Craftzine.com blog: Interviews Archives

Archive: Interviews

May 13, 2009

Weaving Mom Interview

Steven Leckart at BoingBoing Gadgets interviewed his mom, a weaver, for mother's day. I like the unabashed shop talk.

By the time I was in elementary school, most every holiday season my teachers each received a handmade scarf, compliments of my family. Instead of knitting on the couch, my mom handcrafts scarves, rugs, and towels in a private studio on a foot-treadle floor loom the size of Smart car.

May 12, 2009

Future Craft Collective on CraftyPod

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Listen to the CraftyPod podcast with Sister Diane and the ladies from Future Craft Collective, Bernadette Noll and Kathie Sever. These super talented gals talk about how to craft with kids and also teach creative reuse and self-reliance. And guess what? Future Craft Collective will be doing weekly projects as part of our CRAFT Summer Camp series starting on Monday, May 18th!

May 8, 2009

Blogging Mother/Daughter Craft With Passion, Intensity

CRAFT: Crafty Mama

If you've listened to Diane Gilleland's Crafty Pod episodes or read her blog for any length of time, you can't help but also get to know her mother, Pam Harris, of Gingerbread Snowflakes. I'd read about the elaborate gingerbread houses (and sometimes villages!) the two would make together, and when I listened to Crafty Pod Episode #65 in which her mom talked about making the gingerbread houses with Diane, I remember actually tearing up a little bit over their stories of crafting together. I recently had the chance to spend an afternoon crafting with Pam and Diane, and enjoyed getting to hear about how they have crafted together since Diane was a little girl.

Diane says her earliest memories of crafting with her mom tend to focus on Christmas, which she describes as a "very creative time" in their household. "I remember Mom cutting out felt shapes for the advent calendar she made me when I was two," Diane says. "And I remember the absolute magic of sticking candy to my first gingerbread house a few years later." Pam explains that while she was growing up, most of the crafting passed on to her by her mother and grandmother was of a more practical nature and involved life skills such as cooking, mending and gardening. "Crafting for no reason other than the pleasure of making something was not done," says Pam.

She remembers, though, poring over her mom's copies of Better Homes and Gardens and McCalls magazines and ripping out pages of special projects she hoped she could someday complete. "I was fascinated and inspired by all the craft projects - especially at Christmas time," she says. But when Pam started her own home, she found herself practicing the same practical crafts her mother had passed on to her. She made her children's clothes, draperies and home decor and most of her crafts had a very specific purpose. "Except for one thing - Christmas," says Pam. "Christmas isn't practical so why would my crafting be practical? I loved the freedom to make for the sheer pleasure of making!"

That joy of making meant that Pam kept her kids well-stocked on craft supplies and support. "Mom always made sure my brother and I had the tools and time to pursue any creative endeavor we expressed interest in," Diane says. "Sometimes, we lost interest after a couple weeks, but that never kept her from helping us along to the next creative possibility. If I wanted to learn quilling, we'd make a trip to the craft store for supplies and books. If I used up all the salt in the house making salt dough, which happened a lot, she didn't get mad, she just bought more salt. And as a result, I've learned to be comfortable in a whole lot of crafty media." And once again, the relationship became reciprocal. "I tried to give [Diane] the freedom, wherewithal and opportunity to explore whatever interested her and it paid off," says Pam. "I have never had to pay for a single craft class! There is almost nothing she can't figure out and teach!"

Read full story

May 7, 2009

Perkins Mother/Daughter Duo Craft Big And Bold Together

CRAFT: Crafty Mama

There's no doubt in Jennifer Perkins' mind of who has been the biggest crafty influence in her life. "It was my mother who I have the most first hand crafty experience with," she says. "She herself is crafty and was always doing projects around the house so my sister and I grew up watching her create with her hands. It is only natural that we would gravitate toward that, too." Perkins' mother, Fredda, says she had always been crafty, and sharing that with her daughters just made things more enjoyable. "It was a fun thing to do together and I think it made us closer and gave us common interests that were unique to our relationship," Fredda says.

Jennifer, of Naughty Secretary Club, is known throughout the craft world for her fun and funky jewelry that mixes vintage pieces with bold, bright plastics. What you may be surprised to learn, though, is where her jewelry first started getting attention. "In the third or forth grade she won a science fair by making earrings with a little toothbrush on one side and a travel sized tube of toothpaste on the other," says Fredda. "That just shows how a real crafter can bring their creativity to a totally different venue."

From humble beginnings with travel toiletries at the science fair, Jennifer also experimented with turning rubber worm fishing lures into earrings that, sadly, started to melt in the hot Texas summer. Undaunted by the jewelry mishap, though, Jennifer went on to create the Naughty Secretary Club jewelry line, and also starred as the host on the DIY and HGTV Network's Craft Lab and Stylelicious. Fredda even joined in on a few episodes.

Jennifer points out that she and her mom (and sister, artist Hope Perkins of Hot Pink Pistol) love all things vintage. Their annual pilgrimages to the Round Top, Texas Flea Market are documented heavily throughout Jennifer's blog. "We are always looking for crafty ways to rationalize our vintage shopping addiction," Jennifer says. "We both love bold, colorful, large and loud crafts. Craft big or go home is our motto."

And though Fredda admits that she and her daughter may have slightly different craft aesthetics, the core of their style is the same. "I think we both strive for originality in our work," says Fredda. "She uses things in her jewelry that are not traditional jewelry findings and I like to do the same thing." Fredda's design style may not be as bold as Jennifer's, but her attitude toward trying new things is. "My mom is a much more adventuresome crafter than I," says Jennifer. "I tend to stick with what I know, but every time I talk to her she has gotten a new power tool, craft supply or glue that she is trying out. She inspires me to branch out of my crafty shell more often." Jennifer apparently has the same affect on her mother. "I love sitting down at my kitchen counter or up in my sewing room with Jennifer," Fredda says. "The whole process is fun and filled with creativity. [Jennifer] takes me out of my comfort zone and starts me thinking in different ways."

