ReVisions Newsletter

ReVisions Newsletter :: #10 Sparks! Summer 2008

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 23:56:00 GMT

#10 Sparks! Summer 2008
Diane Ericson’s Creativity Newsletter & Studio Notes

>> A SUMMER HEART-FELT COAT
Here is my newest version of my favorite coat pattern-->
http://www.dianeericson.com

The pattern became a perfect canvas for some drawing and collage work. I made a smaller size (for a more fitted look) and placed the pattern pieces on the bias for mored movement to the garment. I used two layers of linen in two colors. The inside color peeks out as the raw edges finish to the outside. Lots of topstitching plays into the drawing on the surface. You may enjoy making a summer coat as a collage project. As the fall leaves start to fly...I will be making the Heart-Felt coat up with some wool fabric that I felt following the directions in the pattern.

There are lots of projects in my life these days. I thought you might enjoy 3 of my favorite summer design exercises.

>> SUMMER DESIGN PLAY
1. CREATE A PIECE OF FABRIC - Get out the box of bits and pieces of summer fabrics and just start sewing! It is so freeing to just launch into the process without much thinking ahead. It's when I remember being young and it was always a surprise when my imagination and my fledgling technical skills magically came together. I like to put on my favorite music and sew and press until I have a nice size piece to work with. Sometimes I will include scraps of my printed fabric and trims into some of the seams. For summer garments, I love including some of my old linens too. I can already see some white stenciling on some natural colored fabrics. Once the fabric is made-it can be enhanced with some surface design before you start cutting into it for more dimension.

My rule of thumb on grainlines is: The larger the pieces the more I pay attention to the grain directions as I use the pieces. The smaller the pieces I am using, the less I am concerned with the grain directions. Once you have a piece big enough to work drape it on yourself to see what it might want to be or whether it will be on top...or work better as pants or a skirt.

Next, get out a pattern or two if you need them. At this point you can use pattern pieces or continue on the rebel path of cutting and sewing to create your afternoon play piece.

The only rule I have for this exercise is to keep going in the direction that would be the most fun! I'd love to see what you create.

If you'd like to see some of my fabric pieces and garments-->
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/recycledDesign/recycledDesign.html

I want to make a piece of fabric for a Taos Skirt next-->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-112-TaosSkirt/PATTERNS/The+Taos+Skirt

2. TRIM IT UP FOR A NEW LOOK - Recycling is always one of my favorite activities.

Here is a recent project I am enjoying wearing in the warm weather-->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/GAL-Trimit/recycledDesign/Trim+It

I started with this linen wrap vest and added some fun multi-colored eyelet trim and some topstitching. I used a heavy, topstitching thread on top and a regular sewing thread in the bobbin. I used the stitching to accentuate the seams in the garment and tie it in with the trim. This has got me looking in my closet for the next 'blank' to transform!

3. SUMMER COLOR SCHEMES - Fruit is a wonderful inspiration for new summer colors...pale melons, new sprouts and deep berry colors. The farmers markets are full of inspirations this time of year. I have just recently moved to the beautiful Rouge Valley in Southern Oregon, and one of the ways I am exploring my new town is to walk some of the residential areas in the evening. Yards, homes, lawn art and plantings are all a visual feast that will feed my creativity and somehow translate into new work.

I am drawn to the red wood rockers on one of the porches. The red sticks are an appealing image and I can already see a piece of jewelry in my minds eye. Who know what a fresh look around your neighborhood can stimulate.

As you develop your eye and bring new colors into your designing, a color wheel is always a great tool to use-->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/ColorWheel/NOTIONS/Color+Wheel

>> CONVERGENCE
The National Handweavers Guild of America (HGA) Convention was in June. I had the opportunity to be teaching there and enjoyed meeting so many of you. I was also involved in a Design Challenge with 3 weavers and 2 other clothing designers. What fun. I had a wonderful experience teaming up with Nancy Peck, the current president of the HGA, to create a garment. We all started with the same hand-dyed yarns and came up with very different pieces.

The HGA website should have photos up soon of all the pieces -
look for Design Challenge 2008 on their site.

For our garment, I used The Peony Pattern #107 for a skirt and top-->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/GAL-Peony825/WEARABLES/Peony

I shortened the top using the lengthen shorten lines on the pattern and also curved the seams out at the bottom for a little more flare. Remember the lengthen-shorten lines on your pattern can be for design (and changing the overall silhouette of your garment)...as well as fit. There are so many sewing details and techniques that can come up when sewing with handwovens.

>> WORKSHOPS
If you want to join me in this area this summer, I am offering an all-day sketching/fashion illustration class at Marcy Tilton's Art Barn (http://www.marcytilton.com) in Takilma, OR on Aug. 30th. I have been teaching this in sold-out classes at Expos and other events on the east coast and in the south these past 2 years with lots of enthusiastic participants. I can make this joyful process very accessible if it is something you have always wished for and have been a bit intimidated by. For more information, check in on Marcy's website for classes at the Art Barn. It is a beautiful time of the year here in Southern Oregon and we'd love to have you join us there.

