vendor call: puce pop

Indie music fans will be quite familiar with Pop Montreal, the jammy-packed with indie goodness festival that takes place every October in Montreal.

Puce Pop, the art & craft fair component of the fest is now in its third year, and the organizers are extending an invitation to Toronto crafters to make the trek northeastward to join in on the fun taking place on October 6th & 7th at the Canadian Grenadier Guards Armoury (4171 ave. de l'Esplanade).

Here's their call for vendors:

Are you an independent crafter/designer/maker/creator of: music-art-accessories-clothing-cakes-soaps-dolls-puppets-posters-pottery-jewellery-zines-stationary-etc...?

If so, check out our site to register now while spaces are still available! : puces.popmontreal.com

This year's fair will have 100 vendors selling their goods, a Fashion show, Art Pop's Poster show, Film Pop's Film screenings, Artist-run Workshops, our first-ever Science Fair, live music, healthy treats andsnacks..........& lots more!

Hope to see you all there!
Iris & Jenny

Submissions Deadline: August 24th 2007
Answer Date: September 1st 2007

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: come up to my room '08

via akimbo

COME UP TO MY ROOM 2008
The Gladstone Hotel's 5th Annual Alternative Design Event
Feb 22-24, 2008

Expression of Interest Deadline: Aug. 20th (no later than 5pm)

The Gladstone Hotel seeks proposals for innovative, cutting-edge contemporary art and design projects for the annual alternative design event, Come Up To My Room 2008. The fifth installment will take place from February 22-24, 2008 at the Gladstone Hotel, in over 12 rooms on 2nd floor of the historic Gladstone Hotel.

Ideal candidates for juried consideration are practitioners who produce, focus and dedicate their practice in the areas of; experimental, inter-disciplinary, self-taught, hand-made/craft-based, installation, and environmental, art & design projects (including graphic, new media, lens-based: photography, film & video.) We are looking for practitioners and emerging designers who approach design with radical personal vision to create site-specific installations.

Please submit hardcopy or electronic proposals (MS-WORD docs only) no later than 5pm, August 20th, 2007. Proposals should include a; CD of 5-10 images, or jpegs/website url, CV, a 150 word bio of the artist, designer, or collectives, and a 1 page proposal specific to CUTMR 2008. This exhibition is curated by artist and not by proposed projects. Please do not submit detailed proposals. For more information please read http://www.gladstonehotel.com/callsforinterest.html

Participation fees are $650 + GST for room installations and $150 + GST for public space projects; includes installation day and 3-day space rental, exhibition administration, coordination, and inclusion in the promotion, publicity, marketing materials, and exhibition catalogue.

To see press coverage of past CUTMR events http://www.gladstonehotel.com/press.html

To see photos of past CUTMR installations http://www.gladstonehotel.com/cutmr2007.html

For more information contact the curators:

Pamila Matharu, pmatharu[AT]rogers.com (+1) 416 846 6230
Christina Zeidler, christina[AT]gladstonehotel.com (+1) 416 531 4635 ext. 7102

For more information regarding pricing, exhibition details and contracts contact:

Chris Mitchell, chrism[AT]gladstonehotel.com (+1) 416 531 4635 ext. 7105

Submit proposals to:

Gladstone Hotel, Attention: CUTMR Curators, 1214 Queen St W Toronto ON

Or email to christina[AT]gladstonehotel.com or pmatharu[AT]rogers.com and cc chrism[AT]gladstonehotel.com

crafty crush: atelier woodenapples

My latest crafty crush lives in Montreal. I try not to stray too far from home on the TCA, but who could resist the supreme cuteness of Atelier Woodenapples, a “multi-purpose artist venue offering space to create, showcase and sell handmade DIY goods”.



This is seriously the shop I would/will open if I ever get my act together. The boutique features a well-curated selection of local, national, and international designers including names well-known inindiecraftland such as The Small Object and Little Otsu. The focus is on accessories but there is some stuff for the home and clothing as well. Crafters who cop the “well, I could make that myself” ‘tude will leave happy with locally-wound yarns, a grab bag of cutie quilt fabrics, or a sweet new crafting smock. I was also thrilled to find a selection of my favourite craft-related zines like CROQ, KnitKnit & WORN for sale.




