Fiberlines

Green Droplets Tatted Necklace

2011-09-29T10:17:00.001-04:00

Green Droplets Tatted Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

My Mom's birthday was this week so I decided to try a pattern that was in my head to make a necklace for her in her favorite colors. After some tweaking of the stitch count, I got it to shape around the neck nicely, and used exactly the number of fringe beads I had on hand. This pattern was so successful, I think I will make a video tutorial when I'm in the mood.

Happy the Lovebird crochet

2011-06-27T19:07:00.001-04:00

Happy the Lovebird crochet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I custom ordered a replica of my violet-masked lovebird, Happy from one of my students. I think she did an amazing job copying his feather colors and shape. She creates her own patterns.

Well, it's official...I'm 50

2011-04-25T23:59:00.001-04:00

Birthday dinner 4/23/11, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Looking forward to crafting, beading, thrifting, drumming, dancing, singing and playing my way through the next 50 ;-)

Orenburg Lace Knitting

2011-03-26T21:40:00.005-04:00

This video came through my Facebook news feed and I wanted to share. I attempted lace knitting over a year ago, and failed miserably...no matter how closely I followed the patterns I liked, I could never get past the first set of repeated rows...there was always something wrong on the next row, and I couldn't figure out what was wrong. OK, I tried and succeeded at "feather and fan" pattern, but it just wasn't interesting enough...the ones I liked in my little "Field Guide to Knitting" just never worked :-(

Time to vote on "Fashion Through the Ages"

2011-03-13T14:33:00.004-04:00

Etsy Beadweavers Blog

There is still time left to vote for your favorite beadwoven creation in the Etsy Beadweavers' monthly challenge. This month's challenge was selected by our previous winner, Patrizia of Triz Designs. Patrizia has challenged our members to "Choose a fashion style from any period of fashion and design a piece to fit that chosen style/period." We do this for fun and to show the world the extent of our creativity...the prize is just the honor of selecting the next month's challenge. Please take a minute or two to look at all the wonderful designs, created entirely by hand and with original designs (using patterns from other designers is not allowed), and vote for your favorite. This month I entered a piece (#32) entitled "Metropolis", which plays on some of the design elements popular during the Art Deco period.

Backstrap Weaving Report (a year late !)

2011-03-08T18:21:00.003-05:00

Well, a year ago, folks, I tried some backstrap weaving, but just now am getting around to writing a post about it...have I actually finished the weaving itself ??? NOOOOO, but at least I'm finally posting about the effort ! My bad :-[

Anyway, over a year ago, during the second East Coast blizzard, otherwise known as "snowpocalypse", I decided to try Travis Meinolf's (AKA "Actionweaver")Pocket Weaver he had posted on his blog. I have a photo series of my effort. I also took a class a month later with Laverne Waddington, the master of Andean backstrap weaving. Have I finished that project either ??? NOOO again, and now I'm wondering how much of it I can remember ! Too many projects, too much procrastination !

Collecting/Re-using Wool Sweaters

2011-02-21T21:51:00.001-05:00

I am a super lucky thrifter because in my neighborhood, there are two thrift stores that regularly sell items for only 10 cents apiece in their bins. Every Wednesday, I hit the one with the largest bins, and battle the crowds to claim my prizes...a pile of usually 20-30 items for under $3 total. Since I began losing weight over a year ago, I kept going for personal items in smaller and smaller sizes...I have way too many shirts, skirts and pants now, so I'm focusing on pieces to cut up and re-use, plus I'm collecting silk pieces for a fellow artist who does nuno felting .

My 100% wool sweater collection has grown sizeable in just the last couple weeks, so it's time to start hacking them to pieces and restyle with my new serger my incredibly generous aunt bought for me two months ago. What should I make ? Well, fulled purses is my first thought, but tonight, I found this blog post in my google reader for glove construction . A-ha ! My soft and lovely 100% merino wool sweaters will make nice gloves ! I found my inspiration, so wish me luck !

Colors of the Oasis Exhibit

2011-01-12T22:31:00.005-05:00

OK, I know I probably shouldn't have taken this pic, but I couldn't resist. I went to see the exhibit of Central Asian Ikats at the Textile Museum of DC last week, and was truly awestruck with the beauty on display. The range of color and pattern was immense, and there seemed to be no end to the creativity of the designers and weavers who produced these works of art. It's definitely an exhibit I would like to view again before it closes on March 13, 2011. And finally, after years of putting off joining the Textile Museum, I did it. I was still on the fence with the $60 membership, but in the museum shop, there was a sign with a special $50 rate for signing up on location. Hopefully, I'll find ways to take advantage of the membership...maybe a reception, curator talk or other event somewhere down the road.

New Blog for Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery

2010-09-20T19:54:00.006-04:00

My co-op gallery just started a new blog after setting up a Facebook fan page a few months ago. More and more of our gallery members are on Facebook but still spend plenty of time at their looms, sewing machines, beading tables, knitting couches, etc. Our latest gallery theme was The Child Within and members produced some very colorful and whimsical fiber art creations.

Fiber Optic Weaving

2010-08-25T16:27:00.003-04:00

Recently I helped fund an outdoor mural project through Kickstarter, and so I get updates about other Kickstarter projects. Here's a new one that certainly looks fascinating. It's woven panels made of fiber optic threads which will be linked to the internet and change warp and weft patterns based on Twitter feeds and airplane flight times.

Batala Rehearsal

2010-08-17T13:29:00.001-04:00

DC100814-X4669CS--Batala, originally uploaded by Bill in DC.

When you play repique, you don't get a lot of photographic time. There were 58 shots of rehearsal last week and I could only one photo of me (in gray on the right). Every week, photographers and tourists take our pictures and I keep up a steady hunt for online images. Here's a recent video of a rehearsal.

Tatted Earrings with Beads

2010-07-16T12:47:00.001-04:00

Tatted Earrings with Beads, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Here I go with my needle tatting addiction. I came with a design for some earrings and they actually turned out rather nicely, so I documented the process and am working on a video tutorial. Also, set up a class at the bead store where I've taught before.

Batala @ World Cup Party 2010

2010-07-12T10:16:00.001-04:00

Batala Banda de Percussao World Cup Party 2010, originally uploaded by ED́WW day_dae (esteemedhelga).

This past year, I had to take time off from the band because I got a teaching job at the same time as band practice. I was so happy when the academic year ended and I could rejoin.

Mural Painter Seeks Donors

2010-03-28T11:19:00.006-04:00

UPDATE !!! Joel's project has been funded ! I'm looking forward to seeing his finished work and receiving my art print.
Through my Brazilian percussion band, Batala , I have connections to so many different people, events and projects. One of my Batala sisters passed on this plea for funds to help mural painter, Joel Bergner create a mural to raise awareness about domestic violence in our communities. I checked out his paintings and immediately fell in love with the bold colors and simplicity of line. I hope some of my friends will also appreciate his style and the seriousness of this issue and help see this project to its completion. If you would like to donate, please see the link in the upper corner of my blog and thanks so much !

Gallery Profile: Christine Sinclair

2010-02-26T21:02:00.003-05:00

Felted Scottish Thistle
Christine Sinclair (on right)
Nuno Felted Scarf
Felted Fingerless Mittens

A few days ago, I was working the in-house jury process as scribe and one of my colleagues submitted this fantastic giant felted thistle. We were all amazed at her creativity and I decided to share it with the world here. She is from Scotland, so it was just a matter of time, I guess, for the idea to hit her ! Christine always produces gorgeous nuno felted scarves, bags, fingerless mittens and lovely flowers. There is alot of felt work in our gallery and hers always makes a fabulous impression. Felting is something I did once in a fiber arts class in college. I don't plan on doing it ever again for the main reason that I don't like to get my hands wet ! However, I do enjoy seeing the wonderful work of my fellow artists.

