May 11
March 15- I got Amy to come on as a gardening guest blogger. My secret personal motive was to learn from her experience and work up the courage to try a garden myself.

Cat In The Box

2011-07-20T15:57:00.001-04:00

Here's a 90 second slice of kitty life at my house.

My Crown Town Handmade Inaugural Address

2011-07-19T13:35:00.001-04:00

I'm excited to announce that I'll be the new leader of Crown Town Handmade for the upcoming year! I'm honored to be taking the reins from our founder, Amanda Aileen, who has been a truly inspirational leader over the past year and a half.

I've learned a lot about leadership and running an organization from Amanda. She was a stranger when she contacted me and a few others through Etsy about a new group she was putting together in October of 2009. It's hard to believe that our small group didn't even have a name at that point- just a handful of people with ideas, itching to connect with other crafty entrepreneurs. The economy was at an all-time low and we were all in need of new energy and encouragement for our micro- businesses. Our Prize Pack Giveaway was our first group project.

It's amazing how far Amanda has taken Crown Town Handmade since that time. We now have around 40 members, hundreds of friends and fans in our community, and we host well-attended free monthly Make-Out Craft Nights for the public. We have been involved with events at the Mint Museum of Craft + Design, hosted an official Etsy craft party and formed strong relationships with supportive local shops like Beadlush and Century Vintage. Features in Creative Loafing and Charlotte Magazine helped to spread the word of our group and attracted new members. Internally, we hold monthly business workshops to help our members become better entrepreneurs. Our online discussion board has allowed us to pool our craft show experiences and share opportunities, and some of our members have utilized our growing internship and skill share programs. We have been able to do all of these things because Amanda created and maintained an organized and active leadership structure.

Crown Town Handmade has certainly brought renewed energy to our members and our community. Connecting with this group was, for me, the spark that made things really start happening with my own business. I hope that I'll be able to give back to the group all that it has given me. It's my turn to steer Crown Town Handmade and build on what has already been created. I am excited and ready for the challenge!

Turning Your Craft Into A Business

2011-07-14T09:16:00.007-04:00

I'm teaching a Crown Town Handmade member workshop tonight called "Turning Your Craft into a Business", so I thought it only appropriate to share my new business license for 2011/2012.

"Post in a conspicuous place," it says. I posted it outside of the door to my home studio as a reminder that when I walk through the door each morning, it's all business.

Tonight I'll be talking to other crafty entrepreneurs about decoding the paperwork and red tape associated with making your business official, and discussing when, why, and how to do it.

Tomatoes are Turning

2011-07-13T11:01:00.009-04:00

We noticed a little color when we watered the plants yesterday, and now there's even more. Another day or two and they should be ready to eat!

The temperature has been over 100 degrees this week, so we've been trying to keep the plants watered as much as we can. Some days the leaves look more sad than others, but we're doing our best. My mom told me that container plants are like having indoor dogs- the only water they're going to get is what you put in their bowl.

This guy's lagging behind, but he'll catch up soon!

Can't wait to try one!

Fundraiser for Cancer Treatment & Survivorship

2011-07-12T04:37:00.006-04:00

Stitch Machine & Team Plus One

I've partnered up with Team Plus One to design these sharp athletic accessories based on their logo and message. I've been working on the designs for these products for quite awhile, and I'm so glad to finally share them in my shop. 50% of the proceeds go directly to cancer research and survivorship via Team Plus One's campaign for 24 Hours of Booty.

THE STORY
Team Plus One is a bike team in Charlotte, NC working to build a supportive community around all those affected by cancer. Besides biking together, the team's primary goal is raising money to donate directly to 24 Hours of Booty, a fundraising event and nonprofit in Charlotte, North Carolina for national and local cancer initiatives.

Plus One was born out of a conversation between Bryan Sheilds, a two time cancer survivor, and his wife Jen while they were biking in their first 24 Hours of Booty event as Bryan began the healing process. Recognizing that the physical toll cancer takes on the body is only part of the struggle, they started Plus One to focus on emotional healing.

Bryan reached out to me a few months ago to design some merchandise for Plus One to help with fundraising efforts for their team goal of donating $20,000 towards research.

We've put in a lot of work on this project, and in the process Bryan's story and his family's positive, proactive work for greater good have become very near and dear to my heart. (I met Bryan when he ordered several gifts online for the women in his family, and I only began to learn about his story and his fundraising efforts after getting to know him more through social media and then in person at an art event in Charlotte.) I'd really love for my customers to help out with this special cause if at all possible.

Know someone who needs a little extra encouragement? Or maybe someone who is working to overcome a tough goal? Or Both? Gift them a Plus One pin or hair accessory to keep the positive thoughts flowing, and 50% of your gift goes directly to benefit cancer initiatives. It's a win/win! Purchase within the next two weeks to benefit the 2010/2011 Campaign. Thank you so much!

The Big Crafty was Great!

2011-07-11T14:56:00.008-04:00

See our water jug weights on our tent corners above? They worked like a dream. (The fire marshal did come around and inspect everyone's tent weights, as I expected.)

This is the first time I've requested an outside space at this event, and I'll definitely do it again. The three ladies selling closest to me yesterday were members of Crown Town Handmade, which made for a good time with friends! There were lots of other Crown Town members selling at the event this year too. The weather was nice and hot, with a few light showers sprinkled in. So good to see everyone in Asheville again and meet some new faces as well!

I tried out some new packaging- white logo boxes that I've been designing and making. They seemed to go over well.

I can honestly say that this was all around the least stressed I've been while doing and prepping for a craft event. I must be getting more comfortable with the process, better at time management, and more realistic with my expectations about how many items I can physically make at one time. I've come a long way!

Amanda tried out a new display idea- a natural stick clothes rack. She had to balance the weight out on the rack when things sold, but it worked out great!