Photo by Caroline Blais of le salon de bonbons

The gallery wall had an amazing show by Elif Saydam, whose anemone-like interpretations of crocheting and lace grace the surfaces of printed textile panels, stones, wood, and a stunning apron (available for sale in the shop). Her free-form crochet pieces are pretty fantastic as well…reminded me somewhat of the Math Crochet the Church of Craft got up to recently. Apparently the wall will hosting rotating exhibits of mostly, but not exclusively, fibre arts – which I can totally get behind being a fibre groupie myself.



Workshops (some which provide a kit & instructional zine) range from silk-screening to book binding to beginners' crochet. In case any of you happen to be reading from Montreal, or plan to visit in August, I will post the (English) info for August classes below. Even if you can’t make these, I would very much encourage you all to pop by the Mile-End boutique next time you visit Montreal. Hell, why not pop by Montreal to visit Woodenapples?!

[All photos courtesy of Atelier Woodenapples, unless otherwise indicated]

Atelier Woodenapples
Owner: Amy Johnson
Address: 5319 Ave du Parc Montreal
Phone: 514-315-8912
Email: woodenapples[at]hotmail.com


New Workshops at Atelier Woodenapples for August!

Learn to use a sewing machine or embroider... or both!
To sign up call: 514-315-8912 or email woodenapples[AT]hotmail.com


Don't Fear Your Machine- a basic intro to machine sewing
Wednesday August 1st 5pm-7pm
$30 (includes a zine)

Workshop:
1- brief history of machine sewing
2 – understanding the machine and all its parts
3 – threading the bobbin
4 – changing the needle
5 – tension and different stitches
6 – Oops! Undoing mistakes
7 – fabric choices
8 – basic bag design with a french seam (oh lala)


Don’t Fear the Needle: getting started on embroidery
Sunday August 15th
$40(includes a kit and zine)

Workshop outline:
1 – Brief history of embroidery
2 – explaining tools – how to choose them and how to use them
3 - basic stitches
4 – freeform embroidery – just go for it!
5 – working from a pattern
6 – further resources: info on books, stores, artists and website to build your skills.

Everyone leaves with all the supplies they need to keep embroidering at home, as well as a 16-page zine of everything we learned.

They get:
3 starter pieces of fabric
1 embroidery needle
1 hoop
3 colours of embroidery floss
1 pattern to follow
1 photocopied ‘zine.

canopy emergency

Can anyone help Leslie out???:

I am looking for a 10x10 canopy tent for a vending opportunity THIS Sunday.

I intended to purchase one and have been looking all around the city (Home Depot, Canadian Tire, Zellers etc...., but so far SOL)

Does anyone have one that I could perhaps rent from??....or if anyone knows for sure where I could find one that would be great.

Please let me know

Thanks,
Leslie
SallygirlDesigns
sallygirldesigns[AT]yahoo.com
416.469.3091

ask crafty: wholesale pillow stuffing, cheap maps, studio equipped with canvas and acrylic paints

Any advice for these ladies in need? If so, please comment on this post.

Also, Haley’s question re: tear away embroidery stabilizer could use some more ask crafty love.

x I am trying to locate a good source for wholesale ordering of pillow stuffing, all I've been able to find is the horrible synthetic stuff at a Queen West fabric store.
Any suggestions would be much appreciated, natuaral fibres....buckwheat husks ?? - Michelle

x Does anyone have suggestions on where I could pick up different kinds of maps on the cheap side/second hand? I want to use them in some cards. - Kate

x Do you know if there is somewhere in TO where you can drop into a studio and have access to canvas and acrylic paints to make your own art to take home? - Melanie

so totally close: craft fairs in Detroit & Pittsburgh

I realized during my trip to Pittsburgh this spring that I had created an irrational mental barrier when it comes to the States that made traveling Down South seem like a far greater ordeal than is actually the case. For example, I could decide to go to Montreal (~ 6hr drive) for the weekend at a moment’s notice, but a trip to Pittsburgh (~5hr drive) required weeks of planning and a really good reason. This is all to say that, crusty customs guards aside, the border should not prevent us from partaking in US craftiness happening nearby. Two upcoming indie craft events of note:

