Bed Rest: Day Two

Yesterday was an easier day – I spent less time online and more of it reading, drawing and occupying my thoughts with ideas for future designs.

Today I will admit I am suffering a bit – but not because of the injury. It’s seventy degrees outside, sunny and a Friday! If it were any other week I’d be at work for a couple more hours, would head home and then take the dogs to the beach. Then, I’d take a leisurely bike ride with David to the nearest cupcake shop for treats and coffee. Sigh. Maybe he’ll surprise me with one later today.

Despite the beautifully tempting weather I am once again using my time well. I’m catching up on Etsy lab videos and learning tons! I’ve taken copious notes and will be sharing the nuggets of wisdom later this month. I’m also at the final phase of updating the website. The custom page is outlined and only needs filling – and the wholesale sheet needs an update. After that I’ll get back to some reading and maybe some embroidery work.

But at least I have two down and only five more to go!

Bed Rest: Day One

I survived my first day of bed rest! Though around 5pm I was sure I was a gone-er. I had spent way more time on the computer than I had intended which made my eyes almost bug out permanently. Today I took a different approach and relaxed more, took photos of my bedroom and cuddled with the pets.

David was home this morning too – working on a new painting and practicing for his upcoming show this Sunday. The company helped tons! Continue reading

Item of the Week: Grunge Plunge

I’ve been noticing a lot more plaid in the Midwest than I’m used to these days. And I’m liking the trend! What seems to be a classic pattern in the Northwest – this cross hatch of colors is a staple to any American’s wardrobe  and it seems hotter than ever. Just this past weekend I enjoyed Vietnamese sandwiches with friends – and three of the six of ’em were wearing plaid!

So when deciding on the “Item of the Week” the choice seemed easy: the Grunge Plunge dress. What I refer to as a Pierogi Picnic classic, this adorable design fuses the charm of a vintage camisole with the rough and tumble tough of a men’s shirt, giving a softness to an otherwise beard and brawn look. It’s a piece I have been making now for over 3 years and the look of the opposing fabrics is something I never grow tired of! And seemingly – neither do you – as I continue to sell out of these dresses in shows season after season.

My Designs: The Birth of a Bathing Suit

One of my all-time favorite things to do is roll out of bed early in the morning on any given weekend and hit the studio for some sewing. It’s when my brain is freshest, my eyes sharpest, and the light is just right.

With a steaming homemade latte in one hand, and a sharp pair of fabric scissors in the other, I indulge in the stillness of a morning by cut cut cutting through textiles. The photo above documents one such dawn as I hand craft a custom order bathing suit. A delicate endeavor, each curve must be done with absolute precision to ensure a perfect fit for the wearer. And what better time to embark on such a project as a crisp cool Sunday morn.

Day 15 of Nesting

I’m a bit off with my updates for our new nest – but wanted to share pictures of the baby steps we made mid-way through the month! The place is coming along bit by bit, and I hope to have even more photos to share of it’s current state later next week.

Suffice it to say that between the vintage accents, our restored furnishings, and the splashes of color found in handmade home accessories and art – the apartment is really evoking a modern living meets thrifting vibe. Here’ s a peek at what we did a couple weeks back.

If you’re looking for the first “before and after” post, click here.