WWWList: Daughters of the Revolution

2011-07-08T09:17:00.005-04:00

Bustle and Pocket dress

Wind on the Plains Vine Crown

Betsy Ross Art Pendant Necklace

Vintage Hand Painted Chintz Porcelain Jewel Box

Pink Cameo Vintage Style Ring

Vintage Rockabilly White Leather Boots

WWWList: Founding Fathers

2011-07-08T07:33:00.012-04:00

The Leonard Waxed Canvas Messenger Bag in Spice Brown

Declaration of Independence T Shirt

Cropped Tux Short, Non-stretch Denim, Camp Kinser Wash

Men's White Tube Socks

Slate Men's Classic Shoes, Vegan

Founding Fathers image source

Packing up for The Big Crafty!

2011-07-07T20:51:00.005-04:00

I'm getting a jump start for The Big Crafty in Asheville this Sunday by loading my car now with the heavy stuff (tables, tent & tent weights). I'm sharing a booth with Amanda from Verabelle Vintage. We've been discussing tent weights, and between the two of us we've tried bricks and sandbags and they were both...ehhhh...heavy and a pain to handle. So this year we're going to try Gallon Water Jugs. Amanda's bringing four hook bungee cords, and the plan is to tie two gallons to each tent corner. I think it will be great!

Aww, You Shouldn't Have...

2011-07-07T03:14:00.005-04:00

Dan came across a food truck, Roaming Fork, while running errands and brought these home. Truffle Essence Parmesan Herbed French Fries. Yummmm! Better than flowers!

Happy 4th!

2011-07-04T23:52:00.006-04:00

Happy 4th of July to those of you in the US!! I went to a cookout & played in a big kickball game today (so fun!) before heading in for work at the grocery store. I hope you guys got to watch some fireworks for me- I totally missed them all this year!

unrelated business news...
This weekend we finally ended a several months long struggle for consistent internet at my house. We'd tried buying a new wireless router, spent hours upon hours testing solutions, re-syncing passwords, changing settings, rebooting modems, trying different power sources and also spending lots of time on the phone and online with our ISP tech support. We had a tech guy come by on Sunday, so now all is fixed and running smoothly. (Yahoo!) It turns out that our modem was shot and we were having additional signal problems. I've got an overdue Independence Day WWWList for both guys and girls that I can't wait to finish up and share!

A Pretty Package

2011-06-30T13:21:00.009-04:00

This sweet little package was just bought in my Etsy shop and is on its way to Utah right now. The frayed linen bow shown here is just an example of what's tied up inside of the cream handmade box. I included some wee freebies and a note too. I love putting these little packages together, because each one is unique- it all depends on the season, the packaging materials I have on hand and whatever happens to be in my freebie bin at the time an order is placed. Each package is different, but each one is beautiful & special!

I just had to share, but I hope the buyer doesn't see this post before she receives her parcel- surprises are always more fun!

Freebie Bin
If you are a maker or blogger and have any small freebies, business cards, or coupons that you'd like to add to my freebie bin to be included in packages I ship out, please get in touch with me at sarah@stitchmachine.net

The freebie print seen here was carved by Super Me at a Crown Town Handmade Make-Out, and the vintage calling card belongs to johnny woodie.

Current Obsession: Rit Dye Website

2011-06-29T03:02:00.002-04:00

Just one feature on the Rit Dye website that I'm loving right now: this super cute interactive timeline of how Rit has been used throughout the century.

It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of dye. Remember this and this and this? It's such an inexpensive & easy way to give new life to any tired garment. Depending on your mood and personality, the process can be an exact science, or you can put an artistic spin on it and surprise yourself with the results.

I've been using Rit Dye for years (at this very moment there are around 15 different colors mixed in mason jars in my craft room), but I just visited the Rit Dye website for the first time this week. Here are some fun things I found:

How-To's for all kinds of dying techniques, including Dying Wood and Wicker. This takes me back to those dyed, woven wicker baskets we made in 5th grade.

Pantone Fashion Forceasts and color recipes.

Recipes for over 500 colors using combinations of only a handful of basic dyes.

...psst...I think I'm going to dye my bridesmaid dresses using one of the recipes on this site...

June Make-Out> A Little Necking

2011-06-28T10:30:00.001-04:00

If you're in the Charlotte area, Join Crown Town Handmade on Thursday, June 30th at 7:30 pm at Amelie's French Bakery for our monthly Make-Out session! Our teacher this month is Rachel Lock of My Art Event. Rachel will be leading the group in making soft summer scarves from recycled t-shirts.

Materials will be provided, but feel free to bring any old shirts or stop by the thrift shop to grab a few in your favorite colors. Make Outs are always free but of course we're happy to accept donations to keep the crafting alive. Stop by the Facebook Event Page and let us know if you can join us. See you there!

2424 N Davidson St
Charlotte NC, 28205

Compost, A Gardener's Best Friend

2011-06-28T04:03:00.004-04:00

By guest blogger Connie Harris.

Building and maintaining a compost pile is the easiest and most surefire way to become a better gardener. Compost will improve your soil structure and will provide a balanced source of plant nutrients. Unlike commercial organic or inorganic fertilizers, which need to be applied at the right time and at the right amount, compost can be added to the soil at any time and in any amount. It's impossible to over-apply compost; plants will absorb only want they need, when they need it.

One of the best aspects of composting is that you cannot fail. Organic matter will rot no matter what, fuss with it everyday, or ignore it, for months - it doesn't matter.

Two types of materials make up a compost pile: Carbon, or "browns" and Nitrogen, or "greens". Carbon items are dried leaves, woody plant trimmings, dead garden and house plants, dried grass clippings, shredded paper products, straw and hay. Nitrogen items are raw fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, filters and tea bags, egg shells, fresh grass clippings, nut shells, stale or moldy bread, leafy plant trimmings, and spent flowers.

To build a pile, start with about 1 foot of "browns" add about 3 inches of greens, keep the materials as moist as a wrung-out sponge, repeat layering until the bin is full, ending with a layer of "browns". The closer you can get to 3 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen, the faster you will have finished compost. Aerating the pile by turning and mixing the layers will speed the decomposition. It is recommended that you turn you pile after 1 week, then every 3 weeks for a total of 4 turns. You should have finished compost in about 3 months. The pile usually shrinks to ½, or less of its original size and will be dark, crumbly, and ready for your garden.

