It’s been a while since I’ve posted here! I guess I’m in summertime mode, but things have seemed busy. You can see some project photos from my Framework collection over on the Kokka blog here and here. It should be shipping to stores soon. Photo above is by Kokka.
And I just submitted my collection for fall, which seems very close. Kokka works a little closer to production than some other fabric companies, which I like because I don’t have to wait too long to see the designs. I’m impatient. This summer I am also trying to wrap my head around my next book idea and leap over the mental hurdles that seem to be blocking me. In the meantime, I posted a few of my designs over on Nuvango (formerly Gelaskins), so you can order cases for your phones or tablets. Now they have a version to fit most any device. I’m excited to see what my designs look like in this context.
A few weeks ago, we went to the beach and I read Heather Ross’ new book, How to Catch a Frog and Other Stories of Family, Love, Dysfunction, Survival and DIY. The book is about her unconventional childhood and her perseverance to find success. It’s well-written and gives insight into her fabric designs, which are lovingly romanticized expressions of her childhood memories. The book has clever DIY projects tied into each chapter. With charming storybook illustrations throughout, this memoir will help you remember to look for the beauty in life — even when it’s hard to find.
It seems to me that these days artists and designers are putting more of themselves out there for the world, both in books and online. Whether it’s a natural result of the end of anonymity in our digital age or a conscious choice, it’s a brave thing to do and frankly, something that I’ve avoided as much as possible! But I’ve been thinking more about things now that I’m getting older and I want my work to have greater meaning. I just need to figure out what comes next.
It was nice to read your post today. I always enjoy your blog posts but i enjoyed reading your thoughts and feelings today:). Thanks for sharing
I love that bag! Do you have any idea what pattern was used? I will be looking for that beautiful fabric too…
This “end of anonymity” caught me and got me thinking.
I guess, it’s become not that scary to open up as there are so many not real details that people have thought out about their lives, that the real stuff does not stand out but gets mixed up 🙂 Many discovered Internet as a place where you may not be yourself and invent a totally different person, so when the real person comes, people think it’s not all pure and real, but also invented, at least half-invented :))
I bet you had a great time if you managed to read a whole book! a dream come true :))
nice bag indeed!
I cannot wait for framework! I always hoard your fabrics Ellen, they’re just so good. And wow, I’m just so impressed with all you’ve accomplished, and a third book too!
Where I can find lady bug, it’s my favorite. Eliza
I was commenting on my blog the other day about pushing myself for a physical challenge. One of my readers and quilty friends told me that I didn’t need to stress about pushing myself for one more aspect of my life because putting myself out there – as I have in the books and on social media and on the blog – is a huge push. It’s funny, I never saw it that way. I am a naturally open and blunt person and find myself having to edit/keep my mouth shut online. Otherwise everyone would likely know everything!!! But I do appreciate knowing that there is a person behind the products I’m using.
The adorable bag pattern resembles the “Boxcar Tote” from GreenBee Patterns. (Is it?)