I indulged myself, as is tradition, and made a rather large purchase of books on my recent birthday. A little gift to myself. I've had some time to sit down and at least turn all the pages and in some cases read quite a bit and I've got some recommendations.
First up, I've been dreaming of putting in an organic vegetable garden ever since I moved here to Austin. I've also been dreaming and scheming about some major landscape changes to the back yard. It's got great bones - a patio, a covered porch, and lots of shade - but I want it to be spectacular. Spectacular and dog friendly. It is their domain after all. I found these books: Dogs in their Gardens by Page Dickey and Dog Friendly Gardens Garden Friendly Dogs by Cheryl S Smith. The later has a ton of very useful information about materials, safety, and plant suggestions. She shares not only her gardening know-how but also some very practical advice on managing the dogs in the space. The former is strictly a picture book, but it does have a lot to offer in terms of inspiration. I recommend them both.
Second to indulge the book artist in me - I've been fascinated by pop-up books and their forms and structures lately and have been planning a new series of small artist books that will involve screen printing and pop-up structures. I ordered a fantastic book - The Pocket Paper Engineer How to Make Pop-Ups Step-by-Step by Carol Barton of Popular Kinetics Press. I've been familiar with Carol's work as a book artist for several years as she is quite accomplished. This book is great! Not only does it offer clear and concise tips, instructions, and tools list it has projects. There are several pre-printed pages which you cut, score, and fold, to make pop-up cards, and pockets within the book to store your finished cards. Very clever!
And of course I had to also indulge the knitter in me. This time rather then go for a book of patterns, which I seem to have quite a collection of, I went for instructions and encyclopedic references. Knitting in Plain English by Maggie Righetti and The Knitter's Book of Yarn by Clara Parkes. Both are staples to any knitter's reading diet and every knitter's shelve should have them.
That's it! Quite a haul I know but it was my 40th birthday so I went all out. All books are available from Amazon and I've included links in the sidebar. Happy reading!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
A Bunch of Knitting FO's
I've been finishing my knits lately. And it feels dang good. First up Flair the knit jacket for Wendy Bernard of Knit and Tonic. I knit this using Blue Sky Alpaca's Dyed Cotton. 6 Skeins total, which really isn't much, it makes this a very affordable jacket. I picked up some special buttons, but they also weren't bank breakers. The pattern definitely falls in the easy category and it took just a few weeks to complete.
Next the last pair of felted clogs. The patterns is from Fiber Trends. It fast and simple. Add some extra time for felting and drying, but otherwise they are pretty much instant gratification. I used Nashua Hand Knits Creative Focus Worsted which felts beautifully and has a nice halo.
Lastly I whipped up the Beach Beanie from Hats a Knitters Dozen in anticipation of the cooler climes of New Mexico. Because I wanted some warmth from this hat I used Blue Sky Alpacas 100% Alpaca. I delectable, soft, finally haloed yarn. The patterns is super easy and took just two short evenings to complete.
Happy Knitting!
Next the last pair of felted clogs. The patterns is from Fiber Trends. It fast and simple. Add some extra time for felting and drying, but otherwise they are pretty much instant gratification. I used Nashua Hand Knits Creative Focus Worsted which felts beautifully and has a nice halo.
Lastly I whipped up the Beach Beanie from Hats a Knitters Dozen in anticipation of the cooler climes of New Mexico. Because I wanted some warmth from this hat I used Blue Sky Alpacas 100% Alpaca. I delectable, soft, finally haloed yarn. The patterns is super easy and took just two short evenings to complete.
Happy Knitting!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Photo Tips
I've been taking tons of photos, re-shooting all the pictures for my Etsy shop as a part of a new year shop makeover. And I've learned a thing or two. I'm not by any stretch claiming to be an expert, and I still have things I'm struggling with, but I do have some tips to share. It doesn't matter if your taking pictures of products for your website, or other online sales site, or if your taking pictures to share your creativity with the world through online communities like Ravelry, and Flickr, or to post on your blog - you should make an effort to take good photos.