Mongolian Felt-making video brings a laugh

2010-01-14T10:59:00.002-05:00

Going through the daily reading of crafty blogs on my Google Reader, I ran across this video posted on Craftster. It's a hilarious way to promote the Mongolian felt-making industry. Kind of a cross between old Monty Python animations and Sgt. Pepper. Enjoy !

Family weaving buddies

2010-01-11T23:25:00.001-05:00

Family weaving buddies (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

My niece and nephew are learning how to weave on looms I gave them. My niece gave her first project to her Nana and is working on a second one for Grandma. My nephew is working on a cute little table loom I found at a thrift store for $10. He's making a scarf with colorful ribbon yarn. After he finishes we are going to watch a DVD on warping a loom and start another project.

Tatted bracelet #2

2010-01-11T23:20:00.001-05:00

Tatted bracelet #2 (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I finished this bracelet last week while gallery sitting. I tried it on and it was a bit loose. The last thing I remember is thinking about it being loose, and then my memory is blank. I must have taken it off, but after that, I have no idea where it went. We scoured the gallery floor, drawers, my purse, I checked outside where I had walked earlier. Sad, because I intended to take photos of the finished product. I was pretty happy with my pattern and planned to draw up a schematic of the stitches, but I would definitely use smaller beads next time.

Loom Envy

2009-11-04T20:10:00.001-05:00

Loom Envy (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

The other day, I was at a meeting at a weaver's house, and she gave me a tour of her loom collection. I first spotted a Macomber Ad-a-Harness loom which is the same as mine. Then she took me downstairs to the loom room which had, I believe, a small Schact loom and then showed me the colossus pictured here, an AVL compu-dobby loom. I wanted to see it in action, and she showed me how she calls up the current pick (row) on the computer and sets it in motion. She uses a type of "flying shuttle" which she is holding in her hand. She justs "flings" it from one side to the other and it sends the shuttle across with little effort. The mechanism raises the right shaft and there are no treadles. There is still alot I have to learn about weaving and all its terminology. Once I get my loom in working order, and get some practice, I'll be able to speak with more confidence about weaving. For now, I'll just ooh and ahh over the fabulous handwovens at our gallery.

Tatting: Rings and Chains

2009-10-05T22:28:00.003-04:00

Tatting: Rings and Chains, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

For decades, I've wanted to learn to tat. No-one in the family did it, and I tried to teach myself using a tatting shuttle. I didn't even know about needle tatting. I was clueless about the shuttle and gave up after trying a couple times. A few years ago, I learned there was another method, but never ran across a class that I could take.

On Sunday morning, I was reading the local section of the paper, and saw that there was a class taking place as part of the Victorian Day activities at the Ben Lomond Historic Site in Manassas, VA. I called about the time, and headed over there a couple hours later, throwing all my previously laid plans out the window.

In a matter of minutes, the teacher had me making rings and chains and I was amazed at how easy it was ! I finished my first ornament in under three hours, but the next one I hope to finish in under an hour. Actually, I don't plan to make coasters, doilies and ornaments at all. I've got some plans brewing for using other yarns, adding beads, doing freeform with other techniques, who knows ?

Crafty Bastards Craft Show

2009-10-04T23:21:00.001-04:00

Handspun yarn @ Crafty Bastards (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Yes, that's the name of the show, and it is a very cool show. The name comes from the back page of the Washington City Paper where "crafty bastards" can advertise their wares. Several years ago, the paper started a craft show where the advertisers could sell their stuff to the public. I first became interested when I read about a crafter who made dolls out of tampons. I thought, "what kind of a craft show is this ?" and knew I had to check it out. There are alot of Etsy sellers there and everything (I mean Everything...except for the doggie product vendor's stuff...argghh....is handmade). I bought some herbal soaps from http://biggsandfeather.com .

One of the big reasons I love to go is that they always have the "B-Boy Battle" (breakdancing competition) going on at the same time. The crowd is huge, the competition fierce but friendly and the "dancing" is mesmerizing !

Fiesta DC 2009

2009-09-27T22:07:00.001-04:00

Fiesta DC 2009 (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

This is the third year I've been a part of this festival in NW Washington, DC. My Brazilian band, Batala, performed in the parade and the best part is seeing all the brilliant costumes from Central and South America, and the Carribean. I think it's my favorite festival of the whole year here in DC. I ordered some authentic Mexican tacos from a food vendor and found out that it's from a restaurant just down the street from my house. It was delicious, so now I'm definitely going to check it out.

Trip to Brazil by way of NYC

2009-09-08T15:28:00.009-04:00

I just got back from a three day weekend in New York to participate in the "Lavagem do rua 46" which is a ritual based on the "Lavagem do Bonfim" which takes place every year in Salvador, Bahia in Brazil. The parade traveled down 46th Street which is known as Little Brazil. I played in my Brazilian percussion band, Batala, and for this parade, we had our largest contingent ever, 47 players, all women !

Here is a video of the headline performer Carlinhos Brown. I didn't know much about him before, but now I see why he is so famous, he's a great entertainer. Here is a parade video. We are the loud "wall" of drum sound and you can see us at the 35 sec. mark.

Young Crochet Talent

2009-08-12T08:49:00.003-04:00

I teach violin, and occasionally, a student shows up with some craft. Of course, I would rather talk about their crafting than finish the lesson ! Sometimes, I will ask a student if he or she knows how to knit or crochet. If they want to learn, sometimes after the lesson is over, I'll bring out some yarn and needles and have a mini lesson. I have taught at a summer camp and really enjoyed it. I wish there was money to be made teaching crafts !

A Scrumble a Day

2009-06-14T20:53:00.004-04:00

...is the title of the blog by Prudence Mapstone, the queen of freeform. I first encountered her techniques in my monthly knitting study group. A fellow knitter brought a book showing the bullion technique and I became "hooked" on those for awhile, but sadly, put it away with all the other "UFO's" (unfinished objects). I also tried some freeform knitting and again, it ended up in the UFO pile. If you want to see what scrumble she has going each week, check out her blog.

Weaving Hope

2009-05-19T23:03:00.003-04:00

In the town of Occoquan, Virginia where I was a member of a co-op gallery for several years, there is a little weaving shop that has been offering hope to mentally challenged adults for almost 30 years. The shop is called Spinaweb and was started by a caring weaver named Erna Gilker. In the early 80s, she offered classes to residents of an intellectually disabled adult activity center and they responded with excitement. The shop employs a small staff who warp the looms and do the weaving. The program is supported by ARC (Association for Retarded Citizens of Prince William County, VA). Through the years, visitors from around the globe have brought handwoven gifts to their home countries, and orders have risen. In addition to handwoven shawls, ponchos, scarves, purses, tea cozies and other gifts, they also offer a selection of weaving and knitting yarns for sale. Spinaweb is nestled in the lovely historic community of Occoquan, on the banks of the Occoquan River. Shop hours are 9 to 4 Monday through Saturdays. For more info, call 703-491-7422 or visit Spinaweb .

