Everything has started back up again. While it is an exciting reminder that my life is rich and full and interesting, I am tired.
Training for AIDS/LifeCycle, Apparel Arts class and Dr Sketchy's all began again about two weeks ago.
It has been wonderful to get outside again on the bike and the routes are relatively flat...for now. I'm riding with Joseph's Sunday Cat two group until Team Unpopular starts up with training. Last week, some of my team mates joined up with the group and we had a nice time catching up. I now know that the year will be like this: I see a group of folks for about six months, we do a special type of socializing that makes the miles and hills go by, then that fades out in the fall and winter months. And that is ok. Right now it's like this.
During fall and winter I had more time to myself to work on projects. Right now I have about 3 projects in need of some attention, and this is distressing me. I have two skirts that I'm drafting/sewing for pay and trade. And one Ad for trade. I'm grateful for all of these projects, just juggling a bit at the moment.
I wish that I could say training was always awesome. I am right now grumpy and tired from Sunday-Tuesday commitments. I have not committed to any randonneuring this year, I just can't add anything more to my plate. I also want to be there for family and friends.
I am attempting to eat real food for training, still focusing on little to no sugar and taking fruit and likely a homemade 'Nutella' sandwich with me in the near future. I started craving sugar really badly after my first training ride, I felt depressed about not having it.
In Apparel Arts, I'm really trying to stick to the schedule that Suzy gave out to the students at the end of last year. I've drafted all of the dart manipulation exercises, about 8 fronts and 3 backs. I cut out 3 fronts and backs in class on Monday and sewed them up last night. I feel like if I can do homework one night during the week, then I should be ok.
I am excited about Spring. I would like to make a midi skirt, a flow-y dress, and a jumpsuit one day. I did decide on a low buy/no buy until I save for my travel commitments. It's going ok, one day at a time. Right now, I'm digging out my spring color cardigans, and corals and pink makeup...trying to use what I already have instead of buying new things. I'm ready and California is experiencing some warm weather so it's easy to play.
On Tuesday, we had the second Dr Sketchy's of the year with Vivian De Milo. We had 10 or so volunteers, so set up and break down were a breeze. Our model is very gifted, V has impeccable taste and style. V also posed for us as a girl and a boy, which I love. I've been reading more about gender and what a mixed up fluid thing it can be. How one self identifies, who one wants to be partnered with, feeling like one is in the wrong body. It's nice to celebrate it with drawing.
I'm playing with watercolors, I found this blog: http://www.lizsteel.com/2013/04/my-basic-palette.html
Which lead me to this resource: http://www.handprint.com/HP/WCL/water.html
And then I started geeking and pinning watercolor palettes: http://www.pinterest.com/alicestribling/art-illustration/
Aaaaaand I did make a new palette purchase from Daniel Smith. :) I also purchased a test paint set from them and now I have a list of colors that I want, see below. It's the first time I've really customized my watercolors for what I like, and not just what comes in the preset palette. It's very exciting! I like lots of bright colors, and my day job is in the print industry, so of course I like CMYK and BRIGHTS.
I'll sign off with some eye candy. Don't forget that I'm offering drawings for AIDS/LifeCycle donations. $300 gets you a drawing. Monthly donations are encouraged!!
http://www.tofighthiv.org/goto/AliceStribling2014
Showing posts with label Sewing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sewing. Show all posts
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Monday, November 25, 2013
Things that I'm into right now
self drafted straight skirt. Waxed denim.
self drafted straight skirt with zipper
moulage. I'm getting the hang of it.
first fitting of my western shirt jacket. Japanese raw slub denim. Al's Attire.
self drafted snakeskin pencil skirt. will have zipper.
Friday, November 22, 2013
2013 in review
It's a little early, but I'm ready to review. I present to you 2013, broken out into categories.
Practice
This year I changed my alarm so that I have 15 minutes to sit in the morning. This was about 2-3 months ago, now I find myself waking up earlier to get in a 30 minute sit every day.
I find myself wanting to learn more about concentration, equanimity and compassion. My practice now is doing kind and friendly things, even if I don't feel kind and friendly. When I feel really cranky about something, I write down something for which I am grateful. This is sticky because I want to write about material luxuries, but try to find something else.
Apparel Arts
I started taking pattern making classes last January, it has changed my life in a lot of positive ways. Like most people, I have a complex relationship with clothing and fit. But I love clothes so this was a way to make clothing mine. The first section was skirts. I wasn't even interested in skirts before I started taking this class. But now I know that skirts can fit into the weekly wardrobe as easily as jeans.
I learned that I may have an idea for a long time, even over a year, before I can make it.
The gorgeous thing about style is that it can be ever changing and flowing. One style need not define me every day, deciding what I want to wear every day can be fun.
I have enough. Well thought out basics are better than impulsive and trendy purchases. When one has the right pieces, they can mimic the trends if one would like.
Dr Sketchy's
This year we successfully had two events a month at Chicken John's warehouse. The community is wonderful, our space is great, I am grateful to have this opportunity. I like drawing twice a month, I like picking the models. My drawing is always improving and I really like using watercolors.
Family
Bio: Super complex in 2013, but we seem to be past a crisis stage with my father's health. He seems happy, for now he can talk on the phone and he laughs. Mom has adjusted to the changes. We have a lot of help. I show up when I need to, even if I don't always feel like it.
My local chosen family and community rocks. I love my babycakes and the cats.
Financial
You Need a Budget and Mr Money Mustache are changing my views on money. I currently do a pretty good job of saving, but I am very interested in early retirement. I've been looking at a lot of things differently than in the past and I'm grateful that I started saving early. I'm questioning all expenses.
