Trendy Textiles

Look what's for sale...

2009-05-29T07:19:00.000-07:00

iwantedtowonder09 :So Pretty in Pink PIN CUSHION Brunette

xoxotova : plastic flower girls BLOOM BAND headband xoxotova

prettyinpink320 : No. 887 Cowgirls Don't Cry Handbag

camillesstudio : DOG OR CAT COLLAR IN PINK WITH SKULLS DESIGN 118

AbbyChaseDesigns : Incognito Wallet............. the discrete personal hygiene wallet by AbbyChase Designs

surfermomkelly : Boutique Minnie Dot Bandana Miss Mouse Dress Magical Vacation

Supplies from TT

2009-05-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

Not only do our members make gorgeous items from fabric, they also offer you the tools to do it for yourself. Don't miss these great supplies on etsy. Just choose the category, Supplies, and search for teamtrendytextiles.

44th Street Fabric has a gorgeous assortment of fabrics. This is a Christmas grouping...it is never too early to begin your Christmas sewing.

Looking for beautiful ribbon? Stop by Betty's Closet where you'll find this pretty pink Andalucia ribbon. The perfect accent!

I love pincushions and this one at Boutique NutMeg is just adorable. It looks good enough to eat!

Here's another yummy pincushion by Creations by Rachel. It would look perfect on your sewing table.

Looking for those new ModKid Boutique patterns? You can find them in the Wondermommy Shop!

Gorgeous Items

2009-05-04T06:50:00.000-07:00

Here are more gorgeous items from the Trendy Textiles street team on Etsy.

This beautiful bag is by Hoganfe. The best part is that it is on clearance...don't miss it!

Surfermomkelly has these cute pants listed! So much fun!

Hullabalooboutique has this cute set available. Any little girl would love this!

See What the Team Has For Sale

2009-04-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the fun and beautiful items for sale from our team members on Etsy. Don't miss your chance to grab these great things! You can always find our items by searching for "teamtrendytextiles".

This is a gorgeous bag from Pink Lemonade Bags. It is stylish and chic. It has three lined pockets. And it is One of A Kind!

This fun fairy set is from Mami Girl Boutique. It is a three piece set that any little girl would love!

This pretty little dress is made by Little Daisy Desgins. Every little girl needs a dress like this in her wardrobe!

Who doesn't love a cute little owl?!?! This cutie was made by White Cottage Design.

Every little girl needs a Gock's Frocks skirt. There are so many to choose from at great prices!

Last , but not least, don't miss my newest custom Flower Power Frida Dress. I don't offer customs very often, so don't miss this one.

Member Spotlight: XOXOTova

2009-01-19T17:18:00.000-08:00

Name: Tanya Siman
Etsy shop: xoxotova.etsy.com
Web site: xoxoboutique.com
Blog: xoxotova.blogspot.com
What three words describe your design style? Fun, fresh and whimsical!
What's your favorite thing to sew/create? I love working with other designers & creating the perfect matching accessory. Trendy textiles is a PERFECT group for me b/c I really enjoy matching beautiful fabrics and the talented designs of the other members!
How did you get started crafting? I think I was born with it.. my mom is an artist and art teacher and I spent my childhood crafting everyday! We always had glitter, construction paper, fabric and ribbon around the house. I spent hours coloring and designing outfits and accessories even in elementry school.
What inspires you? Everything.. mostly kids ceativity and natural ability to use color.
What craft have you always wanted to try but haven't? I would really love to sew.. I dabble but can only sew a patch!
What's your favorite thing about being a part of Etsy? The creative, talented and fun people I have met! I am so inspired everyday!
Check out Tanya's Sparkle Holiday Headband (shown above) here!

Member Spotlight: Nichern Designs

2008-12-29T05:04:00.000-08:00

Name: Nicole
Etsy shop: nicherndesigns.etsy.com
Web site: www.ni-cherndesigns.com
Blog: ni-cherndesigns.blogspot.com
What three words describe your design style? Functional, trendy, quality
What's your favorite thing to sew/create? Pouches
How did you get started crafting? To help with my student loans, but it didn't help because I'm a fabric-oholic
What inspires you? Colors
What craft have you always wanted to try but haven't? Knitting
What's your favorite thing about being a part of Etsy? Being able to talk to other diy crafters
Check out Nicole's Apples & Pears Wristlet (shown above)!