When the pair get together, there is always some kind of craft project in the making. Jennifer recently gave birth to a daughter, Tallulah, and she and her mother have been crafting baby items since Jennifer was pregnant. "Every time I craft with my mom is special," Jennifer says. "I have some really creative friends between the people I have met filming Craft Lab, the Austin Craft Mafia, Stitch and various other crafty adventures. However, I have never met anyone that I click with creatively like I do my mother. She and I can bounce ideas off of each other for hours. If I ever have a crafting question she is the first person I turn to. I still show her all my crafty ventures proudly like a kid coming home from kindergarten with an art project that is going to get hung on the fridge. I don't craft with my friends a lot, so getting to craft with my mother is extra fun."

May 6, 2009

Ask CRAFT: Mother's Day Interview with Bette Stern (My Mom)

For this week's Ask CRAFT, I'll be the one asking the questions. I interviewed my mother, Bette Stern, to find out her thoughts on being a Crafty Mama. Since her kids are all grown up, I asked her to reflect on what it was like raising kids in a DIY home.

What are the crafts you enjoy doing the most?

I enjoy knitting, quilting, and counted cross stitch. I also enjoy refinishing furniture, stripping woodwork, home improvement, and building.

What activities did you do with my siblings and me when we were kids to promote creativity?

Dad and I have always enjoyed making things. I sewed clothes for all of you when you were young, I always had a knitting project on the needles. We built an addition to the house when you were all younger and you and your siblings took the scraps and built a fort in the yard. Dad used to draw pictures on your lunch bags that you took to school each day. There was always some sort of DIY going on in the house and you and your siblings were a part of it. I don't recall setting aside time to do crafts with you specifically, but you had Legos, painting supplies, fabric, yarn, etc. available to create whatever you had a mind to create.

What's it like raising children in a crafty family? What crafts did we do together that stick out most in your memory?

It is a real joy to see children growing up and learning to do things. I taught you to sew, but you were able to design and create like nothing I've ever been able to do. It's amazing to see your children take a basic idea and expand it to be their own. Dad and I raised you and your siblings in a household were there was always something being made or created. Dad cooked and you and your siblings stood on chairs and watched and "helped" I sewed curtains for my first apartment and you took those old curtains and created pajama bottoms. We had a pretty active household and you and your siblings were always a part of the activity.

My sister has tried to lean to knit and crochet several times with little success; what do you do as a parent when something you love to do just doesn't "stick" with your kids?

I've never expected my children to love to do what I love to do. In fact I never thought about this until you asked the question. When each of you asked to learn something that I felt I could teach you, I taught you. If you wanted to continue to do it, I encouraged you to. If you wanted to do something else, I encouraged that. In your sister's case, she asked me to teach her (as you said several times). I taught her, but she never had a passion for it and didn't ever continue beyond the lesson(s). You asked me to teach you to sew and to knit and crochet and you loved it. You couldn't seem to get enough.

Now that your kids are out of the house, how has your crafting changed? Does it get lonely in your sewing room?

I'm still passionate (obsessed) with the same creative outlets as always. What's changed is that I'm creating more for myself and Dad and the house and less for others. My sewing room has always been a place where I go to be alone and shut out the rest of the world. So, no, it's not lonely there. I love it there.

What about the introduction of grandkids into the picture? What do you make for them?

I've made quilts for my grandchildren and I've made them each several sweaters. They have both asked me to teach them to knit. But, at 3 and 4, they are still a little young. In a few years I'll have them knitting (but only if they still want to learn).

How does the internet engage with your craft hobbies?

I have found many patterns for knitted projects on the internet (more than I have time to make). It is also very easy to find the specific yarn or other materials I need for a project. I found fabric that I wanted to use as the backing on a quilt I was making but my local quilt store didn't have enough. I had the name of the manufacturer of the fabric and the style number. I googled the fabric and found several online stores that carried exactly what I needed. Because I had already seen it in the store I knew the color was just what I wanted. Websites like Craftzine and Ravelry help me stay connected to what other people are creating and it inspires me.

Did your mom have much influence, craft wise, when you were growing up? What skills did you learn from her, and which did you teach yourself?

My grandmother (your great grandmother) had a greater influence on my crafting than my mother did. My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was about 6 years old. She gave me a lot of her leftover yarn and I crocheted a lot. I remember a couple of specific projects. When I was 9 years old I crocheted a bib for my baby sister and when I was about 12, I made my grandmother an afghan with squares of the leftover yarn and even crocheted the word "grandma" in the squares. I have that afghan now. My grandmother also taught me how to embroider. Counted cross stitch came much later, but my grandmother taught me how to do embroidery stitches on pillow cases. I taught myself to do crewel and needlepoint. My grandmother didn't know how to knit. My aunt taught me to knit when I was very young, but I didn't remember how for long. When I was in my teens, my mother re-taught me the basics of knitting, but she didn't do it much as I was growing up. She started knitting more after she had grandchildren. I learned to sew from my mother and then in school. I sewed most of my clothes in high school and in college.

Grandma knits in the English style, and you and I knit continental. Why the switch, and how did it come about?

I started knitting English style. The secretary in the physical education office at my college saw me knitting one day and told me that she could show me a way to knit much faster. She taught me Continental style. And it is much faster. At the time, I didn't know the different styles were called English and Continental. I only learned that recently. I taught you to knit the faster way. A couple of years ago my mother asked me to teach her to knit the way I do because it seems so much faster. I tried to teach her, but she just couldn't get the hang of it. It wasn't comfortable for her, so she still knits English style.