ATTEND:

Detroit Urban Craft Fair
Saturday August 4, 2007
10am-8pm
Majestic Theater, 4120 Woodward Ave, Detroit
http://www.detroiturbancraftfair.com



APPLY:

Handmade Arcade
Saturday, November 10 (11am-7pm) and Sunday, November 11 (11am-5pm) Construction Junction, 214 N. Lexington Street, in the Point Breeze neighborhood of PittsburghOnline Application here. (Deadline Sept. 1)
http://www.handmadearcade.com

disco craft

KATELYN DI GIULIO
Hoop-la at the Disco

July 25th - August 7th

Fly Gallery
1172 Queen St. West, Toronto, ON

'Hoopla at the Disco' is an installation of various sized pieces made using embroidery hoops which have been suspended from a rotating disco ball creating a kitsch-meets-craft dance party!

Katelyn Di Giulio is a graduate from both Mount Allison University in Sackville, NB, and the Independent Studio Program at the Toronto School of Art. With a background in printmaking, photography, sculpture and theatre design, she now blends these together by working as a mixed-media artist. Di Giulio explores fabrics and fashion, vintage and kitsch, the feminine and craft-work, as well as pop culture and film.

For more information contact Katelyn at: 416.459.5283 or k.digiulio[AT]gmail.com

Katelyn gratefully thanks the Toronto School of Art for sponsoring this exhibition.

collecting loss: a different kind of clothing exchange

An Invitation to Contribute Living Stories and Clothing of Deceased Loved Ones to

Collecting Loss: Weaving Threads of Memory

Every day people die, leaving marks of memory and body in their clothing and in the hearts and minds of those still living who love them. Clothing captures moments in time, holds nostalgic reminders of smells, sights, sounds, and time shared. Where do we, the living, deposit these memories? What happens to this clothing of the dead and to the stories it holds? Collecting Loss will tell some of these stories.

Collecting Loss creators Esther Kalaba and Karen Haffey are collecting clothing that belonged to people who have died and the stories that this clothing evokes. The clothing and stories will be given new life in a powerful public art memorial.

Everyone who has experienced the death of someone they love is invited to participate in Collecting Loss by contributing a piece of their loved one's clothing and the story it evokes. There are no restrictions; people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds, whose friends or family members have died of accidents, disease, old age and natural causes, are all welcome to share.

Mothers have contributed clothing of children who have met an untimely death, children have contributed their deceased parents' clothing, a hospital's critical care unit is making a contribution to represent all the children they have cared for who have passed away, and widowed spouses are remembering their partners.

Clothing and stories are being accepted from people across Canada andaround the world until July 31, 2007. Information on how toparticipate is available online at www.collectingloss.com/participate.html.

Every story and piece of clothing will be honoured, treated with love and respect, and used in its entirety to create something new. The clothing will be deconstructed and re-created along with other contributions. The stories will be incorporated into a visual and narrative component of the Collecting Loss exhibition. The exhibit will also include a series of photographs of the clothing as it was originally received, before being incorporated into the larger memorial. The complete Collecting Loss memorial will be exhibited in 2008.

Details about Collecting Loss can be found online at www.collectingloss.com. For questions or inquiries, the public may email info[AT]collectingloss.com or call 416-846-3909 (Karen) or 416-305-6440 (Esther).

Collecting Loss is supported by Canada Council for the Arts.

sew be it is pro-pants

New class from Sew Be It - note that class is now 20% of the price listed:

Pattern Drafting - Pants

This second level of patternmaking is dedicated to pants. Learn to draft and test fit your pant block. Through various techniques you will learn how to manipulate your pant block to design various styles of pants from flared bell bottoms, shorts, capris, drawing string pants, and more. Also included will be waistbands, pleats, pockets, fly front and side zipper.

You will also design, draft and make your own style of pants using the techniques taught. Learn a few new sewing techniques as well. By the end of the class you will have your own personal pant block, a pair of pants that you designed and made, and your own work book full of information on how to design your own pants.

A good understanding of sewing is required for this class.

This is a 7 week class, each class being 3 hours.

