Renegade Craft Fair 2010 @ McCarren Park Brooklyn

Over 300-plus art, craft and design vendors set up craft camp this past weekend at the 6th Annual Renegade Craft Fair at McCarren Park Pool. Shoppers were treated to unique wares, as well as free DIY workshops from craft crusaders like Etsy, giveaways, and tasty treats from the Urban Rustic + Lefty's Silver Cart. If only all shopping experiences were this uplifting—and cute.

Tutorial Yellow Bag

B U T T E R C U P B A G
A sewing pattern made by Rae
madebyrae.blogspot.com



This pattern uses a mere fat quarter of fabric for the outer + a little less of another fabric for lining. You'll also need a magnetic snap and (optionally) a couple of buttons, although it looks pretty cute without the buttons too. I think this would also look great with some piping or ric-rac over the pleats...I can't wait to see what y'all do with this one!

As usual, this pattern is for personal use only, and while I appreciate links to this post (but not directly to the pattern), please don't "borrow" my pictures without permission. Thanks and enjoy!

TERMS OF USE: This pattern is for personal use only UNLESS A LICENSE IS PURCHASED (see left sidebar). You may not sell this pattern, bags made from this pattern, or bags made from modifications to this pattern (example: enlargements, wider/longer strap, etc). Please do not distribute copies of this pattern to others; instead, please refer others who are interested in this pattern to my blog so they can download it for themselves. Questions? Please feel free to email me. I have already happily made exceptions for charity and educational purposes, but please ask first.

Click here to download pattern

Floral Pillows with Ultrasuede Petals

Store-bought cushions spring to life when adorned with pretty, handmade Ultrasuede florets. (Ultrasuede doesn't fray, which means the petals won't need to be hemmed.) Scatter them all over one side, or "flower arrange" just a few in one corner.

Pillows How-To
1. Photocopy template, enlarging or reducing as desired. Using template, cut out 4 petals from fabric.

2. Knot end of thread; sew a running stitch through bottom of petals, making 2 stitches for each.

3. Gently pull thread to gather petals, and knot thread.

4. Make 1 more stitch to connect last and first petals to form flower, then knot and trim thread.

5. Repeat, making flowers in a variety of sizes. Tack-stitch flowers to pillow in the desired pattern.

From Martha Stewart Sewing Projects

ANNOUNCING the WINNER of Febraury MARERI Giveaway...

Congratulations ! our giveaway winner!
username: Poly Critters

The winner is picked out from
89 posted entries using Random.org

Thanks to all who entered and we wish you good luck on the next MARERI giveaway!

MARERI website

Here's MARERI bags website and it's finally done. Come in the store....

Zippered Pouch Tutorial

Episode 03: Pouch from Pandemica Apparel on Vimeo.

How to make a pouch. (6.5" w x 4.5" h x 2" d)
Materials:
• 2 pieces of fabric measuring 12"x14"
• 2 pieces of interfacing measuring 12"x14" (optional)
• 1 zipper - 12"
• double fold bias tape 3/8" x 24 1/2" *

Visit pandemicapparel.com to download this pattern.


* I made a mistake while filming this tutorial ... the bias tape should measure 24 1/2" NOT 18".

Brooklyn, NY Renegade Craft Fair

Here's an early announcement for the Renegade Craft Fair. It's headed back east for The 6th Annual Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn, NY on June 5 + 6, 2010, in Williamsburg’s beautiful McCarren Park! Free to Attend.

You can expect to find all sorts of incredible handmade goods at the Fair – everything from jewelry and clothing, ceramics and stationery, bath products and posters, housewares and comics, plush objects and more! Check out our FLICKR page to see many more photographs from previous events!


Food and beverages will be available from choice local eateries, we’ll have wonderful free raffle prizes to give away + we’ve always got a handful of surprises waiting for you!

Giveaway 2010

Here's another MARERI GIVEAWAY


Protect your iPhone or iPod from sharp objects, dust,scratches dirt, scratches, bumps, everyday wear and tear while adding a sophisticated look. Simplicity is beauty.

Made to Fit for:
• iPod Classic
• iPod Touch
• iPhone 3G &3GS

Exterior:

• Eco-Friendly Soft Bamboo Padding
• Poly/Cotton Fabric
• Secure side flap closure with metal snap.

Interior:

• Fully lined and has an inside pocket for ear buds or money or cards.
• Listen to music while in the case.