Member Spotlight: Pink Lemonade Bags

2008-12-02T04:21:00.000-08:00

Name: Caroline Ritzer
Etsy shop: pinklemonadebags.etsy.com
Web site: www.pinklemonadebags.com
Blog: pinklemonadeboutiquebags.blogspot.com

What three words describe your design style? Trendy, stylish, chic

What's your favorite thing to sew/create? I love making bags and my favorite are my rag totes. I could literally spend my entire day shopping for fabric on the internet, scheming, I mean dreaming of how the totes will look when finished.

How did you get started crafting? I have probably been crafting since I was a toddler. If I could glue it, cut it, color it, add a feather to it~I did it. I have always loved all manner of crafting and creating. I have take pottery classes, American Indian beadweaving classes, as well as the requisite Art classes in school.

I started sewing when my daughter was born almost six years ago and instantly got addicted! I had one sewing lesson from my mom to learn how to read a pattern and then to make my first bag. Everything else after that has been self taught! At some point, now that I have a couple of mornings free with both kids in their school/preschool, I do hope to take the free sewing classes I got when I purchased both of my sewing machines. I also am owed classes to learn all of the amazing things my embroidery machine can do.

What inspires you? Beautiful fabric and gorgeous photography.

What craft have you always wanted to try but haven't? Quilting. My mom got a quilt kit for a Halloween quilt for me. The next craft on the list ... knitting! Then stained glass.
What's your favorite thing about being a part of Etsy? The people and sense of community.

Check out Caroline's Damask Boutique Diaper Bag/Tote (pictured)!

Show off one of your current listings: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14713496

Sugar Snap it up

2008-11-25T04:41:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the fun Sugar Snap launch listings posted by the Trendy Textiles members at Etsy? Check 'em out:

Sugar Snap Wristlet Purse by PrettyinPink320

Sugar Snap Small Pleated Tote Bag by Priddy Creations

Sugar Snap Bubble Gathered Ruffle Tote Bag by Boutique Nutmeg Design

The Criss Cross Bag and Key Fob Set by IslandGirlBags

Japanese Peasant Dress by Flourishes

Featured Blogger................

2008-11-19T12:14:00.000-08:00

Tell us a little about yourself, your blog, or your business. I've been sewing since I was a girl and my obsession with fabric and design have pushed me find new creative ways to learn and share the hobby. I love to make children's clothing and home dec items using all different crafts.

How long have you been blogging? I opened an account a couple years ago & never did much with updating and personalizing it. When I starting really trying to build an e-commerce presence about a year ago, I got in gear and starting bloging.

What do you love about blogging? I love to surf the blogs! Finding new people who have found me and following the trail to some of the most creative things I have ever seen! It's also a great outlet to share what is going on for friends and family who are far away.

Does blogging help with your business? Yes!!! I've had many people say they found me via my blog. The more I network, the more traffic and orders I see.

Get more of Georgia Grace & Co. here:
http://georgiagrace.typepad.com/
and shop here:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5311187 or you can click on any of the pictures above.

P.S. Jordon has offered all of the Trendy Textiles readers 15% off!!

Sugar Snap & Melissa Averinos

2008-11-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

Designer Melissa Averinos says she's a "sporadic sewer" -- although having a new line of fabric out for FreeSpirit Fabrics may change that.
"I really admire seamstresses and good sewers, and I want to become one," she says. "I don't see myself making quilts with precision but I would like to make clothes with precision."
In the meantime, she'll likely continue her organic method of quilting, which is not that dissimilar from her other artistic endeavors: she arranges strips and squares of fabric on her studio floor until they please her, then sews them together.
"I have a philosophy about artwork or design: mess with it until it looks good," she says. "I work very much on instinct."
She finds inspiration in the everyday items around her, from trees trimmed to accommodate power lines to rusty metal to the textures of asphalt. Her blog, Yummy Goods, (which shares its name with her recently opened gift shop) is a delightful visual trip, showcasing her thrifted finds, as well as her artwork and her honest and open journaling.
See how the Trendy Textiles designers have been inspired by Melissa's work in our Etsy shops. You also can read more about Melissa at Confessions of a Craft Addict.

Member Spotlight: Georgia Grace Designs

2008-11-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

Name: Jordon Manis
Stores: Georgia Grace Designs and Grain & Gusset (coming soon)
Web site: www.georgiagracedesigns.com (coming soon too)
Blog: georgiagrace.typepad.com
What three words describe your design style? Right now.... Sweet, Simple, and Colorful
What's your favorite thing to sew/create? Girls' clothing and home dec projects
How did you get started crafting? My mom is very crafty and I grew up watching her. She always involved me in her projects so crafting and sewing has always been a part of my life. Watching my mom all those years gave me the courage to jump in and learn from my mistakes.
What inspires you? My girls, colors, and simplifying designs.
What craft have you always wanted to try but haven't? Hand embroidery & Smocking.
What's your favorite thing about being a part of Etsy? Having an online network of crafters who are passionate about their unique crafts.
Check out Jordon's featured listing (shown above), Orchard Corduroy Ruffles .

