Urban Contessa

Basket Template

2012-01-02T14:21:00.028-05:00

In my last post, I mentioned that one of my clients asked me to make a lining for a pretty wire basket that will be carried down the aisle when her son gets married this year.

I took the opportunity to send my sewing machine off to the spa for service over the holidays and I only just got it back, so I haven't been able to sew anything together. Besides, I do want to run it by my client first, before I commit to anything.

So, I thought a prototype was in order. First, we need supplies.

tracing paper

scotch tape

pencil

quilting ruler

french curve

paper-cutting scissors

I traced the bottom of the basket and cut out the oval for the base. Inside the basket, I measured from the base up to the first wire that runs the perimeter of the basket (a height my client and I agreed on). It's three inches. Next, I lay the oval base onto a new sheet of tracing paper and marked a three-inch radius around the base template. Using the french curve, I joined the marks I made to sketch the three-inch radius.

I cut out the pattern, as well as the centre base. It makes an odd-looking oval donut. I snipped the donut so that it separates and unfolds as a long, curved piece. I taped it to the base, as though I was sewing it together.

This is where the tweaking comes in. Once it was all taped together, the top part of the insert was rippled, which is what I had pictured in the first place. But now that I see it, I don't like it. And I don't think my client will either. The basket is pretty on its own and the interior shouldn't compete with it.

So I snipped some notches into it. Cinched it in. Taped some more. And this is what I came up with.

It fits nicely in the basket, without being a permanent fixture. This way, my client can remove the pillow and still use the basket after the wedding.

The pattern allows for a seam allowance, so that after it is sewn, the final product will sit just below the wire.

I know it doesn't look like much now, but put your imagination caps on and picture the tracing paper as pretty, white satin. The centre base will be stuffed with a little filling to give it a pillow-like appearance.

I'll show my client the prototype tomorrow and see what she thinks.

A Tisket, A Tasket

2011-12-13T18:16:00.008-05:00

A little yellow basket.

Well, not really. It's silver. With pretty flowers.

A client's son is getting married soon. This pretty basket will be skipped down the aisle by the flower girl. The blushing Mother-of-the-Groom (MOG for those of you in the biz) asked if I could make a fabric something-or-other for the bottom so the rings don't fall out.

Of course! I'd love to!

The MOG had a vision of the rings hanging from the top of the basket on a pretty ribbon. A very nice idea, until the flower girl starts to swing the basket and the rings are waving in the air like a wild amusement park ride.

I liked the idea of the rings on a ribbon, so I suggested the ribbon be long enough to pool the rings at the bottom and they can nest in the pillow of fabric I make.

And so it shall be.

I'll work on this over the holidays and post pictures once I'm done.

Craft Show Pictures

2011-12-12T14:54:00.000-05:00

Saturday's craft show was entertaining, if nothing else.

At about eleven o'clock, the bar opened. Shandell pointed out that this was the first craft show we'd been at that served. She also suggested that we bring a designated driver next time.

Good idea. I immediately texted Chris to pencil him in.

At one o'clock, it became clear that the bar wasn't open for us. It was open for the dart league.

That's right. A dart league. We're hard core crafters.

Not surprising, Shandell was hit on by a tipsy bald man who shamelessly flirted with her. They may have a date for next weekend. I'm a little fuzzy on the details.

I can't wait for next year. Shandell may get a proposal.

More Inventory

2011-12-08T08:52:00.008-05:00

I have a craft show on Saturday:

I have enough tote bags, but I need more Tooth Fairy Pillows and bookmarks.

The pillows are sewn and waiting to be stuffed. They look a little sad when they're deflated.

This is what the bookmarks look like before they're turned. What you see is the back, or wrong side, of the fabric. They're sewn right-sides together, with the elastic inside, leaving an opening on one side for turning.

After they're turned, the corners are poked out. They're waiting to be pressed and top-stitched now.

Bookmarks will be top-stiched and Tooth Fairy Pillows will be stuffed and fluffed tomorrow. It's my company Christmas party tonight. It's quite possible the top-stitching on the bookmarks will be a little crooked.

Reduce. Reuse. Regreet.

2011-12-05T08:48:00.012-05:00

What do you do with all those Christmas cards from last year? Well, as many people suggest, you cut them up, punch a hole in them, and use them as gift tags. Great idea, right? Of course it is.

But who has time for this? Well, Urban Contessa does.

While watching TV last night, I used pinking shears to cut up dozens of cards, punched a hole in the corner and wrote To: and From: on the back of each.

Each package of gift cards will have ten ReGreets with ten pieces of gold ribbon for the low, low price of One Dollar. That's right. One Dollar.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. And he recycles Christmas Cards.

Event Drapery - Part 2

2011-12-02T17:12:00.006-05:00

It's here! It's here! It's here!

The drapery arrived today from Susan Murray and it's absolutely decadent. The fabric feels like satin; it's heavy and thick and so luxurious!

I have a craft show next Saturday, so it came just in time. I can't wait to use it!!

Event Drapery - Part 1

2011-11-29T15:33:00.011-05:00

I just ordered table drapery for my craft shows. The drape will cover a nine foot table and will have the Urban Contessa signature on it:

I flipped back and forth between a black or white drape. The display I'm designing will have dark-stained boxes and accessories. And as many of my fabrics are dark, the white linen will work best.

So white it is, with a black signature.

When Ryan, from Susan Murray, sent me an email saying that I'd have the drape at the end of this week -- next week at the latest -- I was bouncing off my chair. I replied with "Yay!" and apologized since it was silly for me to be so excited about drapery. He assured me it wasn't silly at all. "Being excited is the only way to be. How boring would life be otherwise?"

Indeed, Ryan. Indeed.

I promise to post pictures as soon as I get it!!

Catching Up

2011-11-29T09:34:00.018-05:00

Honestly! My life is whipping by at light-speed!

