Saturday, August 28, 2010
Saturday, May 29, 2010
what's new at a la mode
Here's what has been added to my Etsy shop this week:
Go Go Gadget Bags - THE alternative to the fanny pack. Wear them across your body or around your waist. $15.00 to $20.00 - buy yours here (more added daily).
Stuck between a rock and a hard place triptych - mini pop art canvas - $26.00. Buy yours here.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Rings and things
I had been playing around with acrylics, resin and various metal findings, not knowing what I'd ultimately make (my favorite way to work). I love the pop of color that resin gives to any medium. The outer metal balls are actually pieces of a bead ball chain. I find it so satisfying to marry little bits and pieces into something outside of their original purpose. I'm going to test drive this ring before I offer any up. This is just a limited edition of "rings I feel like making." I don't intend to add rings to my jewelry line.
On a separate note, my knitting is finally coming along nicely. I will, however, advise newbies against knitting while watching something that makes you cry. Last night while I watched Hope for Haiti, I completely lost concentration, dropped stitches, and couldn't recover from my mistake. All was fixed after I stopped back by my yarn store for help this morning (M's guitar lesson is just a few doors down.). It's official, I'm hooked. And I can't stop myself from buying beautiful yarns and needles. I just hope I actually complete something.
On the work front:
I'm happy to say that the bag I donated to Craft Hope sold. 100% of sales from this shop is going to Doctors without Borders. I've donated another bag and 50% of sales in my Etsy shop will also be donated to DWB. Craft Hope has already raised $20,000 and has sold over 1000 items. That is an incredible accomplishment. The shop just opened January 14. If you need to buy a gift or want to treat yourself to something handmade, please consider checking out Craft Hope or type the word Haiti in the search box on Etsy.
Other exciting work news...I can't yet share all the details, but an architecture firm working with a big hotel/restaurant/lounge developer in LA and NYC has made a large order of seat belt pillows. They are being shipped to their NYC office. I'm currently up to my elbows in seat belt pillows but I'm very excited about this new venture. More to come...
Week in preview:
Monday, I will tell you about another project I have brewing. It should interest anyone looking to grow their crafty business (also applicable to any small business).
And finally, I'm gearing up for a trip to San Francisco next week. I'm excited to see a friend and look around the south bay. Frankly, I could also use a nice dose of warmer weather.
I'm off to Boston with some friends. Enjoy your weekend!!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
New this week @ à la mode...
The mini totes have been a huge hit. I can't make them fast enough. I think it's because they are a really fun size - great for evening or day - and at a nice price point, $58. These are available in my Etsy shop and soon in on my website.



Another popular bag has been my new traveler. They sell as soon as I display them. I've added a new red one (OOAK) that is also from my Collaborative Artist series. I've added a sailor's knot (removable brooch) by Chris Letsche (http://www.newmariner.net/). I met him in Hyannis on the Cape this summer and loved his work.


I'm off to host my first "teen" gathering for M at our house and then spend some much needed quality time with my family. Have a great Sunday!!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
New this week @ alamode...bags, bags, and more bags
The seat belt clutch with chrome handle, $58.00, is currently only available at Craftland, in Providence. I am making a variety of bags from this blue webbing, but they are limited edition. Additional colors include: red, grey, and black
The Ultraweave Tote Bag, $80.00, was first introduced last fall. The bag is made with Ultrasuede and a durable seat belt bottom. For those who like the look of seat belts but want a lighter bag option, this bag is great. It will be available in a variety of colors and also in a messenger bag style.
I never thought I'd be so excited about recieving a huge box of hardware and bag supplies, but yesterday I was. My order came in and I can't wait to start using the new D rings and sliders. Stay tuned...
This weekend, I'll be making several custom seat belt messenger bags (they'll be added to my custom work on Flickr). On a personal note, C is working all weekend and we have football games, art classes, and guitar lessons. Do you ever feel like you're a hamster on a treadmill? Or George Jetson walking Astro? "Jane, get me off this crazy thing!"
[source: TV by the Numbers]
Saturday, October 17, 2009
New this week @ alamode...handbag, custom switch plates, earrings
No whining earrings (sterling silver earwires), $12
Custom order for switch plates for Whimsies in Warren, RI. Saturday, October 10, 2009
New this week @ alamode...coasters
My goal this year was to expand upon my line of houseWARES. Adding to the decorative switch plates are now pillows and NEW coasters.


These seat belt "coasters" are actually over sized trivets. I'm struggling with the term as technically, the definition of trivet doesn't fit (these don't have 3 legs). For now, I'm calling them coasters. I trust that you'll tell me if I should simply get over it and call them trivets...won't you?
They are 8" x 8" square and made from the same reclaimed webbing I use for my bags and pillows. They are both stylish and utilitarian - great for protecting your table tops from warm dishes, and moisture while looking marvelous. I've listed a few in my Etsy shop and hope to have them on my website soon.
They currently come in 4 colors: red, black, lime, and blue. I'll also make them in checkered combinations. They are $12.00 each and will also be available in sets of 2 for $20.00.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
What's new this week @ à la mode - PILLOWS!

Saturday, September 26, 2009
What's new this week @ à la mode
The first in a series of "good fortune" switchplates, these trompe l'oeil plates appear to be a cork board with a small fortune tacked to it. What a great way to remind yourself to think positively throughout the day. Currently only available on my website.
As a fan of roller skating and roller derby in the late '70s, I couldn't resist making this switchplate. I spent hours at USA Roller Rink, grooving to disco music. My skates had pom poms on them and I thought I was the coolest skater ever...fond, albeit embarrassing, memories. You can also buy this in my Etsy shop (first class shipping).

I'm so excited about my new wallets. I carry one myself and love it. I've incorporated the seatbelts into the card holders and zippered coin pocket - which I love because it's long and shallow making it easy to grab my change. These wallets hold a lot but aren't bulky!
I always consider it a good work week when I'm able to create something (anything) new.
