Fabric Silhouettes Tutorial.......

2008-11-14T08:26:00.000-08:00

One of the newest additions to the Trendy Textiles Blog is the fun DIY tutorials! Now you can create some of the lovely items from the tutorials and share them on Flickr with the members of Trendy Textiles!

Our first tutorial was created by the lovely Melissa, from WonderMommy.

Fabric Silhouettes

By Mellissa Abreu - Wondermommy
http://wondermommy.wordpress.com

http://wondermommy.etsy.com

Materials:
~2 Fat Quarters of different prints (I used Prelude by Jennifer Paganelli of Sis Boom)
~Fusible Webbing Paper Backed
~Spray On Adhesive for quilting (It can be found in your quilting section and only temporarily bonds.)
~Printer
~Picture Frame
~Marker or Pencil

Note: I made two silhouettes. The materials list is for making one.

Instructions:

First, you need to pick your frames so that you know what size you are working with. I chose an 8X10 frame.

Second, you need to select an image to be silhouetted. I used my camera and took pictures of my children’s profiles in front of a bright window. Then, I edited them in Photoshop taking out the background and leaving only the silhouette of their face. I, then, printed this image out to the desired size (one that would fit in the frame). This is not the only method for getting an image. You could trace your child’s shadow onto paper. You could print out any image from clip art that you would like to use. The options are endless.

There is one important thing to remember: your image will be mirrored when finished. That means that you need to have the image flipped from the way that you will want it in the end. You can select this as an option when printing.

This is the image that I started with:

This is the image that I actually printed after editing it:

Now, we are ready to add the image to the fusible webbing. I keep a roll of this at home and couldn’t even tell you the brand name. I’ve had it that long. They are all pretty much the same. It will have a paper backing on one side and on the other will be a round side. Place that side down and leave the paper side up. Slip your printed image under the paper. Then, take a pencil or marker and trace around the image onto the paper side of the fusible webbing. You should have something that resembles the image below.

Your next step is to cut widely around the image. Do not cut it along your lines yet. We are going to fuse this piece to the fabric first.

Once you have something that looks like the above image, take it and the fabric you wish to use to the iron. Follow the manufacturers instructions for fusing this to fabric. Let this cool down. Your image should now be adhered to your fabric.

Once the fabric is cool to the touch, you may cut your image out along your drawn lines.

Set this aside. You will now take your other fat quarter and the backing of your frame. Lay the fabric over the backing of your frame to get an idea of the size that you need to cut the fabric. I cut mine a little larger than the backing.

Once this is cut to the size that you would like, take this piece of fabric and your silhouette to the iron again. Peel off the paper back on the silhouette and place it on the piece of fabric where you would like it to fall. Then, according to the manufacturer’s of the webbing instructions, adhere it to the larger piece of fabric.

Take this new piece back to where you have your frame backing. Turn it over. Spray the adhesive to the back side of the fabric making sure you reach all sides. Turn this piece over and place it on the frame backing. Press down all around your fabric. Then, turn the frame back over and press the sides down or trim them to the size of the backing…this is your choice.

Place the backing back in the frame and you are done.

This would be a great project for all types of fabric and images. Have fun with it!

Be sure to join Trendy Textiles on Flickr.com and share your photos of items made using the Trendy Textiles tutorials!

Ho Ho Ho

2008-11-06T15:53:00.000-08:00

Can you believe how quickly the fall has just zipped past? It's already November and fewer than 50 days until Christmas! I did a quick search of holiday-themed items offered by Trendy Textiles members and found these gems:

Girls' Euro Twirl Set by Sarah Bear Originals.

The Cindy Lou Who Reversible Pinafore Top by LIttle Daisy Designs.

Hand-crafted Christmas Angel or Guardian by I Wanted to Wonder.

Green Christmas Dog or Cat Collar with Red and White Dots by Camille's Studio.

Velvet Sparkle Hair Clippies by XOXOTova.

Holiday Angel Patchwork Quilted Bag by Hoganfe.

Silk Dupionette and Taffeta Holiday Dress by Hulabaloo Boutique.

Portabello Pixie Gracie and Double Ruffle Pants go on a holiday by Flourishes.

Featured blog member........Pink Lemonade Bags

2008-11-01T10:29:00.001-07:00

We recently had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Caroline from Pink Lemonade Bags

How long have you been blogging?

