Holiday Mess

I have a real knack for getting overwhelmed during the holiday season. I mean really, who doesn't? But it seems to me that the time from Halloween to Valentine's Day is one big blur. Coincidentally this time of festivities coincides with scarf selling season. So being in business for myself makes this situation two-fold. I get busy, find extra things to do, get stressed, and make mistakes. Fixing these mistakes is the extra time that "frosts the cake", if you will.

I've started to consider the possibility that I'm not as busy as I think I am. An outsider (let's say my husband for example) might say that my "to do list" isn't worthy of a freak-out. But if reality is nothing more than your own perception of life, how do I rationalize myself out of this predicament? Do I simply not attempt to do all the things I want to do?

Anyway, I'm just here to admit that I'm getting in my own way. In just three weeks I've made three mistakes. They were all pretty minor. But with this most recent episode I've noticed they're adding up. If you don't mind, I'm going to elaborate on the latest issue so you catch my drift. Someone ordered an item online. I packaged it up for her and mailed it out the next day. The problem is that I packaged it while finishing up a few other pieces, baking gingerbread cookies, and getting ready for a holiday party. Due to this level of multitasking I forgot to confirm that I put the right item in the envelope. So, of course, I sent the wrong item. How embarrassing. What a ding-dong. Luckily I caught it before the customer did. Now it is just a matter of making it right, and trying to get the other piece back. In all this I have created three times as much work for myself.

Since this issue I have been harping on myself because I knew I would get busy and act this way. So I've made a list of holiday conduct.

1. SLOW DOWN!
2. FOLLOW STANDARD PROCEDURES  Don't rush and assume you've remembered item numbers, titles of pieces, or you house keys for that matter. Check.
3. ALLOW YOURSELF ENOUGH TIME TO WORK Be reasonable. Figure out how much time you have and then realize how much you can accomplish. Do the most important things first. Don't make up extra things to do.
4. DO NOT DO TWO THINGS AT ONCE No matter what.
5. BE CONTENT WITH ANY ACCOMPLISHMENT Everyday doesn't have to be record-breaking. Continue working. Don't cut yourself an unneccessary break, but stop trying to constantly out-do yourself.

Those steps that must be performed immediately are underlined. These steps must be performed without reference to the checklist. When the situation permits, non-underlined steps can be accomplished with reference to the checklist.

(I'm helping my husband study for flight school. I've modeled my list after his study guide. Typing it has made me laugh. I have obviously memorized a few things too. If it works for the army it should work for me too.)

By not following these simple steps I've created more work and stress for myself this week. In addition, I looked like a rookie. Not anymore. I'm shaving this mustache!

Does Color Make You Nervous?

I've been thinking a lot about this lately, and have finally decided to voice my concerns. I think people are afraid of color. They like to look at it, but they don't like to use it. I'm going to list a few examples.

Since the beginning, black cars have sold the most.

Black, brown, and gray are the most popular color choices for clothing, especially jackets. But you can't argue against the fact that the man in the middle is enjoying his outfit the most.

People prefer to eat things that are some shade of brown.

Food is especially delightful when it is brown and topped with something brown.

 Raise your hand if this is you.

I could go on about houses, inside and out, jewelry, this list is endless. Personally I think it is time for a change. Read on and realize how much more appealing the rest of the post is.

Don't you feel rejuvenated from looking at all that color? I do. This is why I focus on color when I make art. I need color. When customers are shopping for a scarf they initially ask for something in black. If I always had a scarf that was all black they wouldn't be very unique, would they?

I work hard to make Florida Scarf like Art on Sedatives. (to stress this point I have chosen to randomly capitolize words) By this I mean that my focus is color contrast and texture. I want to make things that seem alive. Of course, the product needs to be wearable, so I also apply some rules of fashion.

The scarves and hoods are small. It's an easy way to enjoy color. It surprises me how many people are intimidated by even that. I spend most of my money on sale fabrics. These fabrics are the ones that are most outrageously colored. I take it and cut it into my little 5"x30" rectangle and make it manageable. People need time to process. A certain fabric may not stand a chance as a dress, but turning it into a scarf gives it potential.