How important is it to you as a mom to pass along your craft knowledge?

I like that you and I can share our love for certain crafts, but more importantly, I want my children to do what they enjoy most. If anyone is interested in learning from me, I'm happy to teach them. I taught Dad now to knit and when I was pregnant with your brother, Dad actually started to make a quilt for him. I think it's fun to create and I get excited when I'm with others who also like to create. I look forward to teaching my grandchildren as well.

You bought me my first sewing machine for my 13th birthday, and I still use the same machine today, many years later. What advice would you give to moms when buying tools and supplies for their kids?

When we bought you your first sewing machine, you had already shown that you were very interested in sewing. It didn't make sense to buy you a machine that wouldn't last very long. We wanted to get you something that you could use right away and that would still be useful over time, and that has proven to be true. We never bought "toy tools" for any of you. When you showed an interest in something: music, crafting, building, etc., we made sure you had access to the tools you needed. So, my advice would be to buy, borrow, or build the tools and/or supplies that kids need to do what they are passionate about. It's never a bad idea to buy the right tool for the job.

Thanks Mommo!

May 5, 2009

Mother/Daughter Craft Duo Learn From Each Other

CRAFT: Crafty Mama

For many of us, our crafty roots are set securely in our mother's guidance and influence. Often it was our moms who inspired us to pick up a needle, paint brush, or bottle of glue and try our hands at crafting. In celebration of Mother's Day, I'm profiling three of these mother/daughter crafty duos this week, and their stories of inspiration through generations will hopefully inspire you as well.

Maura Madden has some distinctive memories of her early crafting experiences with her mom. "I can remember making Christmas ornaments out of dough when I was really little," she says. "It's made with flour and salt, amongst other edible things, so when I decided I should eat it, I remember that it actually tasted kind of good. I think I must have been pretty little, because I outgrew the phase of eating my craft supplies pretty early on."

Her mom, Pam Madden, has memories that make no mention of Maura's penchant for tasting the craft supplies, but hold a similar sense of playfulness and fun times together. She remembers making a dollhouse out of a shoebox and decorating it with Maura using construction paper, fabric, and old wooden spools. From the beginning, Pam's daily craft projects with her children seemed to hold a more important lesson than just occupying time on a quiet afternoon. "My mom was really committed to making my childhood, and my brother's, a highly creative one," Maura says.

Pam's mother is an artist by nature, and taught Pam how to knit when she was only 10 years old. To this day, Pam has a group of friends with whom she herself has crafted since she was 12 years old. Her own mother's influence helped Pam realize the possibilities of found objects and colors, but also seemed a bit limiting because of her mother's "neatnik" tendencies. "When I started crafting with my daughter," Pam says. "I tried to be more open to her ideas and let her use her imagination and not 'only color in the lines.' "

This openness helped nurture Maura's own crafting style, which is highly distinctive from her mother's. "I am a totally sloppy, make-my-own-rules crafter," Maura says. "And I am not persistent when it comes to crafting — I will often give up on a project before it's been completed so I can pick up a new one that seems more appealing." She says her mom, on the other hand, is meticulous and will stick with a difficult project no matter how frustrating the process may be. "The coolest thing about her craft style is the fact that she is able to be really precise without being obsessive, and enjoy the challenge." says Maura. "And she is an incredibly talented artist. I am honestly in awe of her skill and her creativity. "

Pam is in awe of Maura as well. "She is a much looser crafter — very confident and easygoing," Pam says. "I have the need for more directions and accuracy, but wish I had her innate sense of style." And yet, with their differences, they actually have a lot in common. "Our crafting styles are very different, but our crafty goals are the same: to make one-of-a-kind gifts for our loved ones and ourselves," Maura says. "I love giving a gift that is completely unique, because I know that people really value the time and love that goes into something handmade."

Maura and Pam both shared memories of taking a quilting class together that — while it highlighted their different approaches to crafting — was a true bonding experience for them. Each week, they would meet and eat dinner and head to class together. "It was a lovely way for us to be together expanding our craft knowledge," Pam says. In fact, it seems that Maura and Pam's shared craft experiences outshine any crafting they may do on their own. "Every experience crafting with my mom is a blast," Maura says. "We are always cracking each other up, especially because she is meticulous but very supportive, and I am sloppy but headstrong. So it's a funny combo."

Their crafty afternoons together served as inspiration for Maura's book, Crafternoon, and Pam has attended almost every one of Maura's Crafternoon gatherings. "Crafting with folks outside of my generation is really important to me. It brings a new sensibility and skill set to the mix, whether the crafters are older or younger," Maura says. "I just love having her be a part of the crafty good times, especially since she is the source of all my craftiness. "

Maura Madden, 33, lives in Brooklyn, New York, as does her mother, Pam Madden, 64. Her first book, Crafternoon, was released last year and serves as a monthly guide for getting artsy and crafty with friends all year long.

April 28, 2009

CraftyPod Interview with Sarah Hodsdon

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Diane at CraftyPod talks with designer Sarah Hodsdon in her latest podcast. Sarah is a successful designer who has a lot to say about how that profession is changing as well as the difference between a business and a hobby. I love reading Sarah's blog and following her tweets so hearing this interview was a special treat! Pictured above is Sarah's cardboard dress.

April 4, 2009

Video Portrait of Puppet Artist Stacey Gordon

Etsy's handmade portrait series recently featured Stacey Gordon, a puppeteer in Phoenix, AZ. What an awesome video!

