phea jean

2011 SHOWS...fast approaching!

2011-11-24T04:39:00.000-08:00

Yes, it is that time of year where I can guarantee a proper phea jean blog update....
HOLIDAY SHOW SEASON!!!
I'm sorry you've all had to suffer throughout the year wondering what I've been doing...apparently too much sewing, not nearly enough blogging...

but I've been working, don't you worry!
The proof of my labors can be seen (and purchased) at any of the following shows in the great city of Philadelphia almost every weekend in December up until Christmas!

First up for the season:
December 4th, Sunday
Traveling Wares at Dirty Franks
347 South 13th St.
2-7pm

please note that I will NOT be at the TW Cantina date, so while I do wish for you to go and support all the other wonderfully talented local artists, if you are out for some phea jean goodies please choose another date to see me!

Perhaps at the next show:
December 11th, Sunday
South Philly Handmade Brigade
1241 Carpenter Street
noon-6pm
Are you on facebook? Great! There's an event page, so check it out and RSVP if you are planning to attend! This is my first year participating in this annual show, so I'm excited to see what this group of artists has in store!
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=102084869906786

And Finally:
December 17th, Saturday
Crafty Balboa at the Broad Street Ministry
315 South Broad Street
11-5pm

While you are on facebook, you might as well RSVP "hell YES" to this event too!! Here's the link:
http://facebook.com/event.php.eid=289915051030105
I know

that you know

that I am sewing up some sweet creations for this years shows, still a little taste would be nice, right?!

CAPES! It's gonna be cold. You can walk around with a small blanket to keep your shoulders warm, or I suggest opting for the more fashionable winter cape:

These capes debuted last winter and I'm jazzed on making them again this year. I'm using more vintage wools in plaid and houndstooth which are soooooo amazing I want to keep them all for myself! Oh and last week I uncovered three tubs of fabric I had stored away so I couldn't resist cutting about 10 more capes using these amazing vintage patterns that you know they don't make anymore!

I also got my hands on some cool Michael Miller housewife fabric and I was able to crank out a bunch of zipper pouches in various sizes!

The zipper pouches and these velcro pouches (pictured below)are both great gifts that look cool and can be used for in a variety of ways including: for eye glasses, as a wallet, pencil case, etc etc etc. This should make you happy!

Wait, I forgot to tell you...
I've got a lot of items in my etsy shop. No seriously, its true! 49 items, its crazy! Capes, headbands, hats, and more! http://www.pheajean.etsy.com/

And since I love you all so so very much, I've created a coupon on etsy...all you have to do is log in and find what you can't live without one second longer, add to cart, and during the checkout process enter the code NOVEMBER2011 to receive free shipping from the phea jean shop til the end of the month! Offer valid starting at 12 midnight, tonight! Just kidding, its available now!!! What are you waiting for?!

SEE YOU AT THE SHOWS!

xo, Amber

WINTER 2010 UPDATE

2010-11-17T10:13:00.000-08:00

Crunch time has arrived...
less than two weeks til my first holiday show!

It will be my first time doing Crafty Balboa and I am anticipating a great show with lots of other talented artists!

I will also be making the rounds with the Traveling Wares Holiday Show, my fourth year in case you are keeping track!
You can find me at the 700 Club and Dirty Franks this year ONLY!

DECEMBER 12th - Dirty Franks
347 S. 13th St.
2-7pm

DECEMBER 18th - 700 Club
700 N. 2nd St.
12-5pm

I'll be selling my usual (or unusual, if you like) array of handbags, clutches, scarves, headbands, hair clips, wallets, newsboy caps, and hats.
Here's a preview:

I've got a new item perfect for eye glasses, pencils/pens, money/checkbook, etc:

And I've FINALLY settled on a winter wardrobe item...CAPES!!!

I don't know if its the wool or the vintage patterns, but I'm finding them quite sophisticated and charming. I made this pattern back in college...and I actually found it...all the pieces...on one pattern hook...UNBELIEVABLE...a miracle of sorts...not that I am unorganized per se...but have you seen my workspace?! A little overwhelming at times, especially this time of year. Sooooo, yeah, total win on that one! My dear friend, the beautiful and talented Erin B., helped me decide on the pattern and also modeled the capes! She's the best! Check her blog for all things crafty!
SEE ALL THE CAPES here!

Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don't unravel.

Recognize some of this fabric?! In the past year I have been generously given so many materials that I cannot even begin express my gratitude.

I'd like to specifically thank Aunt Helen and Michelle for all the wonderful fabric. In addition to the fabric and just as appreciated and valuable to me was hearing my Aunt Helen tell me that my grandmother (THE Jean of phea jean) would be thrilled to know that I was sewing and very proud of me. It is not often that people tell me stories of my grandmother (who passed away when I was 3 years old), but most times it is in correlation to my sewing and being creative because she was definitely all of those things and more. So, thank you for your kind words and hopefully the time will not be long before we see each other again!