About the author:
An avid gardener and master composter, Connie spends most of her spare time nurturing her garden. Currently, Connie serves on the Mecklenburg Waste Management Board. She is also Executive Director of Journey Toward Sustainability, a program with the mission of educating elementary school children in Char/Meck Schools on how they can make a difference by doing small things. Their goal is to begin a conversation with the next generation about what living in a sustainable world means. Connie has a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Educational Media.

Here, Connie spreads a large pile of pine mulch on her front yard, which is now entirely naturalized- not a single blade of grass!

Wedding Plans: A Tour of the Vineyard

2011-06-27T14:46:00.015-04:00

Dan and my mom wander through the vines.

We recently visited Graham/Saxapahaw North Carolina to iron out some wedding details. It was a productive trip- We found the hotel we'll recommend to our guests and also our rehearsal dinner spot: The Eddy. It's an upscale pub on the Haw River with a cellar/vintage feel that serves food from local farms. Plus it's less than a mile from Benjamin Vineyards & Winery, where we'll get married. We stopped by the winery to decide which of their wines we'll have at the wedding (they make all of their wine on-site), and we also got an impromptu tour. So beautiful this time of year!

[more photos after the jump]

There's a quaint picnic area shaded by cedar trees, which we'll offer as a seating option for our casual dinner.

Let's go inside the winery.

The device on the right is used to bottle the wine, and then each bottle is individually hand-corked using the the tool with the red handle.

Dan takes a peek inside the grape press.

Some hi-tech wine making equiptment :)

Aging barrels.

Grape Perfection.

WWWList: Bart & Lisa

2011-06-25T13:27:00.005-04:00

This week's change of season has put me in a playful mood, so I'm taking a different approach to my regular Weekend Wear Wishlist. These Bart and Lisa Simpson inspired WWWLists will keep you guys and girls looking fresh regardless of the shennanigans you get into this summer.

BART

Skate Crazy Red T

Men's 15" Relaxed Fit Cargo Short

Chuck Taylor All Star, Royal

LISA

Sweet Red Lace Strapless Mini Dress

Marilyn Super Chunky Pearl Necklace

Red Pumps with Decorative Stitching

Bart & Lisa image via PETtellE.

Poolside Water Marble Nail Art Tutorial

2011-06-23T10:23:00.006-04:00

This is so fun! A tutorial by Colette of My Simple Little Pleasures.

And these would look great for 4th of July!
4th of July Stripes
Holographic Fireworks

Dressing My Wedding Party

2011-06-22T02:53:00.022-04:00

I'm focused on dressing my wedding party right now, since the wedding is only three months away. Here are some of the lovely things I've been looking at.

Beer Necktie by Cyberoptix Tie Lab
Dan has a good idea of what he wants the male members of the wedding party to wear, so he is going to pick. I've always loved this shop, so I'll throw it out there. If not, maybe a tie like this will go over with the fathers of the bride & groom instead?

My four bridesmaids will probably wear one of these two dresses (I need to make a decision!) with some handmade accessories that only exist in my mind right now. I think either of these will look quite pretty with my wedding dress! Remember the bridesmaid dress that didn't work out?

Belle and Beast in Rhodolite by Shabby Apple. (Color simulated by me in Photoshop.)

Lighthouse by Shabby Apple.

Mom told me to pick out something for her to wear, so I'm looking for a pretty, belted party pant-suit with a little sheen and flair. Sort of like this or like this. I tried to ask Dan what his mom wants to wear during the wedding or if she already has something, but of course he had no interest in that conversation. Guess us ladies will have to talk!

A Carnivore's Journey to Tofu Acceptance

2011-06-21T13:30:00.007-04:00

What did it take for someone who grew up eating pulled pork BBQ, side meat, bacon, steak, burgers, fried chicken and regretably, even chitlings, to be a believer in tofu?

Well, I was forced to eat tofu by a bearded clockwork orange trickster. Well, that's an exaggeration, but here's what happened.

Last December I was manning my busy Stitch Machine booth alone at The Big Crafty in Asheville and all the while getting hungry. A guy in suspenders and a black bowler hat was walking around selling food, but the only thing he was selling was...yuck...tofu sandwiches. I waited for the hamburger guy to come through, but eventually realized there was no hamburger guy. An hour or more later the suspender guy approached again and I figured I better pounce on the opportunity, or go hungry. I reluctantly handed over my five bucks and received my hefty tofu wrap.

Between customers I tore through the saran wrap a quickly as I could. Flashbacks of the fried, spongy tofu I'd tried in my college cafeteria almost made me abort, but I was way too hungry for that. I took a huge bite and waited for the worst...and...it was DELICIOUS!! I couldn't beleive that this sweet and spicy curry flavored stuff was tofu. It was cut into strips and was firm, a little crispy on the outside and nice to bite into. It was filling and yummy with the fresh greens, carrots and strips of red cabbage rolled up with it. If this hours-old tofu sandwich could taste this great, I wondered what else tofu could taste like.

I didn't dive open arms into tofu after that though. It still took some time to warm up to the idea. While working at the grocery store, out of curiosity, I began asking people who were buying tofu how they planned to cook it. The more recipes I heard, the more I realized that learning how to cook tofu would give me more possiblilties for delicious meals on the days I didn't want to eat meat.

The top two tips I got from tofu-eating customers at the grocery store were:
#1 For cooking, extra firm tofu is the only way to go.
#2 Just think of tofu as a blank canvas- like chicken or ground beef. Season and cook it like you would a meat.

I was still a little scared. Even though people have been eating tofu for thousands of years, growing up in the South gave me a huge bias toward tofu. "It just ain't natural!" But last week I went ahead and bought my first container of tofu for $2.99 and cooked up a pot of spaghetti. Instead of beef, I seasoned and sauted my tofu and then stired it into the sauce. It turned out great! My first reaction after cooking it is that tofu is kind of like broccoli- it soaks in and intensifies the flavors it's cooked with.

So I've used tofu twice now in my kitchen. I can't give up my pork BBQ, bacon, or the deer my brother gives me in the winter after his hunting trips. But now I'd feel comfortable substituting tofu for meat a few times a week. And best of all, I have a new protein and new recipe options to experiment with!