Since my last post, I've organized -- ORGANIZED I tell ya! -- and attended The DRCC Craft show on November 12. Talk about a great time!

The view from my table:

Then I promptly left for Cuba. And when I say promptly, I mean promptly. Craft show Saturday. Cuba Sunday morning. It was a well-deserved vacation.

On the way home from the airport a week later, I began to receive text messages to attend a sale on November 26. I did quick mental inventory check. Sure. Why not?

So I went to the MaMi Shoppes' A Country Christmas in Solina. For a small town (and just about the cutest town ever!) the sale was very well attended and the UC booth did very well. Far better than I expected.

As always, Tooth Fairy Pillows and our one-of-a-kind bookmarks were the big sellers. Believe me when I say I don't have nearly that many bookmarks left. I have a lot of sewing to do this weekend!

This sale did make me realize that my table is boring and I need to step up my game.

See what I mean? Boring.

So I'm going to create a better display and I've placed an order for a table cloth with the UC logo on it. It may not be ready for the next show -- which is December 10 -- but it will certainly be ready for The DRCC's Spring Marketplace.

Stay tuned!

Craft Show - November 5, 2011

2011-11-04T21:29:00.007-04:00

If you're in the area tomorrow, Saturday, November 5, 2011, stop by the Vaughan Willard Public School (1911 Dixie Road, Pickering) for their annual fundraiser. Urban Contessa will have a booth. Be sure to say hello!

Of course, Shandell, my crafting partner (or is that 'crafty' partner?) will be beside me, selling jewellery by Dellzines. And we'll be finalizing the floor plan for The DRCC craft sale next week.

Hope to see you tomorrow. If not, I definitely want to see you next Saturday, November 12 at The DRCC Craft Show!

Upcoming Craft Shows

2011-10-28T13:20:00.011-04:00

Busy! Busy! Busy!

We have three...count 'em, THREE!...craft shows coming up.

This is your opportunity to get a jump start on your holiday shopping. At each craft show, we'll be carrying our usual line: elegant placemats, oversized napkins, washable tote bags, tooth fairy pillows for the kids and, as always, our one-of-a-kind bookmarks (which, by the way, make great stocking stuffers).

Swing by our Events page for details on dates, times and locations.

Be sure to stop by and say hello!

Bookmarks

2011-10-02T15:13:00.000-04:00

My back hurts and my cutting hand is throbbing. Life could not be better!

You'll recall that I had a large stash of remnant fabric when I made a batch of tote bags. Well, I finally found the time to cut some bookmarks for the November 12, 2011 craft show I'm organizing with Shandell.

That's a lot of bookmarks!

The frightening thing is, I still have this much fabric to cut:

*sigh*
I should probably stop blogging and get back to cutting.

House Warming Gift

2011-09-18T13:45:00.023-04:00

A blogger friend recently moved. I asked him to send me his address, once he was settled in, so I could send a housewarming gift. He has teased me in the past about by fabric napkins, so I'm sending him some of his very own. An appropriate gift, as he's an environmentalist.

I did stipulate one thing. He couldn't blog about my napkins if he hated them. I can take criticism, but national humiliation I can't. I'm shallow that way.

I like to brag about my napkins. Each one is hand-sewn (alright...I use a machine) using heavy twill fabric. What I'm most proud of are the mitred corners. Napkins that you buy in the store have corners that are folded over. To me, it's cheating. And lazy. Mitred corners are much more time consuming--one napkin, from cut to finish, takes about forty minutes--but the result is decadent.

Here are a few highlights:

Three metres of fabric, ready for cutting. Yes, that is a pattern under there. You'd think a square product wouldn't need a pattern, but there is more information on a pattern than just the size.

Cut and ready to go. Whoever invented the self-healing cutting board and rotary cutter, should be canonized. Eight twenty-one-inch squares of fabric cut in minutes!

After pressing the seam allowance, the corners are sewn, trimmed and turned over. Then the seams are topstitched.

One final press and they're ready to go.

Sorry, my friend, but the plate and placemat stay here.

Soon, I will create a post that shows the time and care taken to create these napkins. It will explain why I charge $35 for a set of four napkins.

I also thought of a way to use the leftover fabric. There isn't enough to make full-sized napkins, but I thought of creating a set about half the size, to be used when having friends over for tea and dessert. You use delicate tea cups, and smaller flatware and china, why not have dainty napkins to go with it?

But more on that on a later post.

Celebrate Ajax by the Lake - 2011

2011-08-29T16:00:00.009-04:00

Some day I'll win the lottery and spend my days preparing for and attending craft shows. In my spare time, I'll write. That's the dream, anyway.

Until then, I'll drag my sorry self through my days as a legal assistant, get my writing and sewing done at night.

It does make craft shows that much sweeter.

The Artisan's Market Place at the Celebrate Ajax by the Lake festival was so much fun. I have yet to attend a craft show that isn't. Crafters are happy people, so the vendors I meet are always nice. And craft Buyers are equally happy and love to chat. It's really a win-win situation.

As I was the only vendor selling these products, I did very well. And since the table was free (it was, after all, the first year vendors were invited to participate), the day was a win-win-WIN.

Of course, Shandell, my partner in crime, had the table beside me. We scoped out the vendors and handed out applications for the DRCC Sale in November.

Most exciting for me were the vendors behind my table. Fellow WCDR members, Vilma Blenman and Bonnie Beldan-Thomson were selling, and autographing, copies of the anthology, A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider. Of course, I bought a copy. And it's signed by both of them. I will add it to my collection of signed books. The collection is getting quite large. I should probably count it out one day. Perhaps when I win the lottery.

(In case you were wondering, my writing can be found here.)

Almost Ready for August 27

2011-08-24T08:17:00.010-04:00

I'm almost ready for the Celebrate Ajax by the Lake - Artisan's Market Place. I know...quite a title, isn't it?

