Design

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Steampunk Costume Divas

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If you haven't heard of steampunk yet you're missing out. It's origins started out as sub-genre of science fiction and it's moved it's way over to fashion. Think of it as an edgy mix of Victorian romance, goth, gypsy with an industrial age nod.

The fusion belly dance troupe Torque recently unveiled a new choreography with costumes to match. These ladies make every bit of their costuming by hand! We're talking pleats, ruching, fringe and more—literally hours of sewing goes into each costume. Here are few detail photos of some of their handiwork.

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Pink Heels painting of the day(ish)

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So I took a little holiday over the Labor Day weekend and extended it a bit. Finally back to the drawing board and computer today. The shoe exploration is going to go on for a while longer as I'd like to build a series of about 20 styles. I usually don't go for shoes quite this girly, but the combination of hot pink and satin bows won me over. Two-sided, customizable calling card featuring the illustration can be found here.

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My books came—hurrah!

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I got a box from Amazon yesterday with two new books—"Simply Sublime Gifts" and "Creative, Inc."

One of last year's resolutions was to make more gifts this year and Jodi Kahn's "Simply Sublime Gifts" has over thirty projects and most are no-sew or low-sew techniques. Don't you love the apron on the cover? It's made from Wonder Bread bags!

"Creative, Inc." is a guide to making a freelance business a success which as a freelancer myself is pretty much my top priority.

Can't wait to dive into both. 

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Safire Designs

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I don't often strike up conversations with seat-mates on airplanes, but I'm so glad I did on a recent trip. I met a jewelry designer who works with fine silver, artisan lampwork & borosillicate glass. These are quality materials people, not the cheap beads and baubles you pick up at the local craft store. I fell in love with these silver earrings which are completely handmade. Sally-Ann Flak of SAFire Designs is also adept at the art of chain maille creating intricate woven designs from small rings and loops of silver. Check out her Etsy shop for a small sampling of her wares—send her a message to find out which show or festival she'll be at next so you can see her full inventory.