The same reasoning can be applied to answering the question of why more people don't like salad. I think they see all the color dancing around the plate and assume it can't be good. You can however, get people to eat a single serving of carrots, or strawberries. Again, in small portions color is manageable.

Everyone needs to realize that color gives us energy and life. It can make you more happy to surround yourself with color. Take the holidays for instance. People like color then. They wrap their house in color. The purpose of the holidays is to spread cheer by decorating things. Wouldn't we all be better off if this was the intent year round?

So honk if you love color! Get your lighters up!

This is Sarah Geraci For Color

signing off

Handmade Holiday

Do you like this photo? I made it myself. I didn't just pay a graphic designer to do it for me. Doesn't that make you appreciate it more? The answer to that question is "yes", and this is exactly my point. Never mind that I couldn't size it correctly to fit in the parameters. That is not the point!

People will truely love the gifts you give them this year if you make them. Now I know this sounds ridiculous, so maybe you don't make gifts for everyone. Maybe, make a gift for at least one person. We all have someone we know that we could make something for and they would love. And not just your mom, someone else too. Before you blow me off, it's easier than you think. The internet is full of resources, and so is the library, a book store, a craft store, the supermarket, thrift stores, and hardware stores. People are dying for you to get creative in their name. It's way trendier than buying them a new ipod or Starbucks giftcard.

To give you further inspiration I'll show you what I'm going to make and give out, and no it isn't scarves.

It's a hand-covered light switch! What man on your list wouldn't want these through out his house? All you need is glue and an old issue of Maxim. This is proof that there is a craft for every creative comfort level. A gift doesn't have to be expensive to be amazing.

I could go on with more examples but you get the point.

(I apologize if that example was too graphic)

Despite my winning argument if you still don't think giftmaking is for you, then buy a handmade gift. There are tons of options there. And if you don't mind I'd like to take a minute to plead this case. When items are made by hand they are just, so, amazing. Crafters are passionate and inspired by their world, and they put every bit of their heart into their work. Then you buy it, give it to someone, and you all share in the joy! Unique gifts have character and personality, like the real-life person you give it to. Because artisans are regaining popularity the recipient of your gift will find you more hip and socially aware. And finding a selfish reason to do something is so much more rewarding. 

Seriously, I am going to cut myself off now, but I do encourage you to act on what I've written. Go to the locally owned gift shop in town. Or go online and search "handmade gifts." I can make it even easier for you. Go to http://www.etsy.com/ or http://www.artfire.com/

I can also do you one better. Buy a handmade gift and have all the proceeds go to charity. http://www.rightasrain.org/

I'm shutting myself off now.

                    
http://how2dostuff.blogspot.com/2006/02/how-to-make-secret-hollow-book.html

OK, seriously, get out of here now.

My First Business Trip

St. Augustine, Florida, is where Florida Scarf was born. An event called “The Café 11 Trunk Show” was where I sold my first items in 2007. On November 16, 2010, I returned to the same people at the same show and had just as much fun as I’d ever had. It is the farthest I've ever traveled to do a show. I was most excited to use the company card for gas and food. Usually it only sees the light for internet purchases. I was in town for a total of 51 hours, and boy, did I make the most of it. In this post I plan to highlight the most awesome parts.

I did a bit (a big bit) of shopping. But isn’t that what one does on a vacation? (Oops. I mean business trip) I would like to highlight for you my most awesome finds. The first piece I found at the end of my trip. But it is by far the best, a real “once in a lifetime.”

There was a thrift store that was closing. Everything was 75% off. You couldn’t beat it! I have to thank my buddy Tara Ferreira for dragging me there and making this purchase possible. In case you are wondering, yes, it’s a sculpted beer-coozie.

This next piece I purchased at the Trunk Show. It is by Paper Root, a local design company. Ever wonder what you get when you cross Willie Nelson with a Leopard?

I have to really thank Paper Root for this gem of a t-shirt.
P.S. this shirt is not one of a kind. You can get your own at http://paperrootclothing.com/
It’s better if you give it as a gift.