If nothing else, you know exactly what you're getting. A celebration. By a lake. An opportunity to buy stuff. What more could you want for a Saturday afternoon?

The weather is expected to be nice and sunny on Saturday. Take a stroll along the beautiful Ajax waterfront, wander through the Market Place and get a jump start on your Christmas shopping. Be sure to stop by our booth and say hello.

I've been busy making tote bags.

And tooth fairy pillows.

Pinned and waiting for stuffing, these ones are looking a little flat.

But now that they're stuffed, they just need to have their bottoms sewn shut.

In anticipation of more sewing tonight, I filled a few bobbins.

And I'm ready to go.

Craft Show - Saturday, August 27, 2011

2011-08-15T09:23:00.005-04:00

This year, for the first time, artisans are invited to participate in the Celebrate Ajax by the Lake Waterfront Festival.

Needless to say, Shandell and I snatched up that opportunity. Not only is it a chance to sell our product, but it's an opportunity to get vendors for our craft sale in November.

Sneaky. I know. But a crafter's gotta do what a crafter's gotta do.

So...if you're in the Durham area on Saturday, August 27, 2011, swing by the lakefront and take a stroll. We will have tote bags, placemats, tooth fairy pillows and our one-of-a-kind bookmarks for purchase. Remember...Christmas is only four months away. And we all know how fast that will go.

If nothing else, it will be a lovely walk. Stop by our booth and say hello. I'm always up for a chat!

Still Toting

2011-08-01T21:03:00.006-04:00

I know you're going to get bored of the tote posts, but I have a craft show coming up on August 27, 2011 and I need to replenish my supplies. I think I'm going to keep it to tote bags, tooth fairy pillows and whatever placemats I have.

You may recall that I purchased fabric for a co-worker who wanted a black and white bag. Well, when I brought my supply of totes for the sale at work, she decided she wanted the martini glass print. Who could blame her? It's an awesome print.

I assured her that I would find a buyer for the other fabric. Don't worry about it. And sure enough, another co-worked asked if I could make a bag for her with dark colours. I said I had just the right fabric. And she liked it.

So...

Now I just have to sew about fifty more for the craft show on August 27, and make about forty tooth fairy pillows.

More Totes

2011-07-10T13:34:00.015-04:00

I took some time off from sewing. Just a small break. I knew I needed it. But every time I do it, and get back to sewing, I realize how much I miss it. And need it. It's right up there with writing for me.

I spent this morning cutting fabric for totes. As I've mentioned, Shandell and I are organizing a craft show for November 12, 2011 and since I know I'll be attending other craft shows before that (and after), I need to build up my inventory.

Cutting is half the work, so I'm glad that's out of the way. If I don't get to sewing them throughout the week, I'll spend most of next weekend sewing. And I just realized that my life is pretty lame if I'm excited about that.

The third pile of fabric from the right, the green fabric (it's green to me...I am, after all, colour-blind) was a remnant I bought.

When I unravelled it, I found this.

Really? What in the world am I supposed to do with that???

After a quick calculation, I realized they gave me more fabric than I asked for: two metres instead of one and a half. So I'm good. I simply cut up the centre of the zigzag stitch and I'll use the extra fabric for bookmarks. Which is what I use the leftover fabric for anyway. Waste not, want not.

After all the totes I sewed the last few months, I have a large stash of fabric for bookmarks. I don't know how I'm going to cut and sew them all, but somehow I always manage to get it done.

Storie Park Club House

2011-05-10T11:22:00.022-04:00

When Anna (the woman who organizes the Hungarian Culture Club craft show twice a year) called me to ask if I was interested in participating in another one, I said: Sure, why not?

She mentioned that Karen was one of the vendors at the Spring Hungarian show and this was to be the first craft sale she organized. Been there. Done that. I know how terrifying it is, so I definitely wanted to support her.

So, Saturday past, I was at the Storie Park Club House in Oshawa.

When I arrived, I re-introduced myself to Karen. She told me her reason for organizing the show, and I teared up. Her mother died two months ago and Karen didn't want to stay home and cry. Since her mother was a volunteer at and huge supporter of the Humane Society, Karen was donating all proceeds from the show to the Human Society. A great cause and a fabulous idea.

Given that it was Karen's first craft show, it really wasn't that bad. It could have been better attended, but it was the day before Mother's Day and it was gorgeous outside. No one wants to be indoors.

Karen was upset that it wasn't as successful as she'd hoped, but I told her this was a learning experience. I thought it would be a good idea to do it every year in memory of her mother and it will get easier each year. She seemed to be encouraged by that.

The day was successful enough for me. I can't complain. The tote bags I made looked great, if I do say so myself. And I had a few placemats and table runners.

There were some interesting vendors. Of course, Shandell was there. She made me a bauble to hold my USB sticks together. Thanks, doll!

Maxine, from The Madstone Soapery, was selling handmade soaps and lotions. I bought Cocoa & Cream hand lotion. This stuff smells so good (like fresh-from-the-oven chocolate chip cookies) it's all I can do to keep from licking my hands all day. I'm sure it doesn't taste as good as it smells.

I also bought cupcakes from Denise Reid of Deelish Cakes & Catering. So good. So fattening. So worth it!

And to top it all off, Angie came out to help out with my table. It's not that I need help, per se, but it's always great to have the company. I don't get to see Angie much now that she's moved to the boonies, so it was great to catch up with gossip and people watch.

I don't have any other shows lined up for the summer. I was planning on taking it off to focus on organizing our DRCC event in November. But if something comes up, I'll definitely consider it. Why not, right?

Totes Awesome!

2011-05-01T17:24:00.009-04:00

As I mentioned in my last post, I don't have much inventory for the craft show on Saturday. I do have some placemats and table runners, but that's about it. I sold out of tote bags and bookmarks. Of course, these are my best sellers. Especially at a craft show just before Mother's Day.

So, what does this mean? Road trip!

