Amazon Sale on Lace Knitting To Go, Only $1.99!

Great news! Amazon has selected my knitting deck, Lace Knitting To Go, Kindle edition, as part of their Big Deal promotion. You can get the Kindle edition for only $1.99 from now til August 23. So now you can get the lace patterns for your mobile device, or if you've ever lost a card from the deck, you can use it as a substitute.

Get it here!
 ttp://www.amazon.com/Lace-Knitting-Pattern-Cards-ebook/dp/B003R0KJCY
http://www.amazon.com/Lace-Knitting-Pattern-Cards-ebook/dp/B003R0KJCY

Mechanics of Fashion Interview

I've just been interview on a new fashion blog, called Mechanics of Fashion. In this interview, I answer questions about knitwear esign from a professional view point.  Check it out here.

Picking Up Where I Left Off...

Havve you ever started s project, but never finished it? Maybe something got in the way, or you made a mistake and in frustration, you ditched the project... I have to admit, I do this more often then I'd like to admit! Sometimes a mere mistake can frustrate me so much that I either have to forget about it and bury it in a bag of scraps, or start all over again (if I am so lucky to ave enough material). Or sometimes, I quit before I even get started. For me, I am somewhat of a perfectionist in my craft. I find it unconscionable to continue doing something really badly (reminds me of some projects in uni, projects I hated, but had to finish so that I could have something to hand in).

But I do have to say, sometimes it can be very satisfying to finish a project that has been long overdue. And the best part? By that time, you might have forgotten exactly what was stopping you to begin with! I recently starting sewing again, and digging through my fabric cupboard, I found bits of projects I cut out, but never started sewing. Why? I can't remember why exactly I abandoned these projects, all I know now is that I am confident enough to finish them this time around. Time not only helps you forget the bad stuff, but also allows for improvement, too!

Fable Handknit Update

 

Colors Update

Here are updated color cards of the Fable Handknit yarns. 06 Natural White of Pure Baby Alpaca is discontinued, as the spinning mill no longer makes this yarn. Other colors are still in good supply. 

 New Domain

The fablehandknit.com domain is now closed, and all information is on the fablenatural.com domain instead. Products can be purchased directly through shop.fablenatural.com. 

Free Shipping

There is now free shipping on order $39.00 CAD and up. This applies to world wide shipping, but do note that shipping outside of North America takes longer by post. 

Coupon Codes

All my knitting pattern downloads have a coupon code for 10% off  that you can use on orders in my online shop. See blog sidebar for patterns.

Book For Studying Knitwear Design

I received a review copy of this book called Basics Fashion Design Knitwear, by Juliana Sissons. It's from a series of books published by AVA Academics. I am familiar with this series of books from my many visits to the local Borders book shop in Brighton (it's gone, I think?). There was one that I used to look at called Textiles and Fashion. It has many interesting and inspiring photos. So when I received this new one for knitwear, I was thrilled!

I want to stress that this book is meant for those who wish to study knitwear design using a knitting machine (no hand kitting in this one), or for a design professional who wishes to keep a reference book handy. There are no patterns in this book, but some design ideas that could be inspiring.

When I received this book, there was an air of familiarity about it. It was like, where have I seen this, why do I feel like I know the author. I read the author bio and realized, Ms. Sissions, I had met twice through my time at Knit-1! She came to the Knit-1 studio to do a presentation about her work. She trained at University of Brighton, and interned at Knit-1. In turn, she became a lecturer at many design schools, freelanced for many designers (including McQueen), and currently works for the V&A in London. She was a lecturer at University of Brighton when I met her. She also features in her book Sue Enticknap, designer and foudner of Knit1, in a section about industry.

This is the first well-rounded publication on knitwear design, that I have ever seen. Not only is it current, contemporary, comprehensive, it is packed full of information that you rarely find anywhere else (it even covers yarn counts, a concept that I never quite properly grasped). The books covers topics from knitting machine parts, how to knit on a machine, how to create a pattern for knitting, design process, design methods, sources for purchasing equipment and materials, a glossary, and many, many inspiring photographs that inspire.