I am working to set up an inviting studio space and looking forward to offering workshops here in the Ashland, Oregon area. I will share my progress in future newsletters.

Now that I am almost unpacked, look for 2 new patterns from me for the fall - A purse pattern and a vest pattern - based on one of my favorite draped designs.

Enjoy the long evenings...and remember to sit on the porch.
Diane

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ReVisions Newsletter :: #9 Sparks!

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 15:28:00 GMT

#9 Sparks! Spring 2008
Diane Ericson�s Creativity Newsletter & Studio Notes

We are several days into spring�.and even if it doesn't look like it yet where you live, lets begin with some ideas to get your creativity out from under that down vest!

>> SPRING COLOR COMBINATION
A good place to start is your design file (it may not be organized, but I'm talking about all the things you tear out of magazines, or from catalogs of things you'd love to make or have someday). Those spring clothing catalogs have started arriving in the mail, and they are a great way to start getting yourself out of your winter darks. To pull new color combinations for spring projects I use my design file of catalog images, inspiring landscape pictures, sketches or photos. I am in California, and since it IS spring here already, one of my favorite inspirations is my yard. The Magnolia tree is solid dark pink flowers, lined with white shantung and tiny lite green shoots, like rolled linen, just starting to appear on the light brown branches. The fruit trees are in full blossom too. The crabapple tree has gone from pink to a huge white snowball with pink "french knots" and bright green pointed leaves that were surely cut with pinking shears! Lots of bulbs are up too and the
smells are divine and the bees are having a field day. So right out the door can be your canvas for new colors to fold into your sewing or other creative projects.

>> DESIGN EXERCISE
Using your favorite inspirations, pull colors from your fabric stash that represent those colors and textures. Cut small (2-3" swatches) from the pieces you have chosen and using a gluestick, arrange them and attach them to a piece of cardstock or other white paper. You might find it useful to do several with different percentages of each color. I like to put these design cards up on my wall. A favorite piece of fabric can also inspire a design card where you explore different amounts and placements of the colors in the original print. I have been teaching a new color class this past year for the Sewing and Quilt Expo. I have enjoyed meeting some of you at these classes. The color class has been focused on how to explore and create new color combinations and how to really use a good color wheel. I have a good one available on my website.

It is an important tool that can help you build your creative skills. It is a great teaching wheel if this is new for you. You can learn about tints, tones and shades �as well as different kinds of color combinations. Did you know: In combining fabrics, one of the best accent colors for the colors you love to work with are the colors on the opposite side of the color wheel? These are often times colors that aren't your favorites. They can be bright or dull�light or dark�but these complimentary colors can add a lot of interest to your work in the way of piping, linings, buttons and trims etc.

SEE CLASS INFO FOR THE SEWING & QUILT EXPO -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/Classes/Classes.html

SEE MY COLOR WHEEL -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/ColorWheel/NOTIONS/Color+Wheel

>> YOU & SKETCHING YOUR IDEAS
I want to encourage ALL of you to be sketching. Just starting and doodling everyday will begin to give you more confidence if it is not a skill you have developed. It is very satisfying to be able to sketch out some of your design ideas and see how they might look. Get yourself a sketch book that you like, and some pencils, chalk a small watercolor set or whatever medium is calling you and just start.

FACT: If you don't consider yourself an artist mostly what is missing is that you don't do it enough to get better. I love sharing my passion for this. (I can feel another DVD coming on) I am also teaching two levels of Fashion Illustration which have been well-received at the Sewing and Quilt Expos. We have more of these classes scheduled this spring and fall as well, so join us when we are in your area.

>> '08 RETREATS
I am looking forward to my Design Outside the Lines Retreats with Marcy Titlon (www.marcytilton.com) coming up at a beautiful new location for us this June in Sisters, OR and then returning in Sept. to Taos, New Mexico. I enjoy playing with Marcy and sharing our creative edge, design play, and construction in different ways at each retreat. We have a few spaces left in each one if you want to come and play!

SEE CLASS INFO FOR THE SEWING & QUILT EXPO -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/Classes/Classes.html

>> NEW GARMENTS FROM GREAT OLD PATTERNS
My Skyelines pattern #105 is one of my favorites. It is always a good choice for re-inventing a new garment. In my gallery, I have a short sleeve version in pieced silk organza with bits of trim in the seams in a dupioni. The neckline works well, and without a long sleeve, it is perfect as an undergarment in the warmer weather.

My new version using a crisp, pin-stripe shirting. I have used a second, bolder stripe in black and white for an accent and a solid black for the corset shape around the middle. Here are some design tips & notes: I cut some extra width in the shirt around the middle to start with. The corset shape is actually an appliqu�, which I applied to each piece before I constructed the garment. It is laced with loops up the back to give more fitting options. I used some exquisite ribbon for tabs and with �" snaps behind they become the closures. At the end of construction, I took long tucks (from the inside) just the length of the corset appliqu�. This uses the extra width I cut out in the beginning and makes pleats in the shirt at the edges of the black making the shirt look pleated underneath like it is a separate garment!!! So clever. I love the look of this shirt! It is inspiring me to do more exercising and find my waist again!!!! Consider changing the width and contrasting col
or of the corset pieces to flatter your figure. Remember, it doesn't have to be fitted to be a fun and flattering detail.