I also had the privilege of meeting a very special lady, Victoria Andresen, over the summer. Victoria has known my father for over 10 years and he put us in touch a few years ago when I started making handbags because she, too, made handbags. Like so many crafty people, Victoria had acquired quite a stash of fabric, buttons, and other notions which she no longer needed...I was of course interested when she emailed me asking if I wanted these items! Never having met before, I arrived at Victoria's house and we instantly clicked! We talked for hours- she had so many good stories (about crafting and life in general) and her house had so many interesting items that had a lot of history to tell. We were having such a fun time, I almost forgot she was going to be giving me sewing materials! The stuff she gave me was AMAZING! I couldn't believe it! I'm still in awe of this stuff even now, months later. Really, the whole experience of meeting Victoria was so cool and the materials on top of that was a bonus! I hope that I can be that great when I am older! Thank you, Victoria, for being kind (and a straight-shooter, my favorite kind of person!) and welcoming me into your home and sharing your creativity! I am glad that we are now friends!
Now that Victoria has retired from the grueling craft show circuit, she has found a new creative outlet: KNIT A BEAR

The book includes easy to understand instructions on how to create these little friends!
She also makes these cute gifts for babies!!!
I would also like to give a hoot and a holler to a lovely member of my famiglia, Nico and her blog Up Gemini -where she photographically captures the wondrous world!

Well, as you can imagine, sewing doesn't happen on its own, so back to the machine! I must say that I got a good start this year and am not too crazed at the moment.

Hope to see you at the upcoming shows!

xo,

Amber

2010-09-12T14:31:00.000-07:00

Fall is here!
I love the cool breeze, the colors, the smells, everything...LOVE LOVE LOVE the fall.
Not to mention the occurance of my favorite and only holiday that matters in my mind...HALLOWEEN!!!
No, it's not too early to be thinking about a costume.
The point is, now that I'm done sweating my ass off and have motivation to do other things that don't include submerging my entire body into ice cold water, I'M EXCITED (in case you can't tell by my overusage of capital letters)!
Summer wasn't that bad...I did manage to make some pretty awesome summer dresses, if you didn't get one, sorry friend, you'll have to wait til next year!

And some clutches... I also organized some buttons! Seriously, is this not one of the most amazing things you've ever seen?! Pretty much brings tears of joy every time I look at those babies all color coordinated and sorted. This was the result of many days spent inside when I got the Flu...in August. I'm better now, thanks for asking.

And on a personal note, I brought the mohawk back! But not before the peacock feather and other fun hair designs!
HUGE shout out to the lovely and ubertalented Erin Anderson, owner and stylist of Fringe Salon for hooking me up with all the hair do's. Go there! And then visit Elissa Kara at Nice Things Handmade across the street and buy some cool digs. East Passyunk Avenue is where it's at, in case you didn't know.

So what am I working on now? Good question.
I've made a few goliath wallets by request. Super tricky, I promise.
READY? okay, here it goes...

These puppies can fit A LOT of stuff!!!! Man, I have to make one for myself!

I've also been working on newsboy hats which I personally will be rockin as the weather continues to cool off now that I've got so little insulation (hair) on my head!

Another great reason to look forward to fall is the annual Swap O Rama Rama that is going to be held this year on October 3rd from 12-5 at the Naval Yard. This is the 3rd year the swap is happening in Philly, and my 3rd year workin' the sewing machine at the event. M&J Trims in NYC has donated again this year and I will be available to embellish all the goodies you score on the floor! This years SORR is blowin up, getting huger by the day...crazy sponorships, guest speakers, workshops, VIP tickets (to include personal stylist and spa services...NO JOKE), and much more I'm not even aware of. Tickets should be going on sale this week, so do not miss out. Go to the Philly Swap's website for more information and to purchase tickets!

Hopefully this all sounds good and exciting and you will take my advice and continue to buy pretty things from me.
I'll feel happy about it.

xo Amber

sunny days ahead

2010-03-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

With temps promising to be in the 80's this weekend, it will be the perfect time to break out warm weather wardrobe!
For the ladies (and some men) that means DRESSES!!!!
Just received another "shipment" of vintage fabric that literally had me jumping up and down like a little girl, I was so excited! Excitement feeds inspiration and vice versa, so you know I've been working on ultra cute dresses with some amazing prints. I'm even surprising myself with a love of these floral prints which are typically not my favorite. I guess it's different when it's vintage -real vintage- fabric. Not that there is anything wrong with reproduction fabrics, but everythings better the first time around when it comes to this sort of a thing.
Here's a taste...

Another interesting print destined for long rectangular pillows...

I have absolutely fallen in love with this batik fabric...

What do I do to deserve such amazing fabric?! Two words: Boat Cushions.
VIP all summer on the water, and I'll be looking fly in phea jean summer dresses to match my tan. Will you?!

February 2010

2010-02-02T12:21:00.000-08:00

Is it too late to wish everyone a happy new year?!

Nah, HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Hope 20-10 is treating you all swell thus far...

No complaints on the phea jean front.

I've been enjoying a practically stress-free environment in the after-the-holidays break I've rewarded myself with.

Being your own boss is cool sometimes.

So I haven't been on total hiatus, working on some new things, semi-quietly.