I also got an oversized owl ring. This look isn’t for everyone, but it suits me. The manufacturer has taken a symbol of ancient forestall wisdom and made it out of cheap metal and fake diamonds. Does it get anymore ridiculous? For this piece I apologize to anyone who prefers his or her owls made out of patchwork vintage fabric and sewn onto a journal cover.

Available at St. Augustine Art Glass (if anyone has taste like mine)

I also scored some killer pieces at an American Apparel Outlet Store. I’m psyched about them, but I don’t need to show you. We all know you shop at American Apparel when you need clothes to make you look like you just stepped off the set of FAME.

Not only did I get all this great new stuff, but I also got something returned to me. It’s a totally rockin’ purse that isn’t even big enough to fit my wallet, but I love it. I forgot I was missing it until it was returned. That’s like when you put your winter coat on for the first time and find a bunch of goodies in the pockets. $$

Good Old Boxing Glove-Purse. I've missed you and your gold tooth.
The Trunk Show itself was a blast. This year they had it at a much bigger venue and incorporated DJ’s and a fashion show. Florida Scarf closed the show, so the models really let loose. It was great. I feel like I made some new friends. And of course, it was great to see my old friends. (like the one in particular who stayed and helped me pack up in the dark. Amanda, we know ho you are)

I apologize but I do not have any photos. If you are interested you might check a few spots.
http://www.surfthedrift.com/
http://www.facebook.com/#!/classicblends
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Saint-Augustine-FL/Two-Hundred-Lounge/115325628516378

If I get my hands on any they will be posted in the future. In the mean time you can see/shop my fashion show pieces. I call them, “ Florida Scarf Couture.” 

They will be at http://www.etsy.com/shop/scgeraci

Thank you very much for reading this post. I trust it was more enjoyable than the last.

Until Next Time. Keep Your Holidays Rockin'

I Never Learned to Juggle

This is the most disgruntled picture of myself I could find.

I am writing this post in opposition to every other post I've read recently. I don't consider myself a pesimist, but I feel like I can't do anything as good as anyone else. The more I read about marketing through social media and successfully running an online store, the more I feel like I don't have what it takes.

At the risk of looking incapable on my company blog allow me to pontificate. I have a website. I have an etsy site, as well as an indiepublic site. I am part of three etsy teams. Two of which I check in with. I signed on for Etsy's bootcamp. I have a buddy. I belong to handmade spark. I have a blog, obviously. I don't blog everyday, probably more like weekly. I am a member of independant fashion bloggers. I have a facebook and a fan page. I have donated pieces to charities and received promotion because of the effort. I have google analytics, but I rarely look at it.....the list may go on, but I can't think of anything else off the top of my head.

I handmake 85% of the items I sell. I have brought on a few other girls to sew a few pieces each season. This project was designed to get me more stock without working through the night, and get the art of these girls more exposure. Each piece is all handmade, sometimes right down to the button, and one of a kind.
I find it is impossible to spend as much time at the computer as one would spend creating. Besides, the creating is more fun. It's why I started this whole business.

It seems to me that I am starting to flood. So I am going to cut this off and ask, "Is there anyone out there like me?"

The only thing I know I do really well is make interesting scarves and hoods. I don't know how to keep up with every other aspect. I am all over the place. Just when I designed a new banner for my Etsy Store everyone is talking about a banner for the holidays. Ahhhh! Just when I may have my shipping down, now we're talking sales tax! I barely keep up with my blog how can I tweet?

I had a nightmare last night. I made my own Christmas stocking and it was really ornate. It was so beautiful because it was patchwork and embroidery- to the max. When it got close to Christmas it was filled with items before it was hung. This was when the dream started to get weird. Then when it was hung, it got put upside down. Everything started falling out. I couldn't catch everything, prevent it from falling out, and put anything back in it. And I woke up in a cold sweat.

Thanks guys. I just had to get that out. Maybe things will be on the up from here. I don't even have kids, pets, or live in the same town as my family. I don't know how real women do it. God bless you all. You deserve a fabulous holiday season.