SEE SKYELINES PATTERN -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-105-SkyeLines/homepage/Skye+Lines

SEE SKYELINES IN THE GALLERY -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-SkyeOrgan/WEARABLES/SkyeLines+in+Silk+Organza

SEE NEW SKYELINES GARMENT IN PIN-STRIPE -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/GAL-Skye/WEARABLES/Skyelines

>> DESIGN EXERCISE
Using one of your favorite patterns, revisit it with 2-3 ideas for new garments it could be. Adding more construction details, a shaped edge or cutting out a larger width so you can pleat it in, etc. These are all creative ways to explore how your favorite pattern can transform! This kind of play is really some of the most fun I have with my sewing.

>> MY STENCILING DVD : FINISHED AT LAST!
I am pleased to have my first stenciling DVD available now on my website . It has lots of close-ups that cover all the basics of how to great results from a stencil on fabric�plus lots of design tips for getting lots of new designs from one stencil, overlapping them and using tape as a mask. This 33 minute DVD is divided into sections for easy reference and includes a gallery of my stenciled clothing and accessories. On my website gallery , I have some stenciled pieces. You might enjoy my recycled chairs I am getting ready to do another chair soon.

SEE THE NEW STENCILING DVD -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/stencilVideo/STENCILS/Stenciling+Techniques+on+Fabric

SEE RECYCLED CHAIRS -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-Wingback/COLLAGE/Stenciled+Wingback

So I am off to draw in the back yard. Remember to schedule some creative time for yourself everyday to play!
Enjoy, Diane

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ReVisions Newsletter: #8 Sparks!

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 02:11:00 GMT

#8 Sparks! Fall 2007
Diane Ericson�s Creativity Newsletter & Studio Notes

Fall Greetings!
I am in a quiet moment in between fall traveling and want to share what is new on my design table with you. The focus of my newsletter is to share the projects, exercises and experiences that spark my creativity and inspire my work.

>> MY NEW PATTERN: FAULTLINES #118
I love how this new pattern goes together and works on the body. There are some nice options for creating different looks using all the pieces in different combination.

GET FAULTLINES HERE -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/FaultLines118/PATTERNS/Fault+Lines

Here are two that I have just made: The black and white one is a rayon brocade with a sheer Undershirt out of the vintage Kimono Fabric. The second one is made from a recycled piece from the Golden Triangle by the Hmong people. The piece I used was a panel from a woman�s skirt. I loved the heart of the piece including the repaired areas, sometimes appliqued with western scraps. The Hmong fabric is from: http://www.bohemianelement.com (you will want to e-mail and ask about the Hmong lengths since they are all a bit different). Faultlines is perfect for small amounts since the Jacket is short with the Undershirt finishing the design. The Undershirt is a suiting blend with a small pinstripe. And would tie in nicely with some pin-strip pants or a Taos Skirt.

SEE SAMPLE GARMENTS -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/GAL-FaultLines/WEARABLES/Fault+Lines
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/GAL-FaultLines2/WEARABLES/Fault+Lines

SEE TAOS SKIRT -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-112-TaosSkirt/PATTERNS/The+Taos+Skirt

More DESIGN PLAY IDEAS for FaultLine Garments :
1. The collar is an asymmetrical bias tube�which can be tied on or stitched on. Make one that compliments some of my favorite scarves, which threads through the collar.

2. Make scarf with tassels on the ends and extra length so it can wrap around the neck twice.

3. Make a garment with lots of contrasting hand-stitching in the direction of the grainlines. Use striped fabrics and piece the stripes in different directions first, maybe in smaller pieces on the undershirt and larger pieces on the jacket.

4. Create several collars (using different favorite techniques ie. Felted, printed, stitched beaded etc.) and Undershirts for the same basic jacket. Make some dressy, some for everyday with Undershirts to match pants or skirt.

5. Combine the Undershirt pieces as layers but attached as part of one jacket.

6. Make Pieced Taos skirt in pin stripe fabrics to work with Ethnic fabric Jacket. Include piping: repeating lines of colors (from Jacket fabric) in the skirt.

>> NEW NOTIION: MEGA SNAPS
I have used the new Mega Snaps in the antique brass (on the Ethnic Fabric) and in the Black Nickel on the Black and White Brocade Jacket. I am just starting to play with combining the snaps with some padding, additional stitching and Stenciling to frame the snaps and tie in with the snap shape. They have some weight to them so they are perfect for Jackets and heavier vest and sleeve closures. I will send you some shots of the closure details I create with the snaps soon.

GET MEGA SNAPS HERE -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/megaSnaps/NOTIONS/Mega+Snaps+3-pack

>> A NEW LINE OF PATTERN DESIGNS -- SUPPORTING SAVE THE PLANET FUND
Faultlines is the first in a series of designs that will all be inspired by natural events on the Earth. I am excited to see what kind of design play this challenges in me! I am donating 1% of the profits of this line to The Save the Planet Fund. I am also looking into what I can do to influence and encourage the use of more green products in the manufacturing my stencils and patterns. I feel strongly about doing what I can, and I look forward to that creative playground and new playmates who join me there. I always feel the recycling of garments and fabric by all of us contribute to that effort.