Health/Riding
Lot of accomplishments in this category in 2013. Did AIDS/LifeCycle break down the mental hurdle that kept me thinking that some things couldn't be accomplished? Oh yes.
6 months of training and a 545 mile ride to LA were pretty special. My team, the feeling of helping people, being of service and accomplishing this major goal felt wonderful.
I was also able to participate in some 200ks with SFR this year as well. It's nice to be with that community.
I lost over ten pounds this year, I've lost 35 total. It feels weird to see the hollows under my cheekbones, I like them.
There is a relationship now between art and riding, in that I've been designing posters for SFR and for commission projects.
I just quit sugar in what I am calling 'No Sugar November'. I had a headache for the first 9 days. Eating bread makes me feel the same, and starts the craving cycle. I'm not sure that I am ready to take on bread and grains.
Style
A big year for style! I'm very excited about it. Bill and I both explored the option of getting custom clothing. In the Spring, I started out looking for dress shoes/flats that would replace a pair of shoes that I bought in London in 2006. Eventually it led me to Al's Attire and I had them remade! In my size!
My joke is that there is no venn diagram where wide feet and cute intersect. I ordered two pairs of custom shoes this year and have ideas about what I might like to invest in next year.
I took some fabric that I bought for myself and Bill into Al's and we had shirts made as well.
I'm exploring skirt shapes, volume, color, not so much pattern (this is a hard one), accessories and modern fashion. My Pinterest is about shapes and inspiration. One lesson that Apparel Arts has taught me is that I can hold onto that inspiration as long as I need it, eventually I will have the skills to make whatever I want. And that, while it is clinging, is also freedom.
Evernote
This may sound crazy but Evernote kind of changed my life. I track all of my projects and interests using Evernote, I clip web pages, recipes, all of it. I found out about it from reading an article on the founders of ModCloth.
One big thing I did this year was track all the clothing whims that I had, that I wanted to purchase. I found that most of the things I bought online I sent back, and most of the things that I thought I wanted, if I write them down and think about it for a while...well they don't really interest me for very long. Or if they do, then it is worth saving the money. Trades also rock.
Anyhoo, that's it. Thanks for reading.
Practice
This year I changed my alarm so that I have 15 minutes to sit in the morning. This was about 2-3 months ago, now I find myself waking up earlier to get in a 30 minute sit every day.
I find myself wanting to learn more about concentration, equanimity and compassion. My practice now is doing kind and friendly things, even if I don't feel kind and friendly. When I feel really cranky about something, I write down something for which I am grateful. This is sticky because I want to write about material luxuries, but try to find something else.
Apparel Arts
I started taking pattern making classes last January, it has changed my life in a lot of positive ways. Like most people, I have a complex relationship with clothing and fit. But I love clothes so this was a way to make clothing mine. The first section was skirts. I wasn't even interested in skirts before I started taking this class. But now I know that skirts can fit into the weekly wardrobe as easily as jeans.
I learned that I may have an idea for a long time, even over a year, before I can make it.
The gorgeous thing about style is that it can be ever changing and flowing. One style need not define me every day, deciding what I want to wear every day can be fun.
I have enough. Well thought out basics are better than impulsive and trendy purchases. When one has the right pieces, they can mimic the trends if one would like.
Dr Sketchy's
This year we successfully had two events a month at Chicken John's warehouse. The community is wonderful, our space is great, I am grateful to have this opportunity. I like drawing twice a month, I like picking the models. My drawing is always improving and I really like using watercolors.
Family
Bio: Super complex in 2013, but we seem to be past a crisis stage with my father's health. He seems happy, for now he can talk on the phone and he laughs. Mom has adjusted to the changes. We have a lot of help. I show up when I need to, even if I don't always feel like it.
My local chosen family and community rocks. I love my babycakes and the cats.
Financial
You Need a Budget and Mr Money Mustache are changing my views on money. I currently do a pretty good job of saving, but I am very interested in early retirement. I've been looking at a lot of things differently than in the past and I'm grateful that I started saving early. I'm questioning all expenses.
Health/Riding
Lot of accomplishments in this category in 2013. Did AIDS/LifeCycle break down the mental hurdle that kept me thinking that some things couldn't be accomplished? Oh yes.
6 months of training and a 545 mile ride to LA were pretty special. My team, the feeling of helping people, being of service and accomplishing this major goal felt wonderful.
I was also able to participate in some 200ks with SFR this year as well. It's nice to be with that community.
I lost over ten pounds this year, I've lost 35 total. It feels weird to see the hollows under my cheekbones, I like them.
There is a relationship now between art and riding, in that I've been designing posters for SFR and for commission projects.
I just quit sugar in what I am calling 'No Sugar November'. I had a headache for the first 9 days. Eating bread makes me feel the same, and starts the craving cycle. I'm not sure that I am ready to take on bread and grains.
Style
A big year for style! I'm very excited about it. Bill and I both explored the option of getting custom clothing. In the Spring, I started out looking for dress shoes/flats that would replace a pair of shoes that I bought in London in 2006. Eventually it led me to Al's Attire and I had them remade! In my size!
My joke is that there is no venn diagram where wide feet and cute intersect. I ordered two pairs of custom shoes this year and have ideas about what I might like to invest in next year.
I took some fabric that I bought for myself and Bill into Al's and we had shirts made as well.
I'm exploring skirt shapes, volume, color, not so much pattern (this is a hard one), accessories and modern fashion. My Pinterest is about shapes and inspiration. One lesson that Apparel Arts has taught me is that I can hold onto that inspiration as long as I need it, eventually I will have the skills to make whatever I want. And that, while it is clinging, is also freedom.
Evernote
This may sound crazy but Evernote kind of changed my life. I track all of my projects and interests using Evernote, I clip web pages, recipes, all of it. I found out about it from reading an article on the founders of ModCloth.