I have been blogging about a year and half, I started my blog April 28, 2007.

What do you love about blogging?

I love blogging because it is a great way to meet new people, especially those who have similar interests as me!
I love reading the blogs of fabric designers, quilters, moms, and other Etsy artisans. I enjoy being able to document the highlights of my business as well.
It is a chance to share fun projects and custom orders that I have worked on.

Does blogging help with your business?

I think that blogging has definitely helped my business by increasing my exposure on the internet. I have used Entrecard as way to reach a whole new audience that I didn't know before.
It has definitely helped me increase my traffic, especially when I run a contest! I feel that it has helped me build relationships with fellow bloggers.
It is such a compliment when someone you know from blogging emails to place an order from the website or ask to do a custom order.

Tell us a little about yourself, your blog, or your business.

You can read all about Caroline here.

Wondering where you can find more Pink Lemonade Bags?

Check her our here:

Website...http://www.pinklemonadebags.com/ Etsy...http://pinklemonadebags.etsy.com/
Blog...http://pinklemonadeboutiquebags.blogspot.com/
Flickr...http://www.flickr.com/photos/pinklemonadebags/

What does Winter, Mistletoe, and a Portabello Pixe have in common?

2008-11-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

A whole month of shopping bliss, brought to you by the Trendy Textiles street team on Etsy!

Member Spotlight: Priddy Creations

2008-10-28T16:09:00.000-07:00

Name: Amy Priddy
Store: http://www.priddycreations.etsy.com
Web site: http://www.priddycreations.com
Blog: http://www.priddycreations.blogspot.com
What three words describe your design style? Whimsical, bold, crisp
What's your favorite thing to sew/create? I am HUGELY addicted to boutique and custom bags. That is what I enjoy the most. My problem is that I want to keep everything I make. LOL!
How did you get started crafting? I actually started scrapbooking when my almost 9 year old was born. That led me to custom jewelry and the boutique clothing community. Seeing all the beautiful creations and fabrics really gave me the itch to create for myself and my kids.
What inspires you? I would have to say my kids most of all. However, lots of things inspire me. Bold colors in artwork, scenic landscapes, beautiful fabrics and textiles.....the list could go on and on.
What craft have you always wanted to try but haven't? Designing my own fabric line. I love the graphic aspect of it. And of course all the beautiful things you could create with your final project.
What's your favorite thing about being a part of Etsy? The simplicity. With my busy schedule, I love the simplicity of Etsy. I have also met some really talented and fantastic friends through Etsy.
Check out Amy's featured listing (shown above), Custom Removable Pink and Brown Damask SLR Digital Camera Strap.

Monday Madness

2008-10-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

It's Monday again and that means another Monday Madness sale!

This week AbbyChase Designs is having a Buy Two Get One half off sale! Buy any two items at regular price and get the third half off!

Shop today until midnight Tuesday night and mention that you saw it on the Trendy Textiles blog and you will receive a revised invoice for your purchases.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16522367

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_id=16012581

Wacky Wednesday......

2008-10-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

Today's Wacky Wednesday promotions come from

Chubby Cheek Boutique

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16194999

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16223611

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16223976

and WonderMommy

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15169932

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15169808

Monday Madness...........

2008-10-20T09:13:00.001-07:00

It's Monday and what better way to start the week than with a SALE!!

creationsbyrachel is having her anual OBX sale, so stop by her store today and start your week off right!

Here is just a sampling of the wonderful things you will find in her store today.

Lollipop Designs........

2008-10-18T10:16:00.000-07:00

Our first featured blogger is Eloisa from Lollipop Designs aka Natitys Designs.

How long have you been blogging? April 2007

What do you love about blogging?I love to share thoughts and anecdotes, all my products have a purpose, and a story, how I came up with the idea, why this product is meaningful, and I love to share that information with the readers, I don't just "make stuff" there's a reason for everything I do and this is what I try to explain in my blog.

Does blogging help with your business?Yes, because readers know I really put my heart on all my designs. And a lot of thinking comes with everything I do. It helps me connect with clients, colleagues and also parents.

Tell us a little about yourself, your blog, or your business. I'm a Navy wife, I have 2 little girls, and I design and create baby, children and mommy items like Nursing Covers, Car Seat Covers, and accessories. I love to blog about my ideas, my kids, my friends, my new products and everyday life.

Eloisa has been kind enough to offer all of our readers 10% off their purchase. Just use the coupon code TT10 when you check out.

Visit the Lollipop Designs Blog today!