As a teacher, one of the things you can do is list thrift stores with fabric stores as a source of fabrics and notions for students�what about giving extra credit when students include recycled materials?

>> WHERE TO GET REVISIONS PATTERNS & STENCILS
My commitment is to serve the stories that carry my patterns and stencil designs. Please check this list, and support a retailer near you. Of course you can order on our website, but we want to encourage you to keep the stores you love in business by shopping with them whenever possible. If you know a great, local store that you think would be a fit for my products, I�d appreciate hearing about them. If they are not already a customer, and they place an order, I�ll send you a free pattern or stencil as a thank you gift.

FIND A RETAILER NEAR YOU -->
http://www.dianeericson.com/v/vendors.html

>> MINNEAPOLIS CLASSES IN NOVEMBER
I will be offering classes in Minneapolis, Nov. 8,9 and 10th at the Sewing Expo (http://www.sewingexpo.com) that will be held there. Stenciling, Details, Pattern shapes and Fashion Illustration Basics are some of the classes. I am enjoying sharing my passion for painting and drawing with sewers.

>> IKEA CHAIR STENCILING PROJECT FOR CHARITY AUCTION
At the Creative Quilt and Sewing Expo in Minneapolis, I will be Stenciling a 3rd IKEA Chair for auction during the show. The project is being sponsored by the Creative Sewing & Quilt Expo. and Jacquard Paint Products (http://www.jacquardproducts.com) I will be printing on black canvas pads with the Jacquard metallic paints. I will be in booth #521 printing the chair in between classes, so come by if you attend the show. To see the chair I printed in Chicago earlier this month, go to the sewingexpo.com page and follow the links to the stenciled chairs.

>> STENCILING IN SEW STYLISH
I have just stenciled a garment that will be featured in the Winter Embellishment issue of Sew Stylish Magazine (by the Threads folks at Taunton Press). It was a fun design challenge for me to collaborate with the editors there. They sent me the garment in a beautiful light-weight charcoal grey wool gabardine, which I printed with some of the Jacquard Metallic colors. I am looking forward to the issue coming out later this month to see the finished results. Let me know what you think.

>> MORE WITH JACQUARD PAINT PRODUCTS
If you get some of the art and craft magazines that are out there, you will start to see some of my stenciling work in the Jacquard Paint ads (see their ad in the current Fiber Arts Magazine). We are currently working on a short, How-To Stenciling DVD that should be available before Christmas. I will keep you posted on other projects we collaborate on. (To find a list of outlets for their products: http://www.jacquardproducts.com).

Thanks for joining in, now back to work and play,
Warmly, Diane

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ReVisions Newsletter :: #7 Sparks!

Sun, 12 Aug 2007 14:38:00 GMT

#7 Sparks! Summer 2007
Diane Ericson�s Creativity Newsletter & Studio Notes

I am just back from the National American Sewing Guild (ASG) Conference in Sacramento California. It was fun to catch up with so many of you there and meet some new friends and sewing enthusiasts. If you have just joined the newsletter, welcome! The focus of my newsletter is to share the exercises and experiences that spark my creativity and inspire the different mediums I like to work in.

FASHION ILLUSTRATION CLASS
-------------------------------------
I am a life-long artist and love painting and drawing as much as I do working in fabric. I have started sharing this love through a new class this year called Fashion Sketching or Fashion Illustration. If you are interested in this, I will be offering it in Chicago and Minneapolis this fall with the Sewing Expo (http://www.sewingexpo.com) that will be held there. The class has been well-received this past spring and I'd love to share it with you this fall.

STENCIL BOOKLET EXPANDED
-----------------------------------
Stenciling has held my passion this spring. I just updated and expanded my Stencil Booklet.

Click this link to have a look at some the information and design ideas.
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/stencil-booklet/STENCILS/Stencil+Booklet

MY LOVE OF RECYCLING
----------------------------
I am always in recycling mode and love to remodel my clothes. Linen is my shirt fabric of choice. I redesigned the sleeve on a favorite coral color linen shirt. It started out with a traditional long sleeve and cuffs and I used the pieces to make it a bell-shaped 3/4 sleeve. I used the Calla Lilly Stencil and the Eucalyptus Leaves Stencil to create the surface design on the garment. Notice that some of the stenciled images are just the tip of one of the leave designs: I find it adds interest to vary how much of a stencil I am printing with, so just printing a corner or a tip of a design gives me a new detail. The curves shadow line was created by printing just along one inside edge of the Calla Lilly stencil. In some cases, it worked well to disguise the piecing I did in remodeling the garment.

