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Wishing you the best from my studio to yours!
Marcy |
| The Everyday Creative’s Wardrobe Artistry Month Activities
Fall is the perfect time to take stock of your wardrobe and reconsider you relationship to your clothes. What if everything in your closet and drawers were something you love? What if you arranged your closet and drawers so when you get dressed you feel pampered and luxurious and utterly complete. You have everything you need, and you love everything you have. Do one piece of clearing each day, be it a large or small undertaking, as the week unfolds you are sure to have a renewed sense of liveliness and accomplishment.
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| Week 1 Focus:
Clearing
Get ready for the clearing by doing you hair and make-up, wearing good foundation garments so when you try on garments you look and feel your best.
Clear your drawers and closet. As you eliminate garments that are stained, ratty, don't fit or flatter, make a want list of replacement items.
Try things on, find different combinations
Organize your drawers and closet by color and type of garment.
Make an appointment for a new-look hair cut.
Go through your cosmetics and make-up and discard what is old or not being used. Book a make-up lesson and invest in new makeup that reflects the season and the way you feel.
Note what you wear and how you feel.. Have friends and family take photos of you over the course of the week for you to use a guide in what works and what doesn’t.
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| Week 2 Focus:
Completion
Complete a half finished garment.
Wear something you have never worn before....create a new look by shopping in your own closet.
Put together several different outfits that you can wear right now....cleaned, pressed, that fit, organized down to accessories and handbag and hung on a hanger where you can see them .... and wear them.
Go through your fabric stash. Put away out of season fabrics and projects.
Make a list of garments you wish you had made this season, and store the list with the out of season fabrics and projects. Add the fabric or pattern that you need to complete that wished for garment/outfit to your fabric want list.
Make space in your sewing studio for new projects.
Pull out a small grouping of patterns and fabrics that have you excited for the upcoming season. Create a vignette so you can feast your eyes on them as you complete other projects and clear the sewing studio area for new ways to play and create.
List 10 changes you'd like to make for yourself from the small to the significant. A couple of mine for example, 'put a light in the closet, make a wardrobe of knit tops, develop a flattering soft pant pattern'.
Select one small item and make it a goal for the week.
Now do that item.
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Connection
Style Collage: Collect a stack of 10 magazines which you will allow yourself to tear apart. Setting a 30 minute time limit, tear through the magazines, collecting any images or words that reflect your life, interests, personal style....images that reflect your past, present, future....images that you like. Now take a sheet of paper, Bristol board or cardboard and glue, staple, stitch and arrange your images in a way that pleases you.
Give your collage a place of honor in your creative area and notice how you see yourself in different ways and can use it as an inspiration.
Go shopping. Alone. Take no checkbook, no credit cards. Dress the part...you are going to go into the finest stores and try on the clothes you love to your heart's content. Take a small notebook and tape measure if you wish. Note what you love, what you hate and what surprises you. Keep your eyes open, be full of wonder and curiosity. Take yourself to lunch or for a cup of tea and write/draw in your journal about your discoveries.
Go through several fashion magazines and or catalogs. Isolate your 'eye' by looking at the same magazine several times, looking for colors, accessories, design details, proportion, line.
Begin planning your core wardrobe. Use things your already have, assemble patterns and fabrics in your stash, draw, take photos, pull ideas from catalogs. Think of yourself as a designer planning their spring line, building on the past, looking into the future with fresh color combinations and lines, styles, details from what is current.
Take yourself fabric shopping. Buy nothing on the first expedition, but collect swatches of all the fabrics you love. If you MUST buy, purchase 1/8 yard cuts.
Narrow your pattern and fabric choices to one outfit or one garment that completes an outfit. Begin here. Do the pattern work on new patterns so they are ready to cut.
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| Week 4 Focus:
Celebration
Begin sewing your first outfit in your core wardrobe. Pull out all the stops and do your finest work every step of the way.
If you need shoes or a bag for the new season, begin shopping. Be very discriminating about what you buy.