Wacky Wednesday

2008-10-15T08:08:00.000-07:00

Our new Trendy Textiles promotion, Wacky Wednesday, launches today! You won't want to miss these great deals -- especially because they end today. Check out all the listings here!

Member Spotlight: Abby Chase Designs

2008-10-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

Name: Mandy
Store: Abby Chase Designs
What three words describe your design style? Fun, sweet, innocent (all the things that describe children)
What's your favorite thing to sew/create? My favorite thing to create is definitely children's clothing. I love the creative design process, but I what I love even more is the look on my girls' faces when I ask them to try it on. It is the most rewarding part of designing.
How did you get started crafting? It runs in my blood. I have been crafting since early childhood. I have always been drawn to handmade items. I started designing clothing and accessories a few years ago, when I was expecting my fourth baby. It was very inspiring and helped take my mind of the pregnancy.
What inspires you? My children and my surroundings inspire me. I have four girls and they are ever changing. When they are drawn to certain colors or textures, it inspires me further.
What craft have you always wanted to try but haven't? Smocking has always been something that I would love to try, but I haven't found enough brainpower left over after the day to learn something new.
What's your favorite thing about being a part of Etsy? The community on Etsy is my absolute favorite. There is no other community like it!
Check out Mandy's featured listing (shown above), Playful Petals.

Halloween Lane on Trendy Textiles

2008-10-08T13:02:00.000-07:00

Whether you are looking for the perfect costume for your little one, some fun Halloween decor, festive accessories, or a fun little Halloween outfit for school, you've found the right place. The designers at Trendy Textiles have some of the most amazing Halloween customs around.

Visit the wonderful designers of Trendy Textiles on Etsy today for all your Halloween needs.

flowersandbutterflies

Mimisgirls

SurferMomKelly

travelinlight

littledaiseydesigns

PinkLemonadeBags

iwantedtowonder

Doodlebugbaby

Treasury time

2008-10-05T04:45:00.001-07:00

Check out some of the great items in our Etsy Treasury!

Looks Like Fall

2008-10-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

There's been a little chill in the evening air here, which has me excited about fall, which is where I found my inspiration for this week's Friday Five. Read on for more of the latest and greatest listings from the Trendy Textiles team!

Brown and aqua are among my all-time favorite color combinations, so it should come as no surprise that this purse from PrettyinPink320 made this week's list. I'm totally digging the cascading ruffles! The tooled faux leather is such a great accent and really brings a touch of sophistication to this great purse. It's incredibly roomy, too, which I'm finding is really a must for me these days. Snatch this one up while you can because I'm sure it won't be around long!

Looking for a little home decor to add some fall flair inside your home? I Wanted to Wonder has listed a set of three stuffed fabric pumpkins that are guaranteed to make the season come alive. The petite trio are made with a subdued plaid fabric that will fit right in with today's neutral home colors. Check out the listing here.

Who needs a boring camera strap when you can have one with flair? Priddy Creations has a great selection of camera strap covers but this Zen Multicolored Strap really caught my eye with all that aqua, red, black and white. No more basic black for me! The strap just slides right over your existing SLR camera strap -- which means you can get more and change them out whenever you want. Be sure to take a closer look!

Who says fall has to be subdued? The bold colors of Anna Maria Horner's Garden Party line of fabrics make quite the statement in this pieced purse from Boutique Nutmeg Designs. It's the perfect size to tuck under your arm and go, whether you're wearing jeans and a turtleneck or your fave fall suit. There's even a removable flower pin! Read the full listing details here.

If a trip to the pumpkin patch is on your agenda, then you'll want to grab this festively fall twirl skirt from Wondermommy. Patchwork squares from Tula Pink's Nest line of fabric are layered in cascading tiers for maximum twirlability. Best of all, it's ready to ship -- immediate gratification! Grab it while you can.

There's lots more from Trendy Textiles on Etsy, so be sure to check it out!

Interview with the Nancy Langdon

2008-10-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

Over the summer one of the Trendy Textiles members did an interview with the amazing Nancy Langdon. For those who love Studio Tantrum, you deffinately know who she is.

Mellissa, from WonderMommy did the interview and has so kindly allowed us to paste a copy of the interview here on the Trendy Textiles blog!

So, on with the interview: (Me, Nancy)
Introduce yourself.
I’m Nancy. I have two children. I have the privilege and greatfortune to straighten ballet tights, cheer soccer jukes, listen to“Kitten’s First Full Moon” read to me, proofread class reports,pack lunches, make teddy bear pancakes, smear sun screen on fidgetynoses and referee squirt gun battles. I have the best job in theworld. I’ve seen a good deal of the world, but my favorite way tosee the world is through these kids’ eyes.