Link to Coral Linen Shirt:
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/recycled2/recycledDesign/Coral+Linen+Shirt

Link to Calla Lilly Stencil:
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Stencil-09-CallaLillies/STENCILS/Calla+Lillies+Stencil

Link to Eucalyptus Leaves Stencil:
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Stencil-16-Eucalyptus/STENCILS/Eucalyptus+Stencil

Remember whatever your favorite surface design- printing other detailing helps direct the eye of the viewer...creating more focus where you want it. When printing on a ready-to-wear piece, sliding a piece of cardboard into the garment will keep you printing on one side at a time. I usually replace the buttons at the end of the remodel- so they compliment the new look I want it to have.

THOUGHTS ON COLOR
--------------------------
Color notes: Using the unexpected yellows, bronze with poppy red on the coral color makes the design more unique and the colors play off one another. A good color wheel, click below to see my choice of color wheels, is a very useful tool in my design studio, and a great reference for easily expanding my color thinking quickly when I am in the middle of a project. A good color wheel can be a great teacher: expanding your understanding and confidence with fabric color combinations too.

Link to my favorite Color Wheel:
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/ColorWheel/NOTIONS/Color+Wheel

Color Mixing Tip: When mixing paint colors, adding a bit of the color opposite the color you are using (on the color wheel), will dull the intensity of the color. It can also give you another variation of your first color to use as slight contrast while staying with the same color.

MY FAVORITE RECYCLED GARMENT
-----------------------------------------
My linen vest with black trim is a favorite recycled piece. I used the Bugs in Flight Stencil, Eucalyptus Leaves (see link above) and Fall Leaves to add a fabulous pattern to this vest. I started with an over-sized, ill-fitting jacket: added the black trim fabric, buttons and unique folding to create this vest design. I like to work on a dressform to fold the shapes. Next I pin, baste and steam them with an iron and try it on to see how it is working on me. I stitched the fold as a big tuck across the front of the vest-so it became a flap for the pocket. In the back, I stitched the rest of the fold down.

Link to my Linen Vest:
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/recycled3/recycledDesign/Linen+Vest

Link to Bugs in Flight Stencil:
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Stencil-20-BugsinFlight/STENCILS/Bugs+in+Flight+Stencil

Link to Fall Leaves Stencil:
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Stencil-03-FallLeaves/STENCILS/Fall+Leaves+Stencil

Once I am happy with the new design, I do the permanent stitching. This vest, I printed before I folded it into a smaller, more shaped garment...then added a few more accents once the folding was complete. A trick for securing raveling buttonholes: stencil a design over the buttonhole, on both sides with a heavier application of paint. This will extend the life of the buttonholes and give them more body....in addition to making the closure more interesting. To finish the vest, I stacked shell buttons through a second button with a bead to finish it on top.

NEW PATTERNS
------------------
With the fall season in sight, I am excited to share some new pattern designs. In the next newsletter, I will share my progress and give you the inside scoop on what they will be.

Much Joy to you in your creative daily play!
Diane

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ReVisions Newsletter :: #6 Sparks!

Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:29:00 GMT

#6 Sparks! Jan. 2007
Diane Ericson�s Creativity Newsletter & Studio Notes

DESIGN IN PROCESS : RECYCLED FABRIC VEST
--------------------------------------------------------
One of my favorite current garment projects is a lightly padded, shaped vest using the Santa Cruz Jacket & Vest Pattern. I started sharing the in-process story and photos in the Dec. newsletter. I started with a pattern I like the overall shape of. The pattern has some shaping elements (see the darts in the back photo). See the unusual fabric source that inspired the vest on my homepage and follow the link there to see the garment in the first stages of design and construction. Currently, I am enjoying hand stitching and stenciling on the surface. I want to design using what is already there as my guide. The existing surface design has a random pattern and I expand on that theme by printing through several stencils at a time- this gives me unplanned small bits of stencils here and there as I print (see photo of vest back). Taking out the needle and embroidery floss, I stitch along some of the edges of the shapes and find a �v� shaped element that I can duplicate as a stitch
. I feel like I am �in sync� with the fabric I have chosen �and it is leading me into some fresh design directions as I play.

SEE THE SANTA CRUZ JACKET & VEST
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-116-SantaCruz/PATTERNS/The+Santa+Cruz+Jacket+%26+Vest

SEE THE FIRST 'IN PROCESS' GARMENT
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-process1/WEARABLES/In+Process

Vest Front: The snaptape I printed with dark green (and shared in the last newsletter) looks the best in combination with the other fabrics I am using. I printed this snaptape with my Big Hopper Stencil. As you can see any of the stencils can be used in unlimited ways when choosing them for shapes, angles and size instead of what they are as a whole image!!! This cricket stencil is one I use constantly because the combination of shapes is so appealing and versatile. Starting with a contrasting color tape from the color paint, adds more contrasting interest. Thinking about the vest front flap worn open I am going with more of the salmon/rust color fabric as a lining for the front band and some unexpected pieces of silver/grey dupioni silk under the printed zipper with raw edges as the finish. Any pattern can be expanded just by changing the shape along the front edge. As you can see on this vest, I am cutting an asymmetrical line on the front edges and following some of the p
ainted shapes. On the fronts, I moved the dart to run along the edge of the painted shapes so it does the job�but disappears.

