I don’t have much to say this week, so I’ll keep this intro brief. If you’re new to this newsletter (hello!), this week is my 5/5 link pack: 5 creatively inspiring projects (and/or people) and 5 ways for you to DIY.
PS: I've got a couple of trips planned over the next two weeks, so I'm taking a break from the newsletter until May 3. Next week, I'll be in Kansas City, MO, and the following week, I'll be in Ventura, CA, for Craftcation. If you have local craft store recommendations for Kansas City or are going to Craftcation, reply to this email and let me know!
👉 ICYMI: This embroidery that looks like it's bursting from a pen and ink drawing was the most clicked link in the last 5/5.
✨ 5 creatively inspiring things
1️⃣ Eliza Reinhardt creates large-scale portraits entirely from fabric arrangements. An avid thrifter, she uses garments and bed sheets as the basis for her incredible arrangements, which you can only fully appreciate when viewed from above. Get insight into her process in this video.
2️⃣ Teagan Jacobs created love letter bloomers that contain an envelope-shaped pocket to “hold your cherished notes close to your body.” Here’s a look at them completed, and here’s a video detailing all of the work that went into sewing the pocket. She embroidered the letter, too!
3️⃣ Sustainable fashion can look like many things, and my favorite is upcycling. I like adding things on a garment or reworking it in some way to make it feel new again. (I write about this a lot in my book.) Sometimes, the changes can be subtle. But other times, in the case of Diana Rikasari’s pants, they become statement-makers. PS - If you’re obsessed with Depop like me, here’s a shop that sells similarly eye-catching reworked garments.
4️⃣ Art can exist anywhere, so why not your nails? Audrey, aka @audrey_swatches, creates impossibly tiny nail art that are masterful miniature paintings. Her work first enchanted me because of the “knick nacks” design. See more of my favorite pieces on my blog, Brown Paper Bag.
5️⃣ I did a double take: paint blobs by Floor Giebels. They achieve the viscosity of an actual paint blob… but the hoop is a dead giveaway!
🪡 5 ways to DIY
1️⃣ Here’s another piece of interactive clothing! If you know how to crochet, this is one you can make yourself. Wool and Buggers created a Flower Vase Vest that contains a three-dimensional flower vase that allows you create a wearable bouquet. Swap out flowers and vases anytime for a new look!
2️⃣ Now, this is just adorable. Jessica Long created a garden mouse DIY embroidery kit featuring the tiny creature holding an equally tiny shovel. Expand your embroidery know-how with thread painting and stumpwork. The kit includes access to an online video tutorial.
3️⃣ Want to add some color to your cane chairs? Here’s an idea: colorful cross stitch!
4️⃣ Create a special embroidered keepsake for Mother’s Day. Stitchin with Samantha designed a PDF pattern (or kit) that invites you to stamp a kid’s hand onto fabric and then embroider colorful blooms on top. There’s also an option to add their name and age.
5️⃣ My sewing machine is calling to me to use some of the fabric yardage I have and make it into new clothes for spring/summer. If you’re considering doing a me-made wardrobe for the warmer weather, Anna Keenan has some great suggestions. I’ll also add the Ballet Bow Skirt by Matchy Matchy Sewing Club to the list. It’s free when you sign up for their newsletter!
What I've been up to:
I've got three in-person markets coming up next month. If you're local to Portland or the greater Seattle area, come out and say hi! I'm selling my Make Your Own Menagerie line of products—kits, stick and stitch patterns, and needle minders! (And more.)
Try all the crafts this summer!
Tickets are now on sale for Camp Craftaway, the three-day adult craft camp I co-host with Melissa of MCreativeJ! We'll have 30 different workshops throughout the weekend. Join us August 1 - 3 in Des Moines, WA.
Talk to you next week,
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Sara Barnes
Embroidery illustrator and writer
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