Date: August 13, Mondays
Time: 6pm - 9pm
Price: $299 + GST
Special – Sign up now and get 20% off the above course fee. Cost includes all materials.

Sew Be It Studio
2156 Yonge Street
Toronto ON M4S 2A8
416-481-7784
www.sewbeitstudio.com

bookhou baby

bookhou design have added a baby collection! I am particularly taken by John's abstract bird mobile and Arounna's quilt featuring her own printed fabrics. Check it out: http://www.bookhou.com/babycollection.htm

paper craft sale

Paper Crafters take note: HUGE SALE!

July 27th & 28th.

http://www.theembellishmentstore.com

We are clearing out a lot of scrapbooking, stamping and paper crafting
products at deeply discounted prices.

For example, 12x12 cardstock, usually around $0.75 is being clearanced
for $0.25 per sheet.

Embellishments, including brads, eyelets, buttons, charms, and more
are going for just $1 per package (regular up to $8.00!)

rubber stamps on sale for 40 - 80% off regular prices.

We are conveniently located close to highway 401 and Avenue Road.
Please visit our website for more information and directions!

http://www.theembellishmentstore.com

third annual parkdale festival

Parkdale Festival - August 25th, 2007

S: (n) festival (a day or period of time set aside for feasting and celebration)
S: (n) festival, fete (an organized series of acts and performances usually in one place)

The third annual Parkdale Festival takes place on Saturday August 25th from 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at Masaryk-Cowan Park, Queen and Cowan. It’s a day of family entertainment to raise awareness for various Parkdale youth service organizations.

There’s definitely a need for awareness of available youth service organizations within the city, whether this be for help in finding a job, finding a place to stay, or getting the next meal. The goal of the Festival is to create awareness by providing a fun interactive community based event. The end result is to create an accessible reference database of services that are available to youth. The website currently has a list of past organizations.

The Festival will be comprised of various components, including an "Interactive Art Zone" where individuals can contribute to a “mural of street art". At the end of the day these pieces will be offered to various community organizations in hopes that they are proudly displayed. Throughout the day there will also be a variety of performances, a children’s activity area and wading pool, a Marketplace of local artisans and vendors, and a Community Information Fair with displays of materials from various youth organizations. This is the last weekend before youth head back to school which makes it all that much more important to get this information out.

Confirmed Entertainment includes Laura Repo, Chris Bottomley, Box Full of Cash, The Old Soul and more. University of Toronto’s CIUT-FM will be doing a Live-To-Air broadcast for the full duration of the Festival. Tune into 89.5 FM or www.ciut.fm on the internet if you are unable to attend, and hear all the performances.

Official sponsors include NOW Magazine, Woolfitt’s Art Supplies, Babbleweb, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Pizza Pizza, Long and McQuade, Metalworks Studios Inc, and Parkdale-High Park MPP Cheri Dinovo.

With support from Parkdale Liberty Economic Development Corporation, Parkdale Liberty Newspaper, Gleaner Publications, and Masaryk-Cowan Community Centre

Again this year there will be an after party featuring several performances and DJ’s as part of P-Fest, presented by Triple-X Productions, details TBA www.themarsbar.com.

Visit www.parkdalefestival.com for an updated schedule of performances, participating organizations and activities. Come out and support the leaders of tomorrow and enjoy a great day of entertainment for everyone.

Media Inquiries, Volunteers, Performers, Artists and Vendors
Contact: Festival Innovator, Bryen Dunn, info[AT]parkdalefestival.com

maker's market, hamilton - this saturday

Make your way to the Makers’ Market!

Date: Saturday, July 21, 2007
Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Location:Christ's Church Cathedral
Street :252 James St. N.
City/Town: Hamilton, ON

Taking place in the beautiful urban courtyard of Christ’s Church Cathedral on James Street North, the Makers’ Market welcomes you to attend our inaugural season!

Organic farm-fresh fruits & vegetables and fresh cut flowers from local growers, Simpler Thyme and Under Ground Organics.

Artists & Makers of all kinds making fun, unique & local products:

• jewellery• paintings• cards & stationery• photography• pottery• fashion accessories• Vintage items too!• used books• hard-to-find vinyl• clothing• antiques• collectables• Music, historic tours, bike repair workshops & much more!