M'Bemba Bangoura, Bernard Woma with Ethos Percussion Group

2009-05-09T01:02:00.001-04:00

M'Bemba Bangoura, Bernard Woma with Ethos Percussion Group, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I'm not sure the Coolidge Auditorium at the Library of Congress has ever been so lively. At least never during the many times I've been there for concerts. I've heard world famous string quartets, early music ensembles and other recitalists, but this concert definitely didn't fit the mold. The Ethos Percussion Group, a contemporary music ensemble joined forces with two renowned west African musicians from Ghana and the Republic of Guinea for an unforgettable concert. My poor cameraphone was only able to get these shots, but you can see the audience members grooving to the African beats on stage. We were all encouraged to get up and dance, as they say in Ghana, you should dance anyway even if you're not a good dancer because, "the ground won't complain" !

Gorgeous Fiber Jewelry

2009-05-04T18:48:00.005-04:00

Just discovered this Russian fiber artist on Etsy whose work blew me away and I had to share. Her shop is TianaCHE and her name is Tiana Agapcheva. I just love what she does with knitting, crochet and beading. Enjoy !

Upcoming Lace Day-April 25th

2009-04-22T23:32:00.003-04:00

The Chesapeake Region Lace Guild is holding a Lace Day this Saturday in Fairfax, VA. I'm bummed because it's at the same time my students have their annual chamber music recital. Let me tell you, I would rather be having fun trying out lacemaking techniques than gritting my teeth behind a smile, praying that my students keep their ensembles together. The website lists a fall Lace Day, so I'm marking that in my calendar right now.

Bobbin Lace Finds

2009-04-17T10:26:00.002-04:00

Lately, the thought of learning bobbin lace techniques has been surfacing. Not sure I'll actually be able to follow through on those thoughts. They probably have occurred since I missed out on a bobbin lace workshop held in March that conflicted with a beadweaving class I was scheduled to give (secretly wishing that no students would sign up !). Anyway, here is a little treat for the eyes from a talented Etsian: Pure Harebell Bobbin Lace Necklace from FiredragonLace.

Roselette top

2009-03-30T21:45:00.001-04:00

Roselette top, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I've been working hard on finishing this adorable top for my niece. I made another one for my 3 year old niece's birthday a few weeks ago and started one for the 2 year old last Monday. Unfortunately, the yarn was too thin and I looked like it would only fit a 6 month old. So I used some variegated wool I bought at a thrift store and it turned out only a little too big for her. You can see how the colorway changes more rapidly on the top part as the pattern requires turning rows. On the lower part, the pattern works in the round so the colors are more blended. There is a large section of yellow on the back, but oh, well, I didn't have much time to cut and restart the yarn at different color points.

Woven Delights From Blue Loom Designs

2009-02-10T20:48:00.006-05:00

This is another post to showcase the creativity and talent of members of Potomac Craftsment Fiber Gallery.

Today, I would like to introduce Ruth Blau and Blue Loom Designs. I have known Ruth for the past five years since I joined the gallery, and have always found myself gravitating towards anything made by her when I gallery sit. As soon as I have finished all the details of opening the gallery on my day, I head towards the beautiful handwoven scarf display. Inevitably, the first scarf I reach for is one of Ruth's. Her sense of color in the handpainted warps and impeccable weaving skill is something I can only dream of being able to do. Then as I look around the gallery at the wearable pieces, jewelry and handbags, I continue to find more of Ruth's handiwork. Many days, I stand there astonished at the number of different techniques she does so well including kumihimo and inkle weaving. She often shares her knowledge and once gave a talk about fiber identification to our beginning weaving study group. I learned a great deal that day and appreciate her interest in educating us. I hope you will take a look at her website to see her beautiful creations and if you are ever in the Washington, DC area, will take the time to visit our gallery.

A Lovely Mola from Costa Rica

2009-02-01T21:19:00.004-05:00

My in-laws went on a trip to Costa Rica after Christmas and they brought back a traditional mola for me. My mother-in-law says this one was not made for the tourist trade, as it has more geometric elements than birds and flowers which are more typical of souvenirs. However, knowing that I'm a bird lover, she purchased one with two lovely swan-like or stork-like figures in the upper half. This scan does not show the full design which is symmetrical, I just couldn't get it all on the scanner. My husband received one appliqued to a t-shirt which features two large bird figures surrounded by small flowers.

The big story of their trip was the earthquake which hit the region they were visiting. My father-in-law, mother-in-law and her 92 year old father were sitting in a restaurant when it started shaking and cracking. Some tourists who were climbing along a ridge visiting the waterfall were tragically killed. The tourists staying at their lodge were all safe and but had to be helicoptered out of the area (still saying "thanks, God" about that !). I'm still waiting to see their photos and video.

Extreme Knitting

2009-01-06T22:22:00.002-05:00

I'm sure many knitters here have seen this, but thought I'd share for those who haven't. If you think your knitting obsession is over the top, feel free to put yourself back in the "normal" category after you see this !

Quilting Talent

2009-01-02T23:46:00.002-05:00

There are so many talented fiber artists in my gallery, Potomac Craftsmen Gallery that sometimes, I just have to crow about them here. I love working my gallery sitting day once a month because I get to feast my eyes on the beautiful quilt art of fellow member, Betty Ford. Each of her works is a small work of beauty, color, drama and texture. I would never be able to decide which of her pieces I like best. Please take time to enjoy browsing her online quilt gallery.

A Master of the Tree

2008-12-09T22:31:00.004-05:00

One of my former colleagues of the Artists' Undertaking Gallery, Patrick O'Brien, recently moved his woodturning studio into the new Lorton Workhouse Arts Center. I managed to check out the new arts center on its opening day and stopped by to see Patrick at work. Patrick is a master at seeing the future beauty of each piece of wood he turns and he allows details in the natural appearance of the tree to shine through. He will be having an open house along with a few other artists in three of the buildings of the former prison on Saturday evening, Dec. 13th, from 7-9 pm or you can stop in the arts center during open hours. Check out Patrick's turned wood mastery on his website.

Knitting Sales !

2008-12-06T23:26:00.005-05:00

Usually I only submit my beadweaving to my co-op gallery, Potomac Craftsmen Gallery but for the holiday show, I had some knitting that has been needing a good home for the last couple years. I can finally bid my mitred square hat and grey curly scarf a fond farewell. The hat took me from Thanksgiving to Easter to finish one year. I thought I would never finish it. It was a good learning experience in modular knitting, and strangely, I became attached to knitting mitred squares after that ! The curly scarf was another experiment with the idea of casting a crocheted chain onto circular needles and increasing until each row took an hour :P

Upcycling: It's Gone Mainstream Art Gallery

2008-10-26T23:17:00.005-04:00

I had seen her creations before at Eastern Market, where I marveled at their beauty and ingenuity and was excited to learn that Tamara Embrey's upcycled designs now appear at the Torpedo Factory in the Fiberworks gallery. While I was taking a break from working at the Potomac Craftsmen Gallery today, I stopped in at Fiberworks and saw Tamara's exhibit of gorgeous, unique and totally upcycled dresses and other wearables. On either side of her display were two stacks of uncut, recycled sweaters in blended color palettes awaiting a new life.

Ever Wanted to Knit Backwards ?

2008-08-29T22:10:00.003-04:00

Well, here's my new Flickr tutorial to explain it all. I always hated purling and wanted to be able to work freeform and short rows without turning. I found some instructions in a book and sort of figured it out. The only thing was, I had to re-orient each stitch on the next row-boooo.
Fast forward to a few days ago. I was working on my newly learned entrelac technique, when I visualized the purl row from the other side and tried inserting the left needle into the back of my last stitch. I wrapped the yarn around the front of the needle, slipped the right needle out, and VOILA, had a purl stitch without turning. And it was just as easy as doing a regular purl stitch on the other side.
After that, I was able to speed up my entrelac significantly and now I'm excited about doing more entrelac.