An aside:
I love my meats but I'm getting interested in eating less of them.
For years I have been incorporating alternative forms of protein into my diet, substituting rice & beans, edamame, yogurt and peanut butter for meat here and there. Mostly, I just like variety. But the other thing is, Americans eat a lot of meat, and I've definitely been one of those Americans. The US is about 5% of the world's population and Americans eat about 8 ounces of meat per day, roughly twice the global average (Rethinking the Meat Guzzler, Mark Bittman, New York Times, 2008). Does that really make sense? Eating meat everyday makes less sense the more I learn about the awful realities of huge US factory farms. And I'm learning that the economic, environmental, and third world human hunger consequences of factory farms (where most of our supermarket meat comes from) are very real. Now, that just ain't natural.

Worldwide Annual Meat Consumption per capita 2007

Magical things are happening...

2011-06-20T04:30:00.001-04:00

...in our garden!

Remember our container garden that Dan started in May? We've managed to keep it watered almost :/ everyday, and we're starting to see the results. We used some of our fresh basil in a pasta dish the other night, and I can't wait until the tomatoes and jalapenos are ready! This is really exciting for me, because every spring my mom has tried to nourish my green thumb by giving me a potted plant but each one died from dehydration within the same season. But these babies are lookin' pretty good!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T10:31:00.005-04:00

Happy Father's Day to all the daddies out there!

me and dad c. 1985

lil brother and dad c. 1988

WWWList: Let's Get Fit!

2011-06-17T19:38:00.014-04:00

My schedule is packed these days and I always feel more productive & energetic after a good run. Hope this Weekend Wear Wishlist inspires you to get moving too! If you're new to running-I'm not going to lie- the first two weeks of steady running will hurt & feel awful. But if you can get through those first weeks, you'll notice it will start to feel great! Pretty soon after you'll start to crave your workout. So let's get going. I'll be here feeling the burn too & cheering you on!

(If the thought of running is too much, you can start walking a few times a week first, then move up to walking and jogging intermittently in the same workout, and then after a few weeks move up to a steady run. You can do it!)

Super Girl Retro Sports Bra

One Pocket Army Camo Kick Shorts

Timex Ironman 50-Lap Digital Watch

GT 2160 Running Shoe with Synthetic Upper

Narrow-Mouth Loop-Top Water Bottle

Feather Hair Extensions: There's more than meets the eye

2011-06-15T01:20:00.005-04:00

I alluded to the debate over feather hair extensions in this post after coming across many fly fishing bloggers who were posting about how the trend has affected the supply for their sport & craft. Since then, the story broke into the mainstream, and even more information is available about a darker side to the trend. Here is how the trend is affecting others.....

Fly Fishermen & Fly Tiers
The grizzly feathers used for hair extensions are primarily used by fly fishermen and folks whose craft is "tying" or making fishing lures. These hobbyists are having a tough time buying the feathers that they've always been able to get their hands on because of this hair trend. There is now extreme demand for limited supply and the demand is driving prices for the feathers way up.

photo credit

Tackle Shop Owners and Farmers
Tackle shop owners are seeing a boom in demand for the feathers in their stores- so much so that farmers can't keep up with it. Some suppliers are happy about the increased demand, and some are just miffed. Given the fleeting nature of fashion trends, tackle shop owners and farmers know this trend will go away, along with the money, and they don't want to alienate the fisherman and fly tying customers who have been loyal to them for years.

Roosters
Grizzly Roosters are bred and genetically modified to produce those beautiful striped tail feathers that are used for fly tying and now hair extensions. It takes a rooster about a year to grow the feathers and then they are "harvested", which means their tail feathers are plucked or their pelt is removed. The roosters that don't survive this process are euthanized. Another method is to put the rooster down before removing the pelt. These roosters are bred for feathers and are not used for food.

More Information:
Fashionistas ruffle fishermen's feathers

Hair salons: Fly-fishing feathers are 'in'

One Stylist Explains: Why I’ll Never Do Feather Hair Extensions

A Fishing Blog's Perspective: How Silly can it Get?

About Whiting Farms

Question of the Week

2011-06-13T13:50:00.000-04:00

Do you have any fun summer plans? Are you traveling to some far-off place or have a big project you want to finish by summer's end? Are you taking classes or doing an internship? I want to know what will be filling your time this summer!

Hair Portraits of American First Ladies

2011-06-13T05:00:00.000-04:00

Remember my post from February about american presidential hairstyles? Here's the perfect follow up: a first lady themed gem I dug up while cleaning out my bookmarks folder. I can't imagine the amount of research that went into putting this drawing together!

See all of the styles at Strands of American History (drawings by Christina Christoforou, New York Times).

WWWList: Running Errands

2011-06-10T11:00:00.000-04:00

There are always a few errands that need to be run on Saturday morning (or whatever day your "Saturday" falls on) before you can truly enjoy the weekend: pay bills at the post office, pick up some things at the grocery store, grab next week's dry cleaning and collect supplies for a weekend home project. Whatever errands you need to run, a lightweight romper and raffia espadrilles will keep you cool while you're running around town. And don't forget some simple and stylish handmade accessories that will take you right into the rest of your weekend plans!

Colorful Cuttings Romper

1960's Striped Raffia Espadrilles

Dublin Hobo Bag in Blue Seersucker

Hand Forged Abstract Rhombus Earrings

Large Lapis and Sterling Silver Ring

Bouncy Curl Success!

2011-06-09T11:34:00.006-04:00

I've just taken the soft curlers out below. It looks a bit messy at first. I immediately sprayed my head with hairspray (since I forgot to use mouse before I rolled my hair up). Once the hairspray dried, I gently separated the curls and then bent over and shook my hair out to make the curls look more natural. Then just add a cute clip and you're done!

Do you have experience styling your natural curls or curled hair? Any tips?

Sleeping in Curlers Tonight

2011-06-09T02:51:00.005-04:00

I rolled my whole head up in extra-small soft curlers, so hopefully in the morning I'll have a head full of tight curls! I've never used curlers so small, so we'll see what happens. To protect my hair while I sleep I remembered this super cute how to tie a 40's headscarf post linked on the express-o blog. Perfect! Welp, I'll catch up with you in the morning. It's finally sleepytime for me, so night night!