Make a day out of it & explore James North too...

Remaining 2007 Market Dates

Saturday, July 21st
Saturday, August 18th
Saturday, Sept. 15th

free admission

grand opening gala for heart on your sleeve

Another addition to the Nassau Street craft scene:

Hi there!

Please see the attached invitation [below]!....
& join us for the Grand Opening Gala for Heart On Your Sleeve!

Thursday July 26th, 5pm - 10pm
6pm - Ribbon cutting with special guest Adria Vasil, author of Ecoholic
8pm - Eco-fashion show
Live local music, djs, snacks, gifts, FUN!

At Heart On Your Sleeve and Left Feet!....on the corner of Bellevue and Nassau
in Kensington Market, Toronto

Please contact me with any questions you might have! ....and I'll see you there!

Natalie

Natalie Stephenson
heartonyoursleeve.ca
416.999.2197
natalie[AT]heartonyoursleeve.ca

call for vendors: underground garage sale in mississauga

Mississauga's 3rd Anual Youth Oriented Arts and Craft Fair! Celebrating Local artists, zines, musicians, talent and more

It's just like an actual Garage Sale so you are more than welcome to sell stuff you don't need!

FREE! Perfect for back to school and for Original and One of a Kind Gifts that are truely affordable!

ALSO! Chances to win SILK SCREEN MACHINES! AND MORE!!! Come out and support your local home grown talent and score some sweet stuff in the process.

View the Facebook Group here.

afghans for afghans @ the knit cafe

Via the Sew Be It Summer 2007 Newsletter (sign up on their site to receive it yourself):

YOU KNIT, WE SHIP

Calling all Toronto knitters! How about dedicating some of your stash to an outstanding summer project? The Knit Café and the Toronto community are teaming up for this worthy cause.

Afghans for Afghans is a humanitarian and educational people-to-people project that sends hand-knit and crocheted blankets and sweaters, vests, hats, mittens, and socks to the children of Afghanistan.

Helpful hints
- Wool and animal fibres offer the most warmth and perform best in rugged conditions. Please avoid synthetic yarns, they cannot be shipped.
- Knit or crochet your favorite patterns or try something new. For sample patterns see the AFA website, below.
- Please do not use representational images (e.g. faces or animal designs) or religious or national symbols.
- Avoid white or very light colors. Feel free to mix a bright and cheery palate from your yarn collection!
- Please assume standard garment sizes. You are knitting for a Canadian climate. Hats need to cover ears, sleeves need to go the wrist and torsos need to be long.
- No used items or scarves please.

You can drop off your projects at the Knit Café, 1050 Queen Street West. The dead-line for the next shipment is September 25th, 2007. For more information, check out the web-site: http://www.afghansforafghans.org

A hat that you knit will be well-loved and passed down through several families of Afghan children. Make this your summer project!

vendor call: craft show in niagara falls

Christina wrote to let us know about a craft show in Niagara Falls that is going into its 3rd year, located in St. Thomas More School (6642 St. Thomas More Drive) The show takes place on November 10th and runs from 10am-3pm.

Vendor spaces are still available but fill up quickly because they are very reasonably priced. The 10X10 spaces are $40 each and they also have 8 foot spaces available (big enough for an 8 foot table and the vendor to be beside it) which is $25. They accept all kinds of crafts but try not to overload in any one category.

An application form is available by emailing Christina here, or you can request to receive one by mail. Contact her by email or by phone (905-371-3116) with any questions.

badge button pin

Well guess what? The buttons of Toronto's own Sweetie Pie Press have been featured in a neat looking book called Badge Button Pin, published by UK-based boutique Stereohype. Here's a description from their website:

Badges, buttons and pins have been around for over a century. Today they're everywhere: on lapels and bags all over the world and in the sketchbooks and on the screens of some of the hottest graphic designers, artists and illustrators. A badge can be a cheap and easy way to display political or cultural affiliations or it can simply be a fashion accessory. Cheap to produce and easy to make at home, the humble badge is the new T-shirt. A guide to the best and most beautiful badges being produced right now - be they graphic, textual or plain illustrative - this book explores the rich variety of uses of the badge since the year 2000 – whether it be promotion, revenue-raising or simply decorative. It will appeal to graphic designers, illustrators, fashion designers, artists, music lovers and badge enthusiasts of all ages.

