Crafty Vixens's topics - tribe.net

Display heads?

2009-11-06T05:08:11Z

I was thinking that instead of trying to procure either styrofoam heads or mannequin heads for display, that I could make a couple myself. Out of papier mache. Is this an outlandish idea or has anyone else tried this? Or has anyone tried creatively substituting other materials for a display head making project? Inquiring minds want to know.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 14 replies

Dying Patent/PVC

2009-11-03T05:27:27Z

I was searching through go-go boots online and I found many blue and purple hues but nothing that is that nice blue-purple type violet. I have to be really precise as this is for a cosplay. There are tons of white gogo boots out there, so I could always dye it that perfect color. I would be curious if anyone has a solution for dying patent/PVC with somethign that wont a) wash out/fade and b) wont chip/crack.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 6 replies

Halloween Trade!

2009-11-02T09:56:39Z

I'm taking names for the next Craft Exchange!

The theme is Halloween.
Deadline for sign up will be the end of this week (Sunday Sept. 27th).
Deadline for the trade will be Oct 31st. (tentatively. Unless we need more time.)

HOW IT WORKS:
You send me your: Name, Address, Phone # (optional) + let me know a few of the crafty things you make/like.
When I have at least 10 people's info I will throw everyone's name in a hat and send the info to the partners.
Then you make something (under $15 cost) and send it out to your trade partner and wait for them to send you something.
When you get your wicked crafty item in the mail you can take a pic and post for all to see or just give praises to your partner for their wicked talent.

Anybody want to join?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 26 replies

Scratchy new sheets

2009-10-30T04:12:40Z

Hi,
I just bought some Fieldcrest 500 threadcount pima cotton sateen sheets (I plan to embroider them by hand), and after 1 wash in cold water they are scratchy and nowhere near as soft as the display bed in the store. Does anyone have tried and tested methods for softening brand new sheets or should I return them? They cost over $200 and my first "luxury" bedding purchase so I could really use some tips of making them soft.

Thanks everyone! :)

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

Back to school help...

2009-10-23T17:04:34Z

After all these years, I am finally going back to college (since there are no jobs here right now, I figured I might as well learn something new), and I'm having a sale in my Etsy shop to help raise money for moving, tuition, books, etc. If you or someone you know would be interested in helping, head over (or send them) to my Etsy shop: pippijewelry.etsy.com
I am offering everything in my shop at a 20% discount (given as a paypal refund), and there are loads of lovelies to choose from. :D

Thanks for your help! Please spread the word.
love, Pippi

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

For the folks in Portland, we are looking for crafts people who want to sell their goods, and creations.

2009-10-22T00:24:31Z

The idea is independent business: For your scene that means crafts. The bazaar is for anyone who has a presentable product and needs a place to make a little living.

For the folks in Portland, we are looking for crafts people who want to sell there good and creations.
I know this thread is for folks who create. thank you for reading this through to understand that it is directly related to this tribe. :-)

If you want to vend or sell your stuff, and Portland Oregon is viable for you to be in, or get your goods too: We have spaces that will eventually be 10 to 12 a day. But you don't have to worry about that until your business actually pics up.

The spots are 5' x 8':

Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

This is directly craft related: So, please show us some community love by letting this message reach craft folks looking for a decent affordable space; run by a woman who will work with you long term.

The building is freshly renovated. You will like being here.

Those who are interested in setting up their own table alone or as a group, or leaving projects on consignment (with me at the coffee stand) hit me up here, and we can set up a time for you and the facilitator to talk about setting up your own table or group table.

Also contact me if you want to talk about leaving your crafts on consignment at the coffee stand/shop: I am more critical, but open minded.

Best,

David

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

afghans for Afghans

2009-10-19T15:51:11Z

Dear Knitters and Crocheters for Afghanistan,

We're still confirming the final end-of-month due date for this
extremely fast campaign for youth (7-14 years) served by Church World Service in Afghanistan. We hope to write you again within a day or two with the final date when we need to receive your packages. We're trying to get as much time as possible, without missing the boat.

With time so short, please consider making socks (knit only),
mittens, and hats (yes!) in the next few days.

Making one, single item and popping in an envelope to us soon will matter to the kid who gets your gift.

These small items are the best way we can fill more cartons and cover more kids. We'd love to get at least one wool item to each of a couple thousand girls and boys with this shipment that is scheduled to arrive for this winter.

You can read more about why the short deadline, what is needed for the youth campaign, and by when, etc, here on our website -- http://www.afghansforafghans.org/youthcampaign.html

If we get this message out to more people, we can get closer to filling 30-40 cartons by the end of October and take care of more children this winter.

Please *forward this whole message* to fiber friends who may not be on our email list and to appropriate online communities and your blogs. We absolutely and quickly need spread-the-word help to pull this off by the end of October.

We have not received many packages yet, although we think the inflow will increase this week.

Our heartfelt appreciation to all who have already mailed in blankets or garments for the youth or baby campaigns. Your gifts are beautiful and superbly made, as always. You and your gifts are first-class all the way.

Of course, sweaters, vests, and blankets for youth are greatly welcomed, but the timing is just not going to work for everyone on these larger items. So, we're emphasizing socks, mittens, and hats this week!
We hope you can squeeze in time this week to whip up a pair of wool socks or mittens or a hat -- please join us now!

Thank you for rallying while we have this opportunity with Church World Service Afghanistan to help comfort more kids this winter -- the cold, rough weather is on the way. And, conditions in Afghanistan have not improved much this year, as you know from the news. Let's reach more of the girls and boys this winter while we can.

We are grateful for your hustling with your needles and hooks and for your creativity and caring. Thank you for considering this message on such short notice and for taking action, if you can.

We'll write again ASAP.

Much gratitude,
Ann and colleagues
afghansforAfghans.org

PS: Please forward this message to fiber friends who may like to join us on our knitting and crocheting push this week. Our message needs to reach more people in the next couple days. This will make a big difference.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Metallic Yarn - Thickness of 4

2009-10-16T17:16:28Z

I recently got this stuff in the mail:
http://cache.lionbrand.com/yarns/lame.htm

Its nice in color, but its not thick enough. I need that metallic look but I need something as thick as common yarn such as this, or thicker:
http://cache.lionbrand.com/yarns/newcottonease.html

Saw this but wasnt thrilled with it. Looks like a shedder yarn waitin to happen:
http://cache.lionbrand.com/yarns/glitterspun.htm

I can work with the stuff I got now but it will make my project more time consuming and Ill have to charge more for it. Trying to avoid upping the cost IF possible.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

'cool Zone' bag

2009-10-16T06:57:21Z

I am thinking of putting together a small bag of stress relieving toys for children at school to use , when they are upset, or wound up.(five to seven year olds.) I would like to make some of these, or use items that can be inexpensively replaced.I thought of bubble wrap, stress balls made from baloons. Silly putty etc. Things that have a calming effect would be great.Exsisting items include a sand tray and water tray. Thankyou .

posted in Crafty Vixens - 8 replies

How To help needed: gater belt

2009-10-15T18:52:14Z

I have a belt that I took a part and saved only 2 pieces -- looks steampunk. There's a hole at the top and bottom and I want to use these parts to make a steampunk looking garter belt one for each leg in the front... not sure how though - ideas

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

Redying corduroy

2009-10-14T05:01:33Z

Hi,
I bought a striped corduroy purse from ebay and was wondering if/how to redye it to a dark garnet/oxblood red,heres a pic:

http://cgi.ebay.ca/FOSSIL-JEWEL-TONES-CORDUROY-CARGO-HOBO-BAG-PURSE_W0QQitemZ360151210644QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_CSA_WH_Handbags?hash=item53daaf5a94&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

Do i need to strip the colour off first? Where can i find the right dye for professional results at home please?

Thank you,
Petra

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

fluorescent paint - automaticly glow in black lights?

2009-10-12T21:09:28Z

Michael’s doesn’t have fluorescent glow in the dark paint - red, blue ect.... They have only the standard green. Someone at Michael's said fluorescent paint will glow under black lights... is that correct? I don't want to waste over $10 for paint I may / may not use again.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

CRAFT EXCHANGE

2009-10-12T17:02:37Z

Anybody want to do an exchange? It's been a while since I've been on tribe and I really miss the exchanges. I'm willing to do all the behind the scenes work if there are at least 10 people who want to sign up.

HOW IT WORKS:
You send me your: Name, Address, Phone # (optional) + let me know a few of the crafty things you make/like.
When I have at least 10 people's info I will throw everyone's name in a hat and send the info to the partners.
Then you make something (under $10 cost) and send it out to your trade partner and wait for them to send you something.
When you get your wicked crafty item in the mail you can take a pic and post for all to see or just give praises to your partner for their wicked talent.