SEE SNAPTAPE IN DARK GREEN
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/snaptape-sage/NOTIONS/SnapTape+Sage+Green

SEE BIG HOPPER STENCIL
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Stencil-07-BigHopper/STENCILS/Big+Hopper+Stencil

Vest Back: Take a look at how I am expanding on the design the dart in the center back to include small, multiple shaped tucks- that detail, from the outside, will read as stitched design lines-again, in keeping with the surface design on the fabric. I plan to do more stitching, to give the shape more definition. I look forward to wearing and sharing the finished piece with you!

SNAPTAPE: ON CAPITOLA PANTS & TAOS SKIRT
--------------------------------------------------------
Since I am in love with snaptape at the moment�. I have been playing with other applications for it.
Capitola Pants: I lengthened the Capitola Pant, took off the band at the bottom and made a size larger than I needed at the top to create a wrap-around look to the pants. I used the wonderful, drapey rayon Batik from Batik Butik. I added elastic (to the back of the waist only) for comfort. The bias curved, triangle shaped belt (in black rayon) is interfaced with a fusible- giving a stable but slightly stretchy surface for stitching the snaptape onto. To create the shape of the belt piece: put on the pants, overlap and play with the waist until you get the desired look. This helps to design how, how much and where the snaptape will go. As you can see, Stitching down the �belt� piece in the center back holds it in place. I like the idea of decorating the ends of the tape that will be left loose. Fabric shapes can be used, ribbon or other decorative trims.

SEE CAPITOLA PANT
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-115-CapitolaPant/PATTERNS/The+Capitola+Pant

SEE CELERY STONE FABRIC
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/fabric-453-CeleryStones/FABRICS/Celery+Stones

TAOS SKIRT
---------------
The skirt design I created using the snaptape is the Taos. The fabric is a luscious stretch wool with lycra in it. I used the same concept of the wrap front with a belt piece (as in the pants). I made the belt from the same fabric as the skirt, using black thread for topstitching. I stitched pieces of the black tape on the surface of the skirt for more asymmetrical wearing options. It is fun to wear, and feels very hip! I like it with a fitted short vest so the details at the waist show.

SEE TAOS SKIRT
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-112-TaosSkirt/PATTERNS/The+Taos+Skirt

SEE MY RIO TEAL BLUE VEST
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-TheRio/WEARABLES/The+Rio

WORKSHOPS
---------------
I am looking forward to teaching around the country this next 6 months-I will enjoy seeing some of you as I travel. I am designing and preparing for these up and coming workshops. The February workshops will be the Santa Barbara Design Outside the Lines Retreat the first week of Feb. then a week of exciting classes in sunny, warm Florida the 14th �19th!

SEE MY CURRENT CLASS SCHEDULE
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/WORKSHOPS/Workshops.html

I hope you are into a fresh start this month! I have a clear design table and am enjoying the changing landscapes of January here in Sonoma County California.

Thanks for joining me. Remember one of the most important exercises as a designer is to PLAY!

Much joy, Diane

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ReVisions Newsletter :: #5 Sparks!

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 18:25:00 GMT

#5 Sparks! Dec. 2006
Diane Ericson�s Creativity Newsletter & Studio Notes
##################################

STUDIO UPDATE
-------------------
As things quiet down in the garden, I am celebrating the move into my new studio space. It is a compact and efficient 2-bedroom house in the backyard- a very pleasant walk to work! It has been an adventure spending time in the new space and imagining how it can best support who I am, how I play and the work I want to create. Having the luxury of moving in slowly, I am only bringing in things I really want to use in there. Definitely a less chaotic and creatively stimulating approach. I made a new design board (covered with canvas fabric), giving myself a fresh slate to post ideas and things that will spark my new design direction.

'NEW' PATTERN
------------------
I have just spent some time revising and updating one of my favorite patterns, the Skyelines #105. I think you�ll enjoy the changes! I shaped the silhouette a bit, added a great sleeve options and more design ideas for creating your unique garment with textured and pieced fabrics (pink shirts). I LOVE the ones I have made in Taffeta and Silk Dupioni. In both the pink and grey ones, I washed the fabric and put it in the dryer to give the fabric character before I started. I fasten the grey one with hooks and eyes, giving the option for wearing it open like a jacket over a lightweight camisole. The Skyelines is fabulous in knits�I am making a wool jersey version next � and changing the wrap-front pattern piece to a large scarf shape that will drape over my shoulder.

See the New Skyelines:

SkyeLines Silk Wash
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-SkyeWash/WEARABLES/SkyeLines+Silk+Wash

SkyeLines in Pink
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-SkyePink/WEARABLES/SkyeLines+in+Pink

SkyeLines in Knit
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-SkyeKnit/WEARABLES/SkyeLines+in+Knit

DESIGNING WITH STENCILS
---------------------------------
I have been wanting to use my stencils in some new ways. So far, I have been working on two different chairs. I �aged� the frame of the bamboo and cane chair with black and copper metallic acrylic using a sponge. I stenciled the pad with the Spring leaves stencil and the Eucalyptus Leaves. The wing-back upholstered chair, one of a set, I am printing for my new studio space. I have been masking off areas with masking tape and rubbing a bit of color on some areas first then going back with one or two layers of stencil designs. For this chair�I am using a combination of 4-7 different stencils in the collection. I will finish the chairs with a coat of Scotchguard. I love giving them new life! I am excited about how they are turning out�.I can�t walk by without adding something to the design! I�ll share the finished chairs on my website.

