Amy Butler Inspiration

Amy Butler's inspiration page is a wonderful smattering of her beautiful designs and fabrics.

Here is the link to the page I really like:

http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/inspiration/lifestyle.php

New Jacket Class Possibility

Former and future Spark community -

I'm thinking of doing a class on jacket making. This McCall's pattern above is the one I'm thinking of. Any feedback would be welcome - or any other suggestions for patterns/ideas.

Thanks!

Knitting and Sewing, Two Peas in a Pod

Renee P has just started up a knitting blog for Spark! Some of you may remember
Renee from such films as David Hasselhoff Goes Nutty for Knitting, Knitting: Hoff Style, and Don't Hassle the Hoff: A Reflection of the Man Within.

Or some of you may remember her for the fabulous Amy Butler bag and skirt she made, or the glamorous little ruffled aprons she made, or her knowledge and skills for knitting, or her love of luscious fibers, or her witty, blunt remarks during a sewing class.

No matter how you remember Renee the blog will be just like her: sassy and thought-provoking.

Here is the link:
http://www.sparkknits.blogspot.com/

The Skirt Goddess

One of our fabulous Spark students named Melissa will henceforth be known as the Skirt Goddess! Melissa has taken the beginning sewing intensive and summer sundress class at Spark. She has taken a liking to making A-line skirts that fall just below the knee in a plethora of beautiful prints and colors. Since taking the class she has made 10 custom-fit skirts! Here is a smattering of the incredible work she has been doing. Way to go Skirt Goddess!

Sew Everything Workshop

For those looking for a fantastic beginner's sewing book check out Diana Rupp's Sew Everything Workshop. Its a fantastic book. Her writing is inspiring, funny, and very informative. The first half of the book is information about everything sewing, the second half is all project-based. The book includes 10 patterns. Her suggested projects are all stylish and wearable.

Rupp came to do a book signing and workshop on making machine-stitched cards back in February. She was so absolutely sweet and inspirational. She brought some of the projects photographed for the book.

So, if you are looking for a sewing book this is the one to go for!

For more information on Rupp's book and workshops in New York City go to:

http://www.makeworkshop.com/content/sewbook/sewbook.html

ArtBeat

ArtBeat is this Saturday from 11AM-6PM in Davis Square (in Somerville). The theme is green. There are 100 craft vendors (including quite a few Sparkettes - Bonnie Lewiston, Molly Hagan, Kate Casolaro, Teeru Bihani, and myself -Libby Meehan). There is also music and dance performances. Come join us for this crafty outdoor summer event!

For more information go to:

http://www.somervilleartscouncil.org/programs/artbeat/

South End Open Markets - Opening Weekend

Here are some photos from the South End Open Markets Opening Weekend. Spark will be there July 13th, August 24th, October 5th, and October 12th. Spark instructors will be there with information on Spark events, classes, and studio space, as well as selling thier own creations.
The the left is a linen appliqued skirt by Bonnie. Below is a strapless dress with a vintage crocheted doily and embroidered curtain by Libby.

Above is an original design hand-made by Anne.

www.sowaopenmarket.com