It wasn't far. About five kilometres. But it's a road trip, nonetheless. To where? Where else?! Fabricland. How sweet is it that I live that close to a Fabricland?

I spent the day cutting fabric. They now await assembly:

My favourite, of course, is the martini print. Sadly, it didn't come in a scratch-and-sniff pattern.

Over the course of the week, I'll sew them together and post pictures of the final product.

The remnants will be used for bookmarks.

Vendor Sale at Work

2011-04-28T15:36:00.011-04:00

As many of you know, I'm a legal secretary by day, a writer and crafter by night. This week is Administrative Assistant's Week or whatever the politically correct term is now. I have no problem being called a secretary.

My office held a Vendor's Fair yesterday. Anyone who wanted to sell wares (or knew someone who did) was welcome to set up a table. No charge.

The sale was from noon until two o'clock, ensuring that everyone had a chance to browse during their lunch hour.

I brought my entire stash from home. All my placemats, all my totes (I'd made four the night before, staying up well past my bedtime), all my bookmarks. The only thing I left at home were the few table runners I have. The main reason for leaving them behind was space. I couldn't fit them in the one bag I was taking with me. Not to mention that fabric is REALLY heavy.

I must admit, I didn't expect to sell much at this sale. A couple of Tooth Fairy Pillows. Perhaps a set of placemats. Definitely a tote bag.

I couldn't be more wrong. I sold almost everything I have!

Now, you might think this is a good thing. It is, don't get me wrong. I'm normally a Glass-Half-Full kinda girl, but this is a Glass-Half-Empty deal.

Why?

I have a craft show next Saturday. Anna, who organizes the Hungarian Craft Show, called me up a couple of weeks ago to say that a friend of hers was looking for vendors and was I interested. "Shandell is coming," she said. Well, how could I say no?

So now I have this craft show next week and I have no inventory. What was I thinking???

Guess what I'm doing this weekend?

A New Venture

2011-04-12T08:59:00.010-04:00

So, what have I been talking about for the last few days, you might ask.

You'll recall that quite some time ago, I organized a craft show. One of the crafters was Shandell Conboy. She helped me out quite a bit and we agreed that we should organize another one.

Then life got in the way. Stupid life.

Since then, we have participated in quite a few craft shows together. The organizers know us now and put us side by side. We have spent a lot of time talking about organizing a craft show. And not just a craft show, but organizing an e-community where other crafters can get ideas, advice and answers.

Shandell and I are excited to announce the launch of The Durham Region Crafters Community.

Follow our blog, Like us on Facebook and join our community. Membership is free!

Craft Show ~ April 9, 2011

2011-04-11T09:09:00.014-04:00

The craft show at the Hungarian Culture Club was a lot of fun. It always is.

Anna, the show coordinator, always puts Shandell and I together. This may or may not be a good thing, depending on your point of view. There's a lot of laughter in our area and it's more than a little noisy. It's not just us...our customers have a great time, too. And why shouldn't they? Craft shows are fun and crafters are friendly people.

My table started out quite full.

I managed to deplete a lot of my supply, which will prompt me to get sewing again in preparation for the November craft show.

I met two new crafters:

Saskia, of Baited Hook, makes sock monkeys. They come in different sizes, depending on the type of sock.

Michelle, of Kempton Jones, sews owls. She calls them Owlies of Ontario and names each one after a town in Ontario.

My apologies to Saskia and Michelle for the blurry pictures. Even though I had the anti-shake feature on my camera, I still took fuzzy pictures. I know it's because you were making me laugh!

I'm pretty sure that Shandell and I have convinced them to participate in the DRCC craft show on November 12, 2011.

What's that all about, you ask? Stay tuned...

My New Iron

2011-04-04T15:18:00.006-04:00

I have an old iron. It's about 20 years old. It gets the job done, but lately I've noticed that I need a little more power.

By 'power' I mean 'steam'.

Not just any old steam, but a shot that'll smooth out the most stubborn wrinkles. The fabric I use for placemats and tote bags is drapery fabric. When this stuff wrinkles, it leaves a crease that would make military personnel proud. It's a challenge to press it out.

So I bought this beast from Costco:

I may need to buy a new ironing board cover. I mean, I can't use the old one with the new iron! What kind of Contessa would that make me?

The shot of steam this sucker emits makes my heart sing!

The fabric that I'm pressing there is what I'm using for a new tote bag template. I worked on it all day yesterday: drawing, re-drawing, measuring, re-measuring, cutting, sewing.

I wasn't happy. Back to the drawing board.

I've been so busy with my paying job (stupid job!) that I haven't had time to supplement my inventory for this craft show coming up on Saturday. I have enough stock for the show, I just wanted new items to sell.

Oh well. C'est la vie. I know it's not the end of the world. I'll set my goal to have new inventory for the craft show in November.

And what's that, you might ask? Stay tuned.

New Bag Design

2011-03-20T14:39:00.013-04:00

I'm getting ready for a craft show coming up on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the Hungarian Culture Club in Oshawa. If you're in the area, drop by and say hello! Details are on the Events page of our site.

At this show, we'll be selling placemats, bookmarks and totes. I have many tote bags in stock, but I thought I should have a few more. Not to mention that I've been playing with the template and I want to redesign it.

The original purpose of the tote was for vacation. The Contessa Tote takes up the same amount of room as a shirt in your suitcase and you'll look fabulous carrying your pool and beach gear in style. When you get home, throw it in the wash and it's ready for the next trip. Which, we both know, you started planning on the flight home.

Inspired to create a new design for the tote, I went shopping on the weekend and bought some funky fabric.

A co-worker also asked me to make her a black and white bag. More black, than white. It's spring, and not surprising, black and white prints are not really big right now. But I found this:

I know if she doesn't like it, someone will.

The Afghan Project

2011-02-10T09:08:00.012-05:00

It took a while, but I finally found a pattern I like. "Like", in this instance, refers to ease of construction. I surfed the Bernat website and found this.