I highly recommend this book for students of knitwear design, who want to study at their own pace, there are design briefs and exercises in the books that one can follow along with. Also excellent for those studying knitwear in design school, an excellent supplement and reference. This is as good as it gets if you can't get Ms. Sissions as your tutor! I also want to recommend this book to those who want to study at Knit-1, but maybe don't have the time or resources to do so.

Basics Fashion Design: Knitwear is available through Amazon.

IUpdate Your Bookmarks!

 

This is my new blog, Beauty Stories. It's where I will be posting more often. I will still post here, but not nearly as often. I've found that in terms of my blogging, it's time for a new place to begin again. I'll be writing mostly about beauty, particular to natural beauty. I hope you'll join me there. xx

Love shoes, love VivaLaDiva.com

 Here's something interesting that came to my inbox:

Having trouble finding the perfect pair of shoes? Well VivaLaDiva.com Designer Shoes have the answer; they offer a large range of designer, wide fitting and most importantly SALE shoes. From flats to boots to those all-important killer heals VivaLaDiva.com offers all these and accessorise to match.

The website is easy to browse and navigate and has an astonishing 180 brands to look through!! As a shoe lover myself, it wasn’t hard for me to find several pairs of shoes that I love, and with their sale you can get what you want in the size you want for the perfect price. In other words . . . Shoe heaven.  
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Look at these fantastic boots, shoes and bags all in sale:

So if you’re looking for something in particular or just feel like spoiling yourself its defiantly worth the browse!!

Don't Leave Home WIthout...

If you're packing for holidays, don't forget to bring something for "life's little accidents"! Even just a minor scrape can ruin a holiday. Fable Natural's Mini-Travel Kit is a must. It includes tiny jars of Lavender Balm to soothe chapped skin (including lips), treat burns, cuts, sores, bites; Tea Tree Balm for blemishes, sores, athlete's foot, infections; Arnica Balm for bruises, sprains, muscles aches and sores; and Spruce Balm for cold and flu symptoms. Nothing spoils a trip like tired feet and chapped skin! The kit comes with instructions and suggested use. Get yours here! Only $6!

Also makes a lovely hostess gift or gifts for frequent travelers.

Have Yourself a Victorian Christmas

Victorian-style wreath by Corner Crafters

Last night I caught BBC's Victorian Farm Christmas. I was really looking forward to it, but didn't know when it was on, so I was happy to catch most of it while channel sufing.

I have to say, I love Christmas time in England. There's something about that old-time feeling that you get in England, adding on top of that Christmas and you have happy days. Still many of the Christmas traditions that came about in the Victorian age are still upheld in the UK, such as, Christmas crackers, Christmas pudding, and mince pies (I know where to get the best ones, I miss those so much!).

So if you are longing for the simpler times of how Christmas was spent, check out the BBC site with facts about Christmas traditions and downloadable instructions for crafts! (isn't this just the best part?)

Fable: My Natural Beauty Story

When I was a young girl, my dad would take to me the mall and my favorite shop was The Body Shop. I has a small allowance from my parents and so most of it was spent there. I would be quite excited when a new catalog came out (there was no online shopping yet!), and I would read them cover to cover. What I liked about them was their ethical-conscious approach to marketing their products, and their naturalness, or at least I thought it was anyways.

In mt mid-twenties, I moved to England. I got a job managing a natural beauty boutique in Brighton (coincidentally, the town where the first original Body Shop was!). We sold brands like Dr. Hauschka and Weleda.  This is where I learned what real natural beauty was. And I was hooked! It is simply the most beautiful products I had ever come across. I learned so much from working there, from managing a shop business to products and ingredients. I loved all the predicts we sold, but I was always looking for new product lines to fill in gaps we had in our ranges. Often times, there would be customers coming in asking for products that didn't exist. I was always looking for natural equivalents/alternatives to what was available in the market.

However, after about a year, I was laid off, the recession in England had kicked in and they could no longer afford its management staff. A while after, I moved back to Canada, not knowing what I would do next.