Entrelac Success +

2008-08-16T15:13:00.004-04:00

Last month a member of my knitting study group taught me how to do entrelac (basketweave) knitting. I have been wanting to figure it out for 20 years or more but could never get my head wrapped around any written instructions. After some hands on help, I discovered how easy it is and started to plan a little halter top for my 6 year old niece. Well, as I was knitting it, it was taking alot longer than I thought it would and looking alot bigger as well. Another niece who is 10 is happy to have it so I am working on finishing it up for her. After coming back from vacation I took it up again and while working, decided to try to work a purl stitch from the knit side and lo, and behold, it worked ! So the plus in my title of this post is: I CAN KNIT WITHOUT TURNING NOW !!! As soon as the project is finished, I'll be posting photos.

Springwater Fiber Workshop Closing Sale !

2008-07-21T17:24:00.003-04:00

It's very sad news for all the fiber enthusiasts of the Washington, DC region but the longtime source for classes and supplies is closing up at the end of the month. They are selling off yarns and equipment this weekend so check here for open hours.

Wow, time flies ! Another market has come and gone !

2008-07-17T23:56:00.003-04:00

Last week was the next Ballston Arts and Crafts Market. This time I was on the other side of the circle which was a little more publicly located. The only problem was the late afternoon sun drifting in and covering more and more of my space inside the tent. The day was not too hot, not too humid, it could have been worse, but I kept the heat at bay with a gel-filled neck cooler (bright orange, couldn't have looked uglier) and frequent cool-downs with cold, wet washcloths (I looked like I was giving myself a bath at times !).

I had three of Alice's critters this time and her darling alligator went to a good home. I sold my refashioned plaid skirt bag and souvenir New Mexico apron tote bag. Three new smaller handbags made their debut at the market having just been created at 2:30 in the morning.

I won't be at the next market, as I will be in Boston so Alice will be manning the booth this time.

Ballston Arts and Crafts Market

2008-06-19T18:18:00.005-04:00

My Booth Shot, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

...is a nice art market, although I only sold a bookmark, sniff, sniff after all that hauling/setup/breakdown. I had a whole bunch of my apron bags plus knitted purses and shrugs as well as Alice Webb's awesome whimsical fiber sculptures , of which I sold the biggest one. Maybe my booth was too eclectic, well, back to the drawing board before the next market which is on July 12th.

Apron Bag Tutorial-Finished Bag

2008-06-09T14:28:00.002-04:00

Apron Bag Tutorial-Finished Bag, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I've been hard at work, cutting up old aprons and reconstructing them into cute and handy tote bags. Follow this link for a visual tutorial on this super easy sewing project

It's FUFU time !

2008-06-02T23:10:00.006-04:00

Yesterday, I had my first taste of the Ghanaian mealtime favorite: fufu . OK, what is it ? It's a special bread dough-like pastry made from plantain flour. We had a chicken (or fish) stew made with tomatoes, habanero peppers, lime juice and peanut butter served over the fu-fu. The proper way to eat it is with the hands. The stew can also be served over boiled fresh plantain segments, rice or blackeye peas. Boy, was it spicy and delicious, but one bowl is enough. It's very filling. We also tried the kenkey which is also a type of bread.

Mother of all fabric dumpster dives !!!

2008-05-26T21:31:00.002-04:00

Mother of all fabric dumpster dives !!!, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

The office park where my brother works is probably the world's best dumpster diving location, and the dumpster is about 5 steps away from the back door of the office. Over the years, he has salvaged office panels, file cabinets, phone systems, tools, chairs, carpet, Pergo flooring, computers, bookcases, and just this week-this box of tons 'o fabric !!! There is heavy duty Ultrasuede and canvas, plus silks, cotton, and cotton and rayon velvets. And it couldn't have come at a better time, I'm embarking on a mad scramble to make lots of recon purses and stuff for the Ballston Art Market .

Ghanaian "Enstoolment" Ceremony

2008-05-25T22:14:00.023-04:00

Here is another installment of my cultural adventures living in Washington, DC. This story starts back a few years with the meeting of our friend, Nana Frimpong, the world class drummer and musician from Ghana. Fast forward to last night, and his invitation to us to join him at the "enstoolment" or enthroning of a Ghanian queen mother, Nana Gyamfuaa Pokuaa II at an event in Silver Spring. MD. Not knowing what this entailed but quite intrigued, we heartily agreed to see what it was all about. Knowing that Ghanian time runs on a different clock than DC time, we planned on being out very late.

The three of us arrived at approx. 12:30 pm at the high school gym which was decked out like prom night. The room was filled with round tables festively decorated. Lovely Ghanaian ladies wearing their finest handwoven fashions with towering head wraps and elegant gentlemen were sitting patiently. Some of them were nodding off. Men were scurrying around wearing miles of gorgeous kente cloth textiles wrapped around the body and over one shoulder like togas. They were constantly hoisting the fabric up. It didn't seem logical to have to carry all that fabric around, and it looked like they were trying to carry a whole roomful of heavy draperies. I guess the reason is to show the status of the wearer.

We kept debating about leaving since it was already so late and there seemed to be no time table. Finally, large numbers of people appeared dressed in more finery and a small group of musicians started drumming. The MC announced the queen's arrival. All the guests stood up like the arrival of the bride at a wedding. A long line of men in their colorful togas, two female dancers in bare feet wearing gold fabric and a line of women with colorful skirts and white eyelet cloth draped over their bare shoulders made their way into the gym. The women clustered into a tight group and inched their way around the open area at the front as the drummers' rhythms got faster and faster. The queen found her place on the "stool of authority" and the women sat closely around her. As things settled down, we checked our watches and it was close to 1:30 am. Time to slip out. I don't know what I missed but I was thrilled to get a glimpse of a very important event for a wonderful, friendly, community of people I am privileged to have met. Not to mention all the fabulous handwoven cloth all around me.

Artomatic Featuring BATALA !

2008-05-21T13:15:00.005-04:00

DC's biggest art event is happening right now. It's called "Artomatic" and it's 28 days of wall to wall art in one building. Since it's a non-juried show, you will find all types of artistic endeavors, so be prepared for the unexpected. I haven't visited yet, but I plan to head right for my favorite mask-maker, Anthony Delfin to see his latest creations.
And...this just in...BATALA Washington (that's my all-women samba-reggae percussion band) will be performing on Friday, June 6 at 9:00 pm.

Summer Art Market

2008-05-04T14:46:00.003-04:00

Fellow Artists' Undertaking Gallery member, Alice Webb and I are scheduled to participate in the Ballston Art Market this summer. It is held every second Saturday of the month starting in May. Our first market will be in June. At the market, Alice will be showing her whimsical handcrafted fiber sculptures and I will have my handbags and wearables made from recycled vintage clothing and textiles on display.

Viking Knit Experiment

2008-04-28T10:21:00.006-04:00

Last week I finally took a class at Star's Beads. Since I try to teach myself techniques, I have never taken a formal class in beadweaving or knitting although in college, I took a weaving and textiles course. When I found out my colleague, Mickey Kunkle was teaching a class on viking knit with silver, I signed up immediately, because I had been eyeing her wonderful bracelets at the Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery.

Batala Goes Bigtime at DC United Game

2008-04-07T11:39:00.001-04:00

Batala, originally uploaded by sarahandsean.info.