You may have heard rumor of these tunic dresses. Yeah, that's not happening. At least not now anyway. I tried some patterns, I wasn't feeling it- can't force creativity I've learned. I was kinda bummed about it, but no inspiration was striking me and I'm not about to produce anything that I don't 100% love and want to wear myself, and the dresses-the sizing-grading of patterns-blah-blah-blah, totally turned me off. Being reminded of all the pain in the ass criteria that needs to be addressed when dress making also reminded me of the vast, virtually limitless liberties I can take when making handbags. Can a handbag fit a size S, M, L, XL, etc ?! ? Yes, all of the above, with ease! Does this ruffle here make me look fat? Certainly not! Horizontal stripes? No problem! Handbags ARE my main passion. Sometimes I forget, though.

I'm good at making handbags. I know how to make the patterns and sew handbags without a second thought. I whipped up these over-sized clutches in no time!

Did you hear Mew Gallery closed?!

We knew it was happening, but its officially gone now.

Mew gave a lot of local artists not only a place to sell and showcase their talents, but a "home base" of sorts. I feel like without Mew I would have had less of an opportunity to connect with so many great artists, whom I now call friends. My experience as a local philadelphia DIY business person was enhanced and broadened through my working relationship with Mew. After all, Mew was the first shop in Philly to express interest in carrying phea jean, which was a great compliment and confidence booster. I know it was time for the store to close and for L and C to move on in different directions, but I will still miss it. I hope that everyone will continue to support the local businesses and artists in Philadelphia (or whatever town you call home).

Alas, when one door closes another one opens.

Literally, in this case...

In related news phea jean will be carried in a new store!

Nice Things Handmade will be having its opening reception on Feb. 13th from 7-10pm located at 1731 East Passyunk Ave. Come by and support our friend Elissa as she begins her new adventure!

The store will be carrying new phea jean newsboy hats and handbags! SWEET!

Have you seen my new "baby"...

She's a Willcox and Gibbs sewing machine. Well, there are actually two machines dating 1878 and 1893, no shit. And this lady STILL WORKS. One of my father's homeowners gave him this machine along with ORIGINAL needles, manuals, attachment feet, etc. When my dad brought it to me I got chills. Its breathtaking; I stare at the intricacy and craftsmanship that went into this machine and know that I am BEYOND lucky to have this piece of art in my possession. Seriously they don't make anything like this anymore. The story of these machines is actually kind of interesting and here's a link if you are interested http://www.sewalot.com/willcox_gibbs.htm!

This is one of the raddest gifts I have ever received! Thanks Daddy!!!!!!!!

I'm pretty satisfied with this update, so I think I'll end it here...

'til next time friends!!!!

xo Amber

December Update

2009-12-04T19:17:00.001-08:00

hello, again!
so soon?
yessssss!

my life has gotten easier this month with the aquisition of a new laptop and digital camera (thank you daddy and colin for waiting in line at 3am on black friday). this is good news because now i can do things faster and more efficiently. perfect because it seems like my work load has quadrupled so the time i was wasting tinkering with the busted technology i had can now be dedicated to production.

it's the eve of my first show of the holiday season.
everything is under control: merchandise has been photographed and tagged and my set up is in "mock set up" form in my dining room (i've got 8 feet tomorrow and i plan to utilize every inch of that space). i'm actually not feeling too stressed right now. let's not forget last year (1 year ago today as a matter of fact) i was sporting crutches, so at least this year i'm on two feet.

hopefully this alleged snow for tomorrow is just a nasty rumor and will not discourage anyone from coming out to the show.
here are the the details:

Independent Craft Market Holiday Edition
and benefit for the 941 Theater
12pm-7pm
2424 studios
2424 york rd. (fishtown)

holiday gifts, bands, and free pbr !
it's going to be a long day so i'm bringing extra chairs in case friends want to come visit me and stay a while! please do!

If you can't make it to the show tomorrow, don't worry, there are more opportunities coming up in the next few weeks to catch phea jean!
i'll be participating in the following traveling wares dates:

december 13th
dirty franks

december 19th
700 club

december 20th
tattooed mom

one last bit of exciting news...
i've got a window display up at my favorite philly spot- Mew Gallery!
this was an added bit of pressure to pull off, but i must say i am quite satisfied with the result!
special thanks to laura for hauling my goods to the store, erin for helping me set it up, michelle for making little changes and daddy for supervising. you really should all go see it in person, it will be up all month! 906 christian st! check it out.

i'm going to post a picture for those unable to go see the window, so if you want to swing by and be surprised you should stop reading right about now...

time for sleep! loooooong day tomorrow!

xo amber

November 2009 UPDATE

2009-11-10T11:33:00.000-08:00

I've been threatened, repeatedly, that I must increase my online presence...or else.
So in fear for my life, I have taken the time to write a November Update! Actually, I (gasp!) broke my last machine needle so physical production is on hold.
It's been a long time since the online community and far away friends have been informed of what's been going on in the world of phea jean...
So, in case you were worried, we're alive and kickin' (it)...

I hoard fabric, we all know this. Most specifically I've got bins of remnants under my tables that drive me insane. Sometimes I cannot part with the tiniest piece of fabric because I swear that one day I will get around to using it.
Well, that day has come.