Buy it here (& get a Stereohype surprise button badge and assorted postcards with purchase).

The ladies of Ladyfest Toronto are looking for people to facilitate workshops during the festival and asked the TCA to put a call out for crafty workshop leaders.

Interested? The application can be found here, so print and mail or fill it out and email it by July 31st, 2007.

Please direct any questions about workshops or anything Ladyfest-related to lftoworkshops[AT]gmail.com.

honey-bunch.com looking for knitter/crocheter

I received the following request from Nicole of the Toronto-based online kids shop honeybunch:

I’m hoping to connect with a TO crochet/knitter to make kids’ caps for my shop, honey-bunch.com. I’m currently working with a lovely lovely Portland crafter but now that she’s expecting her second baby she’s winding things down and I’d like to find someone local. This is what I’m currently selling for summer but I’d like something for fall. A visor beanie or ear-flaps maybe. Babies up to age 5/6. I’d buy an initial opening order then like to be able to re-order as needed – with minimums, of course.

Contact Nicole here if you are interested.

call for vendors: bloor west village arts and crafts show & sale

Bloor West Village Arts and Crafts Show & Sale

The 26th Annual event is being held this year on Saturday, November 10th, 2007. This craft show was conceived many years ago as a showcase for local talent. We are proud of its noncommercial ambiance and it is our aim to maintain the hand-made, home-made aspect of our show and sale. We have a wide variety of crafters-everything from hand-made soaps and bath products to beaded jewellery to artists displaying their prints to hand-made dolls and wood carving. There is something for everyone!!!

It is hosted at Runnymede United Church, 432 Runnymede Rd. (Just 2 blocks north of Bloor St.)
The fine print:
$60.00 for an 8 foot table
$110.00 for a 16 foot table
(no percentage of vendor's profits are collected)
An admission charge of $2.00 per person will be taken at the door. As well, we host a bake sale and snack bar for shoppers and vendors.

If you are intersted in being a part of this year's show, please e-mail our Show Coordination Committee at bloorwestarts[AT]netscape.net

Happy Crafting!

crafty crush: tealish

I’ve decided to start a new feature on the Alert called crafty crush. I am prone to gushing on occasion anyhow, be it about a certain maker, a great shop, or even a particular craft object I covet. But I thought I’d make these outbursts of adoration official (mostly I’m just a sucker for cutesy titles).

I’ve meaning to post about Tealish for a good while now, so I thought I’d kick things off with a little spotlight of my favourite local tea hang. Yeah, I know tea is not officially craft, but Tealish proprietors Michael Rachmel and Laura Chodola blend tea leaves, flowers, nuts & spices in a seriously crafty manner. Plus they carry a very well curated assortment of tea accessories, like screen- printed tea pot cosies, ceramic tea sets (classic and modern), and engraved metal spoons. Mass produced, yes, but the Jonathan Adler iced tea pitcher sets are crazy hot. To boot the décor scheme is based around Japanese paper prints to very stylish effect against a poppy green interior.

But the teas are really what make Tealish worth the detour off of Queen West. Their 130 varieties are available loose (in Blacks, Greens, Rooibos, Herbal & Fruits, and special teas like Whites and Yerba Mates) and made to order in iced teas, lattes, tea smoothies, and straight up. Some of my faves so far include Mixed Berry Anise and Creamy Vanilla (loose), Walnut Ave. Latte, and Iced Coconut Blossom Sencha Latte. I am super psyched to try the premium grade Matcha Genmaicha next time I need to replenish my stash. Ordering sound a bit dauting? The staff are happy to explain what’s up. Plus rumour has it that fall will bring tea-tasting sessions (which may include rare teas not sold in the shop) where you can get the low-down on all things tea.

Seriously, guys, next time you have a free afternoon, I highly advise the following route: Hit Clafouti for a croissant to go, The Paper Place for a dose of visual stimulation, Type Books for some reading material, and round the corner to Tealish for a cup of pure yum to take to the park. You’ll be crushing hard, too.