Dimensions: Approximately 3.25”W X 5”H

Game Rules:

All you have to do to win is leave a comment on this post (make sure there is a way for me to reach you; blog, email, website, etc). I would appreciate a comment that tells me what you like about my etsy shop and suggestions >>>>>>http://mareri.etsy.com

1. Become a follower of MARERI, and post a comment about your favorite item on MARERI etsy store and post a comment here.
2. Blog or Twitter or Grab my button about this contest, and post a comment daily for extra entry's!
3. Become a fan of MARERI on Facebook here or Follow me on MARERI on Twitter here or on the Networked Blogs on the right side bar.

Giveaway will be open until February 13 @ midnight (Eastern Standard Time)
Winner will be randomly selected from random.org, and will be announced on Sunday Morning.

NEW in 2010 iPhone and iPod Cozy PICK YOUR COLOR

Protect your iPhone/iPod from sharp objects, dust, scratches, bumps, everyday wear and tear while adding a sophisticated look. Simplicity is beauty.

Exterior:
• Eco-Friendly Soft Bamboo Padding
• Poly/Cotton Fabric
• Secure side flap closure with metal snap.

Interior:
• Fully lined and has an inside pocket for ear buds or money or cards.
• Listen to music while in the case


Dimensions: Approximately 3.25”W X 5”H

Kusudama Chirstmas Origami Ornaments

Here's an idea for personalizing your tree this year....


Recycling paper is one of many things we can to to protect our environment, so instead of disposing our old magazines and the of catalogs and paper junk we receive, why don't use it to make some nice ornaments for Christmas? They are cheap and safer for your children than the traditional glass balls.

Here's video tutorial how to make a beautiful Kusudama.

I'm in love with these Origami Christmas ornaments found in Flickr

(Maliah Photostream)


Here's more on making cute origamis.
Folding Trees has a lot of step by step tutorial. Enjoy :)











How To Fold A Japanese Paper Ball (Kusudama) - The most amazing videos are a click away

Geekery Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to our latest giveaway winner! Wanda The winner is picked out from 33 posted entries using Random.org

Thanks to all who entered and we wish you good luck on the next MARERI giveaway!

Geekery Giveaway

Welcome to my big November Give-away!

One lucky person will win this MARERI Laptop Sleeve. It fits a 13" laptop. 13" w x9" d x 1" h

REVERSIBLE - two distinct colors in one great case.
Just slide in your laptop. Compact design allows you to safely transport your laptop in any briefcase, messenger bag or backpack . Durable, padded and protects your computer
There are 4 layers of fabric plus entirely lined with 2 layers of Eco-Friendly batting to provide extra protection. The bag closes with a magnetic clasp.

Game Rules:

All you have to do to win is leave a comment on this post (make sure there is a way for me to reach you; blog, email, website, etc). I would appreciate a comment that tells me what you like about my etsy shop and suggestions >>>>>>http://mareri.etsy.com

1. Become a follower of MARERI, and post a comment about your favorite item on MARERI etsy store and post a comment here.
2. Blog or Twitter or Grab my button about this contest, and post a comment daily for extra entry's!
3. Become a fan of MARERI on Facebook here or Follow me on MARERI on Twitter here or on the Networked Blogs on the right side bar.

Giveaway will be open until Friday November 20th @ midnight (Eastern Standard Time)
Winner will be randomly selected from random.org, and will be announced on Saturday Morning.

Career Messenger Bag

NEW FALL COLLECTION !
MARERI Messenger Bag

This fashionable and functional lightweight messenger bag is designed to be worn across the body for maximum comfort or over the shoulder. It can also be use as a laptop bag or just an everyday bag. It's so perfect for a grad student or for mommies' diaper bag. It has lots of pockets, inside and out to store your essentials.

Dimensions:17"W 13"H 3.5"D

Fits most Laptops up to: 17"

Exterior Features:
Heavy Canvas fabric, Heavy duty shoulder strap. All metal hardware in silver color. Two external pockets in front of the bag for quick access to your cell phone, PDA, or iPod. Small metal snap rivets on the side of the bags for an accent design.

Interior Features:
Striped Tan durable cotton lining of the highest quality Special section for your files, cards and pens. there's enough space for carrying your power supply, spare batteries, cosmetic bag and brush The compartment is easily zipped closed with a double-headed zipper

Please visit my etsy shop http://www.mareri.etsy.com/

MARERI laptop bag with shoulder strap.