As I said, I'm not a great crocheter, I just like doing it. So, to keep from getting frustrated, and having unfinished projects lying about, I thought I'd go simple.

As you'll recall from my last post, I chose a multi-coloured yarn, which I think matches our sofa and oversized chair in the den. At least Chris said it did. I am, after all, colour-blind, so it's a bit of a crap shoot when I choose colours.

I only have six squares done. I probably need about eighty. But at least the project is underway. It's something to do while I watch tv at night.

Some Me Time

2011-01-08T13:46:00.020-05:00

My mother is the Crochet Goddess. She's taught many people to crochet, including me. I'm not nearly as gifted as she is. She'll be the first to tell you that.

"Your tension is all over the place," she'll say.

She's right. It is. But if you're a knitter or crocheter, you know that novices have a hard time controlling their tension. I don't crochet often, so it doesn't come naturally yet. But my mom? She sits in front of the television and crochets. Without looking at her work. And still keeps count of the stitches. It's a gift.

I can't make clothes. I don't even sew clothes. Clothes are hard!

What I like to crochet are afghans. And not just any afghan. I like to work with Granny Squares. You crochet as many squares as you need to create the size of afghan you want, then sew (and by "sew", I mean crochet) them together and voila!, you have a cozy afghan made with love and care. And a little bit of cussing. Well...in my case, a lot of cussing.

I haven't made an afghan in a while. The last one I made was this one, at least five years ago. It lies on our bed and I add it to my side (it's only big enough for that) for extra warmth.

As I took this picture, Fred-the-Cat wandered over for her closeup. Yes, Fred is a girl. We thought we got a boy cat and had already named her Fred when we discovered she was a boy. She was already answering to it, so we left it.

Then she has to show me her tricks. "Look what I can do!"

Good girl, Fred. Mommy has to go and make a new afghan now.

I'll post pictures as squares are completed. Don't expect that to happen any time soon, though. The pictures will be few and far between. Just warning you.

To tide you over, here are a few pictures of the wool I bought today. Use your imagination to visualize how fabulous the afghan will look when I'm done.

Living the Life

2011-01-01T17:11:00.022-05:00

Many people ask me if I practice what I preach.

Do I actually use my placemats every day, like I say I do? Do I really just throw them in the washer and dryer, then use them without pressing? Even when I have guests?

The answer is yes. To all those questions. This is not a case of the Shoemaker's bare-footed children.

I made a turkey dinner yesterday. While the bird was baking, I set the table. It looked so nice, I thought I'd take pictures for the site.

I used my own placemats for the general shots.

We have used those placemats and hot mats for about nine years now. They are washed repeatedly and are none the worse for wear.

The other day, we made a delicious ham and corn chowder. Same mats.

And last night, after cleaning up the dishes from a fabulous turkey dinner, and taking the dog for a walk, we came home and had a little blueberry cheesecake and cappuccino.

Though Urban Contessa only makes white napkins of durable broadcloth, I really liked the decadence of linen napkins, so I indulged, and made some mocha-coloured ones for me.

It sounds lavish, but it's not. No matter what we are eating, no matter how simple it may be, those placemats come out for every meal. Even if it's Mac 'n Cheese.

It's a new year. It's time to live the life of royalty. You deserve it.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Clippy the Tooth Fairy

2010-11-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

My blogger friend, Clippy Mat, is blessed with four grandchildren. If you read her blog, or are friends with her on Facebook, you'll know she is the proudest Granny ever.

She contacted me and asked if I could send her some Tooth Fairy Pillows for the wee ones. Three boys and a girl, she said. Make the boys the same, cuz they'll only fight over them. Clippy is one smart Granny.

She decided on a soccer print for the boys and pink flowers for the wee lass.

You'll notice that the boys' pillows all have goofy toothy grins, but their eyes are all different...each pair crosses in different directions. I'm sure Clippy has a lecture prepared about sticking eyes if she catches them doing this.

As for the girl, well, even with a missing tooth, little girls are still princesses and should be batting their eyelashes and blowing kisses to their loyal followers.

And the backs say it all.

I hope the kids (and Clippy) like them.

Hungarian Craft Show

2010-11-22T10:13:00.000-05:00

Urban Contessa was at a craft show on Saturday, at The Hungarian Culture Club in Oshawa. I like doing this craft show for a number of reasons, but mostly for the food.

You'll recall a couple of years ago, I organized a craft show. Not only was it the first craft show I organized, it was also the first one I'd ever participated in. Surprisingly, it was quite successful. Despite its success, I haven't organized another one. It's a lot of work and I wasn't sure I was up to it.

One of the positive things to come out of all that hard work, however, was meeting Shandell Conboy, founder of Dellzines. She's young and ambitious, and makes me tired just watching her! Shandell is 'in the know' when it comes to craft shows and calls me whenever she hears of one to see if I'm interested. We usually end up having our tables next to each other and have a great time laughing and carrying on.

This past Saturday was my third Hungarian Craft Show; Sandell's fourth. Part of the cost of purchasing a table includes lunch for the vendors. A choice of either cabbage rolls or goulash, with bread and a dessert plate with an assortment of squares. All homemade by these little old Hungarian ladies. Shandell and I have come to the conclusion that we only do this craft show for the food.

Between shoppers, Shandell and I got to talking, and we decided that we'd organize another craft show. I know it will be much easier this time with Shandell helping. She helped out last time with the floor plan and came up with some good ideas. It will be much easier having someone who lives in the area, making some calls, and brainstorming with me. Not to mention, an excuse to go out for breakfast meetings. It's always about the food, isn't it?

Our tentative date is Saturday, November 26, 2011. It may seem like it's far away, but in order to get the location we want, we have to start organizing now. It's almost like planning a wedding...without the inlaws.

