20's inspired Hatbands!

I have really been having fun with collecting old neckties and thinking of new ways to re-purpose them. This is the newest addition to the collection. I absolutely love making them and think they look fabulous, darlings!

Many Ties Hat

I came up with this hat design last winter and have been working to perfect it. This is a good example of an 'upcycled' product and something made of 're-purposed' materials. This hat is made from vintage and retro men's ties that have been delightfully collected and carefully selected. The finished product is beautiful and one-of-a-kind!

When We Met on an Ocean of Dreams

This is another textile collage that I did for the most recent PRAS artshow. It's made from vintage materials, with exception of the fabric that the image is printed on. I felt that this one was telling a story of lovers. The antique crosstitched broach at the botton suggests that an exchange has been made. It's hard to tell from a photo, but when one first looks at this piece they see the writing first and then the image kind of pops out while your eyes are focusing. It seems to surprise people. It doesn't quite feel finished yet though. I'd like to add a little something to brighten up the top half. I'm thinking a few stars will do.

The Golden Threads of My Gentle Heart

This is a textile collage that I made for Arbutus Health in Tofino. This piece has a lot of meaning for me as it expresses a focus on healing the heart. It incorporates a personal collection of 5 semi-precious stones which represent the 5 elements in Chinese medicine. The focal point and centre image of the antler girl is one that I really resonate with. To me, she represents our direct connection to the earth, our oneness with all beings. This piece is made entirely from re-purposed materials such as vintage linens, laces, ribbon and trims with the exception of the image, which I had printed onto plain organic cotton at Pina in Ucluelet. The photo could be better but I haven't had a chance to take a proper one yet.

Bag of Love

I made this beautiful bag for the annual PRAS spring art show. It is made entirely from re-purposed materials, the focal piece being a vintage, hand embroidered apron. When I was finished it was just so lovely. I wondered, what would one put in such a bag? So I decided to call it "Bag of Love".

This is all new to me!

Well, here I go. This is my first attempt at blogging....hmmmm. Let's see if I can figure out how to upload pictures and make this page look good!