Yorkpatty: handmade items for babies, kids and women

August 17, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

So one day while pregnant and sleeping and many months of trying to name our little girl that was about to arrive I had this dream…a little girl was running through a field of wild flowers with bouncy brown curly hair and she was adorable. It was a little bit like a scene from The Sound of Music but without the music, and only one kid, maybe I had just watched that or something, anyways…. I loved the name York and this little girl was my little “Yorkpatty”….well my husband wasn’t as fond of the name as I was so my daughter became Kellyn and my other baby (my shop) became Yorkpatty.

I love to make things and always have. I took art lessons growing up and every art class available in school. My mom started to teach me to sew when I was just three years old so I have been sewing most of my life. After a few years of being pregnant constantly (seriously, I have five kids) I rediscovered my love of making things and sewing. It has become my calming place. If I am not actually making something my mind is thinking of something to create.

Right now I’m in love with repurposing things. Recycled t-shirts are one of my favorites. In my shop you will find quits (mostly hand quilted), pillows, twirly skirts, pinafores, peasant tops, yoga skirts, bibs, aprons, and beanies. Making most everything  unique and one of a kind is important to me. Mixing vintage fabrics with new, and choosing colors and patterns to put together are my favorite part of sewing. Like making wearable art.

My kids, nieces, nephews, and everything around me inspires me. I love to hear and see what kids like and try to create something to please them. Making things that I would put on my kids is more of a focus for me right now. I love simple, earthy and plain things so trying to create that for my little one in a way she will love it too is fun. I have some pretty frilly nieces so making something for them that makes them squeal and light up when they see it is a blast. I get a lot of ideas from Japanese craft and sewing books too. The simple and natural fabrics and designs are so beautiful.

You can find me at little shows here and there (posted on my website). The Seattle Square, Maple Valley Farmer’s Market, Baby Icing Boutique, trunk shows, and Etsy (www.yorkpatty.etsy.com) for the summertime and I will post on my website anything else to come.

DEVIANTDecor: Victorian Framed Miniatures and Objects

August 17, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

How did DEVIANTdecor start?
My inspirations for DEVIANTdecor came from my work as a Fine Art Photographer where I focused my energy photographing objects that I have encountered or collected throughout my life.

As my collections of objects grew, I realized they where just sitting around in boxes after I was finished photographing them or while they were waiting for their own turn in the spotlight. I felt like it was a waste to have such fascinating objects packed away in boxes so I started brainstorming on ways to display the small unique items that I adored, and DEVIANTdecor was born in March of 2010.

What type of things do you make?
I make Framed Curiosities: Victorian Framed Miniatures, Objects and Oddities. Most items use Vintage brass frames, reclaimed fabric and found objects. I’ve got something for everyone from tiny guns, sewing machines, snails and octopus!

What is your inspiration?
My inspirations for art come from the obscure, whimsical and sometimes dark and bizarre. I am intrigued by the cycles of nature and the remnants it leaves behind.

Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
I have an online etsy store – www.deviantdecor.etsy.com . You can also find me vending at first Thursday arwalks in pioneer square, as well as some other markets and festivals around the city. I’m always updating where I will be on my Facebook and Twitter accounts.

What are your social media properties and where can we find them?
TWITTER: http://www.twitter.com/deviantdecor
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/deviantdecor
RSS FEED: http://www.etsy.com/shop/DeviantDecor/rss
NEWSLETTER: http://www.eepurl.com/kt7k

Any other question you can think of that people might want to know about.
I also do custom pieces, if you want a particular object or animal I will do my best to hunt it down for you, and I personalize colors as well.

The next date I’m vending at the Seattle Square is Aug 21st.

Brooklyn Grace Jewelry: Handmade with Love

August 13, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

How did Brooklyn Grace Jewelry start?
Brooklyn Grace started about a year and a half ago, when I decided that my ‘hobby’ could in fact become a thriving business venture for me. The name was derived from a few different things; my middle name is Brooke, and my dad has always called me Brooker. So I thought it would be fitting to include Brooke in the name somehow. I think that everyone has their own Grace in the world so when I thought of the two names, Brooklyn Grace came about.