Anybody want to join?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 72 replies

Anyone here who Knits or Crochets that would be willing to trade?

2009-10-10T08:27:05Z

I really want a pair of purple and black striped arm warmers and leg warmers. I am a very big woman so finding them in a retail store/catalog is impossible.

I am a terrible Crocheter and I've yet to learn to Knit. I'd love to find someone who is willing to make me a pair of each in exchange for whatever they may like that I make. Or maybe some yarn in exchange- I have some VERY expensive yarns that I've collected over the years.

I'd really like a pair of these for the arm-warmers..
http://www.therunningyarn.com/2008/03/punk-rock-corset-gloves.html

Simple knit/crochet arm warmers would be fine too. I would like to have the thumb hole though so they won't fall off.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

Cockroaches & Elmer's Glue?

2009-10-09T14:29:49Z

I always thought this was more myth then truth but since I have been using a lot more Elmer's Glue I have started to see roaches? I did some research and found a couple of links but has anyone had this problem?

I took all of my glue(d) projects outside for now but I work late into the am hours and watch movies / TV shows as I work - something I can't or don’t feel comfortable doing on my patio (I live an an apt complex.)

Is there a different type of glue I can use?
Is there a way I can use the glue & keep them away?
Suggestions?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 6 replies

loom knitting

2009-10-08T13:07:00Z

I am new to this tribe stuff and am not sure how to do this yet so if i do something wrong plaease tell me. I have gotten into loom knitting and am looking for some patterns for things to make

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Personal favourite?

2009-10-05T16:51:21Z

What is the best, or most favourite item you have made?... worst item? did it sell really well? or did you enjoy making more of one thing over and over? I would love to know!
With me, I find I make something , every now and then that's just not worth the effort, or it didn't come out right. Other times I try something and everyone loves them (including me!) yet they don't always sell!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 7 replies

Pro Air Inhaler Canisters + mad scientist Lab props = ??

2009-09-25T20:37:50Z

I have asthma and have a decent supply of the Pro Air canisters / the metal tube that holds the medicine http://vetrxdirect.com/images/2331-1.jpg I'm having a mad scientist / medical theme party and can't think of a way to use these empty canisters for a prop... anyone have an idea? I could just pile them up in a bowl but that seems a bit cheezy. I also have the inhaler part (what you suck it through).

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Flowers

2009-09-25T05:50:48Z

hello
found a red twin rose. one hip and actual flower, two heads/blossoms/centers, gorgeous. want to preserve it, like a paperweight, is there any clear resin or plastic or way to have it solidly preserved and not dried or pressed? so it can be seen from any angle?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 3 replies

Fabric storage in garage?

2009-09-24T19:04:58Z

I've got to clean out room for baby. So, I was thinking of banishing my yarn and fabric to the garage, on the theory that I won't have much time for it soon anyway. However, I'm concerned about what would be the best way (if any) to store it in the garage (considering keeping the polyesters and cottons in the garage, and the good alpaca and wools in the house).

On the up-side, we live in Tuscon, so moisture is not a problem. However, bugs are. Do you think I could keep fabric fresh and bug-free if I vacuum-bag it, and then place it all in a plastic storage container? Or is there still too much of a risk for it weather and animals to damage it?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 11 replies

Need cool pattern for a hood

2009-09-24T07:09:27Z

Hello :)

I am looking for a pretty simple pattern to make a hood. I don't want a full cloak or cape. I imagine a sexy little hood, kinda like little red riding hood that makes it way to my shoulders...Or I have seen two pieces of the hood kind of fall down to the breast in the front...Does that make sense?

Any direction or help would be appreciated!

Thanks!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

Bazaar Bizarre? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?

2009-09-22T05:10:03Z

I just was thinking about vending my jewelry at the BB in SF craft fair. I just wanted to get some feedback if anyone's done this type of thing before.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

How to prevent car theft?

2009-09-20T21:58:10Z

If you have a car stolen , then as soon as possible using our wheels lock(wheel clamp)! www.cn-std.com
In fact, that is www.cn-std.com the best way to get in target and alarm (sound harsh)when use anti theft wheel clamp(wheel lock).

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

anyone seen the DVD "Craft in America"?

2009-09-19T08:00:45Z

anyone seen the DVD "Craft in America"?

This documentary, produced by PBS, gathers three episodes that explore the rise of craftwork in America

I'm checking local library to rent, looks interesting

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

BostonMiniatures.com

2009-09-16T21:40:24Z

Try www.BostonMiniatures.com for those of you who's looking for another great source of dollhouse collectibles, miniatures, dolls, bears, gifts, toys, and more. They have seasonal items too!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

Tutu patterns?

2009-09-16T15:58:25Z

I need to make a pancake tutu (the ones that are round and stand straight out from the hips) and it's been sooo long, I can't remember how....

Anyone made one/have access to a simple pattern? I have the sewing machine and all the materials, and I have the basic idea...it's tacking the layers together that i'm confused about, mostly.....

posted in Crafty Vixens - 5 replies

Time capsule

2009-09-14T14:06:12Z

I am doing a large public Art piece...

as part of it I am sneaking a time capsule into it...

seriously... suggest things to put in it. I am making the box but it will probably be around 6 to 8 cubic feet.

so the things we are already putting in:
- 2009 currrency ($20, $10, $5, $1 - and change - maybe all 50 state coins).
- Time magazine for that week.
- LA Times.
- NY Times.
- Literary rag (the star or National Enquirer).
- postage stamps.
- welding rods (the type used to weld it).

WHAT ELSE???

posted in Crafty Vixens - 7 replies

repair of vintage oiled cotton trench

2009-09-13T19:36:15Z

My boyfriends mom gave me a bunch of her old clothes...some really amazing things...

There is a vintage very real Valentino trench coat that is oiled cotton, it has some stains and a rip in the back.
Whats the best way to clean it?
The best way to repair it. I was thinking a patch from the inside...or should I stitch it back together? .

She also gave me a bunch of vintage Chole & YSL silk shirts and dresses....they have stains around the collar and under the arms, how do I get these out? Drycleaning? Handwashing in the sink?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

Halloween help

2009-09-13T19:34:47Z

Anyone know here I can buy a small automated / motion detector spooky Halloween sound box? I'm looking to put one inside a hallowed book/box on my porch as decoration

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

what is this stuff? drapey fake chain maily fabric? help please!

2009-09-12T13:41:36Z

http://craftyvixens.tribe.net/photos/36cda54e-e901-4c04-8dda-9628a8c89c54

that's the link to the picture i posted. i found this green headband in some junk in my parents basement. i don't know where i got it or when, but i'd LOVE to get some of this metal chain material.

i'll trty to describe it. it's a bunch of reflective flat discs from the front, have you ever seen rhinestone chain? they're connected kind of like that but on all four sides. i want to call it chain mail, but i know it's not proper chain mail. this is a thin strip on this headband, but i swear i've seen this stuff before, i think as a drapey reflective shirt. i just have no idea what it might be called, so i can see if ican buy it somewhere...

i tried googling all sort of metal fabric things i made up to no avail. can anyone help me??

thanks!
^___^

posted in Crafty Vixens - 16 replies

Cat pee on knitting

2009-09-11T06:03:22Z

I use a very large afghan-size knitting board. I have a relatively large piece started on the board right now. I caught my cat nosing around it, so I got suspicious. I smelled it...yuk...
I'm not sure what to do now. I'm not ready to take the piece off the board. Wash it in the bathtub? Finish the piece and then wash it? Any advice?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 9 replies

creating a mural - suggestions?

2009-09-11T04:35:31Z

I have a painter's drop cloth as a wall divider -- appx 8ft length & Height. I would like to paint a space nebula on it but have never done a mural before. Can anyone offer some suggestions? Is there a outer space mural How To website page?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 3 replies

I know this sounds naive............

2009-09-10T04:10:55Z

How can I sell things online? I have thought about Etsy, and websites etc, and don't really understand any of it! I have been thinking about it for some time as I have sold a few pieces locally, and gained some interest online.I realise it won't be a fulltime thing, and that sales will be sporadic, but financially I am struggling (I have a poorly paid part time job, and can barely cover my rent lately)
Any advice on a buisness venture would be apriciated !

posted in Crafty Vixens - 5 replies

dried bean rooster pattern??

2009-09-08T20:23:32Z

Did anyone ever find the dried bean rooster pattern. Would love to have this. My Mom used to have it and has lost. Thank you.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

I'm finally learning to knit...

