Books made of pockets!

Posted on December 30, 2016 by Katharine

My studio is in major disarray from my years “away.” In the process of re-organizing it I’ve been discovering work that I did in the past. Today it’s these tiny books made of pockets. In these two small handmade books, each page is a pocket containing a tag. Each decorative tag has space for your writing.

On the left is a book made of maps of Columbia County, NY, and photos from Chatham, NY. There is a metal compass ornament on the front, and a tiny metal clocktower hangs near the top of the spine. Each pocket features different towns and villages in the County. Colorful glass beads decorate the cord that fastens the book shut. The book on the right has a floral motif, and is fastened with a ribbon and vintage button. The Columbia County book has twelve pockets and is 4.5″ X 3.25″ x .5″.The floral book has seven pockets and is 4.75 x 3.25 x .75″.

Two handmade books of pockets, and a handmade box.

Below is the book with map pockets,

Columbia County book of pockets.

And here is the floral book of pockets.

Floral-themed book of pockets.

More “finds” to follow.

HandWork

Posted on December 16, 2012 by Katharine

As some of you may know, I have not been able to work at my sewing machine for many months now. However, my hands have not been idle. Today I took some of my handwork to our local food co-op. These consist of small things I can work on (usually propped up with pillows!). In these short sessions, I’ve had great fun making “jewelry” items from unusual objects. And it’s good to use the “stuff” I’ve collected, giving it new form.

Below is a bracelet I sold today. First, using a knitting spool, I made a denim-colored cord from blue wool, then used beads and springs, (as in hardware from your toolbox), and finished it off with tassels.

Springs and Wool Bracelet

As I create these little things, I will share some of them here. Then perhaps someday they will have their own page.

Here’s a teaser. Next post: the tiny terrarium necklace.

Vintage Lace and Silk Cuff

Posted on March 12, 2012 by Katharine

For home handwork (as opposed to studio work) I created a cuff. The body and lining are made of silk scraps from a chasuble I made, the lace is vintage, and vintage shell buttons provide an adjustable closure. Thanks to Gunnell for the pieces of lace she shared with me.

Dolls from a vintage pattern

Posted on January 5, 2012 by Katharine

Over the holidays, I worked (as time allowed) on dolls for my granddaughters.

Much of the sewing was done by hand, which meant I could do it from bed. In addition to the clothing you see here, I created miniature sweaters for these two from re-purposed felted lambswool and cashmere sweaters.

The package is still on its way to them, a bit late.

Now I can return to my beloved banner project.

The Crow Worthy Award

Posted on September 28, 2011 by Katharine

Today I was awarded the Crow Worthy Award by the blogger and needle-arts wizard at Whimseytopia. For a larger view click the crow image on the right sidebar (scroll down).

She wrote:

“The Crow Worthy Award: It’s not just about attracting attention, though it is distinct enough to be identified in a crowded sidebar. Rather it is more about complimenting you who have shared your stories, photos, knowledge and, most importantly, kindness with your heartfelt blogs. It’s a way to say thank you for the funny stories, the friendship, and all those words of wisdom sent as comments and emails. . . .That’s it; just a way to say thank you, I like you, and I hope you keep writing your wonderful posts.”

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And many thanks to you, for thinking of me! Visit Whimseytopia to see the marvelous creations there.

Rabbits

Posted on March 28, 2011 by Katharine

Made (from felted sweaters) in anticipation of a visit from granddaughters.

These rabbits were adapted from a design by Helen Philipps, in her book Simple Sewn Gifts. She used linen, cotton, embroidery floss and polyester stuffing; I used lambswool and cashmere felted sweaters, wool stuffing, needle-felted features, and I added tails (one per rabbit).

The girls discovered their dollies would fit in the rabbits’ straps: Voila! Bunny-carriers!

Katharine Houk ~

Repurposed, Upcycled, and Custom Creations

Tag Archives: Crafts