What type of things do you make?
I create jewelry – I love designing and making an idea come to life in a piece. I am really into the vintage inspired look, using lots of brass and gold components. I am getting into bead working and incorporating that into my new pieces. Metals can be so beautiful with a little pop of color! I have a signature technique where I wire wrap 3 beads on the end of my chain to close the necklace, it just adds that little bit of extra color and fun-ness!

What is your inspiration?
My inspiration comes from everyday life. I love the ocean, I love the beach, warm sunny days. I think that when I surround myself around happy people and create happy moments in my life, my creative side always comes out. I think that when you have your own grace and you make your own ‘fashion rules’ :: you can’t go wrong!

Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
I am on the fantastic Etsy! www.brooklyngrace.etsy.com and two small boutiques. One in San Diego, Ca : Vocabulary; and one in Brooklyn, NY : Honey and Hazel. I would love to saturate the Seattle market, that is in the works now.

What are your social media properties and where can we find them?
I am online, Etsy.com.

Also, I am involved in an amazing production right now! Creative Live in Seattle is showcasing a wedding in the Seattle area and I am in charge of designing the beautiful jewels for the blushing bride and her ladies!
Junebugweddings.com has a great update on this!

Thrifty Threads: Saving the Planet One Cool Outfit at a Time

August 12, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

How did Thrifty Threads start?
THRIFTY THREADS started from my addiction to thrift store shopping! I have always gotten a thrill finding a major bargain (such as a confessing to someone who compliments me on my outfit that the entire ensemble (usually) cost me less than $10! I also admit to being a bit fickle about clothes – I fall in love with a certain piece, wear it once or twice, then I toss it aside and move on to the next awesome 99 cent treasure!

Starting THRIFTY THREADS is a way for me to not only give someone else the thrill of finding a bargain as well as clothing which looks great on them & makes them happy to wear, but it also promotes re/upcycling and proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to look good (and unique!).

What type of things do you make?(sell)
Cool, fun, attractive, unique clothing for women, men & kids, including tops, pants, jeans, shorts, jammies, skirts, dresses, jackets, sweaters, etc., as well as accessories such as scarves, hats, gloves, purses, bags, and wallets. And it seems that everyone is fascinated by my dozens & dozens of pairs of cool TWO DOLLAR SHOES! My items are not necessarily “vintage” but I do often have a classically cool ’60′s, ’70′s or ’80′s piece to be had for a song. Nothing I sell is priced over $8, which is often even cheaper than thrift store prices!

What is your inspiration?
People who are creative and unique and daring in their choice of attire, who have fun with their clothes, who express themselves through their clothing and not only come up with amazingly adorable and cool outfits but who dress on their own terms-not to impress or conform but to feel like whoever they woke up feeling like on that particular day!

Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
If I had a dime for everytime I’ve been asked “where is your store?”, I could buy out Goodwill! Unfortunately, my answer is always “in my dreams”! Right now, other than the Seattle Square Market, THRIFTY THREADS can only be found at the bi-annual PUNK ROCK FLEA MARKET held at the Underground Events Center in Belltown (June & Dec). There are not many venues for re-selling clothing/accessories other than these events, but I am hoping to someday open a small shop somewhere, or possibly in our home!

What are your social media properties and where can we find them?
Currently, I only have a Facebook page for my art (Laurie’s Little Lovelies) and share sites for my photography (www.picasaweb.com/photographybylauriez and www.photobucket.com/home/lauriez) which I also sell at local festivals & art events.

Any other question you can think of that people might want to know about.
Just remember that even if you don’t usually shop in thrift stores or wear “used” clothing, you will be surprised at how great my THRIFTY THREADS are! I do all the “work” of seeking out the best clothes and you get the thrill of having something unique and inexpensive…(not just another overpriced top from the mall that everyone else has too!)

THRIFTY THREADS-NOTHING OVER $8!

Revival Ink: Eco friendly, artistic apparel

August 12, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

How did Revival Ink start?
Revival Ink started as my senior thesis project when I was getting my Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in graphic design at Cornish College of the Arts. It was just a side project for about 2 years while I was doing graphic design, and then it became my full time gig.

What type of things do you make?
I make all kinds organic cotton and bamboo apparel that I silkscreen my original illustrations on. My new collection includes skirts, tees, hoodies, yoga pants, and kids items.

What is your inspiration?