Tooth Fairy Pillows -- The Result

2010-10-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

Quite some time ago, I designed a new Tooth Fairy Pillow and posted the sketches.

I've been selling the old pillows at craft sales, trying to deplete my inventory, and finally sold the last one. The old ones were cute enough, but they lacked the kitchy quality that kids like.

I'm happy to announce that we are now selling the new line!

I design and hand draw the caricatures using non-toxic fabric paint. The back pockets are sewn in a variety of fun fabrics.

Almost There

2010-10-12T09:12:00.000-04:00

Well, it's been far too long, my fellow Contessas, and I need to get back into the groove. I miss my crafting life. And I miss all of you.

I signed up for a couple of craft shows in November, and was making some Tooth Fairy Pillows on the weekend to supplement my inventory, when I realized how much I miss spending hours in my sewing room, guiding fabric through the feed dogs. As I get reacquainted with my creative self, I thought I'd update you on what's been going on.

I know I've mentioned it previously, but the new site (once it is launched) will be the turning point for Urban Contessa. UC will market to businesses, encouraging them to thank their clients for their loyalty with practical gifts from Urban Contessa. I will continue to participate in craft shows, simply because I think they're fun. I like meeting and chatting with fellow crafters and shoppers. And it gives everyone else an opportunity to purchase a Contessa Creation.

For now, the Contessa line will be limited to placemats and napkins for home decor, Tooth Fairy pillows for the kiddies, and rosary bracelets. I will also carry tote bags which will predominantly be sold at craft shows.

My mother, Lynn Nadeau, and my aunt (Mom's sister), Cecile Landry, have taken over the jewellery division. They live in Sudbury, Ontario and have quite a following; regularly hosting open houses in their homes. They have a great time doing it and a remarkable flare for style. It's obvious they passed down the crafting gene. Thanks for that!

The new web site is almost done and I expect to have it up and running by the end of next week. In the meantime, I'll take some pictures of the new Tooth Fairy Pillows and post them in the next day or so.

New Pictures

2009-09-23T19:15:00.000-04:00

Many thanks to Amanda Morrison-Hill who was the photographer for my photo shoot. I've been wanting to do this for some time. My profile picture is exactly what I wanted. I think she captured the essence of what Urban Contessa is about. I urge you to check out her blog and her website.

I'm still working on updating my website and as soon as I'm done, I'll let you know. I think I may use a different picture on the site (also one that Amanda took), but I'll mull that one over for a while.

New Beginnings

2009-09-14T16:44:00.000-04:00

Geez. I looked at the date of my last post. June 22. It's been almost three months! It's not like I don't blog. You all know I'm blogging elsewhere. And I am busy with my real life, not to be confused with my Contessa life -- my imaginary life of doing nothing but running my business, writing and eating bon-bons.

The Husband has left for two weeks vacation. So while he's gone, I'm going to take advantage of the alone time and recreate my site. Which I started doing yesterday.

I also have my photo shoot on Thursday with Amanda. As soon as pictures are available, I'll post them. And update my profile picture.

BTW ... those 40 lbs. Still got 'em.

Photo Shoot

2009-06-22T10:26:00.001-04:00

Although the craft show was more successful than I thought it would be, it made me realize that it's not what I want to do.

Oh, I'll still do them.
Especially if Shandell calls me up and says,
"Hey, Mo, there's a craft show at blah, blah, blah ... wanna come?"
If she does, I'm there.
But otherwise, I don't think it's my bag.

Contessa Parties are the way to go.
Or rather, Contessa Fiestas, as Hilary has coined them.

Thanks for that, Hilary.

I also think I'm going to go a slightly different route.
I think I'll focus my marketing on professionals.

Tooth Fairy Pillows to Dentists.
Placemats and other house decor to Real Estate Agents.
Rosary Bracelets to Funeral Homes.

This, of course, means updating and revamping the website.
And taking some professional photos of yours truly.

The website I'll have to tackle on my own.
I don't have the budget to hire someone to do it for me.
And I think I'm proficient enough to put together something I can live with.

But I've enlisted the services of my friend Amanda Morrison-Hill.
She's decided to pursue her love of photography.
So in the spirit of supporting my fellow entrepreneur, Amanda is my photographer.
Besides, I know her, like her and like the casual feel of her style.
You should check out her blog.

She recommended taking the pictures at the Centennial Building in Whitby.
It was City Hall at one time.
It's the perfect location.
Great architecture, beautiful landscaping.
And if it rains, we can go inside.

The shoot is booked for September 17.
Subject to re-booking based on our respective hectic schedules.

Think I can lose 40 lbs by then?!

Craft Show - May 30

2009-05-26T08:54:00.000-04:00

We'll be at the Festival of the Arts this Saturday, May 30, 2009.

If you happen to be in the Ajax area, please drop by, introduce yourself and say Hi. And while you're there, pick up a little something for your mom, your sister, your friend and, of course, yourself! We'll be selling home decor items plus totes, bookmarks and toothfairy pillows.

Hope to see you there!

The Outer Fringe

2009-05-08T15:55:00.000-04:00

Robi was telling me about some beaded fringe that she had bought for her lampshades. She was intending to trim the shades and add a little bling to the room.

Then she changed her mind.

She said she'd bring in the beads.
Maybe I could make some jewellery with it.
Sure.
Why not.
I never say no to craft supplies!

But this is what she brought in:

Three strings of pretty, beaded fringe.

Are you kidding, Robi?
All this for me?
I'm very excited!!
Thank God Robi changed her mind.

Forget taking them apart, though.
I'm leaving them intact and going shopping for some coordinating fabric.
These puppies are just screaming "table runner".
Oh baybee!!
Fabricland, here I come!

And thanks, again, Robi!

First Juried Show

2009-05-01T16:22:00.001-04:00

I've just been accepted for my first juried craft show! The Ajax Festival of the Arts will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2009.