Whether you are buying a new laptop bag for yourself, or need a gift for someone else.... why not go with a laptop bag that reflects their personality and uniqueness?
Mareri laptop bags specifically designed for more than just a secure place to store a laptop but I have added functionality and a feminine touch to it. Here's my version of a chichi laptop bag and will definitely stand out in the crowd.


MADE to Order @ http://www.mareri.etsy.com/

Wunderbloc: New York City Boutiques

I came across this website and I instantaneously love it. As a New Yorker, fashion is what we are all about.

Here's a website Wunderbloc. A community and marketplace that defines NY fashion. They created a virtual tour of the most trendiest NYC local boutiques. It's like strolling and shopping around "SOHO", Nolita, Lower East side, East/West Village, Meatpacking District, Tribeca, and of course Brooklyn (just to name a few).

Wunderbloc gives the individual boutique the opportunity to reach and communicate with shoppers beyond his or her sidewalk and gives the individual shopper, regardless of physical location, the chance to explore the latest fashions, trends and boutique offerings from the world's leading boutique communities.

Discover NYC's amazing and diverse boutique in virtual community. Shop hard-to-find items, learn about upcoming sales/events, and even take virtual tours of each boutique. It's for the everyday fashionistas!!!

ECHINO etsuko furuya

Etsuko Furuya pulls nature up close for a big hug! Orange butterflies, blue spiders, and green birds live in a world of polka dot flowers that is woven throughout her prints.

There are endless possibilities what you can make out of this innovative, ultra sturdy and ultra exciting oilcloth imported from Japan. I’ve been eyeing this oilcloth fabrics and for sure this will be my latest sewing project and will be added to Mareri bag collection this fall so stay tuned.....

These pics are taken from Etsuya Furuya's booth textile show. I love it!!!
You can find these and other gorgeous fabrics at PurlSoho, one of my favorite online shops to browse.

Bridesmaids Gift Idea

Who says bridesmaid gifts have to be generic objects with zero appeal? Charm your chums with keepsakes that challenge tradition -- your maids deserve much more than the usual key chain or faux strand of pearls. While shopping, keep each individual maid in mind, choosing imaginative and stylish gifts that come from the heart. From crafty and tasty to just plain indulgent. Here is some clever idea for a present they'll love and will never forget.

PERSONALIZE IT!!! Made to order bags by MARERI

★ screenprinted single letter monogram inside the bag

★message inscription IRON-On transfer for additional

A smaller handbag, just to carry the essentials. This is the perfect accessory to carry a few essentials around.Two darts in the bottom give this clutch 2" in depth for a comfortable cradle in your hand or tuck under your arm.Measures approximately 10" at the widest point x 6" high (when closed) x 2" deep.

Renegade Craft Fair, Brooklyn NY

I attended the 5th Annual Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn and it's an amazing handmade crafts event that brings together some of the country's most talented Indie designers and crafters (like myself, MARERI) for a handcrafted-goods shopping extravaganza. The prices are decent, and with vendors selling everything ranging from stationeries, jewelries, soaps, clothing and accessories and lots of screenprinted T-shirts. ALL HANDMADES!!! "sweatshop" free products :) I will definitely try to get a booth next year!

If you're a fan of the Brooklyn-based Etsy site, if you like shopping for handmade goods, or if you're just looking for unique gifts, then you'll want to stop by Brooklyn's fifth annual Renegade Craft Fair. This year's event took place on June 6 and June 7, from 11am to 7pm at McCarren Park in Brooklyn, NY.


SLAPP HAPPIE

Orangy Porangy

Bridesmaid Wristlets

Made from Japanese imported fabric Echino by Etsuko Furuya and embellished with grossgrain ribbon and sparkly vintage button. This super cute, ultra-handy clutch is perfect for throwing in your keys, phone, some cash and little bit of make-up when you are on the go. Totally practical and great to give as a gift on any occasion.

Evening Wristlet Clutch

The Plum Satin Evening Wristlet Clutch is approximately 12" wide, 5" tall, with a 2" dart bottom pleat. Large enough to carry your cell phone, wallet, checkbook, keys, lip care and is perfect for all your most needed essentials.

The exterior is constructed of a satin. A brooch is pinned into on the front. Inside is lined with a wool fabric. All my bags are reinforced with padded interfacing and double stitching to keep your bag looking great even with everyday use. The perfect gift for a bridal party.