Making Carpet Bags Today

When I bought my 1866 house it had a large, worn, area rug that covered the wood floor in the front room. It had faded flowers in lovely colors, although faded from many years. A few places were really worn. I rolled it up and put it upstairs in the carriage house. Today I was looking for some paint and saw it leaning against the wall. I couldn't remember what it looked like so I brought it outside and unrolled it. It was perfect. Perfect for making Carpet bags. I spent the day cutting it into bag sized pieces, soaking and washing each one and hanging them on the fence to dry. Next step will be the fun step of turning them into beautiful, antique looking carpet bags! I will post some when I get them made.

Upcycled Embellished Sweaters

A long cotton sweater reminiscent of yesterday's dusters worn in open carriage to keep clothing fresh and unspoiled from the the dusty, horse trodden travel of dirt roads. This sweater is cotton crochet, soft and comfortable, nice and long, in a natural ecru color. I made a silk handkerchief pin from an antique hanky and a bit of lace for the front. The back has two lace appliques hand stitched with purple and green silk embroidery floss. The Parisian cotton ribbon is hand stamped with "Paris" and ties in the front and in the back to give a feminine fit. I am restyling a series of sweaters from cashmere to cotton with trims and altercations to make them romantic, one of kind, pieces.

Upcycled Restyled Shoes

This is a great way to recycle and reuse. Shoes that have lost their fashion edge just need a little bit of tweaking to become new again and more of a statement than they ever dreamed of. By adding scraps of velvet, vintage silks, and bits of lace the blah have become "belles chaussures" (beautiful shoes). They can take center stage and not only be a focal point but are also one-of-kind and can not be owned by another. You can find the shoes pictured on my http://www.stacyleighatelier.etsy.com/ site.

Through a Glass Dimly

Here are some pictures I took of the new shop from the outside looking in. Also, a few new items in the store and of course, Buddy. I am open on weekends so feel free to come see.......

Cashmere Lace and Ribbon RePurposed Statement Necklaces Fit for a Queen

Here are some examples of my friend's beautiful creations that I am featuring in the Atelier. Soft, lovely, one-0f-a-kind textile jewelry.

Roses for My Opening (Thanks Dad!) They are beautiful!

1st Day

Yesterday was my 1st day to open the shop. I had around a dozen people and everyone really gave me positive feedback. I had several try on garments in the cozy little dressing room that looks like a little bedroom. 3 sales were made and I finished a new sweater top as I worked. It was a great 1st day!

I had really great help from my friend from NestBoxVintage.etsy.com who had fun decorating the twig filled ceiling with bird's nests. My folks were great help and support as well. The space is lovey, inspiring, and I am sure to have many happy days to follow. Here are some pictures of the shop filled with clothing, bags, jewelry, willow furniture, and eclectic antiques.