March 10, 2009

Interview with Heather Ross of Weekend Sewing

Kelly of Make Grow Gather has an interview with fabric designer and author Heather Ross talking about her background, and inspiration for her fabric designs and book, Weekend Sewing. Leave a comment on Kelly's blog for any questions you may have for Heather who will be back on Wednesday, March 11th to answer your questions.

February 21, 2009

Kim Werker Podcast with Jenny Ryan and Interview with Natalie Zee Drieu

Kim Werker has her first podcast up with our very own Jenny Ryan where they dish on all the crafty things she does from Felt Club, CRAFT, to her new gig with Home Ec., as well as geeky TV conversations on Buffy, Dollhouse, and Freaks and Geeks.

You can also check out Kim's Q&A interview with me here where I talk about the new direction of Craftzine.com.

January 3, 2009

The Crafty Chica Interviews Kate Jacobs

The Crafty Chica has a new interview with Kate Jacobs, author of The Friday Night Knitting Club and its sequel, Knit Two.

The Friday Night Knitting Club, a novel about a group of diverse women who come together for the sake of yarn and needles, scored a top spot on the New York Times Best Seller list when it was released in 2006. Soon after, the book spawned new knitting/book clubs around the country, and was even optioned for theatrical release starring Julia Roberts. After all that success, you'd think author Kate Jacobs would be nervous to write the sequel. Instead, she welcomed the challenge. Knit Two was released last month and has already hit best seller status.

December 9, 2008

Joss Whedon on Crafts and Craftiness

Remember when Kim Werker put the call out to crafters to help get the message to Joss Whedon that she'd like to interview him? Well, it worked! Visit CrochetMe to read the whole wonderfully geeky thing, which includes gems like this (on knitting versus crochet):

It's an age-old war. Like the werewolves and the vampires. I think Underworld was actually originally about crocheters and knitters but they thought it would be too controversial so they changed it to vampires and werewolves.

October 30, 2008

Maura Madden Q & A and CRAFTERNOON Book Giveaway

CRAFTERNOON: A Guide to Getting Artsy and Crafty With Your Friends All Year Long by Maura Madden
Buy the Book ($16.95)
CRAFTERNOON: The Web site
CRAFTERNOON: The Blog

CRAFTERNOON is a book that speaks directly to the heart and soul of what I love about crafting: connecting with other people while engaged in the creative process. Maura Madden's new book, CRAFTERNOON: A Guide to Getting Artsy and Crafty With Your Friends All Year Long, lays out the tools, projects, tips and even snack recipes so readers can easily put together their own Crafternoon groups and get to makin' stuff with friends and family in a relaxed, fun setting.

Initially, I just loved the idea of an actual guide that motivates people to craft together for the simple pleasure of having fun and connecting with one another. Creating community through crafting is one of my mantras. But as I started reading the book, I fell in love with Madden's wit, her glowing stories of crafting with her mom, and - mostly - with her preaching of pressure-free crafting and an embrace of imperfection.

Crafternoon is all about being around friends who support your work, who encourage your growing craftiness, and who inspire and get inspired by you. Crafternoon is about getting back to the roots of crafting. It's about getting pleasure out of the process as much as the product. It's about making room for the input of other crafter and allowing yourself to be open to new ideas. It's about the contentment you feel when you are surrounded by happily crafting friends, friends who can see the beauty in imperfection, the pleasure of happy mistakes.

A philosophy on crafting and community doesn't get much better than that.

Each month in the CRAFTERNOON book outlines everything from project supplies, tips and resources, to recipes for snacks and even provides a sample email you can send to friends to get them to come to your Crafternoon gathering. It's a great source of inspiration (not to mention humor - Madden's writing is easy to read and hilarious) and a nice departure from typical project-only craft books.

Another important presence in the book is Madden's mother - whose warm personality and gentle guidance is what brought heart to the initial Crafternoon gathering. Reading Madden's account of crafting with her mom, and the influence her mother had on Madden's work and perspective is sweet without being corny and leaves me wishing I could sit in on a Crafternoon with Madden and her mom.

So often, I hear friends saying they want to get together and get crafty, but never seem to pull it off. CRAFTERNOON is the perfect remedy to all that. It takes the guesswork out of planning the event and serves as a fantastic catalyst to get your craft on, community style. And for that, it's one of my all-time favorite craft books.

And Craftzine readers are in luck! We've got a copy of CRAFTERNOON to giveaway to one lucky winner. Just leave a comment to this post and tell us why you need this book. (Please make sure your email address is in your profile so we can contact you if you win.) All comments will be closed at 9PM PST on Friday, October 31. The lucky winner will be announced on the Craftzine blog on Monday, November 3. Good luck, have fun, and tell your friends!

Here's a little more background on author, Maura Madden, and why she wrote the book.

What made you decide to take your Crafternoons and translate them into a book?
My dear friend Emilie thought that it would be a good idea for a book. It was really all her idea! But once I started thinking about it, I really got excited. The goal of the book is to inspire people everywhere to host their own Crafternoons. If I can do that, I will be so happy.

How does hosting/attending Crafternoons make you feel?
Crafternoons are mentally refreshing. But if you're the host, they take a lot of energy, too. Being a good host of a Crafternoon is the same as being a good host at any party - you run around a lot, you make sure that everyone has something to craft, someone to talk to and something to drink. And that can be a little bit tiring, but so very worth it, 'cause you get love and good times in return.