I was going to write a post about how people should make, or buy handmade, gifts this season. I guess I'll save it for next week. That is, if I don't drown in my to-do list. 

Ski Barn Wayne, NJ

This is an update for Florida Scarf fans living in New Jersey. All four Ski Barn stores now have merchandise. The slideshow featured above is from the Wayne store. Their address is 1308 Rt. 23, Wayne, NJ, 07724. The number there is 201-445-9070. Feel free to phone in an order. They ship everywhere. Check them out on the web too, at http://www.skibarn.com/. It's a great store for all your winter needs.

I've been hearing in the news that it is getting pretty cold in the North. I hope you get lots of snow this winter!

Previous posts inclulde slideshows from the other Ski Barn locations. Browse them all if you've got a second.

Happy Holidays.

Ski Barn Paramus, NJ

This is the Florida Scarf collection available at the Ski Barn in Paramus New Jersey. They are located at 846 Rt. 17 North. The number is 201-445-9070. they are also at http://www.skibarn.com/

Ski Barn Lawrenceville, NJ

This is a photo collage of the scarves and hoods that are available at the Ski Barn in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. They are located at 2990 Rt 1 North. The phone number is 609-530-1666. They would be delighted in your patronage, either in person or online at http://www.skibarn.com/.

Happy Holidays!

This is a show of items available at the Ski Barn in Eatontown, New Jersey. They are located at 305 Rt 35. The phone number is 732-578-9460.

As always, these items are One of a Kind. Stop by, or contact them soon, if you are interested in any piece shown.

Happy Holidays.

Hello World, Philadelphia

This is the collection available at Hello World in Philadelphia.
They are located at 257 S. 20th St, between Spruce and Locust. The shop number is 215-545-5207.
Remember, these items are one of a kind. So if you see something you like get there fast!
Happy holidays.

Bazaar-O World

I have a 10' x 10' space. There is a red line of tape that marks the entrance. No one has crossed it to enter my booth. It's 6:45 pm. This holiday shopping bazaar opened at 5:30. I'm wondering who the heck even starts their holiday shopping before Halloween. Being here was such a mistake. I never should have spent all that money to do this. No one likes my stuff. I'm going to have three more days of standing here, like this, looking stupid with my handmade neck warmers. It's Alabama. What was I thinking?

Oh..oh..Someone just stepped over my red line. False alarm. She continued walking. She probably just lost her footing. Could ideas get any worse than me thinking to come here? My booth is supposed to be in a good spot. I'm right across from the hometown candy company. They've been doing this show for 20 years. People love them. I'm also next to a guy giving out margarita samples. Everyone is flipping for the stuff. Maybe between the two I'm canceled out. I'm thinking margarita....with wine? What ever happened to good, old fashioned tequila? Arbor Mist is not my style. Tequila is. Tequila and handmade scarves. No one here understands me.

It's 6:55. Two people just crossed my line. "You must be real smart to think of an idea like this."
No purchase was made.

I bet people would buy them if I had them made in China rather than doing it myself. They don't understand...

"Ooh, what is this?".....
"Rocket Science. Keep moving."

7:10. I finally had a nice conversation about my product. Still not one sale. The candy booth has a line around the corner.

Next year I'm going to paint tiger eyes on scraps of wood and sell them.

7:28. They're playing jingle bells. Wow. Christmas music already. And the place is decorated up like Whooville. Normally I like Christmas music. Really, I usually love everything about the holiday. But when I'm at a craft show not selling anything I turn into the grinch.

7:45. And just like that, the wind changed, started coming out of the east. I made $100 from one person on one sale. She was so excited about what I do. There are people here that understand me.

This is an excerpt from a journal I started at a recent holiday shopping bazzar. I did it because I was bored, and defeated, from not having immediate action in my booth. This is as far as I got with the entry because after that I was busy for the next three days. I'm continuing the entry here. When I go to shows to sell my product I turn the event into such an emotional rollercoaster. I can't be the only one who does this. For that reason I wanted to share these thoughts in case anyone else feels alone.