I’m really inspired by nature. I sketch a lot while I’m camping, hiking, and gardening. Most of my imagery is nature related, or fantasy nature related.

Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
I sell my items every Sunday at the Fremont Market. I also sell online at www.revivalink.com, and I have a list of stores on the west coast that carry my clothing in the “where to buy” section of my website.

What are your social media properties and where can we find them?
Blog: revivalink.com/blog
Twitter: twitter.com/revivalink
Facebook: facebook.com/Revivalink.fans

Urbana: Pottery for Rump Shaking

August 11, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

1. How did Urbana start?
Urbana started in 2006 when I opened my first Etsy shop, www.urbana.etsy.com. I had been making pottery for a while before that though.

2. What type of things do you make?
I make pottery, beaded jewelry and stashbooks.

3. What is your inspiration?
I am originally from New England. I spent six of my adult years in Albuquerque New Mexico where I learned to make clay, fire kilns, and throw porcelain from the fine professors at UNM. Left, for New Hampshire, there I attended the Manchester Institute of Art and Science. I moved to Portland, Oregon and become a ceramic tech for six years and then ran an Art Center for children and adult. for about as long as I could stand sitting at a desk. HA! stand sitting HA! I am currently studying Anthropology at Portland State University.

4. Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
Right now at www.urbana.etsy.com

katyANDzucchini: silly. sassy. smart. original screen printed designs.

August 11, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

1. How did katyANDzucchini start?
katyANDzucchini started about 6 months after I had my baby girl. I was really enjoying being a mommy, and being able to stay at home with my little bug….but I started to realize that I needed something hands on and creative to keep me from going stir crazy. I have always wanted to learn how to screen print, so I did. Its amazing what you can accomplish during nap times!

2. What type of things do you make?
I design and hand screen print baby clothes, as well as adult clothes and accessories. My designs all have a bit of a nerdy style to them. Designs range from calculators (that read BOOBIES) to angry ostriches.

3. What is your inspiration?
My inspiration is making people smile. I absolutely LOVE the chuckles I get when people see the designs. I have so much fun making silly clothes my daughter can wear.

4. Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
Baby stuff: katyandzucchini.etsy.com
Adult stuff: nerdesigns.etsy.com
katyandzucchini.com
Bellingham Baby
Baby Icing (in Burlington)

5. What are your social media properties and where can we find them?
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/katy-AND-zucchini/276015919910?ref=search

I also have a tutorial on how DIY (cheap and dirty) screenprint here: http://katyandzucchini.blogspot.com/2010/01/diy-screenprinting-tutorial.html

6. Any other question you can think of that people might want to know about.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE custom orders! I know some people are shy to ask about doing something special, but I think the process is so fun and exciting, don’t be afraid to ask.

Namu: Japanese RetroPop T-shirts & bags for adults and kids

August 11, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

1. How did Namu start?
I am a Japanese graphic designer based in Seattle. I used work at various video game companies as a 3D character artist for ten years before starting Namu. I wanted to do my own thing and art + clothing has always attracted me.

The name NAMU came from my cat:) I love cats so a lot of my designs use cat characters.

2. What type of things do you make?
I make Wearable Art for Men, Women and Children. I draw my original characters and graphic designs with my computer, then I hand silk screen them on to Bags,T shirts and other items.
I also want to do illustration when I can manage to find more time.

3. What is your inspiration?
I love Japanese Retro motifs and culture, so I reinterpreted this style into Japanese Pop designs. Also with my background as a 3D character artist in the video game industry for long time, I love to create original characters inspired by Japanese cute (kawaii) anime and manga (cartoon) styles.

4. Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
You can buy my work at my Etsy site
www.namu.etsy.com

Also there are 4 stores carrying my Bags and T-shirts
KOBO Capitol Hill
814 E Roy, Seattle, WA 98102 • 206.726.0704

KOBO Higo
602-608 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104 • 206.381.3000

Boston st
1902 Post Alley
Seattle, WA 98101 (206) 634-0580

xmarksthetot
Gilman Village
317 NW Gilman Blvd. #24
Issaquah, WA 98027
(425) 391-5588
Facebook: www.facebook.com/kobayashiseiko
Twitter: twitter.com/Namu4331
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/namu

Tweet Toffee: {Handcrafted English Toffee}

August 10, 2010  |  Vendor  |  3 comments

1. How did Tweet Toffee start?
Tweet Toffee started in southern California in July 2009 with a $30.00 investment and the reminder of Sarah’s childhood favorite during family time. Our family had suffered a sudden job loss and needed a new, fresh idea for earning income. Although Sarah hardly met a candy she didn’t like, her friends’ mothers English Toffee recipe was her absolute favorite.