Inkable Images

2011-06-07T12:58:00.022-04:00

We had a great turnout for the most recent CTHm Make-Out Craft Session, and everyone did great work! I taught "Carve a Stamp, Print a Postcard". My creative participants came up with all kinds of inkable images, including: stamped labels for canned jellies, business logos, self portraits and animal shaped stamps. Here's what the workshop was all about. I snapped these photos between instructions.

Wake Up, Yawn & Stretch!

2011-06-06T04:00:00.001-04:00

It's time to get ready for work! Happy Monday morning!

(photo of charlie and cheezburger taken by dan)

WWWList: Backyard Sunbathing

2011-06-04T14:01:00.000-04:00

Are you landlocked when the temps are rising to 90 degrees and beyond? Want to work on your summer tan but there's no pool in sight? No worries! Pack up a summer tote with some natural sunscreen, big sunglasses, a blanket and a crossword puzzle and head out for a lazy afternoon in the backyard! A tall deck or a rooftop would also do just fine! Be sure you're away from prying eyes and spend some quality time with yourself just relaxing, cross-wording and daydreaming in the sun!

Crocheted Boho Tote Bag

Crossword Puzzle Book

Natural Sunscreen in Lime and Coconut

Custom High Waisted Bikini with Pockets

Vintage Suede Teal Heels

Pink Floral Silk Head Wrap

Vintage Round Jackie O Style Sunglasses

Breakfast Banana Bread

2011-06-02T09:21:00.010-04:00

cheezburger tries to sneak a slice

I had four bananas whose peels were turning black and those pesky fruit flies were hanging around. Yummy. They were on their way out and either needed to be used quick or thrown away.

I delved into my trusty red Better Homes & Gardens cookbook and saw that I had everything on hand to make banana bread. The ingredients are basic, so you probably have almost everything you need on hand too!

Banana Bread
Prep: 25 minutes Bake: 55 minutes
Oven: 350 F Makes: 1 loaf (16 servings)

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 beaten eggs
1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (5 medium)
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup cooking oil or melted butter or margarine
1/4 cup chopped walnuts

1. Grease bottom and 1/2 inch up the sides of one 9 x 5 x 3-inch or two 7.5 x 3.5 x 2- inch loaf pans; set aside. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Make a well in center of flour mixture; set aside.

2. In a medium bowl combine eggs, bananas, sugar, and oil. Add egg mixture all at once to four mixture. Stir just until moistened (batter should be lumpy). Fold in nuts. Spoon batter into prepared pan(s).

3. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 55 to 60 minutes for 9 x 5 x 3-inch pan, or 40 to 45 minutes for 7.5 x 3.5 x 2- inch pans, or until a wooden toothpick inserted near center comes out clean (if neccessary, cover loosely with foil the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent overbrowning). Cool in pan on a wire rack for 10 mintues. Remove from pan. Cool completely on a wire rack. Wrap and store overnight before slicing.

Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book, 12th edition, page 119
Publisher: Meredith Books

Vintage Gadgets: From Dad's Collection

2011-06-01T11:39:00.011-04:00

Do you know what these were used for? Any guesses? Check back with this same post tomorrow to see if you were right!

6/2/11 Update:
The answer is.....Horse Hoof Nippers! They were used to trim a horse's hooves in the shoeing process. Horses that lived on farms periodically had their hooves trimmed and re-shoed so that they could better support the weight they carried. The set on the right was probably factory-made and was used by my grandfather.

My dad's not sure were the set on the left came from, but it is of better quality and was made by a true blacksmith. There are little stoppers on the handles near the top to prevent the painful smashing of fingers while squeezing the steel handles together.

These same types of tools are used today, but more modern, easy to sharpen spring-loaded Hoof Nippers now make the process quicker and safer.

Memorial Day Thanks

2011-05-30T10:17:00.015-04:00

My sinceriest thanks to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our personal freedoms and pursuit of individual happiness in the United States. These freedoms have allowed me (a female) to pursue my own business, contribute to causes of my choice as a result, and on a personal note- to choose my relationships. My thoughts today are with the families of our fallen heroes. I am also thinking about those who have died in defense of democracy around the world.

Watch:
Restrepo
The Way We Get By

Read:
Help Restore the Traditional Day of Observance For Memorial Day

Mourn:
"If it is considered a holiday, why is it so? I consider it to be a national day of mourning. This is how we observe this day in our home. Because of what that day represents, the rest of the days of the year are our holidays."
- F L Lloyd West Chester, Pa USA - February 26, 2000

Respond:
What are you thinking about this Memorial Day? Who are you remembering?

Last-Minute Coconut Poke Cake

2011-05-27T20:26:00.014-04:00

A customer at the grocery store where I work was buying the ingredients for this super easy cake, and since I LOOOVVEE coconut I had to ask what she was making. She told me she found this on allrecipies.com and has made it many times. She substitutes coconut milk for the sweetened condensed milk, but either way it sounds delicious! Keep these mostly non-perishable ingredients on hand and you'll be ready with a quick homemade cake to bring along to an impromptu weekend cookout!

photo by Tricia Jaeger

Coconut Poke Cake:

Ingredients
1 (18.25 ounce) package white cake mix
1 (14 ounce) can cream of coconut
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (16 ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (8 ounce) package flaked coconut

Directions
Prepare and bake white cake mix according to package directions. Remove cake from oven. While still hot, using a utility fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake.
Mix cream of coconut and sweetened condensed milk together. Pour over the top of the still hot cake. Let cake cool completely then frost with the whipped topping and top with the flaked coconut. Keep cake refrigerated.

Carve a Stamp, Print a Postcard!

2011-05-23T10:44:00.005-04:00

image from www.dickblick.com

Join Crown Town Handmade on Thursday, May 26th at 7:30 pm in the Atrium of Amelie's French Bakery for our monthly Make-Out session, hosted this month by Sarah Terry of Stitch Machine (me!). Transform one of your original drawings or doodles into a reusable printing block stamp! Once you finish carving your stamp, ink it up for a test-run and print on a postcard that you can drop in the mail. You'll be amazed at how professional and interesting a simple doodle can become!

Small drawings by Sarah will be available for carving if you need some inspiration. There will be time for sketching, but any drawings or logos you bring should be 4" x 6" or smaller.