Scarves! Great!
Sondy Scarves! Genius!
Warm and cozy and fun with little embellishments!
Patchwork done phea jean style!

You can find the scarves online on my etsy shop www.pheajean.etsy.com

BIG thanks to Yvonne and Jeff for unloading an astronomical amount of vintage fabric and buttons to yours truly (more to come!!!)!

Already completed some Nix Knit Hats in a gold striped knit

i've been sewing these buttons to anything & everything I can get my hands on!

You can also (please and thank you) come out and support phea jean in person because it is that time again for HOLIDAY SHOWS!
I've been sewing hard to prepare, so anticipate lots of goodies that will only be available at the shows!

phea jean is booked for the following dates in PHILADELPHIA:

December 5th 12pm-7pm
Independent Craft Market Holiday Edition
2424 Studios
2424 E. York St.

December 13th 2pm-7pm
Traveling Wares
Dirty Franks
347 S. 13th Street

December 19 12-5pm
Traveling Wares
700 Club
700 N. 2nd Street

December 20th 1-6pm
Traveling Wares
Tattooed Mom
530 South Street

Come to one, come to all!
Handmade goodness, drinks, and music! Who can resist?!
The only way to shop for the holidays!
One final piece of news...
Farewell to my lovely assistant, Christina, who has been helping me cut (and cut and cut) and iron aka "the fun stuff" for the past 8 months or so. My number one qualm with this sewing thing has been working alone, and I have to say having someone else in the workspace was definitely just what I needed. We've had a lot of fun (too much?!) and it's been a blessing to have someone to bounce ideas off of and get opinions from. Christina is so talented in many ways and I will miss her infectious laughter ringing throughout the workspace. So sad to be parting ways, but since phea jean will not be relocating to Texas, our time together must come to an end. We will all miss her here in Philly, but she will always remain a huge part of phea jean! Who knows maybe a visit to Texas will inspire a phea jean western wear line...rhinestone jeans, cowboy hats, gun holsters?! Or maybe not.
Hey, all my ideas can't be brilliant.
In any event, much success and happiness to you, my friend (and Lauren)!

That's all for now since Apollo has fallen asleep on my right arm and I am now forced to finish typing this one-handed (god forbid I disturb my angel!). I dare say December will be an exciting month and I have one piece of exciting news to reveal, when the time comes.

xoxo Amber

Mew Gallery Wish List #1...CREEPY COOL

2009-03-26T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's a rainy Thursday here in Philadelphia and I'm working at Mew Gallery.
As everyone knows, I love this store! I'm here all the time, even when I'm not behind the counter.
There are so many great items in the store and new stuff coming in all the time. I discover treasures every time I am here, so I've decided to compile a series of wish-lists...

#1 CREEPY COOL

*Designs by Nguyen Le-
hand felted eyeball earrings...$26
I've been "eying" these earrings ever since I first stepped foot in Mew. I love the colors (even though I'm a brown eyed girl) and they are the perfect size. These earrings are super well made and I can think of several outfits that these would perfectly accent.

*Big Art Show-
Asbury Park postcards...$10
I'm a jersey girl and have a fondness for Asbury Park, naturally. I've seen countless shows and have some good memories from this great and historic town. If you are familiar with the area, you are no doubt aware of the "changes" that have taken place over the years...most noticeably, the demolition of the buildings that were once the "face" of Asbury Park. These postcard images are haunting and I don't think I'd ever actually mail them out. My favorite image is of the wreckage of the Palace Amusements Building. I actually wanted it in a print, but they're all sold out, my bad for not snatching one the 10 million times I saw it.

*Melissa Crotty-
Pill Box...$25
I could not be more obsessed with these! Featuring detached body parts, legs, doll heads, wings, birds, I don't know which one to choose as my favorite. All handmade, one of a kind, and so fantastically finished!

*Tony Pregiato-
X-ray night light...$20
A favorite item of doctors, dentists, med students, and ME. Sometimes I'm not a fan of the dark, so I'd actually use a night light if I had one. I've never seen a cool "adult" night light before (not that I've actually looked). You wouldn't even know that I was afraid of the dark, I could totally pass it off like I'm just weird and like x-rays. My favorite was of a ferret, he had surgical scissors poking out of him, it was the creepiest! I just got some x-rays of my foot, wonder if Tony makes custom night lights? oooo, I'll have to look into that!

*Jessica Rodgers-
"Fish Fight" Print...$20
Color pencil illustration of creepy, long-necked beauties dancing. They have elaborate hairdos. It's also got a candelabra and fancy chairs!

*Girls Can Tell-
Heart Diagram Tote...$18
I like diagrams, who doesn't?! Ever wonder what the specific valves of the heart are and where said valves are located? This hand-drawn and hand-printed image gives you all the specifics. GCT has committed to printing a new diagram a week in '09. (My real favorite is an oldie but goodie, the sewing machine!) Printed on a 100% natural eco bag (fair trade and fair labor)! Perfect for shopping, I like to put my groceries in totes now...plastic is soooo out!