Tip1 - Always, always, always use natural light. Unless you've got a tungsten balanced professional light kit or box, shoot you photos outside in natural light. It will keep your colors true, and add a certain warmth that you just can't get from an artificial light source. It is best if the light isn't too direct, as that can cause harsh shadows, and/or a washed out look. An overcast day is great, or late afternoon or early morning when the sun isn't directly over head. I sometimes use the covered porch - it's filled with light but protected from glare. If you can't go outside, shoot near a sunny window.
Tip2 - Never, never, never use your flash. It just looks bad. It changes the colors and causes weird glares, reflections, and hot spots. Do yourself a favor and turn the flash off.
Tip 3 - Put your subjects in a context, stage your photos. It adds visual interest plain and simple. Find yourself some props, and a place to shoot and play around with styling your photos. In addition to adding visual interest it can be useful in communicating to your audience - if you're shooting a product show your customers how to use it. Or make allusions to how it was made. Any additional information you can communicate will further the connection with your intended audience. And use your imagination, having more creative photos let's the world know that you're a creative person.
Tip 4 - If your shooting clothing put it on a model. It doesn't have to be a live model, although sometimes that is better, it can also be a mannequin. Bottom line is clothes don't look how they're suppose to spread out on a table. This is one I still have trouble with - I don't always have someone around to be a model, I don't always feel like being my own model, and while I have a vintage wire mannequin she's tiny and the clothes I make for myself don't fit her.
Tip 5 - Use an interesting background. Again, unless you've got a professionally set-up back drop don't use sheets, or bedspreads to try to imitate one. It will look like hell and it's boring. Be creative with your back drop. Try different textures and colors. Light colored items benefit from the contrast of a darker background and vice-versa. Try a wooden tray, or a wicker baskets, or decorative papers, or pages from a book. Be creative, create a visual metaphor, use your background as another opportunity to add interest and express your cleverness or sense of humor.
Tip 6 - Take lots and lots of photos. Once you have something set up take several shots, move in a little closer, move out a little further, shoot from a higher angle, shoot from a lower angle, shoot it in reverse. Now re-arrange your props, change out your props, and shoot it all again. Now move to a different part of the yard where the light will be slightly different and do it all again. Taking tons of photos will give you choices, so you will truly great photos to post.
Tip 7 - Let your style develop. If you're taking lots of photos, and your being creative with the styling and use of props, and your being patient and thinking about what your doing your own style will start to shine through. Just like with writing practice you start to develop a voice, your photo taking will start to develop an eye. And it will be your eye, unique to you, and will give your photos a signature look that helps to communicate who you are and what you're all about creatively.
The old adage "a pictures says a thousand words" isn't just an old adage. It's true. Your photos are an opportunity to communicate in ways language can't. I hope these tips are useful in making your photos speak for you in new ways. Get out the camera and have some fun.
Tip1 - Always, always, always use natural light. Unless you've got a tungsten balanced professional light kit or box, shoot you photos outside in natural light. It will keep your colors true, and add a certain warmth that you just can't get from an artificial light source. It is best if the light isn't too direct, as that can cause harsh shadows, and/or a washed out look. An overcast day is great, or late afternoon or early morning when the sun isn't directly over head. I sometimes use the covered porch - it's filled with light but protected from glare. If you can't go outside, shoot near a sunny window.
Tip2 - Never, never, never use your flash. It just looks bad. It changes the colors and causes weird glares, reflections, and hot spots. Do yourself a favor and turn the flash off.
Tip 3 - Put your subjects in a context, stage your photos. It adds visual interest plain and simple. Find yourself some props, and a place to shoot and play around with styling your photos. In addition to adding visual interest it can be useful in communicating to your audience - if you're shooting a product show your customers how to use it. Or make allusions to how it was made. Any additional information you can communicate will further the connection with your intended audience. And use your imagination, having more creative photos let's the world know that you're a creative person.
Tip 4 - If your shooting clothing put it on a model. It doesn't have to be a live model, although sometimes that is better, it can also be a mannequin. Bottom line is clothes don't look how they're suppose to spread out on a table. This is one I still have trouble with - I don't always have someone around to be a model, I don't always feel like being my own model, and while I have a vintage wire mannequin she's tiny and the clothes I make for myself don't fit her.