One big thing I did this year was track all the clothing whims that I had, that I wanted to purchase. I found that most of the things I bought online I sent back, and most of the things that I thought I wanted, if I write them down and think about it for a while...well they don't really interest me for very long. Or if they do, then it is worth saving the money. Trades also rock.
Anyhoo, that's it. Thanks for reading.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Style: Al's again, and Apparel Arts
Over the last couple of weeks I have been dealing with some family stuff. We were also busy at work finishing up some projects. It finally feels like things are starting to settle down, and I'm glad. I feel like hibernating a little bit for the winter. I'm going to take some time off the bike and I'm looking forward to some dark, cold time to snuggle indoors with the cats, my baby and some sewing.
Last year I bought some fabric with the intention of making Babycakes a shirt, and me a denim shirt jacket. B's is a nice Viyella shadow plaid and I got some beautiful Japanese raw slub denim. I was in over my head with my skill level though, and we decided instead to order these from Al's Attire.
While I was disappointed that I couldn't realize my vision, and bummed that I made a birthday present commitment that I couldn't keep, I'm glad to have that 'to do' item in the works. Bill ordered a nice button up work shirt, and I'll have a great western style layering piece.
I'm finishing up my 2nd final skirt for Apparel Arts. I'm very pleased with what I've accomplished. I found my inspiration last fall (from Spring 2013), pinned them to Pinterest, started school in January, and 10 months later I've almost completed both of these garments.
I learned the pattern drafting theory, drafted two slopers (had to make a second one because I lost weight), completed 12 skirt pattern exercises, including muslins, and then followed through on a vision that I had a year ago.
It's hard to be patient with the process, because I want to get to shirts, but it's nice to stop for a minute and reflect on everything that I have done.
I didn't really wear many skirts before I started pattern drafting. Now I have the skills to draft and make whatever I want, so now I'm working out what pieces I could use to fill out my closet. Likely basics, timeless pieces that I can wear for work and to ride in...of course. :)
Last year I bought some fabric with the intention of making Babycakes a shirt, and me a denim shirt jacket. B's is a nice Viyella shadow plaid and I got some beautiful Japanese raw slub denim. I was in over my head with my skill level though, and we decided instead to order these from Al's Attire.
While I was disappointed that I couldn't realize my vision, and bummed that I made a birthday present commitment that I couldn't keep, I'm glad to have that 'to do' item in the works. Bill ordered a nice button up work shirt, and I'll have a great western style layering piece.
I'm finishing up my 2nd final skirt for Apparel Arts. I'm very pleased with what I've accomplished. I found my inspiration last fall (from Spring 2013), pinned them to Pinterest, started school in January, and 10 months later I've almost completed both of these garments.
I learned the pattern drafting theory, drafted two slopers (had to make a second one because I lost weight), completed 12 skirt pattern exercises, including muslins, and then followed through on a vision that I had a year ago.
It's hard to be patient with the process, because I want to get to shirts, but it's nice to stop for a minute and reflect on everything that I have done.
I didn't really wear many skirts before I started pattern drafting. Now I have the skills to draft and make whatever I want, so now I'm working out what pieces I could use to fill out my closet. Likely basics, timeless pieces that I can wear for work and to ride in...of course. :)
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Stuff and Things
Currently I find myself in Wyckoff, NJ visiting with babycake's mom. This is after a weekend spent with my mom and dad in South Carolina. My parents' living situation has changed recently, they both have their own apartments in their living facility in Spartanburg.
As I'm beginning to understand, dementia has different cycles: crisis, stasis, crisis, stasis. Couple months ago we had a crisis, now we are trying to find equilibrium.
We've hired Geriatric Resource Services and I think they will help to make things more relaxed for everyone involved. I am grateful to have a weekend with my dad where he seems happy and we laugh. I'm sure that things will change. It is possible that one day he will not know who I am and I will have to find the strength to accept him as he is. I find it helpful to stay grounded in gratitude.
We're traveling to New York in a couple of days and I might witness Fashion Week. Since I've been in Apparel Arts, I've been tracking garment shapes and silhouettes on Pinterest. Learning about Fashion without schooling is a challenge. I would say that I've always been interested in style, but I haven't always been flexible in my style. I do find it fascinating to see style chameleons, one who can really can take on and off a persona with a season. I'm developing a willingness to try new things. When one has curves, it can be scary to play with volume for example. One doesn't want to make ones hips look bigger for instance by wearing something with more volume on the bottom. But fuck it. Why not try it? That's where I am.
I had some time over the Labor Day weekend to sew. I forgot something very important, and that is you must always staystitch the top of the skirt pieces so that they don't stretch out as they are being handled. This one stretched. My waistband was an inch and a half shorter than the top of the skirt, oof. I even went so far as to cut a new bigger waistband before I finally figured out what had happened. Fortunately experienced folks on the internets helped me and I was able to spray and iron it back into shape.
This photos shows that the skirt did indeed shrink back down so that it fit the waistband again.
Making stuff can be very very hard. I tend to get down about things when they don't work out, my biggest challenge in life is keeping a positive attitude. Cycling and meditating have taught me that things will always change and to keep going.
My mother was talking about my father over the weekend and she had that he was very good at starting projects and not as good at finishing them. I guess that I learned this and am attempting to overcome it.
I did this little guy at Dr Sketchy's Roller Derby.
Al's Attire finished my walking boots.
It was the summer of custom shoes, I saved for these and it was totally worth it. They are beautiful, comfortable and they are going to last forever.