See my Stenciled Chairs:

Stenciled Chair
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-StenChr/COLLAGE/Stenciled+Chair

Stenciled Wingback
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-Wingback/COLLAGE/Stenciled+Wingback

2007 CLASSES
-----------------
It is all inspiration to fuel my teaching which starts after the first of the year. See my updated schedule and join me!

http://www.dianeericson.com/c/Classes/Classes.html

I�ll be working on shirt-versions of the Skyelines as I prepare for a Pattern Drafting Class in January. We�ll be meeting in Mendocino- a longtime art community, nestled into the craggy northern coastline of California above San Fransisco-with coffeehouses, ocean views, galleries and unique shops to stroll for inspiration. For more information about the class, see my schedule or contact the Mendocino Art Center. This informative intensive is a 2-1/2 day hands-on class and a great way to polish your pattern skills and start the new year.

Mendocino Art Center
http://www.mendocinoartcenter.org

DESIGN OUTSIDE THE LINES RETREATS
----------------------------------------------
The theme for the 2007 retreats co-facilitated with Marcy Tilton, will be Bel'occhio, a wonderful Italian phrase that means 'good eye', and our focus will center around design---what constitutes good design, understanding and playing with design concepts and consciously aiming to cultivate fresh ideas and work.

See the DOL Retreat Schedule
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/Retreats/Retreats.html

In the retreats, we explore what you want to learn, where you want to go in your work and what is exciting or scary to you as you regard yourself as a designer. These are issues we each wrestle with in our own work. The structure of the retreats is a part of the design process and we are committed to making the retreats an evolving, changing and satisfying experience for all.

We are offering two Design Outside the Lines Retreats this year; One in Santa Barbara in February and one in Taos, New Mexico in September. Space is limited, with a deposit required to hold your space. For more information about the retreats or to make your downpayment, see my website (link above) and Marcy�s at:
http://www.marcytilton.com

A stroll around the winter yard is definitely inspiring what�s on my drawing table. I am so inspired by all the shapes and the colors of the leaves in my own backyard!!! Ginkos, Magnolias, Japanese maples, bamboo, grape vines and redwoods�.I feel some wreathmaking coming on�.gotta go!

A Joyful & Creative Holiday Season to you,
Diane

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ReVisions Newsletter :: #4 Sparks!

Mon, 23 Oct 2006 17:50:00 GMT

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#4 Sparks!
Diane Ericson's Creativity Newsletter & Studio Notes
####################################################

With unusually warm October days here in Northern California, the crisp mornings and fabulous fall colors are the only reminder that winter is on it's way. Vests are on my design table right now. I have been using several of my favorite patterns: The Santa Cruz #116, The Rio # 114, and The Walkabout Vest #113.

See these patterns online:
--------------------------
The Santa Cruz
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-116-SantaCruz/PATTERNS/The+Santa+Cruz+Jacket+%26+Vest

The Rio
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-114-TheRio/PATTERNS/The+Rio+Jacket+%26+Vest

The Walkabout Vest
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Pattern-113-WalkaboutVest/PATTERNS/The+Walkabout+Vest

OR Visit my Gallery to see these sewn up:
-----------------------------------------
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/GALLERY/Diane%27s+Gallery.html

Needing that extra layer for morning walks with the dog got me started with simply stenciling my old favorite light green fleece vest and giving it a new look! I used the Spring Leaves stencil (# 24) as an overall texture with some Antique Bronze paint, then I went back and accented, using the stem of the leaf, with black. I love the design, and what happened to my old new favorite fleece!!!

See this Recycled Vest:
-----------------------
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-SpringLeaves/WEARABLES/Spring+Leaves

I am also digging into my wool fabrics and batting for some vests projects. I love the winter, wool version of my Walkabout Vest #113 in deep cranberry wool jersey on top of black polar fleece. I love the textures created by folding the jersey, cutting some holes in it and adding a small amount of printed fabric to the design. The design element holding the tie in place is a design from the Jakarta #26 stencil.

See my Cranberry Walkabout Vest:
--------------------------------
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-Walkabout/WEARABLES/Walkabout+Vest

The new winter version of the vest has a different feel than the spring one in the earth colors on white. I like challenging myself to use the same pattern in opposite seasons. The design criteria and way I work with the materials changes; And since I am familiar with the pattern I feel freed-up to explore the surface design elements knowing what to expect with the overall garment shape.