That's me, third one down. We play Brazilian percussion and got our big break to play at the opening game of the DC United soccer team at RFK stadium. Our band is all-women and we had about 35 drums at this show. We are loud to begin with, but they had us miked ! When we did a sound check, the resulting sound was like the biggest thunderstorm you ever heard. My husband says I'm addicted to Batala and he's right. I was never a member of a sorority but this is the closest to a "sisterhood" you can get. I wouldn't trade the experience for the world.

Artistic Artifacts

2008-03-30T13:08:00.004-04:00

I want to congratulate a fellow Potomac Craftsmen Gallery member on the fulfilling of long-held dream. Judy Gula is a fiber artist whose wonderful handmade fiber bead jewelry and art quilts I have been admiring for the past four years.

For the past several years she has had a traveling and online business of selling her hand-dyed vintage linen and found object packets to quilters and collage artists. Her website, Artistic Artifacts lists all kinds of interesting fabric, game pieces, collage packs, books and supplies and now, artists can shop for all her goodies in a retail setting at the Artistic Artifacts Annex in Alexandria, Virginia.

I was able to stop by yesterday to see her new space and products for sale. Although I'm not a quilter or collage artist, I was getting seriously tempted by the myriad beautiful hand-dyed fabric packs, beads, sequins, vintage linens and embroidery packs, buttons, antique game pieces and vintage paper goods for sale. I can't imagine a more thorough stock of materials for the mixed media artist or quilter at any traditional art and craft store.

The store does not maintain daily business hours for now, but is open during workshops and classes which are posted on the website. Judy has already scheduled some fascinating workshops for fiber artists and I may schedule a few beading classes there myself.

Dazzling Knitted Silver Jewelry

2008-03-11T22:46:00.002-04:00

I wanted to introduce a colleague of mine and her subtle yet dazzling silver knitted jewelry. She recently opened a shop on Etsy to showcase some of her creations, but I have known her and her work for several years now as a fellow member of the Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery in Alexandria, Virginia. She uses her name as her shop name. Please spend some time enjoying the beautiful work of Marla S. Rudnick .

Short Row Scarf WIP no longer !

2008-03-11T20:18:00.002-04:00

Short Row Scarf WIP, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Update: obtained the perfect yarn to finish the edge ! (see first pic)

Started a short row scarf a few months ago and finally got back to work on it. I used up the skein of elsebeth lavold Silky Wool blend wine red yarn. It's not quite a full length scarf, but I have a plan to expand on it.

Bulgarian Ensemble Sings like a Nightingale

2008-02-27T23:24:00.004-05:00

I spent the evening on Saturday listening to the glorious harmonies of Slaveya, a Washington, DC based ensemble whose name means "nightingale" in Bulgarian. As a former member, I enjoyed singing along under my breath and joining in on the Bulgarian style dancing at the end of the concert. The group has just introduced their first CD recording available now to download or order.

When I sang with the group last, a couple years ago, we wore beautifully handstitched blouses from Romania, but in the past year, the members commissioned these exquisite costumes handmade in Bulgaria. It's a rather small country, but there are many regions with a tremendous variety of costume details. Take a look at the wonderful costumes available from BalkanFolk.

ravelry Love Affair

2008-02-20T23:41:00.003-05:00

OK, I finally got the invite to join ravelry although it went into my junk mail a week ago. I set up my "notebook" with photos of all my projects, joined lots of cool groups like "Knittin' Musicians" and have been frittering away the hours reading posts and looking at great projects. It is THE home for knitting and crocheting fanatics. There is a waiting list, but it's worth the wait if you want to connect with people all over the world who love anything made with yarn.

We have Mask Appeal !

2008-02-03T18:48:00.000-05:00

My talented and artsy friend, Anthony makes these fantastic masks which we modeled at a Brazilian carnival party. He also makes fabulous one-of-a-kind wearable sculpture which he displays in galleries and art shows. He has a variety of these comfortable all leather handmade masks for sale in his Etsy shop, Mask Appeal . We wore these at last night's performance of our all-women samba-reggae percussion band, Batala Washington at a carnival party. The Heritage Restaurant on Connecticut Avenue was packed, everyone had masks, long peacock feathers, glow sticks and the place was rocking when we played our set. When you hang out with Brazilians, you are guaranteed to have a good time !

FFF finally !

2008-02-01T11:57:00.000-05:00

My cherished idea of posting my favorite new fiber-related Etsy shop every Friday is hanging on buy a "thread" so to speak. Here is the a wonderful shop I just found this week: Knitting Dream. She sells knitting patterns for modular knit totes, purses and hats which convert to wall-hangings. I love these shapes and of course, the colors. I'm going to order a pattern pretty soon I'm sure.

Weaving demo in Nanjing, China

2007-12-26T21:10:00.001-05:00

Brocade loom, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I was fortunate enough to see some interesting demonstrations on my trip. At the Confucious Temple marketplace in Nanjing, we went into the museum of historical crafts where we discovered a fully operational silk brocade loom being manned by two weavers. The number of spools the weaver was keeping track of was mind-boggling. She had an assistant sitting up in the "rafters" of the loom, counting out some threads for either the warp or heddles, not sure quite what they were.
See all the loom photos

Silk Factory Tour in Beijing

2007-12-26T20:58:00.001-05:00

Cocoon spinning, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

We were taken on a tour of a silk factory where we got to see how the cocoons are unwound and the threads spun into silk thread. Double size (with two worms inside) cocoons are stretched and layered into small, round flat shapes, almost like felting, then stretched out onto a bed-size table to create quilt batting.
After seeing the process, the tour guide then ushered us into a room filled with displays of beds dressed in dazzling silk quilts. Most of our tour group bought quilts then we went into the large showroom where the shopaholics were let loose among the thousands of silk products. I purchased half of our Christmas gifts here.
See the whole silk factory tour

Favorite Fiber Art non-profit saved by pledge drive

2007-12-06T09:28:00.000-05:00

The Springwater Fiber Workshop, a mainstay of the Washington, DC region's fiber communtity, almost went under last month and 22 years of operation. After a frenzied pledge drive brought in over $100,00 in pledges, the non-profit will be able to stay open. Read more about it
here.

Back to my old sewing gig

2007-11-01T21:15:00.000-04:00

About two years ago, I found a post on craigslist looking for someone to help sew leotards. I love mind-numbing factory-like sewing projects because they are great for procrastinating on projects that really need to be done. This was the perfect sewing gig because the leotards are the CUTEST things I've ever seen. They range in many different sizes and the little tiny ones are so adorable. The colors are great and they are made with the softest fabric. I sew the elastic in the arm and legholes. The elastic for the legholes has a unique method for stitching which creates a "wedgie-resistant" design. The mother and daughter team who design and do all the rest of the sewing are wonderful to work for and their company is Quantum Leotards. So far, I have sewn several hundred "leos" and can sew in the middle of the night or in between violin lessons. The leotards are available at several gymnastic studios in Maryland and you can customize a leotard at their website. After about a year and a half hiatus, they asked me to start sewing again, so now I have another reason for not cleaning around here :)

FFF for the weekend

2007-10-26T14:51:00.000-04:00

OK, I finally found the coolest shop of the week: Catirina Bonet Designs. Everything is patterns for knitting, but as you'll see, it's some pretty wild knitting. Check out the knitted turkey headdress and the coat of many colors. The sexy knitted dress is gorgeous, but I wouldn't have the courage to wear it. Then there are cute hats and ballerina shoes to knit as well.

FFF-More "Friday Fiber Finds"

2007-10-12T15:37:00.001-04:00

Time to search for the next woven "goodie" on Etsy and here's what I found today: Copper Wire Creations-Large Basket . I love the burst of colorful spirals and the obvious attention to the craft of wire weaving in this basket. She has many more cute and interesting wire decorative items.