For those of you who don't know, a juried craft show is one in which a panel of judges determines whether your craft is acceptable for selling and/or displaying at their craft show. You can't just show up and sell your wares. You must first submit an application with a description and photographs of your products. The judges will review your application and, depending on their criteria, accept or reject your submission.

This particular show is not very large, but it still looks good on my portfolio that I have participated in a juried craft show.

I'm hoping this is just the beginning. There are some fabulous juried shows. In particular, the One of a Kind show. I can always dream big, right?

Craft Show - Hungarian Culture Club

2009-04-20T08:50:00.001-04:00

I was at a craft show on Saturday. Not a big one, but it was well-attended. It was a fundraiser for the Hungarian Culture Club in Oshawa. They're raising money for a new roof. It was successful enough that I'll participate in future craft shows with them.

I thought I'd share pictures of some of the participants and, with their permission, have given contact information in case you see something that strikes your fancy.

Dellzines

Shandell Conboy is the owner of Dellzines. She makes one-of-a-kind jewellery. Her favourites are bracelets and you can see it in her work. I have several of her bracelets, which says something since I can make them myself.

Erika Takacs

Erika was displaying the most incredible artwork. She was wearing a goblin pendant that was absolutely wonderful. I asked if she sold them and she said she was wearing the only one she made. Shandell and I think we've convinced her to make them for sale. I hope so, because I really want one. Visit her site here.

Marg's Knitting - Sewing - Quilting

Marg is a one-woman show. She quilts. She knits. She sews. She does it all. And there's no doubt there's a lot of love that goes into each piece. You can see that, even at the show, she was passing the time knitting. Her quilts are to die for and sooo cute! She can be reached at 905.725.9105.

Home Creations

John and Orlene Fost are the owners of Home Creations. I met Orlene at the show, who gave me some great tips, being a veteran craft show exhibitor. She had cute stained glass window decorations. I bought a yellow bird for my mom and a pink angel for my aunt. She also had glass blocks that you feed small Christmas tree lights into (see them on the left?). The bows are interchangeable so you can mix and match for your decor and for the season. Very clever! You can reach Orlene at 705.429.9479.

Urban Contessa

And last, but not least, my table. It was the first time I'd displayed on a round table, so that was a bit of challenge. I think my pieces were well-received and everyone oohed and awwed over the colours and fabrics.

All the crafters at this show were wonderfully creative and I hope to see them at the next show. I have applied to exhibit at a show in May. I'll let you know if I'm accepted. It will be my first juried show, so I'm a little anxious.

Cross your fingers!

Three's a Charm

2009-03-18T12:29:00.000-04:00

She likes it! Hey Mikey!!
Phew! Cuz if she said she didn't, I had nothing.
She sent a thank you gift too:

Isn't that sweet?
My skin already feels awesome!

DNA Bracelet - Take 2

2009-03-09T13:10:00.000-04:00

*sigh*
She didn't like.
Well, I suppose that's not entirely fair.
She wasn't thrilled with it.

So I took it apart, yet again, and reworked it.

This is the end result:

And, I have to admit, this will have to be the last time I rework it. I simply don't know what else to do. If she's not happy with it, I'm at a loss.

I've tried finding this bracelet on line. Similar pieces retail for $80 - $150. Stupidly, I quoted her WAAAAY less than that to string it all together (she did provide the beads).

Don't get me wrong. My frustration lies with myself. On several levels. But it all boils down to the fact that I shouldn't have said I could do it. I have this "how hard can it be?" mentality and I really need to stop thinking that way. I want to please everyone and the fact is, I simply cannot.

Hopefully she'll like it. If she doesn't ... I dunno ...

DNA Bracelet

2009-03-03T08:44:00.000-05:00

You'll recall I made some necklaces for the Bride. Well, the Bride's sister (also the maid of honour) contacted me and wanted a bracelet. Had found a picture in a magazine and asked if I could recreate it.

I'm always asking "How Hard Can It Be?" So I said sure, why not.

Apparently, it's pretty damn hard!

After several tries, disassembles and re-tries, I think I've managed to create something that she'll like. She picked the colours ... I think they're fabulous!

Grey Pearls for the Bridesmaids

2009-02-03T15:17:00.000-05:00

A co-worker's daughter is getting married. She asked me to make the jewellery for her bridesmaids.

A simple string of coloured pearls and drop earrings. They turned out quite nice, I think.

And I found these cute little boxes to put them in!

Craft Shows Too

2009-01-30T13:05:00.000-05:00

In addition to having Contessa Parties, I'm also considering craft shows.

Oddly enough, or rather, as luck would have it, the first craft show I agreed to participate in was cancelled. About three weeks before the show, no less! At least the coordinator had the wherewithal to email all of us (and not bcc us) which resulted in a flurry of emails among the crafters. For many, this was going to be their first craft show. There was a lot of disappointment and questions of "What now?" Quite a few suggested we should have our own craft show. But, of course, no one would step up to the plate to coordinate it.

Sigh ...

Fine, I'll do it ...

It was a little like the blind leading the blind, since it was my first craft show and all. But it turned out pretty good!

The crafters were quite pleased with the results, so we're planning a show for May 2, 2009.

Details to follow!

The Big Picture

2009-01-16T18:34:00.000-05:00

I have this fantasy.
It goes something like this:

I picture returning to my home town of Schomberg.
There was a store called the Ravens Roost that sold nick knacks.
I picture buying it.

I have it all planned out:

The two large picture windows will have floral drapery pulled back to expose vignettes. One window will have a table dressed for an elaborate dinner. The other window will showcase jewellery and other accessories we make. The walls will have a variety of shelves to hold all our designs. Towards the back is a half-wall. Behind the wall is an open work area with sewing machines, cutting areas and jewellery stations. Customers will be able to watch us work and know that everything they purchase is handmade.

