Iceland Inspired Scarf Part 3

We've made it back from Iceland and now it is time to get serious about finishing our scarves. Here's an inspiration from uncommon goods and here's what you do:

1) Layout your t-shirt pieces in 2 strips of 8 squares. Arrange them until you are satisfied with the sequence on each set. Then place one set on top of the other so you can see what is underneath.

2) When you are satisfied with your arrangement, use a running stitch or a back stitch to connect the squares on each side. You can use various colored thread - we used metallic which was grand.

3) Select a couple of squares with interesting colors behind them and slit the fabric with your scissors to reveal the color beneath. (Note: you could do this before stitching like making paper snowflakes) You could also cut the end squares into fringe if you like.

4)Stitch the front and back together. If you use a running stitch, you can also gather your scarf to create interest.

5) Finally, add beads or other adornments as you see fit.

Voila - you have created your very own scarf from recycled and reused materials.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Iceland Inspired Scarf Part 2

We are going strong in Iceland and I have limited access to my computer and internet. Visit the d&m abroad blog to follow our journey.

This week we will focus on preparing the 6"x6" squares.

Technique:

Cut a 6” x 6” cardboard square to use as a template . Remember you will need a total of 16 to complete the project. I suggest cutting an additional 4 to experiment with.

Place the template on the tee where you would like to make your square. You can cut 2-4 layers of fabric at one time if your scissors are sharp. Make sure to place your template carefully over any graphics you want to preserve.

You have the option with one 6" x12" and two 6"x6" to capture a larger screen image from the tee if you use a multiple of the 6" x6", for example, cut a 6"x12" rectangle,

Next week well put these together and have our final result.

-till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Iceland Inspired Scarf Part 1

In honor of my spring break study tour to Iceland, I am posting the project we will be completing there so you can join in. You can follow our escapades on the d&m abroad blog.

Iceland Workshop Getting Started.
This week we will gather your supplies, look at our goal and some inspiration.

Goal: Use Icelandic design as inspiration to synthesize the Icelandic design concept -maximizing resources through re-use to create hand-crafted products using a “raw” aesthetic, inspired by the powerful visual and forces of Nature.










Haugkaupf Tee Shirt - mesh, jersey 1
Project: Using the visual examples in your packet and inspiration from the items you have seen at Gallery Kraum and Rosa’s studio, create a 48” (approximately) scarf out of recycled tee shirts.









Rosa's pieced, jersey skirt close up 1

Supplies:
Gather old tee shirts these can include artwork or decoration if you like. You will cut these next week into 20 6”x 6” pre-cut squares. (You will need 16 to complete your project. Cut an additional 4 for experimentation and trading.)

Cotton or Cotton-Polyester thread. (You can use one color, or several that match or contrast with your tee shirt squares.)

2-3 needles that you can thread;)

1 pr. scissors that will cut both your thread and your squares.

Optional: Any decorations – buttons, beads, sequins, fringe, soda tabs, etc. Use the Icelandic design concept -maximizing resources through re-use to create hand-crafted products using a “raw” aesthetic, inspired by the powerful visual and forces of Nature to select your decorations as well.

Next week we will prepare the tees and stitch them together.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

I can't believe it is Wednesday

I can't believe I missed my Tuesday post! I definitely have a lot on my plate and Iceland on the brain. So in honor of Iceland I'm talking felt. Not just any felt, but felted soap to scrub in the tub.

You say: "Felt in the tub! That's just wrong. Who wants wet wool that smells like wet Yak?"
Fiat Luxe says: "No worries. Our fragrant soaps are wrapped in a fuzzy little anti-fungal wool that exfoliates as you scrub and shrinks along with the soap for a perfectly sudsed wash every time."

They are green, beautiful and reusable - just cut a slit and insert a new bar. Healthy for your skin and the environment. Another win, win.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Closets & Windows

I bet your closet doesn't have a window, but it is the window to your wardrobe soul. This week I'd like to take a minute to give props to a local to me window company that has gained notoriety through President Obama.

Northeast Building Products of Phildelphia offers a range of quality energy-efficient windows and this product offering has lead the company to growth in these economically troubled times. The family owned business has increased its workforce from 185-285 employees. The company has certainly benefited from the Obama stimulus plan, but the greatest impact has come from Obama's mention in the State of the Union Address which lead to a significant increase in sales.

Founded in 1975, this family owned company has work hard to ensure innovation and a commitment to social responsibility. Their work has paid off in spades. Northeast Building Products won two of the most coveted industry awards in 2009: Window and Door Magazine's Crystal Achievement Award for "Most Innovative Plant" and the "Greenest Manufacturer" award from Door and Window Manufacturer Magazine. Investing heavily in green technologies, Northeast customers to qualify for a $1,500 energy tax credit.

Good for the environment. Good for business. Go Green!

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew