As many of you have likely noticed, I tend to be drawn to simple fabrics (hmm and I say this right after making that bold apron…I think that was fairly out of character for me). Often I pick fabrics that have an appealing texture, but not as much going on in the color or pattern department. I have been thinking lately that it might be interesting to try and step outside my comfort zone a bit. I have been inspired by some recent posts to the Build Your Wardrobe Flickr Group.
Ginny Rae crafted this bold skirt from a dress shirt. I absolutely love the bold colors and graphic pattern. It reminds me of this skirt from that famed store we all know and love.
Photo Courtesy of Ginney Rae
And take a look at this beauty from Wendy of West 38th.
- Photo Courtesy of Wendy Knox
Finally, this top is by Shear Delight. I love the feminine style of this top, paired with the modern fabric.
Photo Courtesy of Shear Delight
It seems to me that the next step for me is to get some bold, colorful fabric and do some experimenting. I am admiring Nani Iro’s new collection, maybe one of her fabrics will be just the ticket!
As a crafter, what materials and patterns do you tend to gravitate towards? Have you ever stepped outside your comfort zone…what was your experience like?
Hi! I just wanted to say hello and thanks for doing what you do. I enjoy reading your blog so I thought I would pass along a little love in the form of the One Lovely Blog Award.
You can go here to see: http://gusandlulu.blogspot.com/2009/06/lets-blame-baby.html
I like bright colours, but not too crazy patterns. I think “stepping out of my comfort zone” would be using pastels in anything. I find pastels so dull and get bored with the project before it is even done. Another thing I do is to match colours almost perfectly when I do mix one or more prints in a bag, for instance. I look at some crafters and admire that they can mix and match so many colours and it still looks good. Pink and red together? No way! But it works in the right shades. I have to admit I do not willingly step out of my comfort zone. Maybe you should start a challenge on your blog and let us link our projects? I would be game to participate!
Great idea! I think I will start a challenge!
Hi! I don’t usually use pastel colors and people know me for making odd color choices!:) Sometimes they work sometimes they don’t!!:)
I’m glad you liked my skirt! :-) I’m actually trying to figure out what else to wear with it besides the white eyelet blouse… it’s fun, but I’m not sure that it works with a top any color other than white. Hmm…
I have just bought some Nani Iro but I am too frightened to cut it!This past summer I decided quilting cotton was wasted on quilts and started making dresses out of all sorts of fabric that I loved and to hell if it suited me or were fashionable,and I have never received so many compliments!Amy Butler’s lotus tunic is a great pattern for cottons as it doesn’t have too much volume,I am thinking that is what my Nani Iro will end up as.So, long story short-go with what you love and it will work!No “watering it down” for public consumption.
Eleanor-Thanks for the sweet comment! I am trying more and more to make/wear things that I love and not care about what is “fashionable”. Nani Iro fabric is so beautiful! I still haven’t cut into mine either…I am so scared that I will make a mistake and the fabric will be ruined! I am so happy to hear that you are going with what you love and what works for you!