I'll probably hold off on another pair for a while, I would like to get a tall pair of boots in the next 6 months or for next Fall. I never find tall boots that fit. My legs are very curvy and pretty 17" calf boots are hard to find. Al wants to put me into a pair of button boots. We'll see.
As I'm beginning to understand, dementia has different cycles: crisis, stasis, crisis, stasis. Couple months ago we had a crisis, now we are trying to find equilibrium.
We've hired Geriatric Resource Services and I think they will help to make things more relaxed for everyone involved. I am grateful to have a weekend with my dad where he seems happy and we laugh. I'm sure that things will change. It is possible that one day he will not know who I am and I will have to find the strength to accept him as he is. I find it helpful to stay grounded in gratitude.
We're traveling to New York in a couple of days and I might witness Fashion Week. Since I've been in Apparel Arts, I've been tracking garment shapes and silhouettes on Pinterest. Learning about Fashion without schooling is a challenge. I would say that I've always been interested in style, but I haven't always been flexible in my style. I do find it fascinating to see style chameleons, one who can really can take on and off a persona with a season. I'm developing a willingness to try new things. When one has curves, it can be scary to play with volume for example. One doesn't want to make ones hips look bigger for instance by wearing something with more volume on the bottom. But fuck it. Why not try it? That's where I am.
I had some time over the Labor Day weekend to sew. I forgot something very important, and that is you must always staystitch the top of the skirt pieces so that they don't stretch out as they are being handled. This one stretched. My waistband was an inch and a half shorter than the top of the skirt, oof. I even went so far as to cut a new bigger waistband before I finally figured out what had happened. Fortunately experienced folks on the internets helped me and I was able to spray and iron it back into shape.
This photos shows that the skirt did indeed shrink back down so that it fit the waistband again.
Making stuff can be very very hard. I tend to get down about things when they don't work out, my biggest challenge in life is keeping a positive attitude. Cycling and meditating have taught me that things will always change and to keep going.
My mother was talking about my father over the weekend and she had that he was very good at starting projects and not as good at finishing them. I guess that I learned this and am attempting to overcome it.
I did this little guy at Dr Sketchy's Roller Derby.
Al's Attire finished my walking boots.
It was the summer of custom shoes, I saved for these and it was totally worth it. They are beautiful, comfortable and they are going to last forever.
I'll probably hold off on another pair for a while, I would like to get a tall pair of boots in the next 6 months or for next Fall. I never find tall boots that fit. My legs are very curvy and pretty 17" calf boots are hard to find. Al wants to put me into a pair of button boots. We'll see.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Process: Apparel Arts skirts
I've been doing this Apparel Arts thing since January and all I seem to post are unbleached muslin process photos. It feels simultaneously like the least fulfilling thing that I do and the most fulfilling thing that I do. Where is the finished product??? In my brain so far...
The first topic, skirts, didn't hold that much appeal for me before I started. I don't usually wear them. In the bare legs department, I usually prefer dresses because they are easy for work. Throw on one piece and you are done. Skirts have to be STYLED. Maybe one can wear a tshirt with them but it never feels quite put together. I tended towards jean skirts for many years and now I want to take it further.
My class is great. We work independently with a teacher, Heather, who comes around to talk to each of us individually. The goal is to work our way through a book that was written by the founder of the school, Suzy Furrer.
The pattern drafting course can take 2-3 years to complete. It's up to us how fast we move. Personally I have had to do most of my work in class, I don't have a lot of time for homework. But that's why I decided in the first place that this was a possibility, it's very flexible and there is no up front financial commitment. I pay as I go and it doesn't matter how long it takes. When I have time, of course I like to do work at home.
Anyway eight months (Aids/LifeCycle, a tour, and some family bombs later) and I'm onto my final two skirt projects, which I'm making in fashion fabric. Yeehaw! My first skirt is inspired by a JCrew skirt from their 2013 Spring collection. It's a pretty simple shape, one that we even did in an exercise: the inverted box pleat.
The first round of design needed more drama. I think I did pretty much what we did in the book exercise, 3" box pleat, and small extension for more of an A-line
shape. When I tried on the muslin, I wanted more. So I added a deeper pleat and more flare.
This also has a jump pleat lining, and the first muslin was a learning experience for how to neatly fit it in with the box pleat.
It's not supposed to look like this!
The second muslin also sort of sucked to put together, but I did it. Damnit. I now have a list of how to put together the final,
This is more like it. I know you people are like what is this? I promise to post the final skirt when it is done.
Again, this is the inspiration.
Here are some drawrrrings and notes.
Drawings and notes for the second skirt, which is still in the works.
Inverted box pleat muslin.
Gathered panel skirt muslin.
This is my inspiration for the second skirt. I hope that it will look similar to this when it is done. Easy, breasy. A little volume and yet flattering for my curves. From Marc Jacobs Spring 2013 collection. Photo by the Satorialist.
The first topic, skirts, didn't hold that much appeal for me before I started. I don't usually wear them. In the bare legs department, I usually prefer dresses because they are easy for work. Throw on one piece and you are done. Skirts have to be STYLED. Maybe one can wear a tshirt with them but it never feels quite put together. I tended towards jean skirts for many years and now I want to take it further.
My class is great. We work independently with a teacher, Heather, who comes around to talk to each of us individually. The goal is to work our way through a book that was written by the founder of the school, Suzy Furrer.
The pattern drafting course can take 2-3 years to complete. It's up to us how fast we move. Personally I have had to do most of my work in class, I don't have a lot of time for homework. But that's why I decided in the first place that this was a possibility, it's very flexible and there is no up front financial commitment. I pay as I go and it doesn't matter how long it takes. When I have time, of course I like to do work at home.