My love for natural beauty continued. I decided that it was time for me to put all those product ideas I had floating in my head to reality. I wanted the most soothing of lip balm, creamiest of cleansing milk, fragrant of bubble bath, AND all natural, not a drop of synthetic chemical (no parabens, no SLS, no EDTA, no polysorbate, etc). And this is how Fable natural Products came to be-- from a mere desire to exemplify the best of what natural beauty has to offer to the world.  This year, I opened my online shop and its product range continues to grow.

Justed added: Lavender Soap

I love Lavender. I love the scent, I love the color, I love the plant itself and its use as a herb for soothing the mind, body, and soul.

Lavender has long been used the ritual of bathing and washing. It is found that the ancient Romans infused Lavender the bath water of the bath houses.

I just added this Lavender heart-shaped soap to my collection of naturally scented soaps. This one is infused with a hint of Labdanum to sweeten the scent of Lavender.  Just $8! Check it out here.

One of my favorite things to do is looking at fashion illustration. I once aspired to become one professionally, but other ambitions came my way. I was very pleased when this came through my inbox today:

Fashion Illustration: Visual Poetry

January 20 - February 25, 2011

gallery hanahou

611 Broadway, Suite 730, NYC

galleryhanahou.com

Curated by renowned artist, fashion illustrator, and educator Bil Donovan, "Fashion Illustration: Visual Poetry" brings together 14 of the most talented and innovative artists working in fashion illustration today for an exhibition that showcases the possibilities of the genre to complement, respond to, and sometimes transcend fashion. 

The pieces in the exhibition represent artists from a number of different countries and a broad spectrum of styles. Taken together, their client lists cover every perspective of fashion, from small labels to large retailers and all manner of media. 

Featuring works from

Bil Donovan

Carlos Aponte

Cecilia Carlstedt

Daniel Egneus

David Downton

Eveline Tarunadjaja

Jeffrey Fulvimari

John Jay Cabuay

Laura Laine

Samantha Hahn

Sara Singh

Stina Persson

Tina Berning

Tobie Giddio

New Packaging and Formula for Fable Natural Sheer Color

I used to love all the lip sheers, lip stains, lip tints, until one day I found out... they were full of parabens, propylene glycol, synthetic preservatives and other possible toxins that would be absorbed right through my skin, if I wasn't already eating it! Then I started to explore the idea of how to get the sheer color effect in a product using only natural ingredients. After trying out many ways, I've found that the best  was using mineral color in a lipstick (I tried other ways like a lip balm in a little jar, but the formula didn't stay on long).

So here is the new, longer lasting version of Fable Natural Sheer Color in Rose, with new packaging in a retractable lip stick case for easy application. It is made from organic Coconut oil to nourish lips, Cocoa Butter to soften lips, and a splash of pure mineral color to add sheer color to lips while giving a plumping effect (when the light hits the micro mineral particles, the lips appear fuller). No unpleasant after-taste, just beautiful, natural-looking lips! Just $10! Check it out here.

New & Improved- Fable Natural Lip Care

It is the season for lip balm. Chapped lips are no fun. Stock up on a good natural lip balm to keep your lips kiss-ably soft this winter. Fable Natural is a brand personally formulated by yours truly. In the past, I have tried a lot of different lip balms and most have an icky after taste. Lip Balm by Fable Natural is made from pure organic Coconut oil and Shea Butter, with soothing Calendula extract to immediately soothe cracked lips. I've been told many times over by customers that this is the best lip balm they have ever tried. I have to say I agree!

Recently, I reformulated the lip balm to improve upon its texture, to make it easier to glide it on to lips in cold weather, and to make it stay on for longer wear. I've always added the Lip Care Stick, which is the same great new formula in a retractable lip stuck case. Both are $8 each, makes a great gift or treat for yourself. Check them out here.

