I've been blogging for a couple of years now, motivated by my online business of designing and creating boutique children's clothing. And then, as time went by, and my time was to limited to continue offering custom clothing, I started writing eBook patterns so that others could create their own garments, using my ideas. I might continue to do that. But with the recent uproar over the CPSA regulations concerning children's clothing and accessories, I've decided to move on to another passion of mine . . . . vintage! I've spent many years searching in all of the little resale boutiques, consignment shops, thrift shops, junk shops, old book shops, and antique shops for unusual, whimsical, or classic finds. Now, I will be able to have even MORE fun discovering vintage treasures, because I have begun offering some of my best finds in my Etsy shop. I sold two items in my first week with this shop! 
I realize that since I've been so busy lately with my job, my family, two weddings (just about got that one taken care of! Two weeks from today . .. .) the holidays, and just the normal every-day demands of real life, that I haven't even visited my own blog in over a month! I'm hoping to get back on track here soon, at least after this next wedding is over, and begin posting on a regular basis and also stocking my Etsy shop with all of the beautiful vintage finds that I have discovered. The tricky part, for clothing, is to find a way to display them so that they look as good in the pictures as they do in reality. Without a model, I purchased a sweet Victorian-inspired dress form, which displays very nicely for tops and jackets . . . . but not so great for dresses and pants. So, I'm working on that.
Another discovery that I have made recently is all of the reconstructed garments. Now, that brings back memories! My mama made me a sweet little coat when I was about 5 years old, by taking apart an old coat that had gorgeous fabric and buttons. She recreated a coat for me from the fabric, lining, and buttons on the adult-size coat . . . . and I did those kinds of creative projects for my older children when they were little, too. Now I see these kinds of fun, funky, and edgy garments all over the place, in lots of Etsy shops, and who knows where else! So, since this is something that I love to do, have lots of experience with this kind of garment construction, and it seems that there are a few customers out there who are interested in this type of style - well, why not? 
So, between my vintage finds and my deconstruction / reconstruction projects, I should be able to keep my new Etsy shop filled with new items on a regular basis. Trying to keep up with designing and sewing new items for the shop was just too labor intensive, and took too much time - that I no longer have! Also, I've found another website where those of us who LOVE the vintage look can discover a world of vintage shops. It is at Bonanzle - I'm going to be setting up a shop there later today, so stop by and take a peek. I discovered this website by visiting Vintage Indie, a blog that was featured here on Typepad. When you have a few minutes for a cruise around the vintage blogosphere, check 'em out. And be sure to visit my Etsy Shop often, because I'm finding new stuff all the time!
Those shoes are GREAT! I am a birk person, myself, but I could be tempted with shoes like those! WOW
Posted by: Jeannette | January 25, 2009 at 09:34 PM
Hello fellow blogger, I stopped by your site and thought maybe you would like to swap links with me, after adding http://voiceofbragg.com with the title "Blog Till Death" to your site, message me and I will add yours...have a great day
Posted by: randy bragg | February 08, 2009 at 04:46 PM