Anyway eight months (Aids/LifeCycle, a tour, and some family bombs later) and I'm onto my final two skirt projects, which I'm making in fashion fabric. Yeehaw! My first skirt is inspired by a JCrew skirt from their 2013 Spring collection. It's a pretty simple shape, one that we even did in an exercise: the inverted box pleat.
The first round of design needed more drama. I think I did pretty much what we did in the book exercise, 3" box pleat, and small extension for more of an A-line
shape. When I tried on the muslin, I wanted more. So I added a deeper pleat and more flare.
This also has a jump pleat lining, and the first muslin was a learning experience for how to neatly fit it in with the box pleat.
It's not supposed to look like this!
The second muslin also sort of sucked to put together, but I did it. Damnit. I now have a list of how to put together the final,
This is more like it. I know you people are like what is this? I promise to post the final skirt when it is done.
Again, this is the inspiration.
Here are some drawrrrings and notes.
Drawings and notes for the second skirt, which is still in the works.
Inverted box pleat muslin.
Gathered panel skirt muslin.
This is my inspiration for the second skirt. I hope that it will look similar to this when it is done. Easy, breasy. A little volume and yet flattering for my curves. From Marc Jacobs Spring 2013 collection. Photo by the Satorialist.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Oh hey...thoughts on consuming and making
Oh hey my brain. Always working non stop. Lately some of the thoughts have been if only I had clothes that fit me really well and looked really good, I would...
be happier?
have a great life?
like I don't have a great life?
Ugh.
I would like to have some money and time and luck to find some new jeans. Found 3 pair last fall and they are too big now and wearing out and fading. I could dye them I guess.
Edit: Due to my tangle with the Market Street tracks yesterday, I am down a pair!
Apparel Arts ended up being very fulfilling Monday. I finished my final two skirt exercises. I started these so long ago, like 4 weeks ago, and so much has happened since then that they really did feel like they took forever to make. I was happy to finish them and to start drafting patterns for my two final fashion skirts. I feel energized around doing something creative and making something. It was fun to sew this week at home and at Apparel Arts. I have made SIXTEEN skirts since January!
The skirt on the right (JCrew fall 2013) is inspiration for one of my fashion skirts.
Marc Jacobs I think Spring 2013 is the other inspiration.
It's been interesting to track my fashion whims through the spring of 2013. I had Big Fashion Plans at the beginning of the season, I think I was excited by the prospect of being in pattern drafting class and what I could do with it. I made lists of things that I wanted and trends that I was interested in. Then I kept track of all the things that I sold so that I could then buy...and return! During 3 months, Feb-April, I had THIRTY transactions from this list and the only thing I really held onto was a denim NOOWORKs dress and a yellow 60s Modcloth dress. Oh and I'm still really excited about is the custom kitten heels that Al's Attire is making.
Of course in Feb, March, April there was this idea that it was getting warmer and Summer was coming. I wanted dresses! Now in June, it tends to be cold and overcast in SF and jeans are the only reasonable answer to that chill. Dresses? Brrr.
What I've learned is that whatever whim I have about buying something usually dies down if I put it on a 'hold' list and prioritize the things that I want to purchase. Some things stay on the list and remain a priority. Other things just never make it to the top of the list because there is a finite amount of money and it can't go everywhere!
I strive to make purchases for the long haul, things that stand the test of time because they are beautifully made. Sometimes sitting with a decision for a long time means that I come up with some creative solution, like making it or making an alteration that makes something work better or just fucking making do with what I already have.
Being creative is satisfying. (sometimes) :) Consuming is...complicated.
be happier?
have a great life?
like I don't have a great life?
Ugh.
I would like to have some money and time and luck to find some new jeans. Found 3 pair last fall and they are too big now and wearing out and fading. I could dye them I guess.
Edit: Due to my tangle with the Market Street tracks yesterday, I am down a pair!
Apparel Arts ended up being very fulfilling Monday. I finished my final two skirt exercises. I started these so long ago, like 4 weeks ago, and so much has happened since then that they really did feel like they took forever to make. I was happy to finish them and to start drafting patterns for my two final fashion skirts. I feel energized around doing something creative and making something. It was fun to sew this week at home and at Apparel Arts. I have made SIXTEEN skirts since January!
The skirt on the right (JCrew fall 2013) is inspiration for one of my fashion skirts.
Marc Jacobs I think Spring 2013 is the other inspiration.
It's been interesting to track my fashion whims through the spring of 2013. I had Big Fashion Plans at the beginning of the season, I think I was excited by the prospect of being in pattern drafting class and what I could do with it. I made lists of things that I wanted and trends that I was interested in. Then I kept track of all the things that I sold so that I could then buy...and return! During 3 months, Feb-April, I had THIRTY transactions from this list and the only thing I really held onto was a denim NOOWORKs dress and a yellow 60s Modcloth dress. Oh and I'm still really excited about is the custom kitten heels that Al's Attire is making.
Of course in Feb, March, April there was this idea that it was getting warmer and Summer was coming. I wanted dresses! Now in June, it tends to be cold and overcast in SF and jeans are the only reasonable answer to that chill. Dresses? Brrr.
What I've learned is that whatever whim I have about buying something usually dies down if I put it on a 'hold' list and prioritize the things that I want to purchase. Some things stay on the list and remain a priority. Other things just never make it to the top of the list because there is a finite amount of money and it can't go everywhere!
I strive to make purchases for the long haul, things that stand the test of time because they are beautifully made. Sometimes sitting with a decision for a long time means that I come up with some creative solution, like making it or making an alteration that makes something work better or just fucking making do with what I already have.
Being creative is satisfying. (sometimes) :) Consuming is...complicated.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
It's a hard life if you live it
My heart has been heavy this week. My family is struggling with my Dad's every changing behavior due to dementia. Last weekend was particularly stressful, and I've been recovering. I've been holding things close, not riding, and I've thrown myself into a project.