2009-09-02T17:25:02Z

Purely selfish reasons I have to admit, but I am learning to knit. I found a sweater pattern that I just HAD TO HAVE! LOL The pattern was only a buck so no biggie there. I grabbed the pattern and now I'm trying to learn to knit so I can make the sweater..... eventually. LOL I don't have access to an actual teacher. So if anyone has a recomendation for an awesome DVD or book for an absolute never knitted a stitch ever beginner, I am all into checking it out. I know someone here has a fabulous suggestion and I hope you are willing to share. I'm excited! Thanks for the help. ~Z

posted in Crafty Vixens - 29 replies

Adding rosettes to an existing blouse

2009-09-02T03:53:27Z

Is there a thread about making and adding rosettes to add to an existing shirt? I'd love to go get a $1 blouse from Goodwill and add rosettes. I've already figured that I should go multicolored as matching the shirt would be difficult. Does anyone know of a good tutorial or thread about doing this? I get the basics, sew a line down a strip of fabric and pull. But do I expose a raw edge? Is there a fabric, if I want that look, that will fray attractively? I don't want it to be too heavy, what fabric should I use?? Should I anchor the flower with one stitch or a broad area of stitches? What's the best type of fabric for the top?? Any advice would be peachy!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 3 replies

Sewing Tension

2009-08-27T14:39:19Z

The most I've done with a sewing machine is hem pants. Now I'm trying to make a mermaid style skirt (fitted at the hips and thighs and flares below the knee) with stretch fabric. I cannot get the tension proper. Is there anyone in San Francisco who could come help me for a fee?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

Serger Question- Juki Cutter

2009-08-26T08:27:52Z

Hello there!
I was lucky enough to find a (mostly) functional serger at a fleamarket for rather cheap. The only problem is it has no cutter! Has anyone here had to replace a cutter? If so, how much was it? My local shop won't give me an estimate unless I take it in to get serviced, and I don't want to service a machine I won't be able to use. I was told later that it isn't worthwhile to replace, so I'd love to hear another opinion before I try to take it back.

I would also appreciate pictures of the cutter area if anyone has a similar model.

Thanks!
--skunky

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

macrame jewelry

2009-08-26T01:35:57Z

i'm switching from synthetic strings to hemp, and wondering what others do for "sealing" the ends...with ynthetic strings i just melt the ends and seal, but with hemp it doesn't work...do you use a daub of some sort of wax, or is there another technique? also, i'm thinking to zip the string through bees' wax before working it, to give it more of the nice finish you get with synthetics...

any thoughts?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 10 replies

Good book/source for crochet finishing tips?

2009-08-25T21:09:33Z

I confess. I hate finishing. And the only thing I hate worse than finishing knitting is finishing crocheting. All those ends to try to weave in, and they always seem to work their way back out. Any favorite books/sources for crochet finishing?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 5 replies

DIY Dry cleaning?

2009-08-25T19:22:40Z

I've got a new shirt that I just love, and it needs a washing. The tag says "Dry clean only." It has a big rhinestone buckle in the middle of it that can't be easily removed. I tried handwashing at home, keeping the buckle out of the water, but the dye bled out and I'm afraid that another water-washing would result in uneven coloring. So, I brought it to get it dry cleaned. Only problem: the dry cleaner wanted me to sign a release that they weren't responsible for any damage to the rhinestones or any dye discoloration (I didn't tell them the dye bleed--just part of the rhinestone waiver). I said, since the whole point of having it dry cleaned was to protect the rhinestones and dye, what was the point? So, I just brought it back home and figured there's got to be some way to do it myself (at least if it gets ruined, it's my fault, and not some careless dry cleaner hiding behind paperwork).

Is there any crafty way to "dry clean" it on my own? It's just a poly-cotton fabric. It's the dye and rhinestones that concern me.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 9 replies

Getting old tape & styrofoam of a bag

2009-08-23T22:33:15Z

I found an amazing Lark bag in superb shape sans the old tape residue and some styrofoam beads ground into it.

Whats the best way to remove the gunk. Its not sticky anymore.
I normally use goo gone on other stuff, but am afraid as its on the black leather and little bit on the red plaid fabric.

Thanks!!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

Jumping into Christmas early ~ Ornament ideas please!

2009-08-21T18:15:26Z

I'm thinking a head to christmas and am having a tuff time figuring out what I'm going to do. I live in a 30ft 5th wheel trailer now so I need to think light weight. I have a 5ft tree that we want to decorate in a rustic, cabin/lodge style. Nothing fancy or childish. Just simple, earthy ornaments. I have been searching ebay and other places online and am having very little luck getting inspired. So who better to ask than all the crafty vixens here? What are your ideas for christmas ornaments that I can make? Come on..... inspire me!
Thanks! ~Z

posted in Crafty Vixens - 26 replies

Patterns

2009-08-18T13:40:59Z

Hi, I am a novice craftsperson, but really want to make my own faux fur vest, mini skirt and yoga style pants that are hipsters, fitted and are boot cut. Can someone please suggest patterns for all three or any of these items. I am having a heck of a time finding them and time is running out. I really appreciate your help.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

HAT SHOWCASE/SALE SF FRIDAY!!!! - NorCal Hat Makers exclusive sale

2009-08-18T08:27:47Z

Show Me A Hat Show Sugar!!!!

Hat Creators of the Bay Area Unite!!!!! Fantastic creations of local hatmakers from fedoras, bowlers, mini toppers (made by my sweetheart), sun hat panamas, straws, felt, feathers, and MY latest faux fur fantasmigorical fuzzy hats!! Wear your costumes and we'll pick you out a hat to TOP it. See you there!! DJs and Drinks as well!

$3
Friday, August 21, 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm
The Box Factory
865 Florida Street (between 20th and 21st)
San Francisco, CA

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Kindergarten Art Project... to be donated to an auction

2009-08-15T03:13:54Z

My daughter's charter school has it's annual fundraising auction coming up. I've volunteered as one of the Kindergarten class Art Docents, which means I'm partly responsible for coming up with the great idea for something the K/1 class could create as a group to donate to the auction - and the coordinating it being made. 20 kids will be contributing their work on it, and whatever the project ends up being, hopefully it will be beautiful as well as practical/useful. Past auction item projects have included a garden bench, a quilt, a large mirror framed by etched copper 'tiles"..

Thanks in advance to anyone who has ideas, advice to share...
bam

posted in Crafty Vixens - 6 replies

Need pattern like this Japanese style dress for girls

2009-08-15T02:20:18Z

I saw these and fell in lust with them:
http://www.teacollection.com/cgi-bin/live/site.w?location=b2c/retail-browse.w&action=catalog&category=b2c001c&prb=b2c002p&srb=b2c001s&top=b2ccat&frames=no&target=main&sponsor=000002&nocache=54279
I particuarly like the top center and in the second row the right one. I think the first is regular cotton, the second is knit material. I know I could find material online, or in a store in Berkeley that has some great Japanese prints, but I can not find any patterns of this style. I've tried all kinds of "japanese girls dresses sewing patterns" type searches. Does anybody have a place to point me? My daughter is 7, so hopefully there is a pattern out there for size 7/8.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

Hex Knit Mesh

2009-08-13T15:09:14Z

(x posted to Playalicious Playawear. Apologies for the redundancy)

A friend had this scrap of cloth type fabric that I really liked. She didnt have much of it and it looks like she got hers last year (during Halloween season) at the red dot discount section of Joannes. I have gone to many different Joannes and Michaels but it looks like they dont carry this fabric. At best, it can be described as a knit, imitation angora fabric. One Joanne's says that they get that kind of stuff in really late August or September. Too late for the project I have so Im about ready to order online.

Sure, I could go to the fabric district in LA and *maaaybe* I would find it. Sadly Im trying to avoid that since Im a bit low on gasoline rations. Anyone know what the fabric in this picture is called exactly?

http://ping.fm/p/LprQY

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

Silk ribbon in LA?

2009-08-04T03:21:41Z

I've been looking for a 'local' source for silk ribbon, the kind you use for embroidery. It's very delicate, but strong. I need to see the colors offered and online coloring is not always true. Even a wholesale source would be good, in fact it would probably be better.

Thanks CV's!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 6 replies

Digitizing Swatches - Color Integrity

2009-07-28T15:49:48Z

Any idea how I might do this? I have a swatch set that I got from the yarn company and I want to find a way to digitize it into a form so that customers can see what colors I can make my costume tails with. Its a bit problematic since my yarn has many shades woven into the skien and would variate the color. Yes, it makes my tails not look so flat, but it also creates problems in figuring out how to show the colors in the best way.

I have a scanner and a digital camera. Seems that the scanner eats the yarn hues by washing them out, especially with lighter colors. I want to make sure that I dont cheat my customers regarding the colors available. Someone suggested a colorimeter but I dont know if any of that software will work well on a Linux machine.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 5 replies

anyone know 'bout Los Angeles Craft Mafia?

