Category: Design
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Remaking a Vintage Haori is my New Project
I have an old haori jacket hanging on my dress form. This lovely piece has been there for quite a while now, its beautiful print showcasing a bright spring color palette tempered by a plain jacquard weave silk lining. Its distinct woody smell, retained from the antique dresser it was stored in, reminds me of…
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A Cozy Wrap Sweater in a Fresh New Color
This cozy wrap sweater — with its giant shawl collar — is a statement piece! Kim Hargreaves’ Devote sweater pattern was the starting point. I made a few tweaks, such as using a different yarn and incorporating some style changes, and ended up with a deliciously cozy wrap sweater with a gigantic statement-making shawl collar.…
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Everyone Needs a Beautiful Cape … Despite What Edna Says
I love a beautiful cape — even if Edna disagrees! They exude elegance and drama. Voluminous ones can swing around the body for a cocoon-like effect. Tailored styles have a modern and sleek look. Knitted versions are so soft and snuggly they feel like blankets. Oversized collars, flounces, ruffles, gathers, trims – capes can be…
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A New Hand-Knit Scarf Made of Vibrant Silk
I love traveling with a hand-knit scarf or cowl — especially one that is lightweight, colorful, versatile, and easy to carry. While my Chunky Twist Cowl is a handy piece for winter travel, the other three seasons of the year call for something a bit lighter. I think the Lacy Silk Scarf works well for…
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Complete Your Spring Look With a New Knit Cardi
Spring weather is notorious for its unpredictability. It can be sunny one day and chilly the next, so dressing in layers is key, especially when you are traveling. I just finished a new hand-knit that would make the perfect layering piece for Spring travel — the Amalfi Cardigan by designer Tayler Harris! It has classic…
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7 Ways to Think About Clothing in a New Way
I admit it. I’ve always loved clothing and fashion, shopping, and especially a good bargain. Over the years, I’ve accumulated bins full of clothes — both bought and handmade — that are stacked in my closet. Nordstrom Anniversary Sales, Cos sales, Britex fabric remnant bins, and closeout yarn sales have all contributed to my oversized…
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Why I Need a Special Travel Coat
I need a travel coat, I thought, as I stood at the crowded Southwest Airlines gate waiting for my flight to southern California. It was my second flight in two weeks to see my aging parents and help them with house and health. The airport was packed with people traveling for the New Year’s weekend,…
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Four Easy Ways to Style the Chunky Twist Cowl
Tossing on a hand knit like the Chunky Twist Cowl is one of my fave ways to stay warm and stylish. Made with a super bulky wool yarn and shaped with a twist, the cowl can be styled in different ways. Here are just 4 simple looks – but I’m sure there are many more…
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Designing a New Shirt for the New Year
I love taking classic clothing styles such as a good shirt and transforming them into something special. An unexpected mix of fabrics; a new sleeve shape; unusual buttons and trims; a play on proportions – it’s all about experimenting, creating, and having fun with new ideas! Original button-front shirt design from 2017. Ties are made…