The not riding was intentional, because I'm participating in a two-day ride up to the Russian River this week with the Positive Pedalers. We ride 75 miles up the coast Saturday, camp overnight, then return inland through Petaluma on Sunday.
I have had some amazing insight into my process this week.
1) When I'm planning for a trip and it gets closer to the trip I want to buy things! Because somehow what I have can't work. : /
2) When I'm upset I feel more like making things than spinning pedals.
3) I have a wonderful support system.
4) The hurt passes with time.
5) Good things and bad things happen. Sometimes at the same time.
It's spring break and we had Monday off at Apparel Arts. I worked on this instead:
This is my Freddie Mercury sash.
I would like to thank Margaret Jayko for the title of this post. She and I used to work together, and often she would say this quote, in a thick New York accent. It's true.
Also, if you are into meditating and would like to hear a nice dharma talk about Anxiety, I can recommend this talk by one of my favorite teachers, Matthew Brensilver. It's helping.
The not riding was intentional, because I'm participating in a two-day ride up to the Russian River this week with the Positive Pedalers. We ride 75 miles up the coast Saturday, camp overnight, then return inland through Petaluma on Sunday.
I have had some amazing insight into my process this week.
1) When I'm planning for a trip and it gets closer to the trip I want to buy things! Because somehow what I have can't work. : /
2) When I'm upset I feel more like making things than spinning pedals.
3) I have a wonderful support system.
4) The hurt passes with time.
5) Good things and bad things happen. Sometimes at the same time.
It's spring break and we had Monday off at Apparel Arts. I worked on this instead:
This is my Freddie Mercury sash.
I would like to thank Margaret Jayko for the title of this post. She and I used to work together, and often she would say this quote, in a thick New York accent. It's true.
Also, if you are into meditating and would like to hear a nice dharma talk about Anxiety, I can recommend this talk by one of my favorite teachers, Matthew Brensilver. It's helping.
Tuesday, April 09, 2013
Two training rides/week
I bumped up my training rides to two last weekend, a Headlands 35 miler with 2400' of climbing and a 55 mile ride out to Fairfax and back with 4600' of climbing. At least these are the stats according to Ridewithgps. It's good enough for me.
My friend Kacey and I enjoyed a foggy one Saturday. There was nothing at all to be seen in the Headlands and we were on top of the ever changing tone of fog horns as we popped over the GG bridge. Believe it or not there were tourists out on rent-a-bikes.
We did the loop and took McCullough road back to the roundabout. Now I know why people ride out through the tunnel to Bunker road, McCullough is a-bitch-of-a-never-ending climb. I could feel my legs at the end of this ride for sure.
I was able to cut out patterns Saturday afternoon, yay! I had 3 flared skirts on the chopping block: Princess flare, A line and bias flare.
Had a Saturday night work function that kept me out past a decent bedtime. 5am sure did come early.
The Cat 2 folks wanted to get us over the bridge early due to a race, 6:30 is indeed the earliest I have ever ridden over the bridge. Even SFR events tend to start later than this.
Since I had been sick the previous week and trained Saturday, I opted out of the full 75 mile ride. That was smart on my part because I was exhausted afterwards. The rest of Sunday was a wash on the bed watching Mad Men & Game of Thrones. I was too tired to even nap properly.
My team training recommends starting two training rides/week in April and I'm glad that I am doing it. This weekend was a crash course in what the 7 day ride will be like and I hope to survive without my crankypants.
Yesteday was pretty tough, I could have slept all day. It does make me wonder if I'm overtraining or if this is just what happens when the levels get bumped up. (Tuesday my legs feel fine and I feel rested so there you go). Recovery is an interesting process.
Last night night in Apparel Arts was all assembly line, all night. I pinned together all 3 skirts, then banged them out on the sewing machine. They all fit really well, if not a little too big now. I am drafting a circle skirt with a smaller waist to see if I'm on the right track. I am pretty sure that my waist has narrowed by 2 inches since I started class in January. If the tape measure is to be believed, I have also shrunk 2 inches in the low hip. Bike riding changes your body for sure.
Tonight is Dr Sketchy's 'April in Paris'!
March mileage= 400
Fundraising= $3850
Donations gladly accepted here: http://www.tofighthiv.org/goto/AliceStribling
My friend Kacey and I enjoyed a foggy one Saturday. There was nothing at all to be seen in the Headlands and we were on top of the ever changing tone of fog horns as we popped over the GG bridge. Believe it or not there were tourists out on rent-a-bikes.
We did the loop and took McCullough road back to the roundabout. Now I know why people ride out through the tunnel to Bunker road, McCullough is a-bitch-of-a-never-ending climb. I could feel my legs at the end of this ride for sure.
I was able to cut out patterns Saturday afternoon, yay! I had 3 flared skirts on the chopping block: Princess flare, A line and bias flare.
Had a Saturday night work function that kept me out past a decent bedtime. 5am sure did come early.
The Cat 2 folks wanted to get us over the bridge early due to a race, 6:30 is indeed the earliest I have ever ridden over the bridge. Even SFR events tend to start later than this.
Since I had been sick the previous week and trained Saturday, I opted out of the full 75 mile ride. That was smart on my part because I was exhausted afterwards. The rest of Sunday was a wash on the bed watching Mad Men & Game of Thrones. I was too tired to even nap properly.
My team training recommends starting two training rides/week in April and I'm glad that I am doing it. This weekend was a crash course in what the 7 day ride will be like and I hope to survive without my crankypants.
Yesteday was pretty tough, I could have slept all day. It does make me wonder if I'm overtraining or if this is just what happens when the levels get bumped up. (Tuesday my legs feel fine and I feel rested so there you go). Recovery is an interesting process.