Now, there's a lot more where this came from, so hold tight...I can't include everything is the first list! I don't think I can commit to making all of my lists "themed" but I thought it was a good place to start!
Stop by 906 Christian St to see these "creepy cool" items and even compile a list of your own if you want! It's fun!
Enjoy!

Falling Back in LOVE...

2009-03-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

with handbags. seriously.
as promised, i've been working diligently on new handbags and
consequently have the calloused fingers and sore back to prove it.
pain aside, i'm happy with the work i've produced in the past few weeks.

i even patterned a new style...
AKS

my new favorite:
DRINI 1007

other highlights:
handle it 406

The Batsy Bag 711

For more new handbags available visit my etsy shop!

i HAD to include this new goliath wallet XIII...
i lined this pattern up like nobody's business!

almost sold out of all my chloe headbands and hair combs, so i worked with a yellow theme this time and produced 13 newbies...
perfect for spring!

i also experimented with putting the leaves in a circular/flower arrangement:

it's a green theme next, i'm almost done with this batch...

i've updated my website and etsy shop, so check 'em out to see new phea jean goodies and what's currently available for purchase...hint hint.

which leads me to the subject of buying phea jean...
why you should you???
because i'm awesome.
no, seriously, because i design, pattern, sew, etc. everything and it's all one of a kind. i'm totally dedicated to this craft and work at improving and learning every day. if you don't find something already made, i can colaborate with you to create something fabulous. phea jean makes for great gifts. did you know i have gift certificates available?! yup, i'm fancy like that. i know buying handmade can be a little more expensive than going to a retail store, especially in not so favorable economic times; however, if you want to have a discussion on why it's oh-so-good and important to support local, independent businesses and why it's cool to buy handmade and sustainable products, call me up. i make this stuff in my house in south philly for pete's sake!

i also have to not give away free merchandise.
i know no one ever expects for me to give them free things, but, hell, i want to do it. but apparently that's not good for business...who knew. ha.
i always talk to my other crafty/artsy/small business friends about what their "policies" are on selling things to friends and family. some friends have a set discount that they give to friends/family.
here's my dilema with that...
what's the criteria one must meet for me to give them a "friend" discount (i know who my family is, obviously, doesn't mean i like them though, does it?!)? should i start rating people on a scale of 1 to 10 to determine how much of a discount (you'd all be in trouble, haha)...
if i like you at a 10 you get a handbag for free,
if i like you at a 1 you get a free button...
or how long i've known you...1 year gets $1 off, 10 years gets $10 off.
and then you tell your friends (which i infinitely appreciate) and they think they are going to get things for the same price. WHAT?! no.
bottom line, it's weird. i feel awkward about it.
i don't think there is a fair way to do it, at least not that i feel comfortable with. i get stressed about it. and i don't want anyone to feel slighted that i gave "x" to someone else and not to them. it's happened. so i either give things to everyone or no one. obviously, this is a business and i need to make some money so it's gotta be the latter option. i sometimes need to be reminded that logistically speaking, it is my time and energy that produces everything phea jean, so yeah i should be compensated for it.
this is not to say that i will not make you something as a gift ever again, say for your birthday (if i remember, or you remind me). or as a "thank you" if you give me a bunch of supplies, or save my puppy from a burning building.
and one day when i marry rich, win the lottery, and find a duffle bag of unmarked bills everyone will get whatever they want. promise.

now don't feel bad if i gave you something already.
we all want discounted/free stuff, i know i definitely do!
here's a way to get something for free...have a phea jean party at your place (or possibly mine, if you live in philly)!
email or call me up and ask me to come over for a little get together in which i bring handbags, hats, wallets, headbands, etc.
you invite your crew and make some snacks (i'm a vegetarian, thanks) and drinks. it's a fun time, right. depending on how much i sell, i'll kick you back a little something for hosting. easy. its a win-win situation!

i'm also working on coming up with some kind of "frequent buyer" and "refer a friend" incentives.

wow, this blogging thing just clicked for me.
i feel better now.

oooooo, almost time to reveal super exciting phea jean news, but i think i'll wait til next month when the weather warms up a bit...
speaking of, anyone in philly want to model for me? please let me know!

xo
amber

Mew Fundraiser @ South Philly Tap Room

2009-02-26T05:03:00.000-08:00

Win fabulous stuff (photography, paintings, prints, jewelry, clothing, zines, candles, ceramics, and sooooo much more!!!)
Come out and support local artists!
I'll be donating some phea jean goodness!
This is going to be sooo much fun!
!!!

Ready for the catwalk...or should I say "dogwalk"

2009-02-25T06:12:00.002-08:00

Any dog who runs with me has gotta look fresh,
so since Apollo and I have been spending a lot of time out on the town together I decided to make him this new outfit.

The outfit was surprisingly easy...
could a line of dog clothing be in the future for phea jean...?!

He's such a good model!

I'm one step away from making us matching outfits, but perhaps that would be going too far...

February Update!

2009-02-20T20:18:00.000-08:00

Two summers ago a friend gave me some fabric he had saved from an old chair. I took that fabric and made it into a newsboy cap which sold at
Mew Gallery. I wish I got to see who purchased it!