Tip 5 - Use an interesting background. Again, unless you've got a professionally set-up back drop don't use sheets, or bedspreads to try to imitate one. It will look like hell and it's boring. Be creative with your back drop. Try different textures and colors. Light colored items benefit from the contrast of a darker background and vice-versa. Try a wooden tray, or a wicker baskets, or decorative papers, or pages from a book. Be creative, create a visual metaphor, use your background as another opportunity to add interest and express your cleverness or sense of humor.
Tip 6 - Take lots and lots of photos. Once you have something set up take several shots, move in a little closer, move out a little further, shoot from a higher angle, shoot from a lower angle, shoot it in reverse. Now re-arrange your props, change out your props, and shoot it all again. Now move to a different part of the yard where the light will be slightly different and do it all again. Taking tons of photos will give you choices, so you will truly great photos to post.
Tip 7 - Let your style develop. If you're taking lots of photos, and your being creative with the styling and use of props, and your being patient and thinking about what your doing your own style will start to shine through. Just like with writing practice you start to develop a voice, your photo taking will start to develop an eye. And it will be your eye, unique to you, and will give your photos a signature look that helps to communicate who you are and what you're all about creatively.
The old adage "a pictures says a thousand words" isn't just an old adage. It's true. Your photos are an opportunity to communicate in ways language can't. I hope these tips are useful in making your photos speak for you in new ways. Get out the camera and have some fun.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Spreading the Blogland Love!
So I wouldn't normally post twice in one day - Unheard of actually, but I was surfing around today and noticed that I'd received a You Make My Day Award...
Sweet! So Windy Knitty gave me the prize. I almost missed it, but catching up on my blog reading today I noticed on her blog that she had passed the blogland love my way. So thank you!
Here’s how it works:
Give the award to up to 10 people whose blogs bring you happiness and inspiration and make you feel so happy about Blogland! Let them know by posting a comment on their blog so that they can pass it on. Beware! You may get the award several times!
So now I must share the love - These are the blogs that have been making my day lately.
Cloth Paper String - She knits, she prints, and she takes great photos.
Cosmicpluto - I love her knits and Her Patterns
Deconstructed Artichoke - Her blog is new, and she's a very talented Book Artist
The Plucky Knitter - She just posted some beautiful yarn and I have a secret crush on her dog
Green Chair Press - Another great Printer and Book Artist
Knit Creations of a Curious Mind - Always good for Eye Candy
Knit and Tonic - Another source of fantastic knits and patterns
Sweet! So Windy Knitty gave me the prize. I almost missed it, but catching up on my blog reading today I noticed on her blog that she had passed the blogland love my way. So thank you!
Here’s how it works:
Give the award to up to 10 people whose blogs bring you happiness and inspiration and make you feel so happy about Blogland! Let them know by posting a comment on their blog so that they can pass it on. Beware! You may get the award several times!
So now I must share the love - These are the blogs that have been making my day lately.
Cloth Paper String - She knits, she prints, and she takes great photos.
Cosmicpluto - I love her knits and Her Patterns
Deconstructed Artichoke - Her blog is new, and she's a very talented Book Artist
The Plucky Knitter - She just posted some beautiful yarn and I have a secret crush on her dog
Green Chair Press - Another great Printer and Book Artist
Knit Creations of a Curious Mind - Always good for Eye Candy
Knit and Tonic - Another source of fantastic knits and patterns
Monday, February 4, 2008
Reading Recommendation - Craft Inc
This past week I devoured Craft Inc Turn Your Creative Hobby Into a Business by Meg Mateo Ilasco. It's a great book and I highly recommend it. Whether you have dreams of hitting the big time with your designs, or you're thinking of doing a few craft fairs or opening an etsy shop, there is something you can take away from this book.
Ilasco covers the business aspects, some of which is a reminder of things you probably already know, but maybe haven't followed through on - like registering as a DBA. Much of it applies to designers and artist who are really taking their ideas to the level of out sourcing, hiring employees, and major marketing campaigns. These parts don't really apply for me personally, I print in very small editions, and want to keep it that way. So these sections only got a quick skim. But there was also a lot to be learned about things like pricing strategies, and the importance of packaging, and ways to market yourself.
She also covers the creative aspects. It was these sections that I got the most from, these parts of the book were a welcome inspirational kick in the pants. When the subject turns to creativity in general, it really stirred my pot, so to speak, about things like being out in the world, and developing your ideas, and taking time to just think.
