The Textile Museum in Washington DC has launched a new exhibit called Art by the Yard: Women Design Mid-Century Britain, now through Sept. 12 2010. The exhibit looks at post-war textile design in Great Britain, focusing on Lucienne Day (1917- 2010), Jacqueline Groag (1903-1985) and Marian Mahler (1911-1983). A tour through the exhibit would be a great way to learn more about the origins of mid-century modern. Many of their bold, abstract designs are still very popular.  Read more ...

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Dwell Magazine is hosting their annual Dwell on Design conference this weekend in Los Angeles. I won't be able to attend this year, but there are plenty of ideas and inspiration on their website for armchair attendees like me.  Read more ...

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I've been eagerly awaiting the new crop of spring/summer knitting magazines and emails promoting new patterns for warmer weather. Lacy, airy designs are perfect for knitting with hemp!  Read more ...

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I'm a total pattern addict – there, I admitted it! – so I could barely contain myself when this first box of pattern books arrived. I found a quiet corner and took the time to look through each book, letting the inspiration flood over me. Even better than a fabulous yarn is a fabulous designer's patterns AND a pile of yarn – I always feel like I have a personal coach helping me create something that fits me well and expresses my own style. Read more ...

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This place should come with a warning label. Caution! Leave your wallet at home!

I finally made it over to Kinokuniya in San Francisco. Oh my, what a crafty-book-lover's paradise! I won't say how much I spent, but suffice it to say I spent a good 2 hours salivating in the design and sewing sections. Read more ...

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Here's a sweet, simple pattern for a set of napkins. It's a great gift idea, and a good way to practice a new technique. This pattern uses frayed edges and a zig-zag stitch detail. Use it as a jumping-off point to create your own design! Read more ...

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I'm even more in love with the finished product than I was with the pattern. This is a Vogue skirt (V8296) made in lovely berry-colored hemp/soy linen. It's cut on the bias to show off the lovely drape of this fabric. My favorite part: the raw edges of the fabric, lapped rather than seamed, which will fray and soften over time.  Read more ...

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Shopping is no fun anymore.

Last weekend I paid a visit to a new discount chain department store in town, to pick up some can't-make-it-myself staples (tights and sunglasses, to be exact). Read more ...

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When you think "organic" in the context of clothing or home accessories, does a particular image come to mind? What does that object look like, and feel like? How colorful is it? How embellished? Read more ...

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