More Paraguayan Lace

2007-10-01T17:33:00.001-04:00

On Sunday I went to the Hispanic Heritage Festival in the Mount Pleasant area of DC. Our band Batala Washington performed in the parade. It was one of the best festivals I've attended and I enjoyed seeing the magnificent costumes of dancers from many Latin American countries. There were vendors selling handmade goods from Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Columbia and many others. I found these adorable lace earrings made in Paraguay. Some of the costumed performers wore dresses that were completely or partially made with this type of lace. I also enjoyed seeing costumes made of woven textiles from Mexico and Guatemala. One of these days, hopefully, I'll make a "pilgimage" to the weaving centers of Central and South America.

Fiber Artists Collective Exhibit in DC

2007-09-28T13:32:00.000-04:00

The Fiber Artists Collective will hold an all-member exhibit September 18th to November 16, 2007 at the American Association for the Advancement of Science located at 1200 New York Avenue, Washington, DC 20005. The exhibit is open M-F from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

The Fiber Artists Collective (FAC), established in 1996, is an organization of professional fiber artists creating fiber art for residential, corporate and public settings. The Fiber Artists Collective's mission is to enable professional fiber artists to work cooperatively to present and market their work, educate the public and inspire its appreciation and awareness of works of contemporary fiber art.

September Etsy Beadweavers Challlenge

2007-09-26T19:33:00.001-04:00

Time once again to help us out and cast your vote for the next winner of the Etsy Beadweavers monthly challenge for September. Just to push you in my direction, the photo I posted is of the piece I submitted. It's very simple, but was a color study and served to get me out of my usual monochromatic rut. More pictures of my bracelet are listed in my Etsy shop. Enjoy all the beautiful beadweaving from our industrious and artistic members !

FFF-Friday Fiber Finds (belated)

2007-09-25T00:05:00.000-04:00

I forgot to keep up with my new goal of sharing a new Etsy "fiber find" of the week last Friday. I was in Austin, Texas on a recording gig and lost track, but never fear, I'll get caught up today with a wonderful selection of beadweaving from my dear friends of the Etsy Beadweavers Street Team.

Freeform Crochet

2007-09-24T23:34:00.000-04:00

Last year I started to learn freeform crochet in my knitting study group (we got sidetracked with crochet). I still haven't finished my first project, but I might just pick it up again after finding this inspiring website called Not Just Knitting. There is a good tutorial to get you started.

1st Weekly "Friday Fiber Find"

2007-09-14T15:25:00.000-04:00

I've decided to share my favorite Etsy fiber find of the day every Friday. Every other Friday, I staff the gallery at Artists' Undertaking Gallery in Occoquan, Virginia and we recently got wireless internet in the town. So while I'm gallery sitting, I plan to do some Etsy-surfing. Here's what I found today: Peaks and Valleys Art Basket by johnsbasketcase. I just love the way this basket looks like it created its own personality. Check back next week for my next "FFF" and happy Etsy-surfing this weekend !

An Inspiring Story

2007-09-12T20:12:00.000-04:00

In the latest issue of the About.com-Jewelry Making newsletter, I ran across a reference to group in Colorado that helps refugee women by teaching them jewelry-making skills. To read more: A Little Something: The beaded path to self-sufficiency They are in need of stash beads and especially findings and tools.

Another group I think is a worthy organization is Bead for Life which operates in Uganda. They provide work for Ugandan women through creation of paper beads made from discarded magazines. I went to a Bead for Life sale, and the beaded jewelry was being snapped up like hotcakes. Quite beautiful.

Brazilian Lacemaking

2007-09-11T18:10:00.000-04:00

On Sunday I was treated to the sight of a highly skilled Brazilian lacemaker in action at the Brazil Day festival in Frederick, MD. She was working with a large tufted pillow with a leather pattern pinned to it and with incredible speed, shuffled handfuls of unmarked bobbins back and forth to create the beautiful lacy patterns. If I had been carrying more cash with me, I would have brought home something. I was there to perform with my new Brazilian percussion band, Batala.

Etsy BeadWeavers' August Challenge needs your vote !

2007-08-29T17:27:00.001-04:00

Check the Etsy BeadWeavers blog to see the beautiful beaded artwork submitted for our monthly challenge entitled "Hot August Nights" and vote for your favorite piece.

Etsy BeadWeavers August Challenge

2007-08-23T17:19:00.000-04:00

Open to all beadweavers on Etsy, our new monthly challenge features the theme "Hot August Nights". Check the blog for the winners of this month's challenge ! Etsy BeadWeavers

Ambrosian Beads on Etsy

2007-07-27T20:18:00.000-04:00

I finally took the plunge and opened a second Etsy shop to focus on my beadweaving and bead kits: Ambrosian Beads. Eventually I hope to have my main site point to the Etsy shop.

Recently I made a friend who owned a needlework shop but had to close it suddenly and was left with tons of packages of Delica beads. I offered to list some bead sets in the new shop and am having a great time playing with all the colors, combining them and coming up with descriptive titles.

Book Signing-THE THREADS OF TIME, THE FABRIC OF HISTORY

2007-07-08T22:05:00.000-04:00

At the Arts in Pershing Park art market where I was a vendor over the weekend, I met a woman who told me about this upcoming event featuring a new book about the history of 38 African-American designers and dressmakers. I wish I could go, but since I can't I'm hoping I can promote the event here:

THE THREADS OF TIME, THE FABRIC OF HISTORY

A BOOK SIGNING AND TALK BY THE AUTHOR, ROSEMARY E. REED-MILLER

Washington, DC, on Wednesday, July 18, 2007. The DC Historical Society will be hosting a book-signing event to promote the release of Rosemary E. Reed Miller's new book, The Threads of Time, The Fabric of History. The event will be held at the Mt Vernon Square, Carnegie Library, 801 K Street, NW, Wednesday, July 18, 2007, 6-9pm.

The book explores the history of 38 African American designers and dressmakers, as well as their accomplishments and involvement in the fiber industry. The gifted women featured in this book designed many well-known costumes and dresses, without receiving proper credit. Reed Miller profiles the designers to draw attention to their achievements. Find out who these unknown designers are and be totally surprised by the socialites for whom they designed.

In addition to the book signing, exhibitors will showcase their unique talents, there will be informal modeling of fashions, a panel talk, time for questions and answers, exhibitions, refreshments and of course Ms Reed-Miller will be available to sign copies of her book. This promises to be a very delightful evening. Tell your friends! Join us for the fun, the information that well be shared and the opportunity to network. This is a free to the public event.

For exhibitor space
Quintina Hampton (202) 744-3379
Rosemary E. Reed-Miller (202) 723-9007
Sponsors and Contributors needed

Art Market in DC-Pershing Park

2007-06-19T22:46:00.000-04:00

I'm signed up for the next Arts in Pershing Park weekend art market July 6th, 7th and 8th. There are 10-20 juried artists participating in the market which is held every first full weekend of the month through October. Open 11 am - 5 pm each day and held in Pershing Park, A Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Park located at 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW across from the Willard Hotel.

Next Market: July 6-8,2007
An event of family learning and fun and art collecting all in one – live jazz music by The Tom Reyes Trio and acoustic solo musician, Steve Hung; hands-on activities; artist demonstrations including Roderick Turner, muralist; Pindar VanArman and Zanelle, his robotic painter; Face painting; local artist booths showcasing paintings, glass, pottery, jewelry and more!