2009-07-28T14:50:25Z

I was wondering who is from Los Angeles in this group and if they have heard of the Los Angeles Craft Mafia. I stumbled upon the site looking for tips and they have a newsletter and yahoo group. Gonna sign up.. anyone else in it?

http://www.losangelescraftmafia.com/2008/01/newsletter-information.html

posted in Crafty Vixens - 3 replies

question about fusible web appliques

2009-07-23T13:50:44Z

hello ladies, i have a question i'm hoping someone can help me out with.. i want to make some appliqued onesies for my daughter using fusible webbing (i bought steam a seam 2) and i'm wondering if the edged need to be stitched or finished, or can i leave them raw/ as is? will the applique fray after washing or with time? any tips on using fusible web for making fabric appliques or help is greatly appreciated!!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

crafters - interesting Etsy article

2009-07-19T18:20:08Z

Not sure who her makes a living doing crafty stuff or who uses Etsy.

I thought you might find this article about Etsy interesting. I came across it the other day

http://money.cnn.com/2009/07/13/smallbusiness/etsy_wars.fsb/index.htm

The Etsy Wars
Artisans flocked to this online marketplace, but few made enough to quit their day jobs. Now comes the struggle to keep them.

July 14, 2009: 6:02 AM ET
(Fortune Small Business) -- Some entrepreneurs sketch their business plans on napkins in cafs. Rob Kalin created his plan in masking tape on the floor of his walk-up apartment in Brooklyn.

It was 2005, and Kalin was a twentysomething Web site designer. He did woodwork in his spare time and was looking for an online marketplace to sell his wares. EBay (EBAY, Fortune 500) was an option, but it seemed soulless, like a garage sale full of unloved secondhand junk.

Kalin envisioned a site that would be entirely devoted to artisans selling their crafts -- and decided to build it. So he pulled out a roll of masking tape and started mapping the site on his carpet. "I wanted to change the world," says Kalin, now 29. "My goal was to empower people to make a living making things."

Four years later Kalin's online marketplace, Etsy, boasts 2.4 million registered members in 150 countries. Its more than 155,000 active vendors sold $58 million worth of goods in the first five months of 2009, doubling Etsy's sales volume over the same period last year. Despite the recession, the site facilitated sales of $87.5 million in 2008 and is expected to break even for the first time later this year.

Etsy has built an empire of entrepreneurs -- called Etsians -- whose products range from rag dolls to squirrel-foot earrings and beards made of yarn. But only a handful of sellers actually make a living on Etsy. And as a new CEO seeks to improve the site, some Etsians are complaining that they're being sold a bill of goods. Meanwhile, upstart competitors like ArtFire and DaWanda are happy to welcome disaffected Etsians.

Etsy's growth depends entirely on the participation of sellers. The 70-employee company, based in Brooklyn, takes a 3.5% cut of each sale and charges 20 cents every time an item is listed on the site. (Many Etsians pay to list the same things over and over.) There's also a showcase page where sellers pay between $7 and $15 to have their wares featured for 24 hours. Etsy does not disclose revenues, but Kalin says it takes in more than $12 million a year in fees. Investors have valued the firm at $100 million.

It's not hard to see why. Frustration with big-box stores and mass-produced goods has been bubbling up for years. Recession-era consumers are seeking unique, inexpensive gifts. More Americans seem interested in being "makers of things, not just consumers," to quote our new president. You can see the trend in events such as Maker Faire (see "Make Believers," February 2009) and the Renegade Craft Fair, both of which are held annually in multiple cities.

Seldom has a revolution felt so mild: Workers of the world, you knit!

Etsy actively markets itself as a venue where the arts-and-crafts set can achieve entrepreneurial success. Kalin often talks about creating an economy of diverse owners. Each week the official Etsy blog, called the Storque, runs a feature called Quit Your Day Job, profiling sellers who have stopped punching the corporate clock. Yet Etsy spokesman Adam Brown acknowledges that the "vast majority" of sellers use the site as a "secondary source of income."

Some Etsy sellers say the Quit Your Day Job campaign doesn't jibe with reality.

Big market, small sales
"My time works out to less than minimum wage, and not a dependable wage at that," says Susan Morgan Hoth, a 60-year-old retired teacher in Richmond who sells hand-painted silk scarves on the site. Hoth bought a new sofa and went traveling on the proceeds from her sales. But other sellers "think they're supporting themselves when their boyfriends pay the rent," Hoth says. "A lot of young girls on Etsy are headed for a shock when they get older and don't have anything." (Ninety-six percent of Etsy sellers are women.)

Etsy has spawned a few self-sustaining entrepreneurs. The busiest vendors on the site sell craft supplies to other Etsians; the site's top three sellers of handmade products all claim six-figure annual revenues. Leading seller Emily Martin, who sells her prints and paintings through an Etsy store called the Black Apple, appeared on The Martha Stewart Show in March. Martin was shocked when Stewart announced that her guest ran "a six-figure business." Only Etsy knew her gross revenue; Martin had never wanted it made public.

"Etsy was selling the idea of being able to quit your day job really hard," she says. An Etsy spokesman admits that the site used to boast -- without naming names -- that its top sellers made six figures.

Still, some vendors are downright angry that Etsy markets itself as a platform for small businesses.

"It's a very appealing thing to say if you're trying to attract sellers, investors or a buyer for your company," says Angelica Schaaf, 29, a stay-at-home mom in Rio Rancho, N.M. In 2005, Schaaf launched what she describes as a "semi-successful" Etsy store, Desert Maiden Bathworks. She borrowed startup capital from her father and hopes to pay him back in 10 years.

Since May 2008, Schaaf has been one of six women behind the blog Etsybitch. (The other five are anonymous.) Etsybitch claims to draw 10,000 visitors a month. The bloggers are peeved about Etsy's dictatorial habit of quashing debate on its own user forums. Etsy occasionally "mutes" contentious members, preventing them from posting.

In June, for example, some Etsians posted forum comments complaining that Etsy had taken days to remove a listing for a handmade replica of a 1930s Nazi flag. Less than 30 minutes later, a site moderator shut down the topic thread. The site's spokesman simply points out that Etsy forbids "discussing a specific member, store or item in a negative way."

Etsybitch has also taken the site to task for playing favorites among sellers and for its allegedly poor customer service.

"You join Etsy because you've been selling on eBay or at craft fairs and you're enamored with this alternative," says Schaaf. "There are people on Etsy who are really great. But it has major flaws. And a lot of people are so in love with Etsy, they can't think straight."

Alternatives
Of course, many Etsy sellers aren't looking to make a ton of money. "It's just such a cool, supportive outlet to do creative things," says Mike Guthrie, 26, of Tampa. Guthrie, his girlfriend and her father run SecondLineFrames, an Etsy store that sells picture frames made of salvaged wood from houses wrecked in Hurricane Katrina. A portion of the proceeds goes to help rebuild neighborhoods in New Orleans.

But as it grows, Etsy has suffered a minor exodus of sellers. Tony Ford, vice president of rival site ArtFire, says his membership grew from zero to more than 15,000 sellers in seven months -- many of whom, he believes, came from Etsy. Ford is deliberately adding site features that Etsy sellers have requested, including a better search engine and a more user-friendly interface. He is also positioning his 10-employee company, based in Tucson, as David to Etsy's Goliath.

"We bootstrapped this whole thing," says Ford.

That's quite a contrast with Etsy, which has raised more than $30 million in capital since 2006. The money storm started when Kalin e-mailed Catarina Fake, co-founder of the online photo service Flickr. The two had never met; Kalin just wanted advice about choosing items for the site's home page. Fake's response led to what would become a $615,000 round of angel funding.

"This was a clear case of finding a parade and getting in front of it," Fake says. "It would be a tragedy for Etsy to stay small."

In January 2008, Etsy secured another $27.5 million in venture funding from a group of investors, including Accel Partners in Palo Alto and Union Square Ventures in New York City. Those two firms now own more than 35% of Etsy.

That made some sellers uneasy -- especially because Jim Breyer, an Etsy investor and a board member of Accel Partners, also sits on the board of Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart (WMT, Fortune 500) has been a bte noire for Etsy sellers, who offer products such as a "Wal-Mart Zombie" wallet and a T-shirt with the words SWEAT SHOP in the style of the Wal-Mart logo.

Breyer says he received around 60 e-mails from concerned Etsians immediately after the announcement. "It is possible to be the lead independent director of Wal-Mart and be absolutely passionate about art and crafted goods," he says. "Over time Etsy sellers, as well as Etsy shareholders, can do very well if we stay true to our mission."

New money has meant new management. In April 2008, three months after Etsy closed its $27.5 million investment round, the company hired a new COO. Maria Thomas, 45, came from National Public Radio, where she'd been head of digital media. Within five months Thomas had replaced Kalin as CEO.

Thomas has a good sense of the Etsy spirit; she introduced herself on the Storque by uploading a video of herself playing an endearingly tin-eared solo on the drums -- a literally offbeat salute to creativity. "The social aspect of craft is huge," she says.