How long have you been sewing?
I have not sewn very long with this regularity. I learned watching mymother, who sewed quite a bit. As a very young child, it took me awhile to learn that you could actually buy the clothes in adepartment store. Usually, I would shop with my mother and say, “Ilike this, but in blue” and over to the fabric section of MarshallField’s we would go. She sewed for me all her life. Mom came of agein an era when even everyday dresses were tailored (think “I loveLucy”) and a decent dress cost $50 or $100 back then. Sewing wasmuch more commonplace. And Mom could do it all: Welted pockets andbutton holes, steam-formed shoulders and blazer collars that laidlike they were part of me.

What/Who first got you interested in sewing? What interested you indesigning children’s clothing patterns?
I’ve always liked clothes. Not fashion, but clothes. I can look atan Armani cocktail dress at the Barney’s or a 50s swing coat at thesecond hand shop the way some people look at a Vermeer. And then,with Anna, I really just wanted some clothes for my daughter similarto the kinds of clothes the kids had in Europe. Children’s clothesdon’t require much fabric, so why not sew up a few? I dusted offMom’s old Bernina and cut up some fabric with the lines and styles Ihad seen in Europe. At one point, I came across Sabine Pollehn’sforum, klickundblick.de and I said, “I want clothes like that.”When I began posting some of my items, other people started saying“I want clothes like that” about my clothes. And that was thestart of the pattern thing.

What is your favorite sewing tool?
Good question: Probably a Sharpie pen and paper. It all starts with apiece of paper. I like my seam ripper that’s like a knife, I thinkit’s sold as a “serger” seam ripper. A good pattern sure takes a lotof the guesswork out. The pattern is one place I don’t like toskimp. If the pattern has been hand-drafted by a coutureprofessional, I am ten steps ahead. If you have read this far, maybeyou’ve sewn Farbenmix and studioTANTRUM/fledge and maybe you agree.And that tape measure: Measure thrice, cut once. And measure,measure, measure as you go along.

Do you have any advice for beginner sewers that you would like to share?
Sewing for children is a good way to start sewing. First, it doesn’trequire a lot of fabric. Second, children always need new clothes asthey grow. If the sewn item isn’t perfect, no big deal. They willsoon outgrow it. And fudging is allowed. Appliqué is the French wordfor “covering up wonky seams”, I’m sure of it. Also, in sewingchildren’s clothing, you learn the basics of clothing construction,upon which you can expand and improve. Once you have make a basicjumper, there’s not much to hold you back from making adouble-layer jumper with a scalloped hemline. And choosing a goodpattern is also a good way to start. If the seams match up nicely, ifthe fit is comfortable and flattering, and if the form is catchingpeople’s attention, well, pretty soon the sewing bug will bite you.And just wait for the first time your little one puts on that twirlydress you made her and she spins herself dizzy and lands in a heap ofgiggles. Or your somewhat older girl shops with you at the fabric store and sketches up adesign she wants, when she eschews mass marketed brands and wants todetermine her own style. That’s what it’s all about. Andremember, with the Internet, you are never alone! It has been myexperience that sewists are not only some of the most creative peoplearound, but also some of the most helpful and generous. Do you have aquestion? Is there a term you don’t understand? Do my patterninstructions require the Rosetta Stone to decipher? There are tens ofthousands of sewing enthusiasts sharing their knowledge and arepleased to help. Wondermommy is a great example of this.

When did you make your first pattern?
That would be REDONDO. That was in May 2005, I believe.

Did you go to fashion school or are you self-taught?
I have no right to do this: I have no background in fashion designwhatsoever. There is a tiny bit of me channeling my mother’s abilities. My dress-up clothes as a kid were like a lesson in 20thCentury fashion design: 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s—all rightthere. Mom could sew, but you should also see the fashion art shepainted and drew. I’m hoping my sister still has some of her art,because I would like to make a few copies.What is your biggest inspiration?
Inspiration, I think, just pops up at you out of the blue, don’tyou think? Some of my patterns have come by just looking at a solidform and thinking, hm, what if that hubcap were made of fabric? Howwould it fall? I’m always looking at seams. That is the alchemy ofdesign. I’ll watch an entire movie and not know the plot, becauseI’ll be concentrating on the costumes.

What is your most favorite pattern and why?
The next one. Always the next one

How long have you been in business?
I’ve been distributing Farbenmix and studioTANTRUM/fledge in theU.S. for over two years. Time flies!