Making stuff is the easy part. Putting yourself out there for the scrutiny of the general public is a whole different ball game. Going to this show was a tremendous learning experience for me. I was so disheartened in the beginning. By the end however, I had sold a ton of product, learned about my new customer base in Alabama, got a few offers to sell in stores, got some great tips, drew in funds for donations, met a lot of great people, and recieved more compliments than I knew what to do with.

The moral of the story here is don't kill it before it even has a chance to get good. Take risks. Make yourself nervous, but don't sike yourself out.

Because my first night had such a fabulous turn around I maintained a great attitude, even when bull started hitting the fan....my shoe broke, I ran out of wrapping, ran out of receipts, found out I was responsible for 10% sales tax, ran out of change, drank too much water and had to pee but couldn't leave because I was by myself.

Now that it is all over, I would definitely do it again. I encourage you to do the same. It's like bootcamp. See what you're made of.

New Sign

So the whole point of this post is that I made a new sign for when I go to craft shows. From the photo you can see it is much more than just a sign. There is sculpture in there. I'm stoked on it. Here's why.

For the past couple of shopping seasons I have done holiday craft shows. They have always been pretty low-key. This year I tried a big show on for size. By a "big show" I mean $$$ entrance fee, four days, vendor ammenities... the whole nine. As I was reading over the criteria for the show they had a lot of rules. One that caught my attention was that you couldn't have a hand-written/stenciled sign. It had to be professional. At the time it was two days before the show and I'm reading that thinking I'm screwed. I can't afford to pay to make a sign for the show. I've already paid to be there, and paid for transportation, and lodging. It all adds up and I was starting to feel in over my head. Then I changed my thought track. (a good practice to remain sane) The sign I use to use definitely falls into the "unacceptable catagory", but why can't I make a new one? Why do I think professional means plastic and laser printing? Once I relaxed I remebered I am a professional. It just so happens that I make things with my hands, not a computer. And that is totally fine. So here is my kick-ass, handmade, professional sign. I thank the show host for the encouragement. Otherwise I would still have my old sign, which was pretty amateur. I taught myself a lesson here and I hope the experience will be inspirational for others too. Try new things, and grow, and get in over your head. What you'll find is that you can bring yourself and your product to the next level more effectively than you think.

Busy Making Friends

I would like to start by saying I can't believe it's Friday. Again. Already? Wow, time flies when you're busy making new friends. Mind you, all of these "new friends" I've never met face-to-face and probably never will. This is the power of social media. When one starts a small crafting business they must be equally as crafty about advertising and promotion. And in the past couple of months I feel like there has been a boom in networking and blogging and tweeting...etc. in order to successfully market. I'm sure it's been like this for a while and I'm just late. It is amazing to me how many people there are, out there, that are just like me. They are great artists trying to make a living and help others do the same thing.

Recently I have joined two new Etsy Teams. Members of the teams work together to try and promote each other. I'm using this morning to shout them out.

                                      
                                         The first is a team with a simple concept: promotion.
This team is worldwide so there is a lot of diversity in who you meet and what they make. Here is an example of one of my favorites.

 dominicanlounge.etsy.com.

 They have larimar and dominican amber, all very reasonably priced. The color in this particular piece is gorgeous.

The next team I recently became a member of is the HomeFront Street Team. This team is a bit more exclusive. It is still worldwide, but you must be the spouse of a uniformed serviceman. I think this group is great because there are so many military families trying to make it work.

I just joined this team last night and I've had five welcome notes and emails. These girls know the real meaning of support. I'm really excited to be a part of this community. I hope I actually meet another member that lives at Ft. Rucker. Then we could have craft parties. Anyway, here is a member I'd like to promote:

                                                       smokeymountainscents.etsy.com

This is definitely soap I'd accidentally eat, even in the shower, especially if I'd accidentally taken my coffe in there with me too. Supporting these crafters is especially important. They have very interesting circumstances they work under.