Supplies will be provided, including soft blocks and cutting and tools. Feel free to bring any paper materials you'd like to print with your stamp creation. If you have past printmaking or scrap booking experience, we could always use extra linoleum cutters, soft dark "B" drawing pencils, and stamp ink pads. This event is always free, and Crown Town Handmade accepts donations to help cover material costs. See you there!

***Amelie's is located at 2424 North Davidson St #102. Just go through the bakery and out the back door and find our group out in the atrium! ***

If you're not in the Charlotte area, follow this tutorial I wrote for Farthing Collective Blog so you can make a stamp/block print at home!

Juárez On My Mind...

2011-05-18T14:04:00.027-04:00

WARNING: Music video contains sensitive material, but is no worse than a newscast.

Invalid Litter Dept
by At The Drive In
2001

I generally don't discuss politics here, but this is just a great song and intense video that I've been reflecting on a lot lately. Maybe you've seen it? Manufacturing, Outsourcing, Worker's Rights, Women's Safety, Human Rights, Corruption, Poverty, Wealth and Immigration...it's all there.

I ventured into Juárez, Mexico a few times around 2003. I'm glad I got to see it before the cartel drug war started (which is going on now and makes travel to Juárez more dangerous than ever). It's one of those decisions that I attribute to being young, fearless and stupid. I had some friends who lived in Las Cruces, New Mexico and regularly hopped across the border (like many Americans at the time) during both the day and night. We knew about the Juárez abductions, but we also knew that groups of Americans weren't being targeted- it was women who lived and worked in Juárez. How sad is it that we could take comfort in that? Just because we happened to be born North of the Rio Grande? Talk about privilege. Anyhow...

The abductions, rapes, and killings of Juárez girls and women have been going on since the early 1990's and are still going on today. Sadly the abduction and body count has risen steeply since this music video was made a decade ago and also includes many males now as well.

More information:
Generations of the Disappeared
A recent article about the disappearances
The Juárez Project
A California based website
Female Homicides in Ciudad Juárez
Resources on Wikipedia

Current Obsession: Fables by Barrie Swimwear

2011-05-17T04:30:00.002-04:00

I'm loving these curvy retro suits for summer! I remember seeing this company a few years ago in Bust Magazine and I'm glad I've rediscovered them via Etsy, because their Summer 2011 line is amazing! All made in the USA!

Ashley Swimsuit

New Sailor Swimsuit

Sandy Bottom & Trixie Top

Rita Swimsuit in White
A swimsuit that would be perfect for a bride. eeeeeeee! Wow, did I really just say that? Yup.

Vintage Gadgets: From Dad's Collection

2011-05-16T01:00:00.001-04:00

Do you know what this is? Any guesses? Keep reading to find out!

This gadget comes from my dad's collection of old tools. He is fascinated by the stories behind all of these tools and how they were built to last, many outliving the need for their function. He can remember his parents using many of the tools in his collection around the farm when he was growing up, and he likes to imagine how the others may have been used and who may have used them. He doesn't collect tools for their dollar value- he collects them because they are interesting. I suppose he also likes giving an appreciative home to things that may have otherwise been buried in the dirt, forgotten in a rotting shed or left to rust in a tree.

This particular gadget was used before modern plumbing was common. A well was dug, and a small little structure was built over the deep hole. This gadget hooked onto the structure over the well. A long length of rope ran over the wheel with a bucket on one end, and people used this pulley to lower the bucket and retrieve water. This pulley is very heavy- it is made of solid steel.

WWWList: Weekend Music Festival

2011-05-13T16:08:00.013-04:00

I'd love to wear this mix of brights and neutrals to an outdoor music festival this summer! Light, flowing fibers, a straw hat to block the sun and a big waterproof messenger bag to protect your snacks, water and musical merch. This WWWList was also inspired by this outfit and this post on the exPress-O blog.

Max and Molly Designs Watchful Greyhound Magenta T-Shirt

Long Crepe Skirt

Brown Mesh Espadrille Wedges

Sand Dollar Necklace

Khaki Water Resistant Nylon Messenger Bag

Strength & Courage Wooden Bangle

Natural Sisal Straw Hat

3 Hair Extension Trends, Untangled

2011-05-12T15:00:00.003-04:00

You've probably these looks on the street but you may have been puzzled by what they were called, how they worked, or how to get the look on your own. Well, have no fear! I've untangled and broken down these bright hair trends so that you can try them yourself! I didn't include where to buy the products, but an easy google search will direct you to online shops, suppliers or salons in your area.

1. Bling Strands

photo source

These are very thin shiny strands that are tied into hair intermittently. The strands are sometimes called "hair bling". They are made of poly Thai Silk (which I think is a fancy name for plastic) and can be washed, curled, straightened and styled along with your natural hair. When done right, the look is subtly striking. It looks like you are growing sparkling hairs right out of your own head!

There are many colors available, but If you have natural colored hair, I like the gold/silver/copper colors best. If your hair is already a bold color like blue or purple, then the sky's the limit! The look is surprisingly inexpensive to achieve and lasts for 2 weeks or more.

How Bling Strands Work:

2. Feather Extensions

photo source

Feather extensions are long thin feathers from farmed roosters. The supply comes mostly from one particular source (but I'll get into that next week, see below***). The feathers are natural or dyed and are attached to several strands of hair with tube shaped micro-links (similar to crimp beads used in jewelry making). The look lasts several weeks or more. Alternatively, you can sew the feathers onto hair extension clips so that you can take them in and out on a whim.

This tutorial shows how to intall feather bundles, but I rather like the look of individual feathers placed sporadically, like the photo above.

***Here's a follow-up post I did about the trend where I discus some negative reactions and aspects of the Feather Extension trend: Feather Hair Extensions, There's more than meets the eye.***

How Hair Feathers Work:

3. Coontails

photo source

I really hate the name, but I like the look. They are 1-2 inch wide sections of hair that have been dyed in a striped pattern resembling a racoon tail. You can make coontail extensions or directly dye coontails into your own hair. You can also find pre-made versions if you look hard enough. Coontails have been around for awhile and are most often categorized as "scene hair" worn by teens. They are usually seen paired with heavy eye makeup and loud, costumy clothing.