What made you decide to go into business?
Sabine Pollehn asked me. No huge plan to conquer the world onesewing pattern at a time. But it seems to be happening! And it willbe your—you and sewing enthusiasts everywhere—fault! Really: Ihave a really lousy Website that has only been up a couple of months.I don’t have a big company behind me with a PR and advertising staffto call magazines and promote the patterns. I’ve never been to“market” and only recently understood what “market” meant. Thesepatterns have sold in the thousands, because somebody posted afinished garment on a forum somewhere and somebody else recommendedit and somebody else posted something on a blog…I’m veryembarrassed at my lack of professional marketing. On the other hand,I am proud of the fact that these patterns have sold withoutadvertising. They have sold through word of mouth and forum and blog.I probably should have it another way, but I am rather pleased thatthe sewists want these patterns, despite the fact that the packaging isn’t very fancy and the trancing requiressome concentration and some of the designs really are a leap of faithin terms of construction (think “LAGUNA” ;-).

What can we look forward to in the future from you and your company?
Nancy action figures? I don’t know: What do you want? There areareas in this corner of crafting to which my colleagues at Farbenmixand I could really add something new. We have the ideas. But we arereally just working from our homes between packing lunches, searchingfor lost shin guards and sitting through music lessons. I have beenworking on some clothes for myself that I like and maybe I’ll trymy hand at women’s patterns. But I want to know what you want. Iknow you want more patterns translated. And I am the bottleneck. I amso very sorry for that. I have a couple of wonderful womentranslating with me. But it takes time. And I’m looking into Frenchand Japanese versions. It takes time. For all other things, I’mopen to ideas and criticisms!

Is there anything else that you would like to share with theWondermommy readers?
Well, really, I would like to know what makes you sew. Why sew? I’dlike to hear how other people came to the sentence, “And so, Ibegan to sew.” A friend recently wrote to me that starting a newproject was “like falling in love, like a twist in my stomach”.That is what I would like to know.
What I do want to share is my great appreciation. I want to thank youfor sewing these patterns. I want to thank you for spending yourvaluable time with these ideas and for sharing them with yourchildren. I haven’t made my favorite versions of my designs, somebodyelse out there has. It warms my heart. It really does. I’m humbledand honored.

If you want more of Nancy, here are a list of her sites:
Mother of Invention Blog
Studio Tantrum
Fledge Flying is Easy

Thanks Mellissa, for allowing us to share this on our blog.

I Spy

2008-09-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

With my little eye ... great new things from members of the Trendy Textiles team! Here are the Friday Five, five of the the latest-and-greatest listings our team members have on Etsy.

Pink Lemonade Bags hits another home run with this beautiful boutique diaper bag. The tote style makes it oh-so-easy to carry and use. The bag has three fully lined pockets inside and includes a magnetic snap closure -- easy to open, easy to close. It's the perfect bag for moms on the go!

Get yours here!

I'm just crazy about the great color combinations in this fun purse from Hoganfe. Bold SisBoom fabrics are sure to generate plenty of compliments. Best of all, the bag is big enough for all those things you need to tote around: cell phone, wallet, keys, checkbook, that paperback novel you read while waiting in line at Starbucks.

Grab it while you can!

Brown and aqua are such a great fabric combination, especially when the weather starts to change. Combined with this stunning Japanese Matroyshka fabric, it creates an eye-catching skirt you'll want to see on your little girl for months to come.

Little Daisy Designs is offering this cute and practical elastic-waisted skirt in sizes 12m-5T (convo her if you're looking for a larger size).

You can find the complete listing here.

Abby Chase Designs is offering a great summer-into-fall transitional piece that's more than just a practical wardrobe addition: it's also sweet as can be!

Those awesome Sandi Henderson for Michael Miller fabrics are just the touch of fun your little girl needs as the weather starts to change. Layer over a short sleeve tee and then a turtleneck as temps drop. Add leggings or jeans to complete the look.

This one's a can't-miss listing!

Every girl needs accessories and these fun flowers are just the right touch. They're made with some of the latest and greatest fabrics on the market, so they'll go with all the awesome boutique items you've bought for fall. Or use them to liven up your own blazers and purses. The possibilities are endless!

They're available from Andrea's Hair Flairs; the complete listing can be found right here.

Check out all the great Trendy Textiles listings! And don't forget to stop by the blog next week for more Trendy Textiles happenings.

An interview with Erin McMorris

2008-07-15T07:20:00.001-07:00

One of our fabulous members, Mary of Flourishes has just blogged an interview with Erin McMorris, the creative mind behind Park Slope.

The interview is a great read, so stop by and check it out. You won't be disappointed.