Earlier this year Kalin quietly took himself off the payroll. The site "was very incomplete and not up to my standards," he says. Kalin wanted to do something different, something lean and stripped-down. He remains chairman of Etsy's board, though his focus has shifted to his next startup, which he calls Parachutes.

The details are still vague, but Parachutes' goal resembles Etsy's: enabling artisans to collaborate and make a living from their crafts. This time, though, Kalin wants sellers to work in close proximity, business incubator-style, as well as online. He has already established his first craft collective (Parachute 101, based in Brooklyn's gritty Red Hook district) with some of his favorite Etsy sellers.

Call it the next stage in Etsian evolution: diversification.

"Sellers need to realize that making any significant profit is going to take venues other than the saturated market on Etsy," says Cynthia Gentry, an Etsy seller and professional sociologist based in Texas. "You might make it big on Etsy with a kick-ass product and lots of work. You might also win the lottery."

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Craft and Design Ethics?

2009-07-19T18:01:18Z

I've been giving this some thought lately and finally decided I would bring it up as a topic.
I have always been an artist and this has come up many times over the years. I have looked at it many different ways at different times with different people. Some times it really bothers me and at other times , not at all.
What I am referring to is other people just outright copying my work. We have spoken recently of inspiration. This is not the case. I'm talking about someone just plain taking my design.
I have had people copy rooms in my home and it didn't bother me. Actually sometimes it's flattering. But recently something happened that did bother me very much.
I think that if someone is also, an artist it seems more serious. Like they should know better or something. I'd be very much interested in your ideas and feelings about this if you'd be open and willing to share.
Have you had the same sorts of experiences? How did you deal with it?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 16 replies

Shrinky-Dinks/how to get flat?

2009-07-18T02:35:16Z

Hey you fabulous vixens,

I bet you will know how to get some silly shrinky dinks to go flat!!

I got the shrinking paper that you can put through your printer-- its so cool cause I can print very intreicate things on it and also photos...but the coolest to me are makeing Tara (buddhist goddess) necklaces...

IIIFFFF...I could get them not to curl up in the oven with no hope of flattening.

Advice??
Is this simple and I just don't see it?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 27 replies

crafters that sell - know your State merchant laws

2009-07-17T20:18:13Z

Just got this from another site - useful info:

Merchant Laws

The following are state laws regarding what merchants can and cannot ask for when you pay by check or credit card. If your state is not listed, then to the best of our knowledge it does not have applicable laws. The laws were researched July 2003.

http://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs15plus.htm#Washington

= = = = too much to post for a thread = = = =

But - anyone of you who sell, this would be handy. Speaking of selling, I'm in Southern Calfornia and looking for places to sell my crafts (jewelry). Please let me know if you are aware of any upcoming events to sign up for.

Seems I missed the signup time to be in The Renegade Craft Fair. It bills itself as one of the nation's largest events for handmade arts, makes its Los Angeles premiere. Show features more than 300 crafters. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 11 and 12. Penthouse of the California Market Center, 110 E. 9th St., Los Angeles. Free. http://www.renegadecraft.com/.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

A wind powered knitting machine, pretty cool idea

2009-07-17T11:43:51Z

A wind powered knitting machine, pretty cool idea.

http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/02/wind-powered-knitting-machine-takes-the-tedium-out-of-your-heirl/

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

What better group to ask. I'm building a swimming school of spermatazoa (SPERM!!!) ;-)

2009-07-13T19:11:33Z

This is for a Burning Man Mutant Art Project. The theme is "Evolution".

I am converting a Yamaha Riva 180 scooter into a drivable evolving mutating spermatazoa which is leading a "pack" or "school" of normal sperm. =)

Obviously the scooter/sperm-mobile will be approximately 6-7' long and 4' tall. What I need to figure out is how to build and attach the rest of the school of sperm. I envision the school fo sperm to be much smaller and of varying sizes in tight formation around and behind the largest mutant sperm/vehicle.

The school of sperm might be constructed similarly to windsocks and even replicate the swimming action as seen with these windsocks.
http://www.intothewind.com/images/s.../9717.jpg

Perhaps able to follow the direction of the wind no matter what direction the wind comes from.

Either mounted on a swivel from below or hanging from above.

Body construction and getting the little swimmers tails to swim are my big challenges.

Body sizes to be between 6" and 2'. Tails to be proportionate.

Sketch here...
http://craftyvixens.tribe.net/photos/62bc7781-dd86-4a3f-bff9-d53c5c5bb4b0

Crafty Vixens, creative types, engineers, kite flyers, yard art fanatics, or anyone else, please chime in. I'm open to all ideas.

Much thanks,
Cook

posted in Crafty Vixens - 9 replies

Looking for green Tourmaline

2009-07-13T07:04:49Z

I am looking for a piece of green tourmaline. I am looking for a rough stone that I can use for a necklace. It should be at least 20 grams, around 2 inches long or so. It needs to be a fairy large piece to be the pendant of a necklace. Some translucent quality would be nice but it doesnt have to be gem quality all the way through. Can anyone help me out?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 10 replies

Removing a silkscreen

2009-07-09T05:03:48Z

Folks in the DIY tribe suggested I ask this question here:

I have a t-shirt with a company logo on the front and a quote on the back. I want to remove the company logo. Is there a good way to do this without destroying the shirt or discoloring the rest of the item?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

LA Garment District - Recs/Tips

2009-07-02T15:42:56Z

hi vixens,

i'm going to LA for the weekend and am dying to check out the famed and fab garment district. does anyone have recommendations of specific streets/stores to check out? my sister lives in LA so she'll be my navigatrix but she's not too versed in craftiness and doesn't know much about the garment district particularly. i'm clueless, don't know LA at all... where should we go?

suggestions much appreciated! or just point me in the right direction, and we'll explore from there :)

many thanks,
emily*

posted in Crafty Vixens - 20 replies

knit bags

2009-07-01T19:52:41Z

I am looking for a cool bag pattern to knit. I have some beautiful tough yarn that is to scratchy to make into gauntlets or a scarf. Any thoughts?

-Tya

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

Painting ceramics?

2009-06-28T23:11:51Z

I have a figurine that is glazed ceramic. Is there anyway I can paint this to change the color? Would I have to have a kiln? I obviously know nothing about ceramic painting so please enlighten me!!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

Vintage sewing mag

2009-06-25T20:00:15Z

Anyone interested in the Summer '69 issue of Singer Showcase magazine? It's in pretty good shape and is full of classic 60s style as you can imagine.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

Quilting question....

2009-06-17T17:43:16Z

I have begun a tradition in which I give my high school graduating niece/nephew a quilt made from the jeans of family members. I saw a Flying Geese type of quilt in a catalog and thought of my nephew. Of course there is no pattern but I can figure out the blocks....

However there seems to be two ways to make them. There is the 1 "A" triangle plus 2 smaller "B" triangles sewn together method....and the 2 small rectangle sewn to the large rectangle on the diagonal method. The triangle method seems to be more time consuming and more sewing. The rectangle method seems to waste fabric.

I'm OK with either downside, I just want to know which one will give me more accurate points.

Thanks for your help!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 5 replies

have you seen Leslie Hall a.k.a. Mother Gem's "Craft Talk"

2009-06-07T15:55:27Z

too funny!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWVzIfUfjGk

Craft Talk
Please send a representative, I have just made the world's largest gem sweater, in the world.
You're sure looking crafty (crafty crafty)
You can make a raft out of pencils and foam
You're sure looking happy (happy happy)
'Cuz you make it snappy and not very crappy
Do you want to paste together
Something we can use forever
I'm thinking key chain (chain chain)
Scratch me with your hot designs
Dribble me in neon lines
Use that walkie-talkie and talk to me some crafts
Let's go walking (walk walk)
Let's get talking (talk talk)
Let's craft talk (craft talk), craft talk (craft talk)
You can build me whatever you want
Now make it make it make it make it
Faster faster faster faster
Work through the pain, work it through the pain
Now make it make it make it make it
Faster faster faster faster
I cherish these moments, I can't wait to see it
When you're makin' crafts your spicin' up the world
Face it pretty girl, you're craft-tastic!
You're following no plans, you're building it with hands
Let's do a dance 'cuz you're craft-tastic!
Let's get together and share supplies
Your craftsmanship deserves top prize
Glue it, cut it, stitch it, felt it,
Paint it, bead it, dough it, dye it,
Embroider it, solder it, hotter it
Let's go walking (walk walk)
Let's get talking (talk talk)
Let's craft talk (craft talk), craft talk (craft talk)
You can build me whatever you want
Now make it make it make it make it
Faster faster faster faster
Work through the pain, work it through the pain
Now make it make it make it make it
Faster faster faster faster
I cherish these moments I cant wait to see it
Build it fast, built to last,
When in need place a bead
Rubber stamp my number, 'cuz I want to get you tips
Look for sales in town
Take them home, move them around
Love it when it shines, want to make it mines
You make stuff that I desire
All I want to do is acquire
(you're so crafty--craft-tastic!)
Craft talking craft talking craft talking craft talking
Craft talking craft talking craft talking craft talking
Let's go walking (walk walk)
Let's get talking (talk talk)
Let's craft talk (craft talk), craft talk (craft talk)
You can build me whatever you want
Now make it make it make it make it
Faster faster faster faster
Work through the pain, work through the pain
Now make it make it make it make it
Faster faster faster faster
I cherish these moments, I know that I'll love it

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

want to go to MAKER FAIRE for FREE? MODEL FOR US!