Even so, one or two extensions can be a wearable, fun variation to an everyday look if your coontails contain your dominant hair color and you keep your clothing low key.

How To Make Coontails:

Coontail Variation- Just for Fun
Learn how to dye a Cheetah Print directly into your hair.

What do you think? Have you tried any of these looks yourself? Would you be up for trying one of them out? Maybe for a special occasion? Are you open to hair extensions and color or to you prefer to always go natural?

Beginnings of Our Container Garden

2011-05-11T13:49:00.017-04:00

I should probably call this "Dan's Container Garden" because he planted it while I was preparing for my craft show last weekend. I contributed a little by dumping the candy out of an aqua easter bucket we had and drilling holes in the bottom so he could use it to plant the Jalapenos. There are also Tomatoes, Tarragon and Basil working to take root in our back yard containers this week.

Garden DRAMA!
The maintenance guy at our apartment already informed us that we "cheated" by buying the plants already started. I think he was a little jealous of the greenery because he told us that his own jalapeno seedlings were still working to sprout up. When I told him it was our first garden and we bought the plants already started he felt some relief and then in a condescending tone he said "Well, starting from seeds is just how I prefer to do it." SNAP!

Container Garden 5/11/11">

My Weekend at Caldwell Farm Fest

2011-05-11T11:48:00.015-04:00

**I've been trying to post these since Monday but my internet signal hasn't been stable since I returned. A service guy is here right now, so hopefully we'll get it resolved today.**

I had a fantastic weekend with my family and friends in the Caldwell community on Walker Farm this weekend! You might not be able to find Caldwell on a map, but it is between Durham, Hillsborough and Roxboro in North Carolina, and it's where I grew up! Here are some pics I snapped throughout the festival:

Bond fire is stacked and waiting for nightfall.

Our friends JP and Leon performing. So talented!

The Speckled Bird Farm/Stitch Machine tent. My mom is explaining one of the pretty birdhouses that she grew, dyed and burnished. They were selling like hotcakes for mother's day! It was also fun seeing some of my little pinwheels and bows dancing around the festival throughout the weekend!

It was great sharing a booth with my mom. It's something we've never done before, and we couldn't figure out why not!

I was flying solo Saturday morning, so thankfully my dad stepped in and sold our goods for awhile so I could go hear some music.

Me and mom's rescue dog Kiki.

things the crowd enjoyed: music, dancing, cornhole tournament, frisbee tournament, camping, fishing, shopping, genuine Eastern NC BBQ from Gillis and having a few brews

Late night campers around the fire. It got pretty chilly on Friday night.

Doc Branch Band performing. I even got my brother to dance with me during their set, which is pretty amazing, since he usually won't!

Set-up on Friday was incredibly stormy and rainy, but after it stopped and the sun came out, all of the vendors got to see a beautiful double rainbow.

Heading Out

2011-05-06T13:14:00.002-04:00

I'm on the road and out of town for the rest of the weekend for Caldwell Farm Fest. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and I'll post photos from the festivities (and our garden that Dan planted today) on Monday!

Operation Papusas

2011-05-05T06:52:00.014-04:00

Dan and I are on the hunt for papusas in Charlotte for Cinco de Mayo lunch. I know, I know- papusas aren't Mexican, they're Salvadoran, but Cinco de Mayo isn't really a Mexican holiday anyway, right? It's one of those holidays inflated in America to sell beer. (A google search tries to convince me that the holiday really does have roots in the Mexican Battle of Puebla in 1862, but all I'm hearing is blah, blah-blah, blah blah.)

I'm so glad I have the night off from the grocery store- last year on the 5th of May there were many people of non-hispanic origin running in to buy Carona and Dos Equis, and then when that sold out- Modelo Especial, Negra Modelo, Tecate and Sol. Funny. I'm sure Victoria beer will also be near the top of that list this year.

Anyhow, Our favorite pupusería closed its doors awhile back, and we've yet to find a replacement. Any Charlotte suggestions? Do you have a good papusa spot in your town, or do you make them at home? Are you doing anything (or nothing?) for Cinco de Mayo?

Sanding In the Studio Today

2011-05-04T23:55:00.000-04:00

Who knows how old this is...

Wondering why I was sanding down ceramic baseball beads today?

Things for Mom

2011-05-03T12:39:00.010-04:00

I took advantage of last week's Paint that Mug-Make Out to paint a plate for Mother's Day (May 8th). I hope my mom likes it! I baked it in the oven yesterday to set the paint, so now it is ready to be used!

A few weeks ago I showed you the start of a new logo I was doing for my mom's business, Speckled Bird Farm, and here is the finished product.

I'll be heading back to my hometown this weekend for Caldwell Farm Fest, where I'll be splitting a booth with my mom. (Very appropriate for mother's day, don't you think?) My dad's band will be playing, my brother will be there camping all weekend, and my cousin is organizing the festival, so it will be an all around family affair. If you live in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area and like camping, please come hang out! Should be a good time!

South End Soul- Fashion & Hair Show

2011-05-02T15:00:00.008-04:00

More photos at QC After Dark. Above fashion & hair by Joey Hewell.

I crawled out of my creative cave Saturday night on a whim to meet up with Vanessa at the South End Soul Fashion & Hair Show. It was one of those nights where I would have been content just painting and sewing into the late hours but I finally figured- it's Saturday night- I should really get out of the house!

More photos at Enemy To Fashion

The fashion & hair show was stellar and I'm really glad I went. There was a buzz in the air as the crowd mingled in the parking lot between Dharma Lounge and Marigny waiting for the show it to start. There was a 5 ft. tall nice, long runway set up outside with seating all around, a DJ booth and video screens showing interviews with all five designers and/or shops. There were so many great local designers, shops and salons involved in the show ranging from seasoned professionals to new kids on the block.

A silly photo of Vanessa and I at Dharma Lounge that night. More photos at Cute not Kawaii

The designer that really stood out for me was Joey Hewell- his show was cohesive and filled with drama. He designed all of the clothing and did the voluminous, almost sculptural hair for his models. I'd never heard of him before this night (even though he apparently does a fashion segment on the local news every Friday), but I'll surely remember his name now! I think he best captured the quirky, beautiful, multiethnic, rough-around-the-edges vibe of the growing art and fashion scene in Charlotte.

