Retrophile

Hello all, As it says in the title, The Clouds are parting some. I can feel the spring thaw start. Today is the first day of the transition, spring is on its way. I know it is really early, but such big changes take time and have to start somewhere. I noticed today when I woke up that the sun was actually shinning in my window. There was light at 7:00am, I haven't seen that for months. Between fog, clouds and simply the time of year it felt like we had been trapped in perpetual dusk. However, steping outside, looking up there are a multitude of changes this morning that were not there yesterday (its amazing how nature is like that). For one, the skys are clear and crystal blue, and do I dare say that there are tiny buds on the almond trees in front of my apartment. Hmmmmm, this all has me dreaming of spring days, walks around the neighborhood, picnics, bikerides, reading outdoors in the morning with my coffee (my all time favorite activity), playing in the parks, out...

I know it has been forever since I last posted anything here. I have been in the midst of my entire life going upside down and reshifting since August. Now that things have finally settled in their places, I am going to start working on my various projects again. So far I have 4 major projects planned for 2010. They are as follows... 1. Ren Faire Dress. I have had all the fabric since last spring, but didn't have a chance to make the dress. 2. My friends Wedding Dress. She is getting married in sept./oct. 3. Steampunk alterations. I want to make some additions and modifications to my steampunk pirate costume for the june pirate festival. 4. Dickens Faire Dress. I am thinking of making this years dress more authentic to the period, and perhaps a bit frillier. These are not the only projects I want to complete this year, but they are my major, will take over my life/ free time projects. I can't wait to get started. I am currently in the process of cleaning ...

Here is my jewelry for the airship pirate (navigator) costume I am making. I am going to wear it to a pirate festival in June. The Necklace is made of a drawer pull, chain, beads, gears and jump rings. The earrings are made of chain, jump rings, beads and gears. I have to say this was a lot of fun to make and didn't take as long as I thought they would. I work about 2 hours total for them both. By the way, I love working with gears, these are my first projects using gears. They can be a bit pricey, but soo worth it. Keep a look out for future pieces!

I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Easter and belated Blessed Ostara, depending on what you celebrate. If you don't celebrate any of these, then happy beautiful spring day! I definitely think that a beautiful spring day is worth celebrating. I am sitting here at my computer, next to the open window. The sun is just making its appearance and everything has those morning shadows. I can hear all the little birds chirping, the wind is cool and fragrant. There is just something about this time of year, everything feel electric, everything is coming to life! I know it sounds silly and clique'. But I challenge you to just take a moment and go sit outside. If you can find a quiet place away from cars. Then, just sit, listen and feel. You will start to see what I mean. Ok, new age lecture over, have a great day everyone!!!!

Ok so here is the Ren Dress I made for last years faire season. I wore it to, two different faires last year. This was also my first real sewing project. I have to say I am pretty happy with is and looking forward to making this years dress (which is going to be a recreation of queen elizabeth's red dress!). Anyway, here are some pictures . You can also see bigger more detailed pictures in my Ren dress album The bodice and skirt are hand beaded at all the line intersections with three small pears. Needless to say, this took a WHILE. My mom and I spent 4 hours on just half the skirt. I also made all the undergarments including: Shift (slip) Corset Farthingale Petticoat Partlett Accessories I made were: Neck Ruff Girdle (waist necklace for lack of better description) Sleeves (Detailed with satin ribbon and more pearls!)

Hello Everyone, So I am not quite sticking to my new years resolution, but I have some awesome excuses. I have been working on my Steam punk Pirate costume for June. I have the jacket just about done. I modified a late 20th century Jacket pattern. BTW have I mentioned how much I love having a dress form, this piece would not have been possible without it. Anyway, here are some pics of the work in progress. I was inspired by a jacket I saw at a booth at Wondercon a couple weeks ago. So take a gander and let me know what you all think. I will post more detailed descriptions when the coat is completed. ( I still have a some trim to add to the collar and cuffs, and buttons on the cuffs) Back Front Details

Hello All, Just wanted to make quick post and let everyone know that my February project is soon to make an appearance. I'm surprised, I'm actually sticking to my own deadlines :-P So keep your eyes peeled for the next project and also soon I will have more costume posts up as well. As always, if you have an idea for a tutorial that you would like to see, shoot it my way! Have a great day!