Arts at Pershing Park!
An open air gallery showcase highlighting the talent of local artists.
Arts at Pershing Park! is a local artist showcase brought to you by Guest Services, Inc., in cooperation with the National Park Service and the Willard Intercontinental Hotel.
For more information on Arts at Pershing Park!
Contact 202-208-4056 or
pershingparkcafe@guestservices.com

Beadweaving Tutorial-Spiral Rope Stitch

2007-06-17T11:57:00.001-04:00

UPDATE !!! Filmloop has been replaced by something I can't figure out, so please stand by until I get a Fickr slideshow ready. Stay tuned !!! In the meantime, here are some excellent tutorials to help:
Spiral Rope Chain
How to Make a Beaded Spiral Rope Chain
Beltana's Beads -- Spiral Rope Chain

Here is my next tutorial for another favorite, Spiral Rope Stitch that is very easy to learn. There are also many possibilites for variation so once you learn the basic stitch, you can take it from there !

Etsy Trashion Events

2007-06-16T21:38:00.000-04:00

I’m a member of the Etsy Trashion Team which is a group of over 70 artists from around the world who specialize in turning trash into treasure. The Etsy Trashion Team is about visualizing beauty in unconventional objects and materials. We fabricate art, jewelry, fashion and objects for the home from used, thrown-out & found elements. For us, trashion is a philosophy and an ethic. It encompasses environmentalism and innovation, and respects the human creative and healing potential.

This month, a group Etsy shop, located at http://EtsyTrashion.etsy.com opened for business. Products from all of our members are available for purchase there. A full list of members' shops can also be found there in the profile section.

On Friday, July 27th, we will be hosting a trunk show at the Etsy Labs in Brooklyn NYC. (325 Gold Street, Brooklyn NYC. A/C/F to Jay St * B/M/Q/R to Dekalb) We will have recycled art, jewelry, clothing, home décor & more for sale, plus there will be trashion-themed films, make-your-own trashion activities and refreshments. The trunk show is FREE and open to all ages, plus the first 25 people through the door will receive a complimentary trashion team gift bag. Attendees are requested to RSVP via email at rsvp@etsy.com.

For more info on the group, our Etsy shop and our trunk show is available at:
http://www.etsytrashion.com

Paraguayan Lace Technique

2007-06-14T20:38:00.000-04:00

Ever scanning the web for fascinating and beautiful fiber techniques, I ran across these beauties: Paraguayan lace They are done by a fellow DC area resident who is originally from that country and who learned it from her family. She plans to use the proceeds from sales of her handiwork to help a leper colony back home. I would love to try the technique but I doubt I could achieve her level of skill.

New Beadweaving Tutorial-Chevron Chain Stitch

2007-06-11T14:23:00.001-04:00

UPDATE !!! Filmloop has been replaced by something I can't figure out, so please stand by until I get a Fickr slideshow ready. Stay tuned !!!

I found a cool way to create a slideshow tutorial for my favorite beadweaving stitches. The first one I want to share is a very easy and versatile stitch that I use alot called Chevron Chain. I include this stitch in my Earring Kit which contains all the materials and a printed booklet with patterns for three different pairs of earrings. The other stitches you can try with the kit are Herringbone stitch and Spiral Rope stitch. Have fun, and check back for more tutorials coming soon !

DC Area Etsy Team Trunk Show in NYC

2007-06-10T23:26:00.000-04:00

Head over to the Etsy Labs if you're in Brooklyn on June 29th from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm to check out the handmade works of art and craft by members of C.R.E.S.T.-the Capital Region Etsy Street Team.

Fashion Recycling

2007-05-10T20:58:00.000-04:00

As usual, I am juggling projects and finally finished a couple of pieces that I've been thinking about for a long time. My stash of interesting fabric and clothing has been calling to me and I got down to work last week in time for the Virginia Craft-n-istas show in Arlington. Here's a photo of my display and some new pieces made from old clothes.

The first piece is a blue satin shoulder shrug made from a pair of child's silk trousers. The second is a halter and bubble skirt made from a floor length skirt (not that you would want to wear them together, they are just shown together !). And the third is a purse made from another floor length skirt.

And now the "tagging" issue. I've been putting it off, and will now list 7 things about me, but I feel wary to "tag" anyone else, so forgive me if I'm not playing the game right.

1. I have studied violin-making.
2. I sang in a Bulgarian women's chorus
3. When I was a kid, I ate peanut butter and mayo sandwiches...m..m..good !
4. I love my new "cybergreen" VW Beetle.
5. I like Moomins.
6. And parrots.
7. In high school I once dressed up as a man with a plastic skull head and scared tons of people at the mall.

I hope that's interesting enough for now.

New Bead Kit Listed

2007-04-08T20:04:00.000-04:00

After an enormous amount of time photographing each step, editing the photos and writing the text, I am finally finished with my third bead kit pattern: Three Original Earring Designs I've already taught the class once in the fall and these designs are a great way to learn three different beadweaving stitches. The Long Drop style earrings teach chevron chain stitch, the Snowflake design teaches herringbone stitch, and the Spiral Rope Loop earrings teach the (of course !) immensely fun and easy spiral rope stitch. All three pairs can be finished in an afternoon.

The Goddess Series

2007-04-04T19:39:00.000-04:00

I just finished three pieces for my "Goddess Series" part of the featured artist show entitled "Myth and Magic" at the Artists' Undertaking Gallery in Occoquan, VA. The other featured artist is printmaker, Patricia Smith.

The first image is of a necklace I named "Aphrodite" depicting a female figure rising from the sea. She is done in herringbone stitch with surface embellishment of beads for the seaweed and hair.

The second is a necklace "Athena" and depicts lightning and rain. This necklace is done in ladder stitch and peyote.

The third necklace is "Persephone" for the goddess of springtime and is done in herringbone stitch.

Beadwork Cards

2007-04-03T19:08:00.000-04:00

Just listed on Etsy is a set of four cards featuring images from the beaded pieces I made for the Artists' Undertaking Gallery show on travel Most of our artists sell cards with their artwork images and I wanted to get in on the card sales. Check them out:Beadwork Card Set

Featherwork

2007-03-28T22:07:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, I took a break from my gallery-sitting duties at the

Potomac Craftsmen Gallery in the Torpedo Factory Art Center and shopped in the bookstore for something to read during the opera I was to play that night (pit orchestra). I found a fascinating book about "featherwork" which is the use of feathers as a fiber element by native cultures. The book is called "The Gift of Feathers" and was published by the University of Pennsylvania in the early '90's. Any title with the word "feathers" in it catches my interest because I have parrots and they shed beautiful feathers. One day, I hope to try some of the knotting techniques pictured in the book. In the meantime, I need to get over to the Textile Museum in Washington, DC and check out the Peruvian feather cape in their collection.

Beads in Concert

2007-03-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

One of my crocheted bead necklaces made its debut yesterday in a fantastic vocal recital with two friends of ours visiting from Germany,

Nadine Balbeisi, soprano and Matthias Manasi, piano. They performed works of Schubert, Schumann, Berlioz and Delibes. I loaned Nadine the necklace and a matching knitted bracelet to add a little "dazzle" to the performance. The necklace is made by simply slipping a bead in between each chain stitch and connecting them in a freeform manner as you go. The beads are silver-lined clear and really catch the light. The bracelet is knitted. I used Fireline for both pieces. They are for sale at the Artists' Undertaking Gallery in Occoquan, Virginia.