I scoured the internet this morning to find the fast, few photographers who had already posted photos from the show. I've linked to their photos throughout this post. Enjoy!

Behind-the-scenes shots from Fenix Fotography
(p.s.- you must be logged in to Facebook to access the link above.)
*Photos of every look from the show are available for purchase at www.fenixfoto.zenfolio.com.

A Cross Continental Journey

2011-04-29T10:45:00.003-04:00

Somewhere high above the Atlantic Ocean a passenger aircraft is heading northeast from Charlotte. Passengers on board are enjoying little silver bags of pretzels and an in-flight movie. Beneath the passengers is a large cargo hold space. Inside that chilly cargo hold space are several aluminum ULD containers and one contains postage bins filled with small packages. In one bin, under a pile of packages, hides one yellow padded envelope with a Customs Declaration, a Stitch Machine label and the name "DIANA" printed neatly on the front. Inside that envelope is a handwritten note and a handmade square box tied with moss green ribbon. Inside that handmade box is a darling Yellow Wildflower Cotton Bow sitting atop bright yellow tissue paper.

Soon the passenger plane will arrive in Europe and the ULD containers and passengers will unload. The yellow padded envelope will fall into the hands of Hungary's national mail service, Magyar Posta, and they'll deliver the little package to a flat in Budapest. And on the day it arrives, the winner of the Monkey and Squirrel blog giveaway will be able to read her note, unwrap her box, and wear her prize!

Current Obsession: Pure Fusion

2011-04-28T11:30:00.000-04:00

Pure Fusion Makeup- Ocean Coral Collection

My ultra-sensitive skin has always limited the makeup I could wear on my eyes, but these vibrant hypoallergenic eyeshadows might just change that! Pure Fusion eyeshadow collections are made by one single lady in Canada using her own formulas. She just had a baby (i love that indie sellers share this kind of info) so she developed a line of non-toxic nail polishes that are safe for children and pregnant mothers.

Bluebell Collection

Why do I love these shadows? Because they are made with natural ingredients and no perfume, talc, parabens, dyes or bismuth oxychloride (i'm not sure what that is but it sounds gross!). Plus, they are cruelty free and don't use animal testing. Welp, gotta go place my order now...

Rainbow Brite Collection

Blueberry Beauty

Host a Spring Clothing Swap!

2011-04-27T16:00:00.004-04:00

All clothing images from www.zwwzy.etsy.com. I compiled this collage in Photoshop.

Last week I attended a spring clothing swap hosted by my friend Melissa of Mason and Virginia. It forced me to do some spring closet cleaning and allowed me to catch up with friends, pick up new (used) duds, and be part of a group donation to the secondhand store. Melissa has the clothing swap process down to a science, so I'll share how she does it, so that you can host one too!

Pre-Swap:
Set a date and a 2 hour time frame. Then gather 5-15 friends to invite. People who are interested in fashion, vintage, or saving money are perfect candidates! No need for everyone to be the same size- we all have things in our closets that are too big or too small. There is usually something for everyone. Regardless of how many people are coming, ask each person to bring a minimum of 5 pieces of clothing/accessories to the swap, and hangers for any dresses or nice shirts they bring. Most people will bring way more than 5, because it's an easy way to get rid of things you never wear or don't fit. You may want to purchase an inexpensive clothing rack or borrow one for the party.

Day-of-party Prep:
Provide some snacks and maybe a bottle of wine or two. To keep the swap organized, write categories of clothing on paper signs and hang or set them around your living room. Melissa made signs like: skirts, dresses, shorts, jeans, t-shirts and winter.

Woo Hoo! Swap Party Time is Here!
There are 3 parts to the party, and as the host you'll need to keep an eye on the time to make sure the party moves along accordingly. You won't need to announce Part 1, but when it comes time for Parts 2 and 3, you'll need to give your guests some direction.

Part 1- Mingling: The first 45 minutes or so of the party should be designated for mingling. As people arrive, have them set their clothes out neatly around your living room near the appropriate signs. Your guests can check out what other people brought or they can make their way to the kitchen to chat and catch up, drink a glass of wine, have some snacks- whatever.

Part 2- Try It On: Gather everyone in the living room and announce that the next 30 minutes are for trying on the clothes. All pieces are up for anyone to try on during this time- so no reserving or holding clothes! Direct folks to a separate bedroom or bathroom with mirrors. (At Melissa's swap there were 15 participants, so there was no room to be bashful! We all had to try things on in the same space.) By the end of this time your guests should have an idea of their top 5 picks. This makes Part 3- The Draft go faster.

Part 3-The Draft: The last part of the party is the draft. If there are 5 people at your party, write numbers 1 through 5 on little pieces of paper and mix them up in a hat. Have everyone draw a number. The person who draws #1 gets to pick a piece of clothing to keep first. #2 goes second and so on. Only one person should pick at a time. When you get to the last person (#5 in our example) that person chooses two items, and then go back down the number sequence. So the order would look like this:

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, Repeat from beginning

Go up and down the sequence like this several times, until everyone feels like they've gotten what they've had their eye on. When everyone is satisfied, begin the free-for-all. People can just start grabbing whatever they like that hasn't been claimed. It's actually not as chaotic as it sounds! I've never seen a dispute at any of Melissa's swaps, probably because at the beginning of the draft period she always announces that if there IS a dispute there will be a "who wears it best" contest. Both people will try it on and everyone at the party will judge who looks best in it. Yikes! No one ever wants to be part of that!

Cleanup & Post Swap
There will be a lot of unclaimed clothes. Have some trash bags ready so that your guests can help pack them up. The next day take the bags to Goodwill or the Salvation Army.

Clothing swaps are fun! They give new life to a piece of clothing that might not fit, since it may be the perfect fit for someone else! And it's neat to see a piece of clothing that you once loved being loved again by a friend! It's also interesting to see how someone else wears it and makes it their own! Swaps take some planning, but it is worth it because your friends all leave with free clothes! Start planning a clothing swap for your friends or family today!