What's the most common excuse you hear people make on why they can't come to a Crafternoon, and how do you overcome those excuses?
It's usually some form of "I'm not really a crafty person" or "I'm just not creative." It can be really hard to convince certain people that everyone has the potential to be creative and crafty. I just try to be encouraging, and I explain that Crafternoon is not about competitive, perfectionist crafting - it's about having fun and letting your imagination take the spotlight for a few hours. I also let them know that Crafternoon is more about the process of communal crafting than about some perfectly crafted end product. If all else fails, I just tell them there will be lots of cool folks there. And if they're single, I like to remind them that there will be lots of cool single folks there. That often seals the deal.

How do guests usually respond to their time at Crafternoons? People have an overwhelmingly positive response to Crafternoon. They leave happy and inspired. The experience is really gratifying. And I know they're not just saying so, because they come back, and they bring friends.

Describe your favorite Crafternoon experience you've had:
It's impossible for me to pick just one experience, because each Crafternoon is so unique and cool, and there are so many great moments every time. But watching any self-described "uncreative" person try their hand at a craft project and really get into it - that's satisfying every time.

What tips do you have for folks who are interested in starting a Crafternoon group, but aren't sure if they are quite ready to commit to it?
You certainly don't have to do a Crafternoon every month. You can start out by throwing one to see how it goes, and even then you can just throw them whenever you feel like throwing them. And if you do want to make it a monthly gathering, but you don't want to have all the responsibility of choosing the date, hosting the afternoon and being the point person, you can recruit a group of friends to be rotating Crafternoon hosts. And that way you get to experience new craft environments each time!

How do you maintain playful crafting time in your busy work schedule?
You just have to make time. It can be very hard, and believe me, there have been periods when I thought I would never have time to host another Crafternoon. But important things like crafting and spending time with those you love - you just have to set aside time for that.

How would you describe your philosophy on living a creative, independent life vs. working for "The Man?"
It's funny, because technically I work for "The Man." I have a full time job in an office, and it's a very creative company and a great place to work, but it definitely qualifies as working for "The Man". But I'd like to think that I can inspire other "Employees of The Man" that you can find time in your life to be creative, and, in fact, it's imperative to find that time. Because humans are creative creatures - isn't that what distinguishes us from the other animals that roam the earth? It's not just our creation of governments and currency - it's our creation of ritual, of art, of writing, of performance. It's our desire to express something. I firmly believe that we humans must express ourselves to feel whole and happy. So my philosophy is just lead an independent, creative life in your own independent way, which may include working for "The Man" to put food on the table, or may mean living off the grid, growing your own food. As long as you prioritize your creativity and community, you can live a creative life.

How does your relationship with your mom affect how/why you craft? My mom is the reason why I craft. She is an incredibly creative person, and, obviously, an incredibly crafty person. It's kind of astonishing how many types of crafts she is good at, but she is an especially phenomenal knitter and seamstress. And we really get along, so it's fun for us to hang out together and craft. I wouldn't have begun hosting these parties if it wasn't for my mom. She inspired them!

As for how the relationship affects how I craft? Well, it's funny, because my mom is actually a very precise and patient crafter, the polar opposite of my crafting style. But maybe that's where the rebel in me comes out. I like to do things my way, and maybe I don't always want to do what my mom tells me. Besides, I know she'll love whatever I make, so I can't go wrong when I'm crafting with my mom. I also try to impart that feeling to my Crafternooners - nothing is wrong at Crafternoon.

What's the one crafting supply you can't live without and why?
My imagination. Oh, and glue sticks. I love a good glue stick. Liquid glue is great, but paper collages, which I love to make, require a glue stick. And every craft requires your imagination. I cannot live without that.

October 24, 2008

Interview with Fashion Designer Daniel Vosovic of Fashion Inside Out + Book Giveaway

Fashion Inside Out: Daniel V's Guide to How Style Happens from Inspiration to Runway and Beyond by Daniel Vosovic
Pre-Order on Amazon ($19.77, available Oct 28th)
Daniel Vosovic's Web Site
Daniel Vosovic's Project Runway Blog

I think most of you know by now how much of a Project Runway junkie I am. My favorite season has to be Season 2, since that's how I've come to know over the years Diana Eng and Chloe Dao. Now, I am extra excited to get a chance to talk to another Project Runway Season 2 alum, fashion designer Daniel Vosovic. Daniel's got a brand new fashion book due out next Tuesday, October 28th aptly titled, Fashion Inside Out: Daniel V's Guide to How Style Happens from Inspiration to Runway and Beyond. First off, the book is beautifully designed with gorgeous photography. Yet, it's more than just a book to look through -- it's really a comprehensive guide on how to create your own fashions -- from inspiration and design, to the technical process of pattern-making and sewing, and finally selling your work to a client and taking it down the runway. Interspersed in the book are Q&A's from industry professionals too. I love the many tips that Daniel adds throughout the book from drawing croquis to great pressing techniques for various fabrics. My favorite section if I had to choose, is "The Execution: Creating a Garment" where he discusses the "rub-off" technique -- a way to create patterns for your garment with out having to start from scratch. You'll also learn a lot about draping, something I've been interested in knowing more about for a long time. I could go on and on about this book but you'll just need to see it for yourself! There's really never been such a fashion design book like this before. It's an inspirational guide + reference book that will help any crafty fashionista take their design and sewing skills to the next level.

One lucky CRAFT reader will get a copy of Daniel's new book! Just leave a comment to this post and tell us why you need this book. Please make sure your email address is in the email form field (not comment body) so we can contact you if you win. All comments will be closed by Noon PST on Saturday, October 25th. The lucky winners will be announced on Sunday evening on the CRAFT blog. Good luck!

Now, let's find out more about Daniel Vosovic in our CRAFT interview!

Natalie: Your new book, Fashion Inside Out, is one of the most comprehensive books on the fashion design process I've ever read. What was the inspiration behind writing it?