Ghanaian Thread Art

2007-02-21T12:39:00.001-05:00

Recently a musician friend of ours, Nana Frimpong who is originally from Ghana and now lives in the DC metro area, brought us some examples of thread art made by his cousin back in Ghana. I had never seen anything like it and was captivated by the bold shapes and colors. My husband and I selected one piece, and I tried to find out more about the technique. All I can find so far are a few links to sites that sell the artworks:

http://www.africanworldimports.com/catalog/art_artifacts/store_art_thread.html

http://www.1motherland.com/Merchant3/merchant.mv?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=1&Category_Code=largethreadart

http://www.apelart.com/documents/silkthread_texture.htm

If I had the space, I would definitely start a collection of this art form. One day I hope to make a trip to Ghana to see it being made and to meet more of the fabulous musicians there. To learn more about our friend "Nana from Ghana" (that's how he introduces himself !), visit his website: http://www.nanadrums.com/ He is available for concerts and singing and drumming workshops.

The Ultimate Fiber-Related Website

2006-12-30T12:06:00.000-05:00

I found this site a couple years back and refer to it for all sorts of info. The problem is, it's one of those sites where you can get easily side-tracked ! Check it out:
http://www.allfiberarts.com/

My Christmas Present to me !

2006-12-30T11:52:00.000-05:00

After our last Potomac Craftsmen Guild weaving study group meeting http://potomaccraftsmenguild.org , I ordered a DVD on warping your loom from The Mannings http://the-mannings.com . One of our members showed portions of the DVD and the instructor, Tom Knisely, explains everything in detail in a soft, relaxed manner with plenty of closeup shots so you know exactly what you're doing. Since I am trying to teach myself to weave, I need all the help I can get, and sometimes, pictures in books just don't cut it. My group members are wonderful, but I need alot of repetition of the process to get it in my head.

The DVD is titled "A Comprehensive Guide to Warping your Loom from Front to Back" with Tom Knisely and sells for $44.95. If you are looking for a good fiber-related road trip, The Mannings is the place to go and drool over the huge selection of yarns for weaving, knitting and everything else. It's located in East Berlin, Pennsylvania, just south of Harrisburg, between Gettysburg and York.

Vintage Collectibles

2006-12-30T11:46:00.000-05:00

Earlier this year I collected some interesting handmade pieces which are currently listed at http://retrothreads.etsy.com

I love the delicately crocheted blue and white collars and the embroidered purse has a fabulously colorful design. My favorite is the groovy hand-crocheted top covered with green plastic beads. So fun.

Back to Blogging-Newest Knitwear Designs

2006-12-30T11:34:00.000-05:00

Hello again, and welcome back to Carol's world of fiber adventures. I haven't posted for two months and I've made and collected a bunch of new stuff. Mainly, I have been busy taking care of my other life as a violinist/teacher and cat mom. So here's what's new: I finally finished my "modknit" hat, made two "log cabin" pattern purses, sold one at a church craft fair, knitted up a striped scarf and tried out a tubular design that popped into my head one day.

Everything pictured above is currently listed on http://etsy.com in my etsy shop at http://retrothreads.etsy.com

They're Heeeere !!!

2006-10-16T23:25:00.001-04:00

No, not what you're thinking, it's my new BEADWEAVING KITS !!! After over a year in the making, I finally have some completed kits, fully furnished with everything you need to learn new stitches and create some of my signature designs. My beading website has the three current designs with color choices available: Bead Kits

The biggest hurdle was the instructions. I'm not good at drawing, so I enlisted the help of a friend, but ended up going with photographs which is soooo time-consuming, but I think they turned out OK. At least, you can tell where the next bead goes.

I taught my first "class" (I only had one student) on Sunday at http://loftgallery.org and it went very well. The student was very quick to learn and completed the entire project (matching bracelet and earring set) in exactly the alloted time. My next two classes are: October 21 from 2-5 pm (three earring designs) and October 28 from 1- 4 pm (glass gem ring).

Bullion Stitch

2006-10-14T10:20:00.000-04:00

After my last knitting study group, where I was introduced to bullion stitch, I couldn't get it off my mind and had to start working on something. Here's what I made. I might turn it into a purse or vest (which I wouldn't wear personally !). It is so much fun to do and there are links to tutorials all over which I will post soon.

Latest Handknitted Purses

2006-09-29T11:22:00.000-04:00

I just posted two new purses for sale. They are both made with felted wool and colorful eyelash yarn. I love modular knitting, have been experimenting this past year and I never know what shape I will end up with ! That's the fun of it.

I subscribed to Iris Schreier's Artyarns Yahoo list to get tutorials once every couple weeks. Her website is http://artyarns.com and the Yahoo site is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/multidirectional/

Another group I suscribe to is Modknit: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/modknit/ The home page for main site is http://modknit.com Lots of good instructions to try out there.

Here are the purse listings:
http://www.etsy.com/view_item.php?listing_id=503362
and

http://www.etsy.com/view_item.php?listing_id=503390

10/7 & 10/8 Fall Fiber Festival in Orange, Virginia

2006-09-26T14:34:00.000-04:00

I keep hearing about this festival but haven't been able to check it out: http://fallfiberfestival.org My fiber guild http://www.potomaccraftsmenguild.org
friends tell me that it is a really wonderful event, much smaller than the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival and definitely worth the drive.

Artistic Artifacts

2006-09-26T13:01:00.000-04:00

A fellow member of http://potomaccraftsmengallery.com, Judy Gula, is selling fiber and embellishment supplies on her website, http://www.artisticartifacts.com . She collects fabrics and trims and hand-dyes them into colorful sets, and also sells found objects like game tiles, etc.

She will be a vendor at the Original Sewing and Quilt Expo at the Chantilly Expo Center Thursday, September 28th, Friday the 29th and Saturday the 30th. Check the link for hours and additional information: http://www.sewingexpo.com/cities/chantilly.htm

Artistic Artifacts booth is # 322. Artistic Artifacts, collects and sells all those funky items that are great for your quilts /paper/mixed media/dolls/assemblage Art. Buttons, Beads, Game Pieces, Angelina, Hand dye laces, trims and fabrics, Vintage linens, quilt tops and "out of print fabric." Paper and Fabric Collage kits. The new hot embellishment is GLITTER and she will have kits of glitter from the The Art Institute and the coolest sequins in town.

Takoma Park Street Festival

2006-09-26T02:02:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, October 1st, I will be joining fellow violinist and artist, Nina Falk http://ninafalkglass.com at the Takoma Park Street Festival http://takomafestival.com . She is exhibiting her gorgeous fused glass creations, some of which contain elements of musical instruments, at the show and I will have examples of my beadwork on display alongside.

Grand Re-Opening Celebration 9/30

2006-09-25T19:58:00.000-04:00

Our building at 309 Mill Street in Occoquan is having a Grand Re-Opening party to celebrate the renovations of our gallery, the Artists' Undertaking Gallery http://artistsundertaking.com, and Melisa Dent Jewelry Designs, a custom silver and gold jewelry maker http://www.occoquan.com/shops/ShopsView.asp?ID=229. The building also includes Local Color, which is a gallery of handmade drawings of Washington, DC metro area local places by artist, Jackie Liedl http://www.occoquan.com/Shops/ShopsFrm.asp.

From 1-4 pm we will be offering refreshments and door prizes and at 1 pm, the mayor of Occoquan will be taking part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The building was formerly a funeral home, and the original gallery founders, 29 years ago, used a bit of irony in giving it the name "Artists' Undertaking."

Currently we have 13 members and our newest member, Anna Yakubovskaya, a fellow member of Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery http://potomaccraftsmengallery.com will be displaying her unique and beautiful fiber art starting on Oct. 3rd.