Last night night in Apparel Arts was all assembly line, all night. I pinned together all 3 skirts, then banged them out on the sewing machine. They all fit really well, if not a little too big now. I am drafting a circle skirt with a smaller waist to see if I'm on the right track. I am pretty sure that my waist has narrowed by 2 inches since I started class in January. If the tape measure is to be believed, I have also shrunk 2 inches in the low hip. Bike riding changes your body for sure.
Tonight is Dr Sketchy's 'April in Paris'!
March mileage= 400
Fundraising= $3850
Donations gladly accepted here: http://www.tofighthiv.org/goto/AliceStribling
Friday, March 08, 2013
Art more
Last Friday I had a little bit of stomach flu. While it didn't knock me out for too long, I felt just crappy enough to stay off the bike.
Monday in Apparel Arts, I sewed up a button placket skirt and drafted a drapey wrap skirt. I'm hoping for some time soon to work on Bill's shirt pattern and a fashion fabric version of one of the patterns I have drafted.
Since I was indoors last weekend, I spent some time watching and practicing watercolor tutorials on youtube.
Lorraine Watry has a great series of 4 videos: http://youtu.be/wbDawbOO8XY
She drew out a grid on her paper, then systematically goes through each technique. Some of the techniques looked a little boring at first, but I decided to give them all a go...and I was pleasantly surprised that I liked them all. I really was surprised how cool the sandpaper/watercolor pencil technique is. Of course I knew that I loved the wet on wet and blooms techniques.
The whole point of doing these tutorials was to have some ideas for color ready for the Dr Sketchy's Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence event on Tuesday!
We love having the Sisters model because they are so dang visually appealing, but also because they are funny and they tell us facts about the work that they do.
Underneath the puns and makeup are ordained ministers, nurses, and community activists. They raise money for folks on the fringes and build community in our amazing city.
Two years ago they blessed Diane and I for our community building with Dr Sketchy's. It is a cherished memory and reminder of how important community is. This was the fourth year that we have had the Sisters model for us.
Sister Mae Joy B With U, Sister T'Aint a Virgin and Sister Jezebel.
Drawing of Sister Jezebel, Sister T'Aint a Virgin and a dime bag full of glitter
Drawings of Sister Mae Joy B With U and Sister T'Aint a Virgin
It was really nice to have some quiet time making art this week. Things can get out of balance pretty quickly 'round here.
Monday in Apparel Arts, I sewed up a button placket skirt and drafted a drapey wrap skirt. I'm hoping for some time soon to work on Bill's shirt pattern and a fashion fabric version of one of the patterns I have drafted.
Since I was indoors last weekend, I spent some time watching and practicing watercolor tutorials on youtube.
Lorraine Watry has a great series of 4 videos: http://youtu.be/wbDawbOO8XY
She drew out a grid on her paper, then systematically goes through each technique. Some of the techniques looked a little boring at first, but I decided to give them all a go...and I was pleasantly surprised that I liked them all. I really was surprised how cool the sandpaper/watercolor pencil technique is. Of course I knew that I loved the wet on wet and blooms techniques.
The whole point of doing these tutorials was to have some ideas for color ready for the Dr Sketchy's Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence event on Tuesday!
We love having the Sisters model because they are so dang visually appealing, but also because they are funny and they tell us facts about the work that they do.
Underneath the puns and makeup are ordained ministers, nurses, and community activists. They raise money for folks on the fringes and build community in our amazing city.
Two years ago they blessed Diane and I for our community building with Dr Sketchy's. It is a cherished memory and reminder of how important community is. This was the fourth year that we have had the Sisters model for us.
Sister Mae Joy B With U, Sister T'Aint a Virgin and Sister Jezebel.
Drawing of Sister Jezebel, Sister T'Aint a Virgin and a dime bag full of glitter
Drawings of Sister Mae Joy B With U and Sister T'Aint a Virgin
It was really nice to have some quiet time making art this week. Things can get out of balance pretty quickly 'round here.
Friday, February 15, 2013
"She's got moxie in spades"
I heard it on an Absolute Ru Paul drag race commercial and it may have changed my life forever. The definition has been running around in my head all week: The ability to face difficulty with spirit and courage.
I have considered changing my middle name to Alice Moxie Stribling.
But of course the more practical solution is to get this tattooed on my person. My logic is that when I'm tired of being in the saddle, I can look down and see it and think about what it is to face difficulty with spirit and courage.
This is who I want to be.
On Sunday, I rode 60 miles out to China Camp and back. I met friends in Mill Valley and we went through some turns that I'll never remember (good thing I have this), through San Rafael and out to the park. It's a beautiful place.
Monday in pattern making, I sewed up the pleated/godet skirt and holy crap I like it. It's very flattering and I'll probably make one in some for-real fabric.
I also cut the fabric for the seamed skirt, there are 4 front pieces and 6 back pieces, so this one is a little time consuming. My teacher showed me how to draft two more patterns to do over the long break (we're off for President's day).
Oh yeah, I got my hair cut. My stylist rocks.
Thanks to Mom's Body Shop, Olivia Olivier, and Dave Groeschel for having their annual $25 Valentine heart tattooing extravaganza. Dave is going to donate all the profits to my AIDS/LifeCycle fund. So awesome.
Sunday is the SFR Two Rock/Valley Ford 200k. I am embracing it.
xoxo,
MOXIE
I have considered changing my middle name to Alice Moxie Stribling.
But of course the more practical solution is to get this tattooed on my person. My logic is that when I'm tired of being in the saddle, I can look down and see it and think about what it is to face difficulty with spirit and courage.