2009-06-07T03:23:54Z

Howdy there...

WE NEED MALE AND FEMALE MODELS....and not you're typical model type either, we just want people who know how to have fun!

Sorry this is last minute but we need finalized models by WEDNESDAY which is TODAY! So if you're interested please read everything below and reply ASAP.

If you're down with the DIY movement, then this is the fashion show for you! But...you must be down!!!!

We will be part of a GIANT clothing swap at the Maker Faire this weekend. The swap entails people bringing clothes and digging through massive piles of unwanted gear to remake new things. Part of the faire is a recycled fashion show!

Fashion show is Saturday, May 30th at 4:45 PM at San Mateo County Expo Center.

We want models who:
- will come to the faire earlier than the 3PM model call time to enjoy the craziness of the faire
- will bring a bag of clothes to swap
- will enjoy digging through the piles and making their own clothes at the swap
- will be at the model call right at 3pm (even if you won't spend the whole hour getting ready)
- will not expect glamorous treatment
- will wear whatever we put on you (I'm thinking plastic bags)
- will look good wearing plastic bags and face masks
- will have fun dancing during the fashion show (please no 'catwalk' walk)

These are the looks we are going for and the people we need. Please let us know your preference:

1. Litter-bug (male or female): you will start off the fashion show. you are an evil villian with a mask and cape, who litters mischievously all over the stage!!!! you know how to play the evil character! if you have your own spandex, +++for you!
2. Clean team (pref. female, unless you like wearing frilly things!): you come in with a sexy apron, rubber gloves, and face mask to clean up after the litter bug. think very pin-up style, poses, gracefully cleaning up. you will wear your own plain black dress or plain colored dress underneath.
3. Recycling renegades (male of female, these might be filled already, but please inquire): you will wear clothes that incorporate plastic bags into them. t-shirts, halter tops, etc. think urban gear, but from plastic! you might be wearing your own jeans, sneakers, etc.

In return for modeling, you'll get free admission to the faire on Saturday (sorry parking cannot be taken care of by us). Ideally, you wanted to attend the faire anyways, but now that you'll loan us your body, you can go for free! We'll also share photos with you. Plus, since you love recycling, you'll get all the clothes you can carry from the swap!

Sound like fun?
*****Send us a brief message/short paragraph/poem/etc. with how you support recycled fashion and why you'd have a blast. Also forward us to a "stalker" site (myspace, facebook, etc.) just so we know who you are and what outfit you could wear. We'll let you know if it's a go. *********

check out these sites for more info:

http://www.makerfaire.com
http://www.swaporamarama.org

(PHOTOS FROM LAST YEAR'S FASHION SHOW:)
http://homeygrown.blogspot.com/2008/05/makin-fashion-happen-at-maker-faire.html

thanks for reading!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

ISO seamstress to whip up a duvet

2009-05-29T03:46:35Z

Desperately looking for a good seamstress to make my new duvet (eastern king) and 3 pillow shams with fabric that I provide.

If this is you, drop me a line with rates and availability for the project.

Thanks!
Brandi

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

I'm broke- didn't this tribe do crafty exchanges back in the olden days?

2009-05-23T15:36:53Z

This would occupy those bored hours of not going out.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 42 replies

Biggest Yarn Selection Within LA and San Berdoo Basin

2009-05-20T18:09:08Z

hi there

I just joined this tribe seeing that it is indeed active with discussions. Since I have started back into the yarn costume tail end of things, I am finding myself hoping to find a selection bigger than Joannes/Michaels as far as colors go. Please note that Im looking for physical places I can go into for finding yarn. While shopping online can be helpful, sometimes color matching is hard.

Thanks,

Kat

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Why I may never let my man near my sewing machine again

2009-05-19T02:42:33Z

I had asked him to help me do a bit of troubleshooting, he helped with that quite well. Then he had a couple holey tshirts he wanted to darn using the machine. I thought I could have done a fine job by hand, so I told him if he wanted to do it on the machine, he was welcome to. One was a particular shade of purple that we ended up buying matching thread for, and one was black. I'd had some blue-indigo thread on there, that worked for several of the projects I've been working on lately.

Instead of using an empty bobbin for the purple thread, and the black bobbin that I already had, he layered purple and black thread on top of the blue.

And while he has many admirable virtues, I want to throw more things at him now than I do when he sings the theme from Gilligan's Island in the style of Bob Dylan.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 11 replies

organic terry cloth bay area

2009-05-19T01:08:36Z

I was wondering if anyone knew where i could go to get organic Terry cloth in the bay area...i see it online but it is easier for me to go somewhere and get it.

thank you

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Doggie Shirt Xpost

2009-05-18T00:45:19Z

I had found instructions once upon a time for making a dog shirt out of an old kids' tshirt but I can't find them any more. Would anyone out there happen to know anything about it?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

where to buy in Los Angeles area?

2009-05-17T18:09:06Z

http://www.orientaltrading.com/ui/browse/largeImage.jsp?image=34_1264.jpg

Shipping will take a week and they can't promise a date with express shipping :( I want them for an annual Memorial Day party

posted in Crafty Vixens - 3 replies

frame purse help

2009-05-16T05:21:13Z

Anyone here crafty with frame purse making? My friend and I would like to give it a try, but aren't quite sure about how to attach the frame to the purse. We're still gathering ideas and supplies at this point.

What kind of glue should we use? Do we really need that big flat-faced tool to close the edges of the frame onto the fabric? Suggestions for a good pattern?

Thanks for your help!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Lessons from grandma resonate as Americans cut back spending

2009-05-15T11:12:56Z

great article in the paper today

The return of Home Economics

Lessons from grandma resonate as Americans cut back spending

By Amy Hoak, MarketWatch

Last update: 7:53 p.m. EDT March 26, 2009CHICAGO (MarketWatch)

The series "Depression Cooking with Clara" has become something of an Internet sensation, as Americans pinch pennies at home.

In the videos, 93-year-old Clara Cannucciari demonstrates how to make meager meals she enjoyed as a child. One family favorite is "Poorman's Meal," consisting of fried potatoes, onions and cut-up hot dogs -- "one of the meals we always asked for as kids," said Chris Cannucciari, her grandson who works with her on the show. Videos are posted on YouTube.

The duo is now working on a cookbook.

At the International Home and Housewares Show in Chicago , MarketWatch's Jennifer Waters finds a slew of environmentally-friendly products, including a system for growing herbs indoors. Then, there's the coffee maker you can talk to.It's a sign of the times when survival tales from the Great Depression resonate strongly with Americans. People are losing jobs and coping with the loss of wealth. Some are losing their homes to foreclosure, or are dangerously close.

Household budget cuts have to be made, and for some the newfound frugality is harkening back to lessons learned at grandma's house. For instance:

Home meal preparation is on the rise

Some Americans are investing in standalone freezers so they can buy in bulk when sales are good

Home gardens are increasingly popular

People aren't throwing things out, they're fixing what they have -- preferably on their own, from repairing clothes to repairing plumbing problems

Some of the notable products at this year's International Home and Housewares Show, held in Chicago this week, spoke to people's desire to roll up their sleeves and do more household tasks themselves. Products tended to be affordable and practical. It's a switch from past shows, when high-end electronics often took center stage, said Lisa Casey Weiss, spokeswoman for the International Housewares Association. Read about the top 5 trends in home living for 2010.

"There's definitely a return to what we might call 'home arts,'" said Tom Mirabile, vice president of global trend and design for Lifetime Brands and a speaker at the show. "Now, home economics is about -- economics."

In fact, there's "almost a prideful resurgence of 'I can do it,'" he said.

The general appeal of do-it-yourself is very American, and is in some ways built into our "cultural DNA," said Robin Avni, senior director and consumer strategist for Iconoculture, a cultural trend research firm. And these days, we're looking to the past for pointers.

"What 'Depression Cooking' speaks to is tradition," Avni said. An older generation is saying: "We did it, and here's how we got through it."