Daniel: A huge inspiration was the fact that I had never seen anything else like it on bookshelves... anywhere. Having gone through years of structured design education, I was taught many things by many different designers and professors, but a lot of my education focused more on technique, rather than how to harness an actual idea and growing it from there. Without getting too philosophical, I wanted to provoke people into creating something solely from an idea's conception, or at least showing them how I do it.

Natalie: How do you find inspiration before you design a collection?

Daniel: I have to sort of turn a visual and mental valve in my head on and off. I wish I could wander around month after month simply spitting ideas out left and right, or scribbling in my notebook, but eventually I reach a time in the design process where I need to "shut it off" and focus on moving the design forward.

Natalie: If you could narrow it down to two, what in your opinion are the key sewing or production techniques that every aspiring designer should know?

Daniel: Knowing how to alter/check your own patterns for necessary alterations: armhole ease, cap adjustment, twisting seams, etc. Also, knowing how to use a seam ripper properly - I couldn't live without mine when I first began haha!

Natalie: How would you describe your experience being on Project Runway?

Daniel: Exhausting but fruitful. If anything, at least I can sit down 30 years from now and have amazing memories documented of a very intense experience in my life.

Natalie: Are there any new or upcoming projects you are working on that you can share with us?

Daniel: Aside from working on this book since June 2007 and heading out on a national book tour, launching a successful clothing line for over 150 NYLO Hotels that consists of sleek men's and women's separates as well as a handbag & luggage line, the continued groundwork of my own label (launching soon!), the occasional dress for young Hollywood, collaborating with different TV shows like Lipstick Jungle, weekly blogs on bravotv.com and of course the obligatory dress for a family member or friend in need... no, that's about it. :)

I'm just anxious to get back into a design room and get this book in your hands already!

And now, Daniel answers questions from CRAFT readers:

Kristine: What did you find was the most difficult part of marketing yourself and your work?

Daniel: Self-promotion is undoubtedly a needed part of being a designer in today's industry. Yes, there are those designers who are more in the mainstream's eye, but even those behind the scenes must exude confidence in their work at all times. It is hard to always be happy or supportive of ALL of your work, but personally, I've tried to choose an array of projects that I love and feel proud to support, showcasing finished products that I know represent me as a designer.

Celiana: Are there any past trends making a comeback now that you hate (or don't particularly love?) When that happens, how do you bring yourself to incorporate that trend into your designs if the trend itself does not really inspire you?

Daniel: My ultimate hatred in street wear comes in the form of cut-off tights, ESPECIALLY when they're worn as pants with just a top thrown on. 1) Most women would (or shouldn't) wear garments that cut them off at the calf, which usually makes them look quite stumpy 2) Most women wouldn't go out of the house in just a pair of panties, which essentially is what all of us have to look at when a girl is walking in front of us because there is no support for her derriere! Great - now I'm getting all heated!

Fontgoddess: What are your thoughts on balancing the creative [DIY] with the curatorial [choosing pieces made/designed by others] aspects of fashion? How do you think they mesh for a person interested in creating their own style and fashion in their personal wardrobe?

Daniel: Great question. My personal style consists of low and high-end pieces: t-shirts from Uniqlo and jackets from Marc Jacobs, and I think that's how more and more people today are dressing. Even the die-hard fashionistas rarely wear one designer head to toe, day after day, and instead opt to mix-n-match to make their look a bit more personal. If you're having trouble finding, say a skirt with some personality to it for the price you want to pay, than opt to give it a try on your own sewing machine, and I guarantee that it will make those 2-year old shoes you can't afford to upgrade just yet, look a lot more special; What's the point of designing something if it's not going to be new or improved upon?

Fontgoddess: High fashion frequently seems either unattainable or impractical for much of the population. How do you, as a fashion designer, balance the fantastical fashion that inspires and the practical fashion that a person can wear in their daily life? How do you see others in your industry dealing with that balance?

Daniel: It's definitely an important balance in a designer's career: balancing aspirational designs with those that can be worn on a regular basis. This becomes logistically easier as a designer's collection grows, as they're able to offer a wider range of designs to better encapsulate all of their client's needs. Also, secondary lines or capsule collections have become huge cash cows for designers, allowing them to reach a much larger demographic while still keeping the integrity of their main collection. However, that being said, there is definitely a time and place when that happens. For where I am in my own career, I don't have the capabilities, or the desire, to provide something for everyone. A designer must know their strengths and capitalize on them, get the designs out there and hopefully people will find them soon enough. One doesn't go to the GAP for a cocktail dress the same way most people don't go to Vuitton for undershirts.

October 15, 2008

Interview with Indie Fashion Designer Liza Rietz

Liza Rietz Web Site: lizarietz.com Etsy Shop: www.lizarietz.etsy.com

Pictured above are fashions from Liza Rietz's Fall 08 Collection (left to right): drop waist dress with pleated runner, goldenrod cowl skirt with dolman top, gold box dress, faux fur rectangle jacket, origami top with four panel skirt, and half circle herringbone tunic with stand up collar.
(Photographed by: Alicia J. Rose)

In our current issue of CRAFT: 08, we started a new fashion feature showcasing the latest DIY and Indie fashion designers called CRAFT: Collection. One of the featured fashion designers in this spread centered on the theme of "dresses" is Portland, OR based, Liza Rietz. Liza's modern silhouettes and designs literally caught my eye and I've been in love with her work ever since. I got a chance to talk more with Liza about her fashions work, design inspirations, and how the craft of sewing is so important to fashion design.

Natalie: How did you first get interested in becoming a fashion designer? What is your background?