And if you love her fabrics as much as we do, stop by our launch on Etsy and see what we've created with her amazing fabric line!

Park Slope on Etsy Launch

2008-07-09T12:43:00.001-07:00

Park Slope......

2008-07-09T12:40:00.001-07:00

Trendy Textiles, launched on Etsy with special guest Erin McMorris, who is such a doll. If you haven't seen her designs, you must stop by her website and check it out.

The Park Slope fabrics are divine. They are so vibrant and the quality of the fabric is amazing too. Anyway, if you can't tell I am totally smitten by her latest!

Here's a peek at the fabulous designs some of the designers of Trendy Textiles came up with.

To check out the whole launch visit us on Etsy today!

A first for everything

2008-06-30T13:42:00.001-07:00

Trendy Textiles is having their first ever launch on eBay. What better way to get our feet wet over there, than to launch with the amazing Park Slope line that the beautiful Erin McMorris designed for Free Spirit.

Be sure to check it out!

Front Page worthy!!

2008-06-20T10:05:00.001-07:00

It's so exciting to see a member of Trendy Textiles make the front page of Etsy.

Yesterday GocksFrocks made the front page treasury on Etsy!

Congratulations Kristen.

If it's a bag you need...........

2008-06-13T20:55:00.000-07:00

It's a bag we've got. The designers at Trendy Textiles have got some of most fabulous bags for summer. Whether it's for sunny days and the beach, shopping downtown, or an evening out, you can find your perfect bag by searching TeamTrendyTextiles on Etsy today!
Even moms and moms to be can find something they must have this summer.

There's something for everyone from Team Trendy Textiles!

TT Finds............. Frogs, Snails, and Puppy Dog Tails

2008-05-22T16:11:00.000-07:00

That's what little boys are made of.

What little boy wouldn't love catching frogs in this from GocksFrocks?

You can see it here

TT Finds.......... A Day For Dresses

2008-05-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

With summer quickly approaching, I find myself drooling over all the pretty dresses. There is nothing like sundresses and twirl skirts to the little girl in me all giddy.

GeorgiaGraceDesigns created this must have summer dress.

You can find it here

Isn't this the cutest Ginger Blossom twirl skirt by Queen*Bree!! I absolutely adore it.
Check it here

More Bell Bottoms!

2008-05-08T13:53:00.000-07:00

Last post I only had a minute to show you some of the most fabulous designs with Jennifer's fabrics and there are so many more to show you, so I am continuing this post.

Search TTBellBottoms on Etsy

Bell Bottoms Launch on Etsy!

2008-05-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

Trendy Textiles is extremely excited to be participating in a fun launch featuring a very talented lady.....designer, Jennifer Paganelli. She is the designer behind the fabulous new line of fabric, Bell Bottoms.
Trendy Textiles designers have come together to bring you some fabulous new items made with Jennifer's wonderful new fabric. Please help us welcome Jennifer as our special guest and be sure and search TeamTrendyTextiles or ttbellbottom to find all of our designs.

Search TTBellBottoms on Etsy!

Upcoming........

2008-04-17T16:10:00.000-07:00

Jubilation!

2008-04-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

~noun: a feeling of or the expression of joy

You can see my expression of joy here in my new treasury!
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=39115

TT Finds: Twirly Girls!

2008-04-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

What little girl doesn't like a sweet twirl skirt? There is nothing more fun than dancing to your favorite tune in a fun, frilly skirt that has lots of movement when you twirl. TeamTrendyTextiles has lots of talented designers that puts a lot of twirl into their skirts. These designers really know how to make a girl feel pretty and special. Perfect for any girl who loves to dance! Check them all out by clicking below or search TeamTrendyTextiles, Twirl Skirts on Etsy.

TT Finds

2008-03-29T23:19:00.000-07:00

Trendy Textiles and friends, The Ginger Blossom Group have begun listing their yummy items for the Encore launch. Here is a taste of what you can get if you search GingerBlossom on Etsy.

The story of us.....

2008-03-29T23:06:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, not so long ago, there was a group of designers who had one common goal.
To design the most fashionable items with Sandi Henderson's debut line of fabric.

So they formed a group and the designers came. By the dozens, they came.
There was chatting, sharing, and inspiring fun... Friendships were forged and ideas were sparked.

The designers knew the day would come, when Ginger Blossom would become a memory, and the group would slowly dissolve.
Why does have to they asked themselves? "It doesn't", one designer said.

Lo and behold Trendy Textiles was formed.

TT Finds.......

2008-03-24T12:37:00.000-07:00

This camera strap is a perfect addition to any girl and her camera!

Find it here priddycreations