I've shared this vision with my cousin Alex. So when she called to ask if I wanted to go to the Schomberg Spring Fair, I said sure. And, of course, we'd stop by the old Raven's Roost and check it out. Just for fun.

So we went.
Only to discover that the Raven's Roost is now an Irish Bakery.
...sigh ...
Oh well.
Instead, we bought some pastries and tea and took our goodies outside to the front porch to enjoy the weather. As we were sitting there, sipping and nibbling, we started reminiscing.

As we sat on the porch, we looked across the street and moved our way from right to left, reminiscing about each store.

Remember Handy Food Mart? All those candies we bought! And King's Restaurant? They made the best fries and gravy!

Then we got to what used to be Armstrong's Garage. And saw this.

We both stared. Looked at each other. Then practically ran across the street!

And to add to the goosebump factor, this is what was inside:

Do you see that?
The half wall?
And the shelving?
The absolute perfectness of it all??!

And as perfect as it was, it just wasn't going to work.
We simply don't have the money for that right now.
Besides, the building is now sold.

But I am not deterred.

I read recently:

God never says no to prayers. He has only one of three answers:
1. Yes.
2. Not right now.
3. I have something better planned for you.

I'm going with 2 or 3 on this one.

Tooth Fairy Pillows -- The Concept

2009-01-07T13:11:00.000-05:00

I have a line of Tooth Fairy Pillows. Everyone gushes over them and says they're really cute.

The problem is that, believe it or not, they're time consuming to make. And because I sew the mouth using my sewing machine, I'm limited to a simple smiley face. I know embroidery is an option, but that's even more time consuming. Also, the googly eyes are glued on. They tend to fall off and are a choking hazard.

So I'm going to completely change the concept ...

Tooth Fairy Pockets.

I'll draw different cartoon faces on the front. The back will be a pocket in a variety of fabrics. The Tooth Fairy Pocket will hang from the child's bedroom doorknob.

As soon as I make my first one, I'll post a picture, but until then, I made a quick sketch:

Rosary Bracelets

2009-01-04T19:11:00.000-05:00

A client recently asked me to fix a mini rosary that her aunt had brought her back from the Vatican. A little hesitant to mess with what I believe are mystical forces, I asked what was wrong with it before I committed myself. "Well, nothing really," she admitted. "I just really like it and I thought you could fix it so I could wear it as a bracelet."

Hmmmm ...

With an apologetic glance Heaven-ward, I agreed to take a look at it. It really was quite beautiful. The beads were made from crushed rose petals; when you opened the pouch, the fragrance was very pleasing and peaceful.

I measured her wrist and took it home to work on.

I'm telling you, I cringed the entire time, just waiting for the proverbial lightening bolt to come crashing through the kitchen window and strike me down at the table where I worked. I really felt uneasy the entire time. "This can't be right," I kept muttering to myself. "Somebody's going to be angry."

Not my client, though. She, in fact, was quite ecstatic. So much so, that she ordered one for her daughter for her Confirmation.

Which got me thinking. So I started making rosary bracelets. Which, as I mentioned in my previous blog, I'll market to Funeral Homes. It's a small memorial to remind one of a beloved relative or friend. It can be worn as a bracelet or hung where it will be regularly viewed (perhaps on a bedside lamp, rear view mirror or doorknob).

The Plan

2008-12-31T14:19:00.001-05:00

New year.
New plan.

I'm going to expand on the Contessa Party concept and market a few products individually.

For instance ...

Real Estate agents can thank their clients by gifting them with placemats, napkins or table runners for their new home. The usual bottle of wine will be gone in a few days, so why not give something that people will use often? When their friends ask where they got the beautiful pieces, they can say they got it from their real estate agent. Which, in turn, will garner more business.

Dentists can hand out Tooth Fairy Pillows to their little patients.

I'm planning on sending out letters in the new year to a few local real estate agents and dentists specializing in children to drum up some business.

I also have plans to market rosary bracelets to Funeral Homes. As soon as I make a few more, I'll post them on our website.

Cross your fingers for me!

Contessa Parties

2008-12-30T12:39:00.000-05:00

The idea behind Urban Contessa was to sell my creations at home parties. Kinda like Tupperware ... sans plastic. I call them Contessa Parties (I know, not very imaginative).

I come to your home and set out my wares. You invite your friends to drop by any time between, say, 2 and 4. They shop to their heart's content and go home with their goodies.

It soon became apparent that people were not quite seeing everything. Inevitably someone would see something that their Hostess had purchased and say "Hey! I didn't see that!"

So the Contessa Party evolved to include an actual demonstration. Followed by shopping. I didn't really want to go this route, thinking that people get bored, don't really care about the spiel.

But it turns out that this is what women expect when they go to a home party. They expect to sit down with a wee cuppa, listen to a complete stranger pitch their goods then take time to pick and choose what they want. It's a bonding moment with their friends.

I also discovered they spend more this way.

Alright. Whatever works. Who am I to argue?

However, I do have some ideas on expanding my clientele. More on that later ...

In the Beginning

2008-12-15T16:05:00.000-05:00

Urban Contessa is a bit of a pipe dream for me. I have visions of grandeur that will probably never be achieved, and yet I continue to dream.

The dream began a couple of years ago. I had just bought a house and needed to pretty it up. So I went to work making placemats and whatnot. One day a flyer came in the mail for a new bead shop opening up. So I went and took a class. Then began making pieces for myself.

Friends and family started commenting on my jewellery and home decor. "Can you make me one?" Sure, why not? I mean really, how many placemats and necklaces can one girl have?

Then, one day, someone offered to pay me.

And a light bulb went on above my head.

I could make money doing this. Wow!

And Urban Contessa was born.

I have ideas floating around in my head all the time ... which probably explains my chronic insomnia. I hope to use this blog to get my ideas on paper (so to speak), get some feedback, hear some constructive criticism and perhaps make a name for myself.

Who knows, maybe one day I'll be famous!