Liza: I have always had a interest in clothing design starting when I made my Barbies' new outfits out of cutting up old socks. I decided to seriously pursue design in 2001 when i taught myself to sew (after getting my BA in Sociology and Anthropologoy!!). I showed my first collection in 2002 and started selling my designs in a local design collective "Seaplane".

Natalie: How would you describe your style of fashion?

Liza: My designs are modern yet elegant and have both architectural and sculptural elements. I am satisfied when i know a design will flatter the body while challenging typical silhouettes.

Natalie:Tell me about your fall collection -- What was the design inspiration?

Liza: My fall collection was influenced by japanese design, cowls, batwing and dolman sleeves, the color gold, and how a shape drapes on the body.

Natalie: How far in advance do you work on your collections and what is the process?

Liza: As soon as an idea comes to mind, i like to sketch it out. These sketches happen randomly months and months before i start designing a collection. I like to add as much as possible to my sketch book and then edit and consolidate ideas, trying to make sure i have a similar theme lacing through each piece - whether than be with shape, texture, or fabrics. I also like to go to fabric stores early on to get inspired. Fabric choice ultimately influences my designs. The drape, texture, color - these are all helpful in molding my ideas. I then usually draft patterns from my sketches to get a basic template. Then the designs are generally altered and manipulated by additional draping. Of course I would like to say the final piece comes to fruition in plenty of time before presenting it on the runway, but i seem to be stitching until 3 am the night before...

Natalie: Do you think having a strong sense of sewing skills is important in fashion design? (Are there any other important skills to add?)

Liza: Definitely. Considering I am completely self taught in all aspects (from design to final garment construction), I can attest that sewing and designing go hand and hand, if not to say they are in a way symbiotic. I only understand how to design a garment because i know how garments are technically put together. And in turn, it is when i am physically sewing a garment that i learn more about design. Each fabric works differently under the needle, each pleat or ruffle falls a certain way depending on how you drape it on the dress form. I am still baffled by the apparel design interns I have had that come straight out of school, proficient in computer programs and full of technical terms, but can barely sew on a button. Like any creative field, one has to find a balance of hands on and technical experience. I started out manipulating fabric and draping it on dress forms to achieve a certain shape or silhouette, almost like a sculptor would. But in apparel design, this is not enough. You have to be able to make sure the sculpture you are creating fits the moving structure that supports it.

Natalie: What are you working on now?

Liza: I just showcased my fall/winter line on the runway last week. And, considering I sew most all of my designs, I am currently in production mode, filling orders.....one dress at a time.

Fashion designer Liza Rietz (Photographed by: Alicia J. Rose)

From the pages of CRAFT: 08:

"Craft: Collection Dress Up",Preview the fashion spread here in our Digital Edition.

Visit my Flickr set to see some behind the scenes photos from the fashion photo shoot.

Subscribe to CRAFT Magazine
Craftzine readers can now get $5 off a yearly subscription by entering the code MCRAFT. That's just $29.95 for 4 quarterly issues!

October 8, 2008

Pimp Stitch Interview with Queen Puff Puff and Free Shoe Embroidery Pattern

Read an exclusive interview on Pimp Stitch with Nicole Vasbinder of Queen Puff Puff & StitchCraft. Download her free pattern, "Shoes, Glorious Shoes," great for embellishing a shoe bag!

September 29, 2008

CraftyPod - Publishing a Craft Book, with Christina Loff and Kate McKean

Diane at Crafty Pod talks to two of my crafty friends in publishing, Christina Loff of Chronicle Books and literary agent Kate McKean, to find out what it takes to publish a craft book.

September 26, 2008

Folksy.com - New UK Online Marketplace for Crafters

Folksy is a UK based online marketplace for Crafters and Makers. Craig Smith from O'Reilly's GMT has an interview with James Boardwell, the founder of Folksy to find out how this new online marketplace came about.

September 20, 2008

Hine Mizushima Interview

The Plush You! blog has just posted a great interview with artist Hine Mizushima, and will even be giving out one of her amazing hand-stitched camera cases to one lucky commenter. Check out the post for more details.

September 15, 2008

Kayte Terry Q+A and Book Giveaway

Complete Embellishing: Techniques and Projects by Kayte Terry
Buy the Book ($16.47)
Love Forever (Etsy Shop)
This is Love Forever (the blog)

Kayte Terry's Complete Embellishing is one of my very favorite craft books at the moment. It's full of super helpful step-by-step tutorials covering everything you need to get going with embellishment techniques like appliqué, fabric stamping, embroidery and glass etching. Once you've got those basics down, you'll be ready to tackle the projects, which range from housewares (like the cute woodland-inspired cocktail glasses) to accessories (ribbon-bedecked shoes, anyone?) and some truly gorgeous wardrobe-enhancers like the cozy, felted Victoriana cardigan. It's all wrapped up in a handy spiral-bound, beautifully-photographed package that's the perfect blend of useful content and yummy eye candy.

Guess what? We're giving away a copy of Complete Embellishing to one lucky CRAFT reader! Just leave a comment to this post and tell us why you need this book. (Please make sure your email address is in your profile so we can contact you if you win.) All comments will be closed by 12pm PST on Tuesday, September 16. The lucky winners will be announced on Wednesday evening on the CRAFT blog. Good luck!

Reading Kayte's book made me curious about her background and her views on being an independent businessperson an increasingly challenging marketplace. Read on to find out what doing it yourself really entails.

CRAFT: Do you run your indie business full time, or do you have a "day job" to help keep you afloat? BONUS: If the latter is the case, how do you balance your time/make time for crafting?

I do run my own indie business full-time but not in the traditional "making and selling" way. All of the work I do is in the craft/design world but I work as a writer, stylist and crafter for magazines most of the time. I find that diversifying my business makes it easier to stay afloat and make money. If I don't make any money at a craft fair, I know there is always a writing or styling job around the corner!