In addition, Craft Inc. is well written in a conversational tone, with a great layout and design, so it's pretty to look at while you read. If you're a creative type, and you have any aspirations of making your craft more than a hobby, I recommend this book.
Ilasco covers the business aspects, some of which is a reminder of things you probably already know, but maybe haven't followed through on - like registering as a DBA. Much of it applies to designers and artist who are really taking their ideas to the level of out sourcing, hiring employees, and major marketing campaigns. These parts don't really apply for me personally, I print in very small editions, and want to keep it that way. So these sections only got a quick skim. But there was also a lot to be learned about things like pricing strategies, and the importance of packaging, and ways to market yourself.
She also covers the creative aspects. It was these sections that I got the most from, these parts of the book were a welcome inspirational kick in the pants. When the subject turns to creativity in general, it really stirred my pot, so to speak, about things like being out in the world, and developing your ideas, and taking time to just think.
In addition, Craft Inc. is well written in a conversational tone, with a great layout and design, so it's pretty to look at while you read. If you're a creative type, and you have any aspirations of making your craft more than a hobby, I recommend this book.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
An Etsy Find Lady's of the Letterpress
From time to time I like to showcase a few of the gems I find on Etsy - your place to buy and sell all things handmade. Let's face it I spend a lot of time on Etsy, and a fair amount of cash. So when I find something I'm thrilled with I figure I should share it with y'all.
The Lady's of the Letterpress badge was designed by and purchased from Heroes and Criminals Press. In the funny world of coincidence Jessica, the letterpress printer/artist happens to be a student of one of my dearest friends, at the University of Iowa Center for the Book. I guess the world of letterpress is a small one indeed.
This recent gem was actually a gift. My fella new I loved my Patagonia fleece vest that I've had for years and years, he also knew I never wore it. Why not? because it was a wrap present from a film I worked on back when I was working as a production assistant, and it wasn't a very good film, in fact I never bothered to see it, and they gave us the vests with a badge. The badge was a silly inside joke having to do with Lutherans and gun clubs, not really my cup of tea. Anyway, I never wore the vest.
Until now! I pointed out Jessica's shop, pointed out the badge, and fondly reveled in the small world warm feelings. My fella took it upon himself to order the badge, and - and this is the best part - he sewed it to my vest right over the top of the old icky badge. Perfectly, and meticulously hand-sewed it.
All stitched up
Now I wear my vest a lot. And each time that I do I am warmed not only by its wind proof fleece, but also by thoughts of my fella who sews, and my friends in Iowa, and the tiny community of Lady Letterpress Printers.
The Lady's of the Letterpress badge was designed by and purchased from Heroes and Criminals Press. In the funny world of coincidence Jessica, the letterpress printer/artist happens to be a student of one of my dearest friends, at the University of Iowa Center for the Book. I guess the world of letterpress is a small one indeed.
This recent gem was actually a gift. My fella new I loved my Patagonia fleece vest that I've had for years and years, he also knew I never wore it. Why not? because it was a wrap present from a film I worked on back when I was working as a production assistant, and it wasn't a very good film, in fact I never bothered to see it, and they gave us the vests with a badge. The badge was a silly inside joke having to do with Lutherans and gun clubs, not really my cup of tea. Anyway, I never wore the vest.
Until now! I pointed out Jessica's shop, pointed out the badge, and fondly reveled in the small world warm feelings. My fella took it upon himself to order the badge, and - and this is the best part - he sewed it to my vest right over the top of the old icky badge. Perfectly, and meticulously hand-sewed it.
All stitched upNow I wear my vest a lot. And each time that I do I am warmed not only by its wind proof fleece, but also by thoughts of my fella who sews, and my friends in Iowa, and the tiny community of Lady Letterpress Printers.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Gocco - A- Go - Go
I haven't done a lot of printing lately. I no longer have the access I used to have to letterpress equipment. I also have limited studio space. But I got the urge to print and so I dug out and dusted off the old Gocco and am fully embracing the low tech nature of it and have fallen in love all over again.
