handmade | Musings

Sculptural Felt

Posted by Cynthia | Filed under Musings

Felt is tactile, natural, and can be dyed in a myriad of colors. Its uses are many, from clothing to handbags and hats. Felt provides the opportunity to create form, given its thickness and memory. Anne Kyrro Quinn’s innovative work with felt includes lighting, bags, throws and cushions, as well as large scale installations custom made for restaurants and public spaces. These wall panels combine acoustic management while creating striking sculptural displays. Below are images of a few of Anne’s three dimensional works of art. I could imagine these as a beautiful solution to soften a residential environment as well, providing artwork on the wall, a bit of warmth, and the benefit of softening the sounds of thunderous feet and voices.

Images sourced at Contemporist.

Tags: Acoustic Panels, Acoustic treatment, architecture, felted wool, Felting, handmade, interior design, makers, Sculpture, textile design

Read more | Comments (1) | February 18, 2013

HASAMI

Posted by Cynthia | Filed under Musings

This beautiful handmade collection by Hasami, is a studied exercise in form and proportion. ‘Simple geometry and the concept of modularity is the basis for this new porcelain dinnerware.’ Made in Japan, it was not conceived following prescribed forms and functions (dinner plate, soup bowl, etc.). Rather, the collection consists of plates and bowls of various sizes that can be used interchangeably to both eat and serve. Makes perfect sense doesn’t it? Choose the best tool for the task at hand. The best part? Behold, the collection is perfectly stackable and a feast for the eyes. Beautiful to display, and what a joy to utilize for one’s ritual of the daily meal.

Images and excerpts sourced at Mill Mercantile

Tags: handmade, Hasami, interior design, Japanese, makers, Porcelain dinnerware, tableware

Read more | Comments (0) | January 28, 2013

DIY Modern Needlework Ornament

Posted by Cynthia | Filed under Musings

Looking for a little DIY project for holiday gift-giving? Check out these handmade needlework ornaments. The combination of modern pattern design and the timeless quality of handcraft is irresistible. Modern Needleworks has made it easy. A DIY kit, complete with all the necessary materials, complete instructions as well as a ready to go design. 4″ in diameter, these make the perfect gift, whether giving a completed project attached to a bottle of wine or box of sweets, or simply providing a welcome winter project for the recipient. Love these.

Images sourced on Etsy, Modern Needleworks

Tags: Christmas Ornament, diy, DIY Christmas, DIY Ornament, etsy, Handcraft, handmade, interior design, Modern Needleworks, Needlepoint

Read more | Comments (3) | December 10, 2012

Craft Based Building Methods

Posted by Cynthia | Filed under Musings

It seems in many parts of the world the rich history of regional building method is becoming something of a lost art. These construction practices often focus on use of indigenous materials, and are passed down from generation to generation through the shared process of hand craft. Because they are focused on local material and local skilled labor, the results are sensitive to both culture and environment. The connection provided in the creation the built work also supports building of another kind; the building blocks inherent in a strong sense of community.

Dutch architect Arjen Reas has married beautifully the art of traditional building method and rural architectural form, with modern design clarity. This home is located at the point of transition between urban and rural environments, which is reflected in the choices of material, form and finish. A wonderful expression, and addition to the landscape.

Images and excerpts sourced at dailytonic.

Tags: architecture, Arjen Reas, Hand Craft, handmade, interior design, Modernism, Regional Architecture, Thatched Roof, Traditional Building Method

Read more | Comments (0) | November 26, 2012

Handmade Halloween

Posted by Cynthia | Filed under Musings

A handmade Halloween. There is something special about creating a costume, especially for children. An opportunity for creative imaginations to soar. I came across the image above, very much in the spirit of the process we embrace with our boys. A wonderful paper bird mask by the talented crew over at Sweet Paul Magazine. If you are looking for a last minute costume, Paul’s step by step instructions follow. Have fun designing, and please, send me your pictures!

Images and excerpts sourced at Sweet Paul Magazine