Cocoon Loop Scaf in KSH

Got a single skein of Rowan Kid SIlk Haze (KSH) lying around and not sure what to do with it? Might I suggest the Cocoon Loop Scarf that only takes one skein! I, like many experienced knitters love Kid Silk Haze, but having found it a bit challenging to work with at times, a bit too expensive to buy too much of it for a project. But we love the colors and the beautiful texture of the yarn! So have buy one hoping to figure what to do it with it one day. I've knit this design several times over and have not gotten sick of it! It's very addictive, yet very simple and easy to learn.

To get this pattern, go here and download it from Ravelry.

And the added bonus is that it knits up so quickly, it can be done as a last minute gift! That loved one receiving it will be absolutely impressed and astonished that you made this for them.

Martha Stewart Crafts 50% off Coupon!

I love the Martha Stewart Crafts line, especially the craft punches and cutting tools. They look elegant and effectively designed. I just had to share when I got this in my inbox. Until Dec. 24, 2010, you can get 50% off any one regular priced item from her line at Michaels across Canada and US! Just go here to download the coupon.

Heart-to-Heart Soaps

Here is my latest creations, Hand Milled Glycerine Soaps in assorted fragrances. These heart-shaped soaps are made from all-natural ingredients, gives a rich lather and gentely cleanses skin.

They are beautifully fragrant! If you can't bear to unwrap them just yet, store them in your underwear drawer or linen closet to scent them. Cedar Mint (the one in blue) can also be used as a natural alternative to moth balls! Just place it in storage with your cashmere and wools.

Check them out here.

Before you toss out old clothes...

Designer consignment shop, Fashionably Yours 

Remember that old dress in the back of your closet, the one your wore once and never looked at it again? If you have clothes in good condition, especially if it's a name brand item, then consider taking it to a designer consignment shop before you toss it our. You may be able to fetch some cash for it, which could go towards your new wardrobe! Look up consignment shops in the phone book or on the Internet and phone them for an appointment. Bring your goods in, with an idea of how much you want for it. While many shops are knowledgeable about brand names and prices, they might not necessarily recognize a more obscure label, especially if its something you got overseas. Some consignment shops pay for your goods on the spoi, but they will take more a greater cut, something like 70%. WHile others will pay you when goods are sold, and give you 50% of the cut. Keep in mind consignment stores don't take everything you take to them. Tops, like shirts, ladies vests, jackets, T-shirts, tend to sell more quickly. While bottoms like ladies skirts, cheap jeans for women, trousers, tend to sell more slowly. Acessories, like silk scarves and handbags are easy to sell as they don't involve size issues. Most popular brand names will get snapped up quickly, especially if they are items that are on trend with the current season. 


So before you break the bank to go shopping next time, think about trading in some of your less worn clothes for cash. This is especially good to keep in mind if you plan on moving and need to lighten your load!

Shopping Spots In Florance

Recently learned of the Santa Maria Nouvella body care line and went mad that I missed it while in Florence.  The line is sold in the church museum shop of the basilica of the same name. Florence will be one of those places that I will just have to return to one day.

Here is another hot spot that I've only just learned about. Ever wonder how chic Italian women stay so chic in designer clothes? May be the secret is "The Mall". Situated just outside of Florance, in  the Tuscan countryside, The Mall houses designer outlet shops of Alexander McQueen, Armani Jeans, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Dior, Ermenegildo Zegna, Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Hogan, I Pinco Pallino, Loro Piana, Marni, Pucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Sergio Rossi, Stella McCartney, Tod's, Valentino and Yves Saint Laurent. So that's where it all goes after the sales.

Contact details

Via Europa 8, 50060

Leccio Reggello FI

Italy

Tel           +39 055 8657775

Internet site: www.themall.it

Lingerie Tip: Bra Extenders

If for any reason you need some extra width for your bra, there are these accessories called bra extenders that many lingerie shops carry. They are basically an extra set of hook and eye that can be hooked on to your bra, adding an extra inch or so. They are a bit pricey, but they are not too difficult to make for yourself.