Many cooks in the kitchen

In some ways, we can thank celebrity chefs and the rise of the Food Network for making cooking cool again. Even before eating at home was a financial necessity, cooking started becoming a trendy form of entertainment for many Americans, Mirabile said.

A recent survey by BIGresearch found that many consumers consider fine dining expendable today, while expenses including Internet and cable TV are untouchable. Separate research from Nielsen found that 41% surveyed would eat out less and 39% would stay home more in order to respond to economic challenges, Mirabile said.

Consumers are showing newfound love for the potluck dinner, not only because it saves the host time in the kitchen but also because it helps divvy up the cost of a meal, Avni said.

And Mirabile is seeing an upswing in the demand for pressure cookers and slow cookers, as people try to make less expensive cuts of meat taste better. Cuisinart showed off its newest programmable slow cooker at the show, one designed with digital technology and touchpad controls. Delicae

Gourmet sampled slow cooker meals -- bundled ingredients that can be combined with meat and a can of tomatoes to create an inexpensive dinner.

"Even Emeril has a slow cooker," said David Elsner, a representative at the Delicae booth.

Saving even more on food

Consumers are doing more than just cooking at home to trim their food budgets.

They're investing in freezers to stock up on sale items and to buy in bulk at warehouse clubs. In a generally poor year for big-ticket purchases, shipments of home freezers were up 5% in 2008, according to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.

People may also be making greater efforts to not waste food they buy. New products at the show included vacuum storage systems such as one from Widgeteer, which displayed its Vac-it vacuum seal system, promoted as "a low-cost, revolutionary vacuum seal system ... to create vacuum sealed storage from any airtight, self-sealing or zipper tight bag."

Fox Run Craftsmen showed off colorful containers in the shapes of onions, tomatoes, lemons and limes -- flashy compartments to seal leftovers not only to preserve them but to make them stand out in the refrigerator and remind family cooks to use them before they spoil.

To get the freshest produce at a low cost, Americans are planting more gardens too.

According to the National Gardening Association, seven million more households plan to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs or berries in 2009 compared with 2008. That's a 19% increase in participation and almost double the 10% growth in vegetable gardening from 2007 to 2008. Even the First Family is growing food on the White House grounds.

The gardening trend has also created more demand for canning supplies, Mirabile said.

That said, gardening could become more expensive than anticipated. "People spend a couple hundred on seeds, and it blows me away," said Mary Webber, author of "The Frugal Family Kitchen Book."

Only order the seeds you'll use, she said. For a small garden, go with companies that sell small seed packets, because that's likely all you'll need. "Instead of spending $2 for a packet of seeds, these packets are going to be 85 cents to $1.25."

And while a freezer can be used to keep costs down, people still need to be smart about buying only what they'll use, she said. Keeping a freezer inventory sheet helps people make sure food is used before it must be thrown away, Webber added.

Crafty consumers

Grandma's sensibilities aren't only being found in the kitchen. Over the past several years, there has been a return to crafting, from knitting to scrapbooking, Avni said. So far, that trend isn't showing signs of slowing in the recession, she added.

But the reasons behind people's craftiness might become more utilitarian.

In recent years, "people were doing it [knitting] as more of an artistic expression," Webber said. "They would use these wonderful yarns. Now they're back to serious yarns."

"I'm waiting for the resurgence of sewing," she added.

Or at least clothing repair. Attendees at the International Home and Housewares show saw the fabric glue Mighty Mendit on display. The struggling economy has caused a bump in sales, as people repair the clothes they have instead of throwing them away, its promoters said.

Other items at the show included FlexiSnake, a simple disposable tool that removes hair clogs from drains using Velcro -- and might save consumers a call to their plumber. For super savers, a home haircutting system by Wahl was on display; video demonstrations for popular haircuts can be found on the company's Web site.

Amy Hoak is a MarketWatch reporter based in Chicago .

posted in Crafty Vixens - 23 replies

crafty offbeat brides

2009-05-04T05:13:02Z

I found this really cool site by accident and I just had to share! It's for crafty offbeat brides, many of which do DIY projects for their own weddings.
enjoy!

http://offbeatbride.com/

posted in Crafty Vixens - 6 replies

top coat over glued paper

2009-05-04T02:17:19Z

I was told I should "slack"? my art projects for long lasting protection and shine - finishing touch. Can someone reccommend a top finishing coat for paper projects?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 6 replies

Los Angeles Crafters

2009-05-04T00:54:24Z

I am one of the LAUSD employees that has had my hours cut in half. I love my job and want to stay. However, I need to make money else where in order to do that. I was thinking that maybe some of you in the LA area would like to get together and share a table at the different Farmers Markets that take place on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. It would be better if we don't have the same craft so we don't compete against each other. You can see my work at www.LithosDesigns.etsy.com

Let's have some fun, share ideas, and make some money.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

Wool Co-Op - High Quality 100% Wool Coatings, Flannels, Crepes - April 2009

2009-04-25T01:00:15Z

Greetings unto the List!

Tristan the fabric guy here.

Please forgive the plug, but we have a fantastic wool co-op going on right now on our period fabric co-op group. Please come and join us and get yourself some great period fabric for cheap.

Here is the yahoo group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gypsycaravancoop/

~Tristan el Gitano
Gypsy Caravan fabric guy

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Eyelet / Grommet question

2009-04-23T04:12:15Z

Hi Crafters!
I'm planning to make a simple black wrist cuff and I don't know much about sewing. I was thinking of having the wrist cuff lace up, and so I figure I need to insert some eyelets (or are they called grommets?) to thread the ribbon/cord through. I don't plan on making more than 1 of these wrist cuffs, so diden't want to get those punch thingys...Are there any other ways to insert eyelets without a punch?

Thank you! :)
Petra

P.S. If anyone has any patterns to sew a wrist cuff that looks like this:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23112029 (but simpler in design), please let me know,ok?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 13 replies

making jewelry while pregnant?

2009-04-23T01:29:42Z

Just curious:
Is it safe to work (cold) with silver and gold and copper, etc. while pregnant? Is it just a no soldering/casting thing, or should one stay away from working with metals all together?
A recent discussion led me to wonder and google is not turning up specific answers yet, so i thought i'd ask you ladies for input :D

posted in Crafty Vixens - 7 replies

Photo jewelry

2009-04-15T00:45:43Z

Hey, does anyone make this photo jewelry? I found this link and I'm interested in making some, but I was wondering if it's really hard? Seems like there are a lot of supplies...

http://www.photojewelrymaking.com/weddingphotojewelry.aspx

posted in Crafty Vixens - 4 replies

Tattered Lace

2009-04-08T17:17:01Z

Hello Lovelies. I've been commissioned to make a gothic harlequin type outfit for someone and she would really like me to use some old lace she has. It's very beautiful, tattered goodness, but it's very fragile at this point. I'm afraid it will just keep coming undone. Is there any kind of fabric fixative or clever trick I can use to make it a little sturdier? Thanks!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 10 replies

Have you ever wanted a CRAFT themed "meme"?

2009-04-07T06:09:40Z

If you've ever wanted a craft themed meme, here's a detailed one a friend of mine and I created recently. Feel free to use it anyway you want! I recommend using it in your blog! Or you can copy and paste it in a reply and add in your answers! If you decide to use it other than in this thread, just be sure to post a reply below saying you used it so I know.
*hugs*
~Lisa H.

CRAFTS MEME

PERSONAL
• What is your name?
• Do you have a nickname?
• What is your birthday?
• Are you male or female?
• When do you craft, night or day?
• Describe your personal style.
• Describe your decorating style.
• Do you have a blog? If so, what is the address?
• Do you have an on-line wish list such as Wists or Kaboodle? If so, what is it?
• Do you collect anything? If so, what?
• What other hobbies or pastimes do you do besides crafting?

GIVING, DISPLAYING & SELLING
• Has anything you’ve crafted been featured at a fair, in a book, etc?
• Have you ever sold your crafts? If so, where?
• Do you have a shop or on-line store where you sell your crafts? If so, where?
• Do you have other websites? If so, what are they?
• Have you given your crafts to others?

FAVORITES
• What are your favorite colors?
• What are your favorite color combos?
• What are your favorite themes, schemes, genres, or patterns?
• What is your favorite craft of all time?
• What are your favorite things to make?
• What are your favorite craft supplies? What are your favorite craft supplies?
• What craft tools do you use most frequently?
• What are your favorite animals?
• What are your favorite authors/books?
• What are your five favorite things (not necessarily craft related)?

DISLIKES
• What craft fears or avoidances do you have?
• What colors and/or color combos do you hate?
• Are there any styles you dislike?

PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE
• Describe the first project you made as a child.
• What was your favorite pastime crafting project?
• What is the most interesting/unique thing you’ve ever crafted?
• What crafts do you enjoy right now?
• Describe the coolest project you’ve made recently.
• What is(are) your current craft project(s)?
• What will be your next craft project(s)?
• What craft have you wanted to learn or try, but haven't yet?
• What is the thing you are most looking forward to this upcoming season?