Newsboy Cap A9

I wanted to somehow show my appreciation to my friend for giving me such cool fabric. I still had bits of the fabric in my scrap bin so I decided to make him a wallet and incorporate the fabric he gave me. I made the wallet pattern on a whim and it turned out pretty good, so I quickly produced 4 more. I thought this could be a good alternative to the goliath wallet which is larger and basically for women. This new mens inspired wallet is smaller and I'm calling it the Apollo Wallet.

And here's my baby Apollo...

Apollo Wallets are now available on etsy and at Mew Gallery.

More headbands! These are selling fast!
I will be listing new headbands on etsy over the weekend (Apollo is visiting and he doesn't let me get much work done), so for right now the new batch is available at Mew Gallery!

Mew Gallery and The Philadelphia Sewing Collective will be holding a supply swap on February 21st from 1:30-4:30PM! Hopefully I'll be able to clear out some of my old fabric and not take home too much.
BONUS: After the swap there will be an art opening at Mew, so it will be a jam packed day of fun. If you're smart you'll swing by!Oh and Channel 6 did a little piece on the swap...check it out HERE
I make a little cameo in the background!

Currently, I'm working on handbags for a party I have coming up.
I've also already signed up for the Trenton Avenue Arts Festival on May 16th. I did this show last year and it was a lot of fun.
Coinciding with the festival is a kinetic derby!
The spring shows are starting to be announced so I will keep everyone informed on the phea jean schedule as I sign up.

I'm getting better at sending these updates...
and I've got a lot of new things I'm working on which I'll unveil once the weather gets a little warmer!

phea jean joined twitter!
Follow me!

xo Amber

ps check out the upcycling post below this update if you haven't already!

2+1+1+1

2009-02-08T08:52:00.000-08:00

so, as you should all be aware by now, i'm awesome and sometimes i even amaze myself...

upcycling, recycling, repurposing
-whatever you want to call it-
i'm sooooooo into this process of making something new from something old!

my latest upcycling challenge was to create a newsboy cap from 2 plaid button down shirts, 1 t-shirt, 1 polo shirt, and 1 pair of pants

BEFORE

AFTER

i used the pair of black and gray pinstriped pants to construct a basic phea jean newsboy cap, with the exception of the brim, which was made from the black t-shirt with the japanese writing. for the top detailing, i knew that i wanted to keep with a geometric theme because there are already so many straight lines to follow within a plaid pattern. first, i removed both plackets from the each of the button down shirts (plackets are the vertical center-fronts of the shirt that overlap, one side with the buttons and the other side has the button holes). i cut the plackets between each button/button hole and was left with approx 3" pieces. then i "buttoned" the plackets together with the opposite shirts (the button hole placket from the red shirt with the button placket from the white shirt). next, i sewed all the pieces together into a "diamond" shape. lastly, i lined the newsboy cap with the striped polo shirt.
tricky, tricky!

over 2008, onto 2009

2009-01-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

another year and another holiday show season has come to an end...
as some of you may know, a mysterious injury left me on crutches for the month of december. i really thought that attending the holiday shows would be near impossible. however, with the rallying support of family, friends,& fellow vendors i(we) got through it.
sooooooo to everyone who helped me set up
and kept me company
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.
just another reminder that phea jean would not be possible without those people i am lucky to have in my life. those people are, of course, all of YOU.
i've still got one good foot, luckily my sewing foot, so that means i've been busy!

new phea jean hair accessories!
chloe
hair combs
and headbands
named after my pretty chloe!

last year around this time i made two knit hats: one for me and one for a friend. even though i'd been rocking the hat, i never made any more until a few months ago. i'm happy to report that the hats started selling and the
nix knit hat
was (re)born as an official member of team phea jean.

the hats have a vintage feel to them, especially when adorned with vintage buttons. can't really go wrong with buttons, i say!
while out in philly i even spotted a stranger wearing a nix knit hat that sold at Mew Gallery! it was a cool moment shared with my friends sondra and lis who i think were equally excited.

also a favorite this year are the
goliath wallets!
4 separate compartments in this puppy

and of course the newsboy caps are as popular as ever!
lots of new and fantastic newsboy caps just dying to be worn. guaranteed to keep you looking good and keep your head warm too!

with all the new accessories i know what you may be thinking,
and the answer is:
NO, i haven't given up on the handbags! this past year, it was nice to experiment with other aspects of phea jean and expand my repertoire. i found that the other accessories have a quicker turn around and are less labor intensive (yet no less special). and with each year, gaining more experience from doing shows and selling at Mew Gallery, i've found that customers like to see a range of items...shows i'm no one trick pony, so to speak. and for those who cannot afford my more expensive handbags, it's still possible to find the meticulous sewing and great many quirks of phea jean in something less expensive like a hair accessory. it's also nice to know that phea jean can be successful selling other items aside from the handbags.
as always, i am still committed to making unique, one of a kind items.

along with this blog update, i have also updated my official website pheajean.com so check out the gallery to see new items!
for everything available for purchase online at this time check out my
etsy shop!