What is Gocco? Gocco is a Japanese screen printing system designed for home craft use. It has a small table top press, exposes the screens with battery powered flash bulbs, and uses water soluble inks. What that means is it's perfect for a studio with a limited amount of space, like my spare bedroom. There are no brain sizzling solvents, or inky fumes, which keeps us happy and healthy. And it's pretty versatile in what it can do. When you're exposing your screens your source image needs to be carbon based, that means photocopies work, and many drawing pens. When working with text that I don't want to hand write I do it up on the computer and then take it to the copy shop for a quick copy. Otherwise I draw all my originals. Lucky me my favorite drawing pens are all carbon based - Zig Millenniums, and the Staedtler Pigment Liners. Lead pencil also works, and you can order Riso pens from suppliers of Gocco accessories.
It's limitations - size. Size is the number one limitation with the Gocco system. The model I use has a print area of approximately 3.5" x 5" perfect for postcards, and smallish prints, but otherwise you're out of luck. There are larger systems, and I've got my eye on one. But mostly its small size suits me, I tend to work towards smallish anyway.
The other major limitation is availability. When I got my Gocco 5 or 6 years ago they were still available in the United States and I could get replacement inks and screens at my local art supply store. Since then there have been a lot of crazy rumors that they were not going to make them any more and that they would quickly become extinct. There was practically a movement on the internet to save Gocco. Near as I can tell the Gocco is still very popular all over the world - this means new models, replacement inks and accessories are still available off the internet. Places like Northwoods Studios, Felt Cafe, and Print Addict Japan all sell supplies on the internet, making availability pretty much a non-issue.
Want more? There is a community of Gocco users out there on the internet. There are yahoo groups, bloggers, flickr groups - (Gocco and Loco for Gocco), and Etsy shops - some of my favorites - Magic Jelly, and Jan Allsop.
I love my Gocco - Mostly I love how low tech and non-toxic it is, making it possible for me to print in the spare bedroom.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
A Sort of Metaphorical House Cleaning
At the New Year I seem to find myself setting goals, making lists, and performing a sort of metaphorical house cleaning. I suspect that I'm not alone. I also suspect that other artists and crafts people find themselves setting similar goals, making similar lists, and performing similar tasks. Perhaps this post will resonate with my fellow crafters. Perhaps this post will bore the pants off everyone else. Or maybe they'll get a sort of voyeuristic glimpse into the business of crafting. In any case it's what's been on my mind and taking my time lately and so it is what I should post about.
First off there is the really rather tedious and mundane, but no less necessary tidying. I speak of things like updating your website, updating the sidebar of your blog, updating your various online profiles. And giving the Etsy Shop a makeover. If you snoop around you'll notice I have most of these done. Thank goodness.
Then there is the goal setting. You know, things like deciding which grants you'll apply for, which shows you'll do or apply for, which new venues you'll pursue, and developing new marketing strategies. My favorite part of these tasks is getting a brand new daily calendar and carefully plotting out the whole year. I write in due dates and deadlines. I write in reminders to myself well in advance of those due dates and deadlines. I write in which shows are when, making mental notes of my busy months online, that way I won't be caught short of inventory, in theory anyway.
I also make lists and take copious notes on projects I want to do. This year I've included 4 new artists books (at least two of which are carry overs from previous years), a letterpress printed broadside, a calendar project (for 2009 of course), and a whole mess of screen printed tidbits, cards and other assorted ephemera. Most years I don't get as much done as I think I will, but every year I have high hopes, and that's what counts.
This year I have made a few crafting resolutions as well. The big one is I have resolved to learn a new piece of software. I asked for and received Adobe In Design for Christmas with the intention of putting it to good use. I admit I'm intimidated. I have resolved to not neglect marketing. I have resolved to be productive and love what I make. I have resolved to stick with this dang blog.
First off there is the really rather tedious and mundane, but no less necessary tidying. I speak of things like updating your website, updating the sidebar of your blog, updating your various online profiles. And giving the Etsy Shop a makeover. If you snoop around you'll notice I have most of these done. Thank goodness.
Then there is the goal setting. You know, things like deciding which grants you'll apply for, which shows you'll do or apply for, which new venues you'll pursue, and developing new marketing strategies. My favorite part of these tasks is getting a brand new daily calendar and carefully plotting out the whole year. I write in due dates and deadlines. I write in reminders to myself well in advance of those due dates and deadlines. I write in which shows are when, making mental notes of my busy months online, that way I won't be caught short of inventory, in theory anyway.