Put together a week's worth of potential things to wear....as if you were planning for a trip. Include at least one new element in each outfit. Be outrageous or witty or elegant....experiment with stretching your personal style.
Plan ahead for fun: book appointments for a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, make-up lesson, haircut, walk in nature. (You can do all yourself except the massage and hair-cut.)
Keep writing, drawing, collaging in your illustrated design journal so you can track your progress, keep track of what you are making---valuable information as you continue to grow your work and hone your wardrobe.
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| | Fall Travel
'Those who travel, see.'
African proverb |
| Come to Paris with Marcy in January
Hidden Paris: Design, Fashion, Art, Cuisine
8 magical, inspring and art-ful days in Paris
January 6-14, 2008
The December 2-10, 2007 tour is now FULL, so we have added a second tour for January in time for the big Paris sales. Semi annual Paris sales begin on January 9!!
Highlights:
Visit to the Musee de la Mode et du Textile at the Louvre.
6-day museum pass.
Brunch on arrival day.
Lunch at the top of the Pompidou Museum.
An exceptional celebration dinner. 
Explore the Marais and the fabulous boutiques of the Left Bank.
Draping demonstration with Shermane.
The Paris Makeover!! Take advantage of Marcy and Shermane's collective fashion eye for a Paris wardrobe upgrade and personal style ‘fluffing’.
Fabric shopping, OF COURSE.
Visits to exquisite accessories, jewelry and perfume boutiques, tucked-away galleries and inviting glass-roofed passages.
Dining and conversation in cafes and restaurants
Delicious breakfasts, delivered to your room.
Visit to a small flea market. (Shermane spotted Emmanuel Ungaro there one Sunday morning buying lace.)
All this and more, in discovering the beauty and magic of "Hidden Paris" in the company of kindred spirits.
HiddenParis Tour Information | | | HiddenParis Registration Info and Photos of Previous Tours |
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| | | | Come to Venice in September with Lynda Albiero
There are a handful of women who I refer to as personal 'style-gurus' and Lynda Albiero is at the top of my list. I want to to go on one of Lynda's personal tours myself and those who have traveled to Venice with her loved the experience. The small group of 4 stays in a Venetian pallazo, the second floor of a XVI century palace overlooking a canal, and unlike the millions of visitors that come to Venice, this intimate group will explore the lesser known parts, to visit artisan friends, accompanied by Lynda, who knows the city like a native. The evening meal is prepared in the palazzo kitchen, a celebration of the lagoon gardens and local offerings.
For more information, click on the link below: |
| | Lynda Albiero's Website with Venice Tour Information |
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| New Pattern
Vogue 8430
Without a doubt, the simplest pattern I've ever done. It has a lovely slouchy cut, and if you make it in a felted wool, without any embellishment, it goes together in a snap!! Part sweater, part jacket depending on the weight of the fabric you use.
The straight lines in the felted design were inspired by a length of spaced-out ikat vintage kimono fabric. It was much simpler to achieve straight lines using the hand felting tool than with the machine felting. So I first hand felted all the designs in place, then went over them with the Bernina needle felting attachment. You can choose to do the felting after the jacket is sewn or apply the felting to the cut out pattern pieces. It is simple and fun either way.
The combination of hand and machine felting is ideal. Hand felting allows control of placement. Machine felting finishes off melding the fibers quickly and easily.
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| | Click to buy pattern from Vogue | |
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| | | | Essential Needle Felting Tools
After testing a bunch of different needle felting tools, I discovered this wonderful device from Clover, the Japanese company that makes the Ferrari equivalent of sewing and craft tools. I LOVE this device and its natural partner, the large felting mat. The tool has a spring loaded plastic guard around the needles that retracts into the handle as you punch into the work. It is a safety feature to prevent poking your fingers, which is easy to do with other felting tools. . The handle stops the needles from hitting the base and the smooth plastic guard keeps the felting going smoothly. The large felting mat is a designed to be used with the felting tool. The brush surface of the mat is perfect for smooth needle punching.