In addition to the Teams, I've also been working on scoring a "buddy" on Etsy. This is just an individual you work with. The goal here is to give/recieve support and encouragement on marketing and productivity through the holidays. Here she is.

                                                                 sofisticata.etsy.com

This is Hir. She makes elegant adornments and accessories. Sometimes it just isn't enough to put on your Manolo's. You have to make them even more chic. I've really been having "a thing" for peacock feathers lately too. Anyway, Hir is fabulous and her fashion is fabulous. check her out.

                                        Last, but not least, me. Here's what I've been up to lately.
This is a new scarf. It has great print and texture combos. The color palette gives it a lot of richness too. The sweater material is Italian New Wool, so it's really warm. The backing is a fun Giraffe print velboa. There is an accent of vintage tiki trim, my favorite part. You can't not love retro tiki.

That's all for now. Have a great weekend!

New Tricks from Old Friends

Those were the good old days, when people used to get together and sew. Now sewing is an individualized sport. I spend most of my days solo in my sewing studio, longing for the stimulation of other like minds. That is one of the reasons I decided to ask some crafty friends of mine to sew scarves for me. It has been really fun for me to show them how I do what I do. They each took my instruction and then went their own way with it. You can see all of the results on my etsy site. Each one of us five girls has a style all our own.

During this project I kept very open to how other people might do things and I picked up a few new tricks. I'm so glad I did it because it has helped me to keep my own style fresh and ever-evolving. When you are on your own and in your routine, sometimes you don't realize what you are doing is becoming very "routine." 

One day Lauren and I were comparing scarves. I noticed that she sewed on her four-hole buttons in two straight lines. I sew mine in an "x." We both laughed at ourselves because neither of us had thought to do it the other way, but it was such a simple concept. Likewise when I saw the scarves from Cassandra I noticed they had a soft, fuzzy texture. I really liked the chunky grain on this light fabric she used. I asked her where she got it. She said that she had taken sweatshirt fabric and turned it inside out. I smiled as I thought, "no kidding, sweatshirt in reverse." You know I'm going to take that idea and go places with it.

I'm beginning to realize how important it is to have friends, and share ideas. The more tips I learn, the more I'm working and thinking, "What can I turn upside-down or inside-out? What material haven't I used yet?"

I often have to remind myself that it is OK not to innovate all the time. Being open-minded can make you so much better at being you. I mainly apply this thought to my sewing, but it works for life too. I don't do anything any better than anyone else, just different.

Available at Earthtones

 

Florida Scarf fans in Southern New Jersey get pumped. This is what will be available at Earthtones. This retail location is at 19 N. Centre St, Merchantville, NJ. The number is 856-488-1830. Aside from these fabulous scarves and hoods, Betsy stocks great pottery, jewelry, and gift ideas. Merchantville is a great place to hang out and have lunch, or coffee, and shop.

Shop Hello Bluebird

So this is a show of the merchandise available now at Hello Bluebird. It is a great shop located at 609 Penn Avenue in West Reading, Pennsylvania. If you live in the area, awesome! I've given you a head start on your seasonal shopping. If not, give 'em a shout at http://www.hellobluebird.net/

P.S. This is not only women's stuff. She's got kids too!

Details

I've been watching this series on PBS. Obviously, it is called "Craft in America." For anyone that is not familiar, it documents the lives of American artists of a particular craft. The people on the show are just wonderful. Everyone's craft and personality are very different from one show to the next. I can even get my husband to watch it. Of course marriage is always a compromise, so it's one show about art for one show on the military channel. ( I would love a combo-show, "Crafting in the American Army") Last night one of the artists said something that really hit home with me. It was, "Being an artist means mastering the materials of your craft in order to express your heart."
This statement really puts it into words for me. I make scarves. Maybe your thinking, "no big deal." But I really put all of myself into each one. Every piece is different so I give it a personality of its own. Unfortunately this can mean way too much time is spent on one piece. The problem is, I don't feel complete until I feel the piece is complete. I want to be satisfied and I want the consumer to be satisfied. It is far better to spend an extra 10 or 20 minutes on something and really be proud of it than to rush through it.
This is my third season making scarves and I've really been inspired by small details this year. It's about getting into the piece and using five or six types of fabric and adorning them with handmade buttons or vintage beads. I really want anyone who buys my piece to feel special when they wear it. I want an individual to feel like I made it solely for them. Each scarf has a voice. Eventually one will speak to you.