CRAFT: How did you make the transition from working for "The Man" to working for yourself? Did you (do you) ever find yourself doubting your decision, or was the transition a smooth one?

I had been working as a Visual Manager for Anthropologie for several years when I decided to go off and work for myself. I set a goal for how much money I needed to save before I quit and when I hit that goal, I typed up my resignation letter. Luckily, they were really supportive of my decision and still hire me as a freelancer so I didn't have too many doubts. Also, I found a really great freelance job (working for Adorn magazine) pretty quickly after I left Anthro, so that helped too!

CRAFT: How do you structure your days when you're the boss (do you stick to a set schedule, etc.?), and do you have any tips on time/task management?

It's hard to predict my week to week schedule is going to be like so I have to constantly find balance and plan out my weeks as they come. Some weeks, I work at home writing and crafting and other weeks I am on photo shoots.

I make big lists every week with all of my deadlines and other things I want to accomplish; I love crossing things off! Also, I have started to learn more about my natural work habits: even though I like staying up late I find that I get the most work done early in the morning so now I am trying to get myself out of bed earlier.

Right now, I am still having a hard time making time for me but luckily, I really like my work so I think that most of what I do is fun!

CRAFT: How would you compare the challenges of working for yourself with working for "The Man"?

I probably work more hours than when I worked full-time and I generally work every day, including weekends. Also, I bring my laptop with me on all my vacations and always check my emails. On the other hand, it's my work and my career only that I am advancing so I feel less resentful about working overtime.

I also think you start to see how all the work you do will effect your career in the longterm. With my book for example, I am doing a lot of extra publicity work and, while I am not getting a paycheck for my efforts, it is going to help me in the future.

CRAFT: How important has the internet been in relation to the growth of your business? Also, would you say the bulk of your business comes from your own website, or from wholesale accounts and/or craft show sales?

I don't sell that much online so I see the internet in terms of publicity and getting my name known by other crafters and designers. The internet has been extremely important for the growth of my business. A lot of work I have gotten over the years has been from my blog or from people seeing my work on other blogs. It's been a lot easier for me to get publicity and press on the internet and I have seen great results. A mention on Design*Sponge or Apartment Therapy for instance can really drive your business even if it doesn't result in many sales. More and more people start to know your name and your business and sales will follow eventually.

I do think it's really important to sell at craft fairs though. Even though so many people buy their crafts online now, I still think that nothing can replace the experience of buying from a crafter face-to-face.

CRAFT: Is there anything you wish you'd done differently when starting your business, knowing what you know now? BONUS: Any resources for upstart craft businesses that you'd care to recommend?

I think the only thing I wish I had done differently was to be more confident in my abilities. I think that I used to resist sending my portfolio to a magazine or emailing a "big" blogging name because I was afraid of being rejected. I still don't like being passed over for a job of course but I try to remember that it's not personal and usually has nothing to do with my skills.

On a more practical note, I have learned how to be more organized with my money and paperwork. I now have a filing cabinet with folders for receipts, contracts, etc and save all my important documents on a hard drive. I don't really think there is one good way to be organized so people really need to find their own style.

CRAFT: Any tips on how to keep your business fresh and thriving/growing? How do you stay inspired?

I think that my business has really grown organically as I found what I was good at. I really quickly found that I wasn't going to be able to survive just selling my own crafts so I started writing about crafts and making things for magazines. I think the best advice being successful is to learn what you are good at and love to do and stick with that.
I also try to check in with myself pretty often and make sure I am working as efficiently and happily as I should. It sounds really silly but sometimes, in the stress of working for myself, I forget that I have an awesome job and that I chose to do this!

I stay inspired by reading a lot, going to museums, going for long walks. I get most of my ideas when I take walks so I take a lot of them and I always carry a sketch pad just in case!

Recently I noticed that I was reading so many craft blogs that I wasn't getting anything done so even though I find them really inspiring I try to strike a balance between outside influence and inspiration from within.

CRAFT: Becoming an author-- did it come as naturally to you as it seems? Would you do it again?

Yes! I think it was exactly what I was looking for. The mix of writing and making and being able to show my personal aesthetic in book form really worked for me. Of course, it was insanely stressful for me but I learned a lot and the second time around is so much easier! Oh and yes, I am writing another book and I am so excited about it! It's a book about appliqué and it is being published by Chronicle, out next fall!

CRAFT: What's your favorite project in your new book and why?

It's so hard to pick one but I really like the Prize Ribbon Skirt, mostly because the skirt came out completely different than I had originally planned it and I love it so much more now! I actually ended up making two versions of the skirt. I hated the first one I made so I scrapped it and came up with the one that you see in the book and I am so glad I trusted my instincts!

< Previous | Interviews Home | Next >

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Future Craft Collective on CraftyPod

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Ask CRAFT: Mother's Day Interview with Bette Stern (My Mom)

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Kim Werker Podcast with Jenny Ryan and Interview with Natalie Zee Drieu

The Crafty Chica Interviews Kate Jacobs

Joss Whedon on Crafts and Craftiness

Maura Madden Q & A and CRAFTERNOON Book Giveaway

Interview with Fashion Designer Daniel Vosovic of Fashion Inside Out + Book Giveaway

Interview with Indie Fashion Designer Liza Rietz

Pimp Stitch Interview with Queen Puff Puff and Free Shoe Embroidery Pattern

CraftyPod - Publishing a Craft Book, with Christina Loff and Kate McKean

Folksy.com - New UK Online Marketplace for Crafters

Hine Mizushima Interview

Kayte Terry Q+A and Book Giveaway

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