This is the tool I use and recommend.
BOTH tools $35. | | | Needle Felting Tools |
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| | New FabricsCotton-Lycra Knits My choice for T-Shirts. I've been making lots of t-shirts from these lovely cotton-lycra jersey knits, 90% cotton, 10% lycra. The quality is beautiful, the lycra adds good drape and recovery. 54-60" wide.
Top row: Stone, Clear Red, Black, Teal Blue,
Bottom row: Dark Expresso Brown, Chili Red, Cocoa, Paprika Orange, Aubergine Purple
With each 2 yards or more, we'll send a FREE package of Stripes and Dots for bindings or accents. |
| | | Cotton-Lycra Knits |
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See T-Shirts using these wonderful knits at this link: | | | T-Shirt Link |
| 'Where Did You Get That T-Shirt?' CD-rom
Marcy's CD on making T-Shirts is getting rave reviews. Here is what Kayla Kennington (an award winning expert designer and sewing expert) has to say:
I love the T-shirt CD!!! I got up early this morning and watched it; I am
afraid I fit in to one of those sewers you mention in the CD who are "good
sewers but afraid of knits". I have done a few, semi-sucessful knit
projects, but my standards are much higher than what I was able to achieve.
And now I know why. Talk about Aha's! The tricot stabilizers are something I
have in my studio but really haven't needed too often. I have a (growing
pile) of t-shirt fabrics and I now feel the confidence to dive in. | | | Kayla Kennington's new website | | | Where Did You Get That T-Shirt? CD-Rom |
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| | | | BLACK Foolproof Pant Fabric
Great black pants are a wardrobe staple!!
People are always asking me, '....where did you get that fabric?'. I bought fabulous (and slimming) pants using this type and weight 'good' polyester fabric in Paris, and I am delighted to offer something I will be using in my own wardrobe to you. Black poly microfiber knit perfect for pants or skirts. 45" wide. Most pants take 2 1/2 yards, if you are tall, get 3 yards.
Ideal for the pant in the middle, it will also work beautifully for either other view or any favorite soft pant.
| | | Black Foolproof Pant Fabric | |
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| | New Silk Screen Designs From Japanese Textiles
A series of Asian textile motifs, these screens are gorgeous, each one on its own or layered and combined with others. All are available in small, medium and large sizes. |
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| | Recommended Books
I USE my design and sewing books and am discriminating about which ones take up precious space in my studio. Here are a few favorites that I return to again and again.
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| How To Make Sewing Patterns by Donald McCunn
This man is a genius! He devised a common-sense and practical way to draft sewing patterns. I took an inspiring and informative class from him back in the '70's in San Francisco when Sandra Betzina had her sewing school. This book has withstood the test of time and should be a basic on your shelf if you have any interest in making your own patterns. |
| Tailoring
I was a consultant on this book and the information is my complete tailoring course which I taught for many years. I don't do much formal tailoring any more, but utilize the principles of tailoring in many other areas of sewing. I consult it when I want to make a welt pocket or bound buttonhole. This book is a reprint of another classic originally in the Singer Sewing Series.
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| How To Make Your Own Japanese Clothes, by John Marshall
John Marshall is a living treasure, using classic Japanese fabric arts in his own work with a fine eye for design and his own personal (often humorous) twist. His classes and lectures are not to be missed!! Textile artists use variations on the kimono for good reason---the universally flattering shape is a perfect canvas. John Marshall makes sense of Japanese clothing design and adapts it to simple patterns and construction. | | | http://www.johnmarshall.to/ |
| Design! by Steven Amione
Deepening design understanding is a lifelong learning. This book presents the basics with a fresh approach via contemporary craft using gorgeous photographs to illustrate the points. |
| Madeline Vionnet by Betty Kirke
A masterpiece about a true genius. This is a book to own and read and study and love. Full of sumptuous photos accompanied by schematic drawings to help the reader understand how Vionnet created her amazing draped designs. |
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See more of Marcy's book recommendations at this link: | | | Marcy's Favorite Books | |
| | | GROOM Bags for Fall | | Special Sale on Nomad Backpack
Elegant and Practcal. Nomad Microfiber Backpack ON SALE AND FREE SHIPPING through September 17.
