I just stumbled across these crazy funky button coated tights over at Burda Style (tons of great free patterns there). They're certainly conversation starters, and you must be a brave, confident soul to wear these. I appreciate the time that went into these fancy pants-y tights.
While browsing the tube (yep, the tube) the other night, I came across the movie Penelope (Mark Palansky, 2006) starring Christina Ricci. I was intrigued because the description told me it was about a girl born with a pig face, and I like Christina Ricci. Freak type things = interesting things. So, I watched.
It was the most delightful romance movie I've seen in...I can't remember how long. The colors in the movie are rich and whimsical, and the sets are pretty amazing too (especially Penelope's room). The visual effects are fun, and Penelope has a crazy royal purple coat with random colorful funky buttons going down the front (this was a special bonus treat for me).
The moral, as a child at the end says, is "it's not the power of the curse, it's the power you give the curse." I love this! It's so true and applies to everything. You don't have to be anxious or angry or any of those feelings if you don't want to fuel them.
That brings me to another wonderful movie I just saw recently (and have since watched twice): The Brothers Bloom.
(Sorry for the crappy formatting)
It coincidentally has a main character named Penelope too (Rachel Weisz). She says, she "owns it" and that's why she's convincing when she accepts changing "roles." This is so true, and I keep thinking about "owning it" when I go to my first selling of my wares on Saturday. This is also one of those movies that comments on itself commenting on itself commenting on itself....the ultimate goal in making any kind of art-- self reflexivity or whatever "po-mo" term you want to give it.
I love it when you watch movies or read books that are so crazily serendipitously in line with what you've been thinking about. It feels quite nice. Here's one of the funniest parts if you want to "spoil" it a bit for yourself: Collecting Hobbies. I enjoy this-- being a bit of a dabbler myself, but unfortunately (or fortunately?), not to the extent of Penelope.
Helpful Hints... I've been making a lot of buttons to sell lately, and I thought "hmm, maybe people aren't motivated to buy interesting buttons because they're not into sewing the button on." So, I figured I'd print a link to this post on the back of my button cards so that people can find some easy peasy help. Maybe they will turn into button and sewing lovers!
Here's the first good tutorial:
And the second: For another knot-tying method, the "Quilter's Knot" is a super easy way to tie a quick knot and not have to fuss with the thread (I promise it's even easier than it looks in the video).
I'm gearing up for the Bloomington Handmade Market (the vendor list is now up!) I thought I'd share some of the great ideas I've found for craft fair booth set-ups and displays. Mine probably won't be too elaborate unless I can find a thrifty way to make it so. I am planning a trip to the Salvation Army soon...
You are nostalgic, sweet, plentiful and harmonious. You blend in with a crowd, but you have no qualms when it comes to showing your pretty feathers. You are like a little treasure buried just beneath the sand-- your adorable nature oft goes unnoticed. You are good at the things you do. Your variety and quirks are hidden in plain view. You morph and blend yet still remain the same. You bring me quiet enthusiasm. Your charms are truly endless.
Helpful Hints...
(Sweetie Pie Press: I'm liking the vintage suitcase)
(this is probably too fancy for my budget, but I love the printed/embroidered on name. From buttonpom)
(Nice and colorful, and once again, the vintage suitcases! From abbey*christine)
(like the pendant sign idea. From raspberryfairy)
(Suitcases again...I can't help myself. From kayakgrionthewater)
(This is certainly eye-catching and well suited for the product. From lil' boo)
(This is such a great idea! Too bad I don't think I could display any of my stuff like this. From emilyaugust)
(Very nice tablecloth. From uhoh over)
(Nice, simple button packaging. I like the rounded edges. From Carboro Artisan Market)