PHILLY LOCALS: phea jean can be found at
Mew Gallery
906 Christian St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
215.625.2424
Mew is a fantastic boutique featuring handmade goods by local artists.
really, there are about 100 things in there that i NEED at this exact moment!
if you are in town be sure to stop in, you may even find my shining face behind the counter, dancing, or just hanging out with owners and talented ladies i now call friends, lauren and carolynne! lots of my creative friends also sell items at Mew so even if you don't pick up anything from phea jean you'll still be supporting the local community and that rocks!

interested in custom ordering? want to host a handbag party in 2009?
rocking a phea jean and want to show it off on the website?
please don't hesitate to contact me: pheajean@gmail.com

Magazine Interview

2008-09-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

September Update!

2008-09-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

drum roll pleeeeeeaaaase...

introducing:
the goliath wallets!

and here's goliath...dog and namesake...too cute not to include!

ALSO new headbands!

These items are of course ONE OF A KIND and can be found at
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5066853

AND

proud to ANNOUNCE...
phea jean is now available at
Mew Gallery in Philadelphia!
Come check out the store and support local artists and designers!
Mew is located right in the Italian Market at:
906 Christian St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
215.625.2424

SUPER EXCITING
The lovely ladies of Mew Gallery were guests on the 10!Show here in Philadelphia for a summer fashion segment and a phea jean newsboy cap and headband were featured!!!
Check out the clip!

Mew Gallery also hosts monthly CRAFTADELPHIA! shows for the Philly Etsy Team featuring art and independently designed and produced items and tons of handmade goodness!

phea jean was featured online for two.one.five magazine at the July CRAFTADELPHIA!

Coming Up...

During Design Philadelphia week (Oct 16-22) I will be helping the Philadelphia Sewing Collective with their annual Swap-O-Rama-Rama on October 19th from 12-5pm at Old Pine Community Center 401 Lombard St. Philadelphia, PA 19144.
Swap-O-Rama Rama is a clothing swap and series of do-it-yourself workshops in which a community explores creative reuse through the recycling of used clothing. Please bring clean clothes to swap. Cost: $10 and a bag of clean clothesFor more information visit http://www.designphiladelphia.org/ and http://www.sorrphilly.wordpress.com/

on a personal note,
i am moving AGAIN! ugh!
as soon as i get settled, it'll be time to start preparing for the holiday show season!

so, i hope this update finds everyone healthy and happy! thanks for the continued support as phea jean is growing steadily and keeping me busy.

xo amber

SHOWS! PICTURES!

2008-06-28T10:22:00.000-07:00

Sewing/Craft Day
April 20, 2008

Ruthie working on her embroidered book

Jody hand sewing

Putting Sondra to work sewing

Beth making magnets and jewelry

Nicole sewing her nipple

Obviously I was too busy drinking margaritas to be photographed...
but I did get one c-c-clutch done, I SWEAR!

Not Your Grandma's Craft Show
May 10, 2008

pheajean.etsy.com

allisonostertag.etsy.com

tranquilityjewelry.etsy.com

beckyaugustine.etsy.com

insitudecorativearts.etsy.com

Ruthie manning the bar

CBeauty.etsy.com

lemondrops2.etsy.com & jadevixen555.etsy.com

bijouxbyallison.etsy.com

designsbypat.etsy.com

klaatucollection.etsy.com

mason dixon etsy team:

Etsy Spring Trunk Show
Mew Gallery
May 29, 2008

mwmdesigns.etsy.com

designsbypat.etsy.com

tranquilityjewelry.etsy.com

lemondrops2.etsy.com

aardwolf.etsy.com

redredorange.etsy.com

jadevixen555.etsy.com

pheajean.etsy.com

Newspaper Necklaces! FABULOUS!

2008-04-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

Last year my Aunt Lisa mailed me a package with some miscellaneous items that she thought I could use for my handbags. She also sent 2 necklaces which we made some 13 years prior during a summer I spent at her home in Virginia.

I had completely forgotten about the necklaces, but I recognized them instantly and couldn't believe she held onto them for so long. Needless to say, I was thrilled and couldn't wait to start wearing them! Since then, I've been stopped several times by strangers inquiring about these unique pieces of jewelry so I thought I'd share the secrets of this creative DIY project.

Use you what you've got!
The materials we used were:
Newspaper, the comics to be exact (although it'd probably also be interesting to use black text for a different effect).
These necklaces are threaded on dental floss and have a few extra colorful beads.
Oh and glue to hold the paper together!
Make a pattern similar to the one below and cut out lots of strips of the newspaper. You can use different widths (for different size beads), but the key is to make sure the pattern is graded, having one side smaller than the other sort of like a triangle with the pointy tip cut off.

It's a little fuzzy from here, but I think maybe we used a glue stick and applied it to one side. Then definitely start with the larger end and roll (roll it tightly, but leave space to be able to get some thread through!). Obviously, let the beads dry and then thread.