Here are few examples of where I've been going this season:

This piece is actually available now

http://www.scgeraci.etsy.com/

This piece will be available at Hello World, Philadelphia.

This piece will be available at Hello World, Philadelphia.

No factory can produce the level of quality and aesthetic that an individual craftsman can. If you would like to be inspired further, as I have, watch that series on PBS ( Netflix too)

HERE IS WHAT PBS HAS TO SAY ABOUT IT

We have a deep sense of longing for the handmade. Perhaps because each of us, in our own way, has had a craft experience. Sometimes it’s an object passed down to us, or one that crosses our path, and connects us to others in traditions, heritage, and rituals.

Craft gives pleasure as well as function. It is inspirational as well as useful. It is the best representation of who we are as a culture. Craft is democratic. It is broad enough to accommodate anyone who makes something or appreciates the handmade. Craft is all around us. You’ll find it wherever you look – hiding in plain sight.
Craft in America offers you a place to explore these connections and to inspire your own creativity – through the PBS documentary series and this website. Join us on this voyage of discovery. View the programs online or purchase DVDs of the Peabody Award-winning series for your home library.

Savage Dorothy

For every single piece I make there is inspiration. For this particular hood I really started to daydream...

What if, when Dorothy got knocked unconcious she didn't go to Oz? What if she went somewhere more exotic? Instead of ruby slippers she would wear this hood. It may be slightly less glamorous, but it is much more practicle. It helps her to blend in with her new environment. The inside bears the gingham of her former clothing, as well as a magenta leaf print to help her assimilate into the new culture. The brown sweatshirt keeps her warm. Since this wild, new world is mostly dirt and trees the color acts as a camoflage also. Pulling the hood up over her head hides her lovely feminine features. She must remain as hidden as possible for fear of being held prisoner. She will pull the drawstring tight. Not only does her hood have two buttons for secure fastening, but it also has mini nuts and berries that she can use as a food source. Eventually her adventure will wind down and Dorothy will be ready to go home. All she will have to do is wear her hood in the reverse. In doing this, the brown will be on the inside and her bright prints will be on the outside. Once the savages realize her identity she can teach them about both worlds through the fabric. She will be freed through the sharing of knowledge.

 "One should never underestimate the inspiration of eccentricity." 

I appologize for not knowing who said this line. But i am using it to end this post today since I feel a bit silly for what I have written. I had fun doing it though, and I hope you had fun reading it. If you love this hood it is for sale.

http://www.scgeraci.etsy.com/

Kids Vintage

This is a photo of some of my favorite retro cookbooks. I rarely cook from them, but I love them. Actually, I draw more inspiration for painting or sewing from these pieces than for food. The next shot is one of my favorite pictures.

Isn't that a riot? Something about the late 50's/early 60's is so appealing to me, a 21st century girl. I love using themes and trends from time past to create a lot of my hoods and scarves. The trick is taking theses characteristics and using them ever so slightly to add vintage flair to a modern piece. Sometimes I start with the button, but in this case I've found some killer fabric.

This red mini-floral reminds me of cherry pie and cola in a bottle. The red, white, and blue is also very Americana.

I found this plaid print in the bottom of my gram's sewing closet. That is about as legit-vintage as it gets. I can't help pairing plaid with another repetitive print. I need contrast.

So I've got my materials and I'm ready to sew the pieces. But I'm thinking to myself, "What is more cute than a retro hoodie hat?"

"Duh, a kid's retro hoodie hat."

Anything in a tiny version makes me melt. So what this adventure of inspiratrion turned into was a pair of kids hoods. I couldn't imagine anyone in 1961 actually wearing one of these, but it makes sense now.

 

Thanks for checking in with Florida Scarf.