9.26.2007

:: when I set paint to paper, needle to fabric ::

autumn w.i.p.

[ This is how I’ve happily spent a few hours today; working on a small bunch of little squirrels for the Shoppe! ]

A few months ago I picked up a cheap set of palette watercolors (the background of the photos posted yesterday), mostly because I was tired of feeling intimidated by the rather dull hues in my Windsor Newton set. I honestly have a huge love/hate relationship with color and the way it intimidates me in relation to putting it down on paper. I like to dabble with paints, but hate picking a color scheme (hence my artwork, tends to be black and white). I actually have a love/hate relationship with fine art materials in general... but I digress! I bought this little set and had it propped up beside my computer for ages. I liked just looking at the bright, happy colors and being inspired by them. I finally decided that I should actually use these, rather than just let them sit (and look pretty...). I painted a few of my design sketches Monday:

design page

Which leads me right into what I’ve been scheming and mulling over for the past two weeks: designing new garments! I don’t want to spill all the beans right yet (after all, this year has taught me to definitely never count my chickens before they hatch!!), so I’m going to let the photos do a little story telling of their own:

sketches, fabric, pattern

jacket design

little red schoolhouse blouse

Lots of things are in the works, and I’m eager to share them with you as they roll off the sewing machine!

cheers & creativity,
    ♥ casey [ email me ]

p.s. I just stumbled upon the most delightful clothing line this morning! Check out Cirque du Cheval for some really cute, girlish designs! I just wish there was more information on the site...

6 comments:

Kelly said...

That's so funny, because I'm the exact opposite! I love picking color schemes (in fact I've been told color schemes are generally the strongest elements of my designs), but paints themselves intimidate me. I'm unfamiliar with the medium, and the thought of mixing paints to match my scheme is practically paralyzing!

But congratulations on confronting a fear - the color schemes on these look great! The warm, rusty hues are wonderful for fall, but the hints of blue preserve a fresh punch. Can't wait to see these in fabric!

Sandra Evertson said...

Your remarks about fine art materials really hit home! Me too! Wonder what that means?!
Your illustrations are simply beautiful!
Sandra Evertson

leslie said...

i love your little sketches, they're lovely!

Anonymous said...

Your designs are really really fabulous, Casey. I can't wait to see them made up! Those little squirrels are adorable too. ~ Lynda ♥

Anonymous said...

I adore your crisp costume sketches and creamy colours....oh and your lovely handwriting! :) It's all so dreamy!

sulu-design said...

The new design illustrations are gorgeous. I hope we see these all sewn up!