Bra hooks can be bought at some fabric shops that carry notions. In a packet, they contain two parts. One, a hook, and the other, the eyes. To make a bra extender, Take the bra hook piece and bind off the raw edge of the eye piece (mine had elastic attached to it, I cut it off leaving about a half inch of it) with the hook part facing down and the eyes facing up. The hook piece should be sandwiching the eye piece, then sew it together by hand or machine. Voila! It's that simple. Alternatively, you could use an old bra that you want to discard and remove the hook piece with a seam ripper, cut off the eye piece while leaving a half inch of the bra fabric, and then sandwich the hook piece to the raw edge.

There is also a tutorial here, but their directions vary slightly from mine.

Inspiration: Alexa Chung

Love this. In this month's Vogue, via.

Silk Radiance Balm

New product just in! Fable Natural Silk Radiance Balm. I developed this product to utilize the healing benefits of Silk Powder. Silk Powder was used by the ancient Chinese to dress wounds, mostly likely because of its anti-bacterial properties, and its amino acids that help rebuild skin cells. Silk Powder contains 18 different amino acids, which are essential to regenerating skin cells. It also reflects UV light radiation.

I love the way this balm feels on my skin. I could literally sit here all day putting this stiff on-- it is a little bit addictive! It feels so smooth and silky on the skin. I use it all over. One thing I discovered is that it can be used as a natural deodorant! Silk Powder is anti-bacterial and regulates moisture. With all the stories in the media preaching the dangers of conventional deodorants and anti-antiperspirants, I am glad to have created a product that functions in so many ways. This product is not greasy at all. It absorbs readily and leaves a light powder finish. It is scented with Lavender essential oil.

Head over to my online shop to get yours! I'm offering 10% off all orders until August 31st, 2010. Use the coupon code: MAKE. As usual, there is Free Shipping on orders that reach $45 plus.

Inside a designer's studio

Check out these photos from Elle.comLauren Manoogian. An inside look into the studio of jewelry and knitwear designer, Lauren Manoogian, based in Brooklyn, New York.

If you've ever wanted to train in knitwear design on a domestic machine like Lauren's (shown in the photo), check out my experience at the Knit-1 studio. Feel free to email me if you want to get in touch with them about their courses.

How To Beat The Heat

A heat wave has hit in Toronto and the surrounding area. The heat can be pretty unbearable at times, so here are some tips on staying cool in the heat.

Wear natural fibers
While I'm sure most of us would like to go around wearing nothing at all, but if you need to go out in public, try wearing natural fibers that will keep you cool. Try silks, linens, and cotton. Not only do they absorb the sweeat away from the body, they allow the body to breathe. Synthetic fibers tend to leave one feeling sticky and sweaty because they don't wick the moisture away from the body. Also try looser fitting clothing.

Drink lots of water
This is really obvious, but sometimes you can forget to pack enough water for the day. Keeping hydrated will keep you cool. Eat lots of juicy fruits like grapefruit and watermelon.

Refresh the skin with flower water
If you are using natural skin care that includes flower water toner (such as Fable Natural Rose or Lavender Water), put it in the fridge and spritz it on throughout the day to cool the skin. Wipe away sweat to prevent clogged pores. Alternatively, you could fill a spritzing bottle with water and put it in the fridge.

Freeze it
If you feel like stepping into a freezer, the next best thing you can do is put a pillow or blanket in the freezer for ten minutes and hug it to let the coolness transfer to you This works best with natural fibers and feather pillows.

Eat (frozen) dessert first.
Eating dessert first is not what I would normally recommend, but when it's this hot out, there isn't much appetite anyways.  In New York, Tasti D Lite is having a special deal for today only, check them out here.

Cold water compress
Fill a basin with cold water, soak a cotton flannel and apply it to the skin. Add a few drops of bath oil from Dr. Hauschka to make it a real treat. Try Lemon or Lavender for a truly refreshing feel. 

1 kg cones of Baby Alpaca

Due to the popular demand of the Fable Handknit Pure Baby Alpaca yarns, I decided to add the 1 kg cones to the shop. These yarns are ideal for machine knitting, or very large projects and you want to knit continuously on one strand of yarn. This yarn is DK weight, which will work on a mid-gauge machine (it can work on a standard gauge, but you must use the lowest tension).

For more info, check it out here.