See my Spring version of the Walkabout Vest:
--------------------------------------------
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-CollageVest/COLLAGE/Collage+Vest

I love linen year round. I used The Rio pattern for my new favorite vest. I am hand-quilting it, with a light layer of batting, to a burnt persimmon color silk lining (a recycled shirt). The tapestry trim with black and white binding is the perfect accent to go with my new fall colors. The long sports zipper becomes piping as it wraps all the way around the neck. I am repeating some of the lines in the tapestry fabric in handstitching which will cover most of the green linen. It is a garment I am enjoying dressed-up with a black Taos Skirt and boots or dressed down with jeans, a tea shirt and hiking shoes. I like the vest format. Since it is a relatively short-term project I can focus more on surface design, details and stitching.

See my Rio vest:
----------------
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-TheRio/WEARABLES/The+Rio

SNAPTAPE
--------
I have been printing some snaptape to use on some quilted vests to come. Check out the effect!!! Very fun to decorate to go with your theme.
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/gallery-snaptape/WEARABLES/Stenciled+Snaptape

I am looking forward to teaching at the Mendocino Art Center November 11-13th. I will be teaching an exciting class just focused on Art Bags. If you want a personal, pre-holiday getaway for some creative play, this could be it. Nestled in to the Northern California coast, Mendocino will be getting spruced up for the holidays. We'll be there before the crowds, exploring the shops and galleries and folding the inspiration into our one-of-a-kind bags in the studio. We'd love to have you come play with us there. I am designing new knotted closures out of my hand printed fabrics to share.

See Art Bags Workshop online:
-----------------------------
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/Class-BagsArt/Classes/Bags+as+Art+Workshop

See my Purses and other Accessories:
------------------------------------
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/JewelryAcc/JewelryAcc.html

I hope your fall projects are off to a great start and that new designs are calling you into winter in your playroom.

Warmly,

Diane Ericson

October 2006

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ReVisions Newsletter : August 2006

Tue, 05 Sep 2006 16:59:00 GMT

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is located at the end of this message.)
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Welcome to my newsletter, Sparks!, with tips and ideas for keeping your creativity
sparked!

New Website
The big news around here is my new website is up and ready for you to
visit and play around in!
http://www.dianeericson.com

There are so many new things to see and I will be continuing to build on it. I am pleased to have a gallery of my own designs on the website. I am looking forward to sharing work in all the various materials I like to create with. This includes collage, painting and drawing, clothing, jewelry and accessories. http://www.dianeericson.com/c/GALLERY/GALLERY.html

Fall Transitional Clothing
Thinking about clothing, I am currently working with what I call fall transitional clothing. Living in northern California, I get to wear most of my favorite fabrics year round. What changes are the color combinations, accessories, and that great outer layer. My current transitional jacket is the SnapDragon #117 in a double-woven linen (black with green on the other side). I have made the Snapdragon with the black snap tape for the closures and accents. It is now posted on the Wearables page in my Gallery.
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/WEARABLES/WEARABLES.html

I am making several new collar/scarf pieces as accessories for my new SnapDragon using some of the new darker color rayons batiks featuring my designs and manufactured by BatikButik. On my fabric page the Moss Crinkle, the Corona Green & Bronze and the Celery Stones are all great combined with the back/green linen that my jacket is made from. I can�t wait to get those new pieces finished!
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/FABRICS/Fabrics.html

I am always looking for ways to make the garment more versatile and making the different collar pieces is really giving me that option. The grey wool Snapdragon with the second collar is also displayed on the site for you. It has the snap-off sleeve feature that is in the pattern.
http://www.dianeericson.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=ReVisions&Product_Code=gallery-snapdragon&Category_Code=WEARABLES

Snap Tape
I am more excited about the snap tape all the time! I have been seeing some great shapes and combinations with crisper fabrics. The snap tape is a high quality cotton and can be dyed, printed and stitched on to create a more decorative presentation. I want to use it for closures on wrapped, shaped clothing by snapping it together in unique ways for a touch of creative flair! Stay tuned for more ideas using snap tape.

New Fabrics
The fall batiks with my stencil designs are here! We have added another color way of the Calla Lily design. The new design is called Magnolia. It started with some sketches I made in the backyard and has become a gorgeous fabric with 2 color options on a black background: one in red and one in a sand color.
(link to it when it gets on the site)

Fall Teaching
I am looking forward to The Designer�s Edge Workshop in San Jose, California
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/Classes/Classes.html

Then I�m off to a Design Outside the Lines Retreat with Marcy Tilton in Taos the end of September.
http://www.dianeericson.com/pc/class-DOL-Taos/Retreats/Design+Outside+the+Lines+-+Taos%2C+NM

The last Design Outside the Lines Retreat for 2006 is back home here in northern California in Petaluma in October. We have some spaces left and would love to have you join us at either one! For more information about workshops and retreats please see my online schedule.
http://www.dianeericson.com/c/Retreats/Retreats.html

Finally I will be teaching a three day workshop entitled, Bags As Art, at the Mendocino Arts Center in November. After this I will be home in my studio exploring and playing for a while. Nesting into my new home and garden. Always something to do to keep my creative juices flowing. I hope you can join me for one, or more, of these classes and retreats! I�d love to have a chance to play with you!
http://www.dianeericson.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=ReVisions&Product_Code=Class-BagsArt&Category_Code=Classes

Warmly,
Diane

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