I'm still pretty impressed by these necklaces for holding up this long. I don't claim credit for coming up with this idea, but I think it's awesome none-the-less...so cool and inexpensive!
I'm going to try and make these necklaces again and I'll update with what I come up with!

miss koco

2008-03-26T10:01:00.000-07:00

Imagine, upon meeting a beautiful stranger,
she asks you if you want to play with her nipples...

Fortunately, and perhaps unbelievably, she's serious
and it's okay for you to crack a smile.
After all, it's artist Nicole Dupree aka miss koco
and she's got her hands out-

full of crocheted nipples.
It's this light-hearted ice-breaker that miss koco uses to spread the word about Nipples for Breasts, an ongoing project created to start conversations about our bodies, play with art (and nipples), and raise money for great organizations that investigate environmental causes of breast cancer, educate the public, and fund programs that provide free mammograms for women in under served communities.

miss koco prefers to steer away from providing information that is fear based. Instead, her approach is joyful and slightly erotic, yet still informative. The nipples represent something positive: people laugh and smile. To miss koco, it's about charity and being proactive towards making changes she wants to see.

miss koco offers a variety of nipple designs including
crocheted pins, key chains, cell phone charms, pillows,
and my personal favorite and miss koco must-have
golden nipple clay magnets!

A portion of the proceeds from each nipple sold will benefit
Breast Cancer Fund and National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

miss koco's talent goes beyond just creating nipples and breasts. Self described as creatively fickle, miss koco has her hand in a number of on-going projects from art to film. There is no one medium she wants to work in; she wants to do it all! Although she is overflowing with ideas, there are undeniable commonalities that draw her to a project: the interactive aspect that's about making connections with people through art objects and making something from nothing.

Through her travels miss koco has visited communities where the locals use and re-use anything and everything to produce salable objects. In Northern Thailand, on the "walking street", miss koco noticed vendors using plastic candy bags with added string as gift bags and table cloths made from rice bags. No doubt this impacted and influenced her own work perspective.

miss koco has a habit of always collecting items fueled by her inability to get rid of sentimental clothing and objects. She says, "It feels like I'd be deleting pieces of my life and memory." From stamps to clothing to paper goods, these items always find a way back into her work. This is what gives much of miss koco's art pieces a story.

At the time of our meeting, miss koco was working on a red nipple in mid production comprised of different fabrics/textures from garments she acquired in other countries. A look of happiness came across her face when talking about the piece as if she was ready to pass on these pieces of her life to be loved and experienced by someone else.
miss koco also showed me cd jackets she handmade. Some years ago, a friend was intending to getting rid of wall posters that once hung in his room. miss koco saved the posters not knowing at the time exactly what she would do with the paper, but knowing that in some way, someday these paper goods could be re-used and not go to waste. Unknowingly, this friend is about to receive his once loved, yet no longer useful posters, as upcylcled cd jackets! In the simplest terms, upcycling is the practice of taking something that is disposable and transforming it into something of greater use and value, combined with the thoughtfulness of these little gifts, this is a win-win sitaution for miss koco's friend and the environment!

Similarly, in an attempt to "keep the spirit running" miss koco prefers to incorporate goods that originated from someone else's passion, love, and care. For example, she uses yarn from small family run companies like Koigu, where no two dye lots are the same having been impacted by the personality, mood, feelings, and thoughts of the Koigu artist/creator. When I asked what she liked to shop on etsy for she revealed that she liked to purchase handmade items from other sellers that she could in turn use herself (her latest purchases were hand embroidered note cards).

For now, miss koco is working on coming into her own and accepting herself as an artist. Her goals are to make polished and well constructed art pieces of high quality.
Clearly, this is just a taste of what miss koco has in store for the future. She already has a diagrammed plan for a nipple tent and nipple rug! To find out more and keep abreast on her latest projects please visit misskoco.com and her etsy shop!

I've Been Interviewed!

2008-03-16T16:30:00.000-07:00

View it here:
misskoco.com

My interview with Nicole Dupree a.k.a. miss koco coming this week!!!
Thanks to Nicole for chatting with me...for many hours :)

the truth

2008-03-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

i think the appropriate first post would be a sincere thank you...

to everyone who has donated fabric, given out my business card, told me about a store i should check out, a design element that i should consider, posed for a picture, stopped to talk to me about my work, visited my website, etc...

and most importantly
rocked a handbag or hat and spread the word about phea jean...
its amazing. i am so touched-honored-flattered every single time someone compliments my work and/or buys something i have created. i can't describe the feeling of having others believe in this which i am so passionate about and put so much time and energy into. having something that brings me joy also bring joy to others...i am truly lucky.

i don't want anyone to think for a single second that i do any of this without help and support and encouragement.

i have wonderful family and friends.
i think of you often and don't thank you enough.

xo amber

reincarnation...handbag style M.E.E. > you #507

2008-03-15T18:42:00.001-07:00

each handbag has a story...

i'm going to begin posting funny/touching/interesting stories of how some of my handbags came about. i just completed this handbag, so i figured it was a good one to start with.
attached to this handbag are a lifetime of memories.

before:

2 flannel shirts, jeans, vest, baby's hospital gown, table cloth, and grandmother's housecoat.

after:

M.E.E. > you #507