Archive for August, 2009

08/18/09

3 for tea by shanongass

I love square formatted artwork. I typically only use squares for my own paintings, so that may be why I gravitate towards that shape. The only problem is, sometimes it can be hard to find to find square frames. Or if you find a square frame, you may not be able to find it in the size you need, considering there aren’t many standard sizes.

So, many artists have started getting creative with the way their work can be displayed. Like friend of papernstitch, Shanon Gass of My Fine Garden, for example. Shanon is now offering new layout/sizes for her photographs. You can find out all about it on Shanon’s blog.

I love extra weight at the bottom of an image- reminds me of my printmaking days. In the words of David Bazan, “It’s good to have options!”

Visit My Fine Garden to view more of Shanon’s work.

{image credit: Three for Tea by Shanon Gass}

08/17/09

military

Military-inspired clothes are always in fashion for fall, and this season is no exception.  Look for structured silhouettes, metallic button details, and neutral colors to get the look.

1.  This cute cap is the perfect antidote to a bad hair day.  Military cap by Juicy Couture, $55 from Bloomingdale’s.

2.  These boots will be your go-to footwear for fall!  Versatile enough to pair with almost any outfit, but stylish enough to fulfill your inner fashionista.  Boots by Jessica Simpson, $108.87 from Endless.

3.  This piece presents a fresh take on the classic jean jacket.  The rows of buttons and stand-up collar give it structure, while the bubble sleeves and curved hem add a softer touch.  Jacket by BB Dakota, $70 from Chick Downtown.

4.  This canvas belt with antiqued buckle closure would look great with a high-waisted skirt or over a tailored jacket.  Belt by Timberland, $39 from Yoox.

5.  A classic grey wool cardigan gets a stylish update with military-inspired piping and brass buttons.  Cardigan from French Connection, $39.99.

6.  This gold medallion necklace recalls military medals of honor.  It would look great with a simple tee and jeans or leggings tucked into boots!  Necklace from ModCloth, $14.99

7.  This utilitarian belted dress puts a fashionable, feminine twist on the military trend.  Dress by Diesel, $79 from Yoox.

xoxo,

Lesley of 315thomas

08/17/09

Pearly whites by itsbeautiful

Hi everyone!  Last week, we started talking about incorporating overhead expenses in your products’ prices.  Did you spend some time this week looking at how you calculate and your overhead expenses?  The exercise is a little daunting, but easier than you might think, once you get started!

One way to get started is to create lists of all possible expenses associated with your business.  Many of those expenses are materials and supplies that you use to make or package your products, including materials for shipping.  These are quantifiable (measurable) expenses that are part of direct cost of making and shipping your product.

Other expenses are not direct costs of making your product, but are certainly expenses you incur as part of your business.  Marketing and promotion expenses, such as your banner ads and fliers you made for a craft show.  Equipment that you use for your business:  printer, computer, silk screening equipment, kiln, etc.  Expenses related to your studio, office, or other space that you use for your business, like electricity, internet cable or dsl, fax and phone.  Fees and dues, which may include your business license, dues for your chamber of commerce membership, dues for your Trunkt portfolio.  (Your office/studio expenses could be for your home office/studio, or leased/rented space – make sure you understand what those expenses are and what portion you may claim for taxes as well as for overhead – I recommend talking with an accountant [CPA].)

08/17/09

typewriternook

Last week was so crazy. I didn’t even get a chance to mention my Favorite Things post on Decor8, where I shared a few of my most beloved possessions and corners of my home. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, I would love for you to. And thanks so, so much Holly for the opportunity.

08/17/09

etsyloveblog1. ABC’c and Geography 2. Crush on Coombs 3. Conrad Inspired 4. Kid Prints 5. Beauty Everyday {all via Etsy Love}

Hello and happy Monday! Today’s blog of the week is Etsy Love. I think this probably goes up without saying, but if you love Etsy (and who doesn’t right?), you are going to love this blog. You’ll find plenty of bold design style here: whether its artwork, housewares, clothing, or accessories. 

Visit Etsy Love for more inspiration.

08/16/09

shopofthedayAbundance and Immortality and Handpainted Silk Pin Back Buttons

This will actually be the last shop of the day post until August 24th because the papernstitch site is going to be down from tonight at midnight until then. Trust us- we have a good reason why we are taking the papernstitch site down temporarily, but its a surprise, so I won’t say anymore than that for now. You’ll have to visit the site on August 24th to find out! The blog will still be up and have regular postings. So nothing will change there. It’s just the exhibition site that will be temporarily down.

crystaljsilkSo until next week, please check out these great shops who are the weekend edition of shop of the day… Visit the Crystal J. Silk shop and blog for more info.

athenadreamsLiz of Athena Dreams and her eye-popping mixed media work. Visit Liz’s blog and shop for more info.

08/14/09

music-cage-by-nendo_01-top

The design-obsessed constantly struggle to keep the unsightly cords of our technology-driven world to a minimum.  Voila!  Birdcage speakers.

music-cage-by-nendo_03

Nendo’s Music Cage, spotted on Dezeen, allows you to listen to music from a computer via wireless connection or a bluetooth-enabled phone.   The cage can be mounted on the ceiling or plugged into a wall socket for power.  Unattractive wires begone!

Happy weekend,

Kathryn