This is who I want to be.
On Sunday, I rode 60 miles out to China Camp and back. I met friends in Mill Valley and we went through some turns that I'll never remember (good thing I have this), through San Rafael and out to the park. It's a beautiful place.
Monday in pattern making, I sewed up the pleated/godet skirt and holy crap I like it. It's very flattering and I'll probably make one in some for-real fabric.
I also cut the fabric for the seamed skirt, there are 4 front pieces and 6 back pieces, so this one is a little time consuming. My teacher showed me how to draft two more patterns to do over the long break (we're off for President's day).
Oh yeah, I got my hair cut. My stylist rocks.
Thanks to Mom's Body Shop, Olivia Olivier, and Dave Groeschel for having their annual $25 Valentine heart tattooing extravaganza. Dave is going to donate all the profits to my AIDS/LifeCycle fund. So awesome.
Sunday is the SFR Two Rock/Valley Ford 200k. I am embracing it.
xoxo,
MOXIE
Friday, February 08, 2013
On Tuesday night, we drew a Mermaid
Monday night in pattern making was eventful. I tried on the empire waist/pencil/kick pleat skirt that I drafted last week and it only needed one little adjustment, which is amazing.
Now I have two patterns that I like a lot: the yoke/slit and this one. I'm going to transfer them both to the heavyweight oak tag and sew a little something for myself when I have a hot minute.
I also asked my teacher to help with a shirt project that I started for my BF for his birthday in September. whoops. I got stuck when I had some fit issues, but now I can take another crack at it.
AND she had me draft an odd little skirt. A lowered waist/asymmetrical seam dealy deal. I don't know about this one. Maybe I'll like it.
Tuesday at Dr Sketchy's was much more photographically interesting than pattern making. We drew a mutha effing mermaid. You know, like you do.
One of our amazing volunteers, Andres, put this mervent together. Apparently there are many mermaids out there in the world, our lady Rachel is 'head mermaid' at Dive Bar in Sacramento. They have a 40 foot tank and the merpeople do underwater acrobatics...like every day of the week.
Rachel brought two really cool tails. The shape of her legs encased in the fabric and silicone was really fun to draw. So shapely and beautiful. Her poses were well thought out and quite lovely. I really like my drawings.
I've been sick so I haven't done much riding other than commuting. The SFR Two Rock/Valley Ford 200k is still on my radar for the 17th. I'm a little nervous, but I just made my plan. Again if I stick to 11mph average with quick breaks, I should finish within the time limit. That's slower than my usual average, so it's do-able. I also have a backup plan. My friend Diane is going to go out drawing in the area so that I can call her if needed. <3 !!
Also, here is an opportunity to support my AIDS/LifeCycle fundraising and get a $25 heart tattoo. My friend Dave's shop is having a Valentine's special, all profits will go towards ALC, which will then support the AIDS Foundation and Gay and Lesbian centers in SF and LA.
Mom's Body Shop
Now I have two patterns that I like a lot: the yoke/slit and this one. I'm going to transfer them both to the heavyweight oak tag and sew a little something for myself when I have a hot minute.
I also asked my teacher to help with a shirt project that I started for my BF for his birthday in September. whoops. I got stuck when I had some fit issues, but now I can take another crack at it.
AND she had me draft an odd little skirt. A lowered waist/asymmetrical seam dealy deal. I don't know about this one. Maybe I'll like it.
Tuesday at Dr Sketchy's was much more photographically interesting than pattern making. We drew a mutha effing mermaid. You know, like you do.
One of our amazing volunteers, Andres, put this mervent together. Apparently there are many mermaids out there in the world, our lady Rachel is 'head mermaid' at Dive Bar in Sacramento. They have a 40 foot tank and the merpeople do underwater acrobatics...like every day of the week.
Rachel brought two really cool tails. The shape of her legs encased in the fabric and silicone was really fun to draw. So shapely and beautiful. Her poses were well thought out and quite lovely. I really like my drawings.
I've been sick so I haven't done much riding other than commuting. The SFR Two Rock/Valley Ford 200k is still on my radar for the 17th. I'm a little nervous, but I just made my plan. Again if I stick to 11mph average with quick breaks, I should finish within the time limit. That's slower than my usual average, so it's do-able. I also have a backup plan. My friend Diane is going to go out drawing in the area so that I can call her if needed. <3 !!
Also, here is an opportunity to support my AIDS/LifeCycle fundraising and get a $25 heart tattoo. My friend Dave's shop is having a Valentine's special, all profits will go towards ALC, which will then support the AIDS Foundation and Gay and Lesbian centers in SF and LA.
Mom's Body Shop
Friday, January 11, 2013
And so it begins...
There's nothing new here if you follow me on Insta, FB or flickr. But maybe I'll elaborate at bit later on.
Last weekend I tried to go out for a while, I really did. But I got bored and cold, and the light was completely absent from the world. I just didn't feel it. So I came back home and went exploring with my bebe.
We discovered that we can walk to Sutro tower in about 45 minutes! On Monday, I started Pattern Making at Apparel Arts.
I'm tempering my excitement with awareness of how much work and learning is involved in this course. With ALC and Apparel Arts, it's going to be a challenge to keep balance this year. However, I can say that in one night my mind was a bit blown. We made a sloper from my measurements in about 30 minutes. I've spent hours altering commercial patterns in the past two years. In 30 minutes I pretty much drafted a pencil skirt to my shape. It was magic.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Pegboard 2.0
This happened this week:
And Pam Palma made a cool calendar: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bicigirl/6733111579/in/photostream
Yours truly is January 2013 :)
And Pam Palma made a cool calendar: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bicigirl/6733111579/in/photostream
Yours truly is January 2013 :)
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