She recently learned how to make the famous toffee and had been making it for special events & gifts for a few years. She never let go the fact that the feedback she received was almost 100% amazement; this from a girl who never really “took” to the kitchen. After the reminder during family time, Sarah decided to post on FACEBOOK that she was making her famous toffee and asked for any takers. She quickly had people interested and Tweet Toffee was born!

2. What type of things do you make?
We handcraft a DOZEN different varieties of English Toffee (although some are seasonal); most toffee companies have two, maybe three. Our Classic Milk with Almonds and Dark Chocolate with Pecans are delightful, but we longed for more creative toffee expressions. We had some ideas of our own but also loved the idea of including our FACEBOOK fans in the process. We reached out for toffee ideas, naming ideas; making them contests for free toffee.

Most of our ingredients can be found at Trader Joe’s including our Milk and Dark Chocolate; we are crazy TJ fans! We get our White Chocolate from a Seattle company, Dilletante. We have recently been talking with Theo Chocolate, also in Seattle (Organic, Fair Trade Certified Chocolate) about featuring some of their chocolate with our toffee and this fall, we’ll have some VERY delicious announcements about Tweet Toffee and Theo!

3. What is your inspiration?
The answer to this question is: you HAVE to see the movie Chocolat. The joy that we see on people’s faces as they enjoy our toffee is SO wonderful. We grew up in dreary Seattle, lived in Nashville for over 2 years and southern California for a year before coming back to Seattle again and we can say that we haven’t been anywhere that people have too much joy.

Everywhere we’ve been would benefit from more joy, more enjoyment of life and relationships. We offer a confection for connecting with friends, family; for sharing love by giving a handcrafted delicious gift for people you appreciate far and near. We are grateful for our great marriage and three amazing children and are fortunate to possess a reservoir of joy in our hearts. Tweet Toffee gives us a opportunity to share that joy with the world.

4. Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
You can find us delivering to friends in the Puget Sound area and at various markets through the year. We have just started to talk with retailers, so hopefully we’ll have some announcements very soon! The best way to keep up with us in on FACEBOOK. It’s how we started and still the best way for us to connect with new friends.

5. What are your social media properties and where can we find them?

Facebook: Facebook.com/TweetToffee
Twitter: Twitter.com/TweetToffee

6. Any other question you can think of that people might want to know about.
You can find out a LOT more about us at www.TweetToffee.com.

Stay Sweet!
Sarah & Ben

The Green Hill: “The Art of Fresh” Clothes from Seattle

August 10, 2010  |  Vendor  |  No Comments

1. How did The Green Hill start?
My clothing line started as a homework project in 2008 during my sophomore year in college. People liked my designs I made so I actually had some of the designs made. Now this homework project has gone beyond school and is a project I work on regularly.

2. What type of things do you make?
Right now, I design graphics for shirts that I get screen printed. I also make shirts that will help the world out like helping the animals of the oil spill and helping a campaign in Africa called Bikes to Africa. In the future, I would like to make more things like shoes, hats, jeans, jewelry, skateboard decks, etc.

3. What is your inspiration?
My inspiration comes from childhood interests like toys, tv shows and shirts, and traveling where I find unique designs. I have always been interested in drawing so this is a job that I think I was meant to take on!

4. Where can we find your stuff (other than at our market)?
Right now, we are just an online shop at http://greenhillclothes.com/shop.html

5. What are your social media properties and where can we find them?
We are crazy for social networking.

WordPress: http://thegreenhill.wordpress.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Green-Hill/67759711496
Tumblr: http://ghclothes.tumblr.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/ghclothes

6. Any other question you can think of that people might want to know about.
I have a common question so often asked: How did you come up with your name?
The Green Hill was a name that I came up with when I was brainstorming ideas for my homework project. I chose the Green Hill because I thought it represented my theme of fresh and colorful. The word green represents fresh, youthfulness and earth first. Hill represents an area of its own that all holds the theme of freshness.