In the studio - testing new patterns

We are having a great time in the studio, 
preparing to release some new patterns. 
Here are a couple of test run samples for the Rebecca Dress.  

 It's a shirtdress that buttons all the way down the front. The top is unaltered except for the addition on a double collar.  The skirt is made with sleeves and plackets from other shirts. 

 It will be a terrific pattern for hourglass and pear shaped ladies. 

Coming your way soon!

Upcycled Paganoonoo Ashlee blouse, mango colored version for summer

 

Summer is here!  




I love the tropical colors and use of Hawaiian print in this in this version of the Ashlee blouse.  

Have you made your first upcycle blouse yet?

Paganoonoo patterns are a set of instructions (no actual pattern pieces) for how to deconstruct and reconstruct ready-to-wear into a new fashions.  This pattern starts with 3 collared shirts.  In this case one was a rayon Hawaiian shirt used for cuffs, the double collar and one side panel.

Give yourself an upcycling advantage with Paganoonoo pattern instructions!  Upcycle sewing made simple. Etsy Shop.

I transformed a pair of plainish oxfords into silver wonders!

I transformed a pair of plainish oxfords into silver wonders!   These oxfords from Born are very comfortable but I thought a bit plain.  

A member of my wearable art guild, PenWAG, wrote a book called Sassy Feet about painting leather shoes and purses.  Margot Silk Forrest has brought examples into our meetings and Ive always been impressed.

I thought I'd try my hand at painting these oxfords.  I used two tones of silver paint.  Lighter on the sides and darker on the tips and uppers.  It takes 5+ thin layers to provide good cover.  They really look great.

I wore them on my trip to New York and I was stopped a number of times by people who loved the color.  They are a bit flashy but in a subtle way.  

Next, a pair of red and cream.   And I'm thinking a pair of teal and cream would be cool too.  

I may buy a gross, paint them in every color, and make them a trademark fashion staple.

5 simple (and 1 crazy) ways to be greener with your wardrobe

1. Pass on your old clothes to someone else before donating them to thrift stores. Only a small percentage of donated garments are actually repurchased in the U.S.

2. Don't throw out any textile, even a stray sock. If the item is donated it is much more likely to get to a textile recycler.

3. Have a clothing exchange. Donate whatever people don't want.

4.  Repair it and wear it

5. Rent special occasion garments. Www.Renttherunway.com

6. Form a group to share clothes. With just one other person both of you could potentially double your wardrobe. (crazy but clever)

Another version of the Paganoonoo Peggy Blouse

The latest version of the Paganoonoo Peggy Pattern

The lines of the garment show through clearly, 

even in a different color combination.

 

 

Have you made yours yet?  Paganoonoo.com  Upcycle sewing made clear.