Available in Black, Dark Expresso Brown and Copper |
| | | Nomad Microfiber Backpack | | | |
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| | | | NEW Clone Ergonomic Backpack
Dramatic and practical, one of the secrets of chic women all over the world: the Groom supple pebble leather Clone bag. Other 'ergonomic' bags pale by comparison. Every design detail is perfect and amazingly comfortable. Has a secure hidden back zipper, outside front zipper pocket and perfectly placed cell phone pocket on the front strap, inside zipper pocket and inside key hook. Available by special order in Black, Brown, Deep Red and Orange Allow 4-6 weeks for special orders. Dimensions: 19" x 12" | | | Clone Bag Information
Also available in microfiber by special order. | |
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| Giselle Shepatin Designer Fabric Sale
In San Francisco
September 28
San Francisco designer Giselle Shepatin is having a huge fabric sale with lots of leftovers from all seasons. Selling fantastic designer fabrics- silks, linens, embroidered fabrics, lace, handwovens, velvets, skeins and cones of fancy yarns, grab bags of scraps, trims, fancy elastics, emblems, and lmore. Many of the fabrics are designer-coordinated by colors for the season. Giselle is offering these fabrics to you at wholesale prices. We hope to see you here on September 28 from 1 pm to 6 pm. Questions call 415 355-0500
DIRECTIONS:
From the South Bay:
From 101 North, take the Vermont St. exit. Turn left on Vermont, left on 17th, and then right on Alabama. The building will be on your right, at 375 Alabama.
From 280 North, merge onto 101 North and follow directions from 101, above.
From the East Bay:
Take 80 West, towards San Francisco. Exit at 9th St/ Civic Center. Turn left on Harrison, left on 16th, and right on Alabama. The building will be on your left, at 375 Alabama.
From the North Bay:
From 101 South, turn right on Van Ness. Then turn left on 15th, right on Shotwell, left on 16th, and right on Alabama. The building will be on your left, at 375 Alabama.
There are 2 buzzer systems to get in the building-- one is at the front door, and the other is on the 4th floor if shoppers choose to take the stairs instead of the elevator. Giselle Shepatin's name is written on both systems, so they can buzz here and we will open the doors from the studio. The studio number is 490.
As far as parking goes, only street parking is available. In general, it is not too hard to find parking in the afternoon that is relatively close to the building. There are meters on Bryant, near 16th, and that is a short walk. This is hourly parking.
www.giselleshepatin.com |
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| Check out David Coffin’s first sewing-related video online
It’s a response to an earlier video-cast from a fascinating outfit called Threadbanger.com, which produces a weekly video about and for the currently-hip DIY movement. It’s quite an amazing glimpse into what youngsters today are up to. In a recent episode, they featured both a viewer asking for info about altering and copying his shirts, and some folks exploring duct-tape dressforms. Imagine David’s surprise to see, in the response to the shirt questions, a link to his Shirtmaking book... The surprise was as much a result of culture-shock (given the distinctly low-tech approach of all the Threadbanger “tips”) as it was to simply being unexpected. Anyway, he felt inspired to whip up a little demo in answer to the “how do I copy my shirt?” question, and so he uploaded it to the Threadbanger site, which publishes to a wide variety of online video showcases, including YouTube, which is how it got there, and which is why he’s not listed as the “author."
| | | | Click to see David Coffin's VERY fun segment on making a pattern from a favorite shirt |
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| Marcy's Fall ScheduleArtistry In Fashion
Saturday, October 20, 10-5
Designer show and sale at Canada College, Redwood City, CA
This one day show is worth attending...even worth coming to the Bay Area for the weekend. Over 60 top designers come from all over California and beyond for this one day event, clothing, jewelry, accessories and more. It is a fundraiser for the Canada College Fashion Design department and there is a marvelous fashion show at 1 pm. I'll be there with my silk screens, Groom bags and a rack of sample garments. I rarely sell my clothing, but put together grouping of samples from Vogue pattern prototypes and class demo items for sale. My sister, Nandini, will be there with her line of fabulous T-shirts, children's garments and accessories.
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| | Artistry In Fashion Designer Sale Information |
| Original Sewing and Quilt Expo Minneapolis, MN
November 8, 9 & 10
Sheraton Bloomington Hotel
Marcy and Nandini will have a vendor booth, and both of us will be teaching classes at this event. |
| | Minneapolis Original Sewing and Quilt Expo Information |
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| | | | | Conversation, Collaboration and Clothes
A Conversation, Trunk show and Sale
With Marcy Tilton and Nandini-Katherine Tilton
Saturday, November 17
Unity Church - Unitarian Parish Hall
732 Holly Avenune, St. Paul, MN 55012
Door opens at 9:30 AM
Conversation - 10 AM - Noon
SALE: 12:30 - 3 * Admission Free
You are invited to a playful, entertaining and inspiring morning. Don't miss this opportunity to share Marcy and Nandini's creative process, see their collections of original garments, learn how things get made and where the ideas come from. Gain insights into surface design and construction techniques, and how they transform current fashion ideas, making them practical and uniquely personal.
Marcy and Nandini have been engaged in a lifelong journey of creative exploration, collaboration and community. A common thread is that they both love sharing their experiences, creating clothes, fabrics, sewing making working being and laughing together. You'll go home ignited, encouraged, motivated and inspired!!
Tickets required for morning program.
$10 before November 10th, $15 afterwards,
Call to make a reservation using your credit card:
541-592-2969
612-247-6285
Click on link below to register online: | | | Sign up for St. Paul Class |
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| | Custom Buttons and Belts |
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Pat Mahoney makes custom fabric covered buttons and belts using your fabric. She has the skill and the experience to make a wide variety of items. I love the flat sew thru buttons which I saw used in fine RTW in Paris. Your fabric and imagination and Pat's skill and vintage machines are a magic combination.
Catalog $5. Send to Pat Mahoney, PO Box 335, Lodi, CA 95241 or call, 209-369-5410.
This is an old fashioned low tech business. No website or e-mail, but Pat welcomes calls and orders for her catalog and goods. This service is to be treasured!!! | |
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| A Word About Shopping on Marcy's Website
Purchase Orders and Credit Cards and Shipping
I appreciate your support and your purchases of the products I offer online.
Purchase Orders are an alternative option to Paypal for ordering online. Here is how it works. If you place a Purchase Order, it is a promise to pay, either by sending a check (to me at PO Box 2161, Cave Junction, OR 97523) or by calling with a credit card number. We cannot ship until payment has been made---and there has been some confusion lately about how purchase orders work. When we receive the e-mail message that you have placed a purchase order, we pack it up so it is ready to ship when your check arrives.
Credit Cards Now a Payment Option
We are now able to accept Master Card and Visa for your purchases. (sorry, not for workshops or tour payments). Call to place your order: 541-592-2969. Do not e-mail your CC# or info.
Shipping is done via the Post Office. We do all we can to keep shipping costs down, and ship via 1st class or priority mail. However, shipping and handling includes more than the just cost of the postage---labor, transportation and cost of supplies are additional factors. If you have any questions about shipping costs, send an e-mail or give a call. |
| | Feedback and Suggestions Welcome
This newsletter is an evolving creative process and your input, feedback and ideas are welcome! |
| | | Please feel free to pass this newsletter on to friends. To sign up for a newsletter or to change your e-mail or remove your name from this list go to Newsletter on the navigation bar of this website or click on | | | Newsletter |
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