SHOPPING
• Do you keep a cache of supplies you’re likely to use or do you buy exactly what you need for each project?
• Do you make a list before going into a craft store?
• Have you ever come out of a craft store having bought only the things you planned to buy?
• What craft stores do you frequent (online or otherwise)?

MISCELLANEOUS
• Do you have a relative who has crafted something that’s considered a family (or personal) treasure?
• Do your friends and family support and encourage your crafting?
• Do you admit to “crafting", or do you call it something else, like “DIY”?
• Do you have any advice for aspiring crafters?
• List everything you’ve tried from a crafting perspective.
• Do you craft in short bursts or long sessions?
• How do you beat the blahs and get inspired and motivated again?
• Have you ever been injured while crafting?
• If you had a 5-minute shopping spree in your craft supply store, how would you plan your attack?
• If you could afford to start any crafting hobby, what would it be?
• If you could instantly gain a crafting ability what would it be? What would you make and for whom?
• You’re trapped in Bill Murray’s Groundhog Day. What crafting skill would you refuse to learn despite having infinite time to learn it?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

They are giving away my stuff

2009-03-31T22:32:32Z

this blog is having a little contest
you could win 2 steam punk crafty things I made

go look see
comment and you could be the winner

http://www.ametistadea.blogspot.com/

posted in Crafty Vixens - 3 replies

a question about felting? how much wool?

2009-03-31T19:40:26Z

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_5&listing_id=15797071
here's what i want to make. it will be my first felting project. i think i'll be fine because scraggly tubes dont have to be exactly the same

this is a question to all the people who have experience felting.... how much wool roving should i get? it's sold in ounces, i'm just not sure, and i want to make sure i have enough to begin with.

so if you have experience felting... do you mind taking a look at that pic and estimating for me? and i'll get a litte more than that, so i have some room for experimentation/mistakes

thanks in advance!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

Embellishing a corset

2009-03-30T17:13:08Z

Hi Crafters!
I was going to purchase a plain corset from ebay and add black ribbon to it...I have no sewing experiance...Would you recommend i use fabric glue or sew the ribbon on? I dont like the lace on the original design (looks a bit tacky) so Im hoping to find nicer lace/ribbon. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much if you have any suggestions,
Petra

My profile pic will be the look I'm trying to recreate.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

Messenger bag?

2009-03-29T15:48:33Z

I'm seeking a pattern for a messenger bag online and I'm having a hard time finding quite what im looking for... anyone know of any other links that im missing out on?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 14 replies

My book, Mod Knots is in stock at amazon.com

2009-03-21T05:49:56Z

My first book, Mod Knots, which is a book on macramé is now in stock at amazon.com. Just doing a bit of shameless self-promotion. Thanks for your time...

Cathi

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

Jewelry Making Craft Book Giveaway

2009-03-20T20:38:21Z

Just wanted to share this great giveaway at the craft blog I write for. We are giving away this new Wire and Beaded Jewelry book with 50 craft projects to a random commenter on the blog post. All you have to do is comment (with your email address) and we'll randomly pick a winner by March 31st!

http://www.favecraftsblog.com/book-review-the-complete-guide-to-wire-beaded-jewelry/

posted in Crafty Vixens - 1 reply

Craft Idea websites

2009-03-20T17:36:20Z

My mom owns an assisted living for mentally ill patients. She wants to do more craft projects with them, but is having a hard time coming up with fresh ideas.

Anyway, do any of you have links to good craft sites where there are craft ideas... think simple, inexpensive, etc. Actual craft ideas are welcome, too. Thanks!!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 10 replies

shower curtain painting

2009-03-18T07:22:06Z

Can you paint a shower curtain so that the paint sticks and the steam from the shower won't melt the paint or make you sick? Has anyone ever tried this? If yes... what kind of paint and sealer would I have to use?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 5 replies

I need art & supplies for a Bunny themed party in the SF area.

2009-03-17T20:49:54Z

I am helping organize a Burning Man party next month called Bunny Jam. It is a spring/Easter celebration where most of the people dress as rabbits. Our venue this year is huge so we need more cool stuff to decorate with.

I would love donations of the below items. If it’s a really good item I may be able to barter Burning Man or rave type clothes or free entrance to the party.

Rabbiot and/ or carrot art and other cool art.
Art would not be kept unless you don't want it. You can just bring it to the party or before hand.

Easter decorations, silk flowers, spring décor
Pastel colored cloth and curtains
Faux fur scraps
Bright orange & green cloth
Pictures & art of bunny rabbits, carrots, etc.
Rabbit Costumes

Thanks if you can help.

Hope to post pics of what we make soon.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 0 replies

A Crafty New Blog To Check Out!

2009-03-12T19:18:41Z

Hello All! I am Danae Crafty Chick, and I have a new blog that I would love for anyone interested to come check out. It is called Crafty’s Cuppa Coffee; and it is a blend of Wiccan Spirituality, Information, Ritual, Spells, Recipes, Pagan DIY and Humor. With Tribe being down so much lately, I thought maybe some of you might like to drop by for a visit. I posted the links on my Tribe Page also. If you find it interesting, feel free to leave a comment to let me know &/or join the readership. I dislike the term “followers”, as none of us are. Anyways, enjoy!

http://craftychickscuppacoffee.blogspot.com

Also, I have an Arts & Crafts Blog called Crafty Chick Creations, at

http://craftychickcreationsblog.blogspot.com

PS~ I posted this in a few of the other Pagan/ Wiccan Tribes that I belong to, so I apologize for the duplications. I truly hope this is not considered spam. I wanted to post this as a listing or review; but didn’t know how to only send it to the relevant Tribes.

~Bright Blessings

Danae Crafty Chick

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies

Crafty Vixens on Facebook

2009-03-12T16:33:43Z

I have created a Crafty Vixens group on Facebook.

(After I did that, it turns out that someone else already created one, oosp!)

Please join us on Facebook.com and search for Crafty Vixens or link from my Facebook profile.

I am Jo Ann Villalobos

Enjoy!

posted in Crafty Vixens - 8 replies

TuTu Give away!

2009-03-11T02:18:19Z

one of tutu's is being give away in a contest hosted at iCing.
Yes, Gala give away one of my tutu's! hurry over to her site and enter the contest! http://galadarling.com/article/tutu-mania

posted in Crafty Vixens - 3 replies

Big, bad, BLUE wolf.

2009-03-09T17:26:26Z

I just finished this, and couldn't resist the urge to show off! I'm making paw gloves and slipper feet for it, but just now all I have finished is the head and tail. Take a look!

http://bladespark.topcities.com/costume/auraw02.jpg
http://bladespark.topcities.com/costume/auraw03.jpg
http://bladespark.topcities.com/costume/auraw04.jpg
http://bladespark.topcities.com/costume/auraw05.jpg
http://bladespark.topcities.com/costume/auraw06.jpg
http://bladespark.topcities.com/costume/auraw07.jpg
http://bladespark.topcities.com/costume/auraw01.jpg

I just love how it came out! What do you folks think?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 35 replies

Wire work?

2009-03-08T17:22:45Z

I am going to be dedicating some serious patience soon to working with wire- 14-16 gauge, and was wondering, if I took a propane torch to bind wires together, would it work?

If not, have an idea what would work?

posted in Crafty Vixens - 12 replies

Monthly Crafty Challenge

2009-03-08T14:49:48Z

So it’s the beginning of the month and from now on, we at Autonomous Artisans will be setting a challenge to run for the whole month.

http://autonomousartisans.blogspot.com/2009/03/monthly-challenge-march.html

The idea is that we will pick a topic and each of you are invited to create something that reflects that topic. You can knit, sew, crochet, weave, photograph, paint, video, compose, interpretive dance, write… pretty much anything creative within that topic. All we are trying to do is encourage people that don’t get much chance to be creative to get into making things and for those that are already very creative to try something different, or use the crafts they already use in a different way.

Once you have created your piece, you can photograph or video it and you can add it to our flickr group, or you tube.

http://flickr.com/groups/autonomousartisans/

If the item is in the flickr group remember to mark it as “March Challenge” somewhere in the title. If the item is on You Tube or is a written entry, I will start a thread each month on the Flickr group that you can post a link to your You Tube piece or paste your written work.

http://flickr.com/groups/autonomousartisans/discuss/72157614667499448/

At the end of the month the items with the largest number of positive comments will get featured Autonomous Artisans the first Monday of the month, along with new topic for the next month.

Due to yesterday being the first day of spring in the UK this months topic is:-

“New Beginnings”

If you have any questions feel free to ask in the feedback on the blog post.

posted in Crafty Vixens - 2 replies