I also make lists and take copious notes on projects I want to do. This year I've included 4 new artists books (at least two of which are carry overs from previous years), a letterpress printed broadside, a calendar project (for 2009 of course), and a whole mess of screen printed tidbits, cards and other assorted ephemera. Most years I don't get as much done as I think I will, but every year I have high hopes, and that's what counts.
This year I have made a few crafting resolutions as well. The big one is I have resolved to learn a new piece of software. I asked for and received Adobe In Design for Christmas with the intention of putting it to good use. I admit I'm intimidated. I have resolved to not neglect marketing. I have resolved to be productive and love what I make. I have resolved to stick with this dang blog.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
The Final Finished Object of 2007
Here it is - the last finished object of 2007. I finished the One Row Scarf from the Yarn Harlot on New Year's Eve - a little late as a Christmas gift but loved all the same. I did this in Noro Silk Garden and love it.
If you've got an itch to knit a scarf go for this one - The pattern is free, simple to memorize, fun to knit, and the texture looks great. Just be sure to do it with a yarn that has some interest, like a hand spun. I plan to do another with some hand spun I got on my trip to Minneapolis and have been saving. Perhaps it will be the first finished object of 2008. Looking back it was a pretty darn productive year when it comes to knitting. Happy New Year! We'll see what awaits us in the new year.
If you've got an itch to knit a scarf go for this one - The pattern is free, simple to memorize, fun to knit, and the texture looks great. Just be sure to do it with a yarn that has some interest, like a hand spun. I plan to do another with some hand spun I got on my trip to Minneapolis and have been saving. Perhaps it will be the first finished object of 2008. Looking back it was a pretty darn productive year when it comes to knitting. Happy New Year! We'll see what awaits us in the new year.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Post Christmas Recap
Phew! The Christmas rush is behind us, I am endlessly surprised by how much work one little holiday can be. It was a very handmade Christmas around here and I want to offer one last recap.
I finished the hat - I actually made two simple 2x2 rib hats out of Noro Silk Garden. The first was much too small, I think I'll send it to Afghanistan. The second was perfect and since it's a little chilly here, by his standards, he's wearing it all the time. It's beautiful, and I'm glad it's appreciated. I never did finish the felted clogs and the scarf is still a wip, but I'll get them done eventually.
In addition to making many gifts, I did a fair amount of handmade shopping mostly on Etsy. I'd like to share some of finds with you here - they are each worthy of your attention. There was a great silk screened organic cotton tee from Vital. An artist book or two from the talented Nikki Thompson. Some fun Letterpress Printing from The Rarrarpress, and the Sherwood Press. Some zines from Heroes and Criminals. A well drawn indie comic from Joe Havasy. And the funniest dang Gocco printed library pockets from Papermenagerie. Really, take some time to browse these shops, you won't sorry you did.
Now that Christmas is done, all the gifts are giving, and the lines at the post office are gone, it's time for the New Year. New Year, new goals, new ideas, and new projects. Happy New Year Everyone.
I finished the hat - I actually made two simple 2x2 rib hats out of Noro Silk Garden. The first was much too small, I think I'll send it to Afghanistan. The second was perfect and since it's a little chilly here, by his standards, he's wearing it all the time. It's beautiful, and I'm glad it's appreciated. I never did finish the felted clogs and the scarf is still a wip, but I'll get them done eventually.
In addition to making many gifts, I did a fair amount of handmade shopping mostly on Etsy. I'd like to share some of finds with you here - they are each worthy of your attention. There was a great silk screened organic cotton tee from Vital. An artist book or two from the talented Nikki Thompson. Some fun Letterpress Printing from The Rarrarpress, and the Sherwood Press. Some zines from Heroes and Criminals. A well drawn indie comic from Joe Havasy. And the funniest dang Gocco printed library pockets from Papermenagerie. Really, take some time to browse these shops, you won't sorry you did.
Now that Christmas is done, all the gifts are giving, and the lines at the post office are gone, it's time for the New Year. New Year, new goals, new ideas, and new projects. Happy New Year Everyone.
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