Tealish
198 Walnut Ave
Unit #2
416.203.3301
http://www.tealish.com

Hours of Operation
Tuesday-Friday 10am - 7pm
Saturday 10am - 7pm
Sunday 12pm - 5pm
Monday CLOSED

woops. parkdale arts and craft this weekend!

Posted a call for vendors in June but totally forgot to post about this fair proper. Good thing you readers are on the ball...

Hi Toronto Craft Alert!

Long-time reader, first-time writer katie muth here. I may have missed it, but it would seem that no-one has yet posted about the Parkdale Arts and Craft festival that is going on Saturday July 14th and Sunday July 15th between 12 and 7pm... I believe there are about 90 vendors taking part (including me!) and there will be live music both days with performances by the likes of Justin Rutledge and the Spoons! Also activities for kids and a beer garden in the heart of Parkdale (Queen W. and Cowan). Hopefully there's still time to get this up on the blog to let T.O. craft-fans know about it!

Thank you!

Best Wishes,

katie muth

www.katiemuth.com
416.766.9389

who, us?: TCA named cool blog of the week!

Some exciting news just popped into my inbox: Toronto Craft Alert has been chosen as Cool Blog of the Week on Poppytalk! This is an honour (Jan has great taste) and an opportunity to expose an international audience to Toronto’s crafty action, as well as hopefully attracting some new Toronto-area readers. Score!

Thanks Jan!

join forces with the contemporary textile studio co-op

The Contemporary Textile Studio Co-op membership waiting list is now open!!!

We invite emerging and established textile artists and designers who are interested in membership to contact us or send in an expression ofinterest and formal application.

Full co-op members have 24-7 access to our beautiful, 1100 square foot, equipped Studio at 401 Richmond Street West, as well as opportunities for revenue generation and collaborations with other members and our institutional partners. Members contribute towards the costs of the space and general Studio supplies, and lend their skills and enthusiasm to the direction and development of our unique nonprofit artist run co-op.

If you haven't already signed on as a Studio Associate, please consider doing so!! Associate status is one step towards towards greater involvement in the Studio and potential membership in the co-op. Associates are eligible to rent and will soon also be able to access discounts at selected suppliers and specific Studio sponsored workshops.

Feel free to contact us at cts.member[AT]gmail.com for more informationand application forms.

vendor call: ladyfest ottawa

A note from the organizers of Ladyfest Ottawa:

Hi,

I'm contacting you on behalf of Ladyfest Ottawa. We host Ottawa's premiere DIY/indie craft sale (we've had crafters tell us that our sale easily compares to Renegade and Pitchfork Festiva's in terms of their sales and the quality!). We're looking for interesting crafters to apply to our fall craftsale. Here's the information for the application. For more information, visit http://www.ladyfestottawa.com

2007 CRAFTSALE APPLICATION:
The Fall Craft Sale is scheduled for SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22nd at the Jack Purcell Community Centre. As always, the craft sale will be from 10:00-5:00 p.m., with crafters setting up at 9:00 a.m. and tearing down from 5:00-6:00 p.m.

We will be providing tables for everyone, so no need to bring your own. Tables are 25$ each. Due to an overwhelming number of applications at previous craft sales, all applicants will be juried. Please send an e-mail to ladyfest_ottawa_crafts[AT]hotmail.com with the following to have your application considered:

- Your name and contact information (e-mail & phone number)
- A brief description of yourself and your crafts
- Approx. price-point of your crafts
- Photos of your work
As well, let us know if you would be willing to be contacted by the media or have pictures of your crafts included in any press about the craft sale.

PLEASE NOTE: You must receive a confirmation e-mail from us to confirm that you will be participating in the craft sale. Confirmation e-mails should be received by Sept. 1st.

Please don't hesitate to write us with any questions or concerns you might have about the craft sale. And of course apply quickly! Spaces are limited, and the deadline for all applications is FRIDAY, AUGUST 24th.

crafty math nerds take note: hyperbolic crochet workshop

Pseudosphere
Teal Wool
increased one in every two
12 rows

Want to learn to crochet, but think you're too math nerdy? Scared of math, but want to learn to crochet? No problem! Becky Johnson (of Sweetie Pie Press) is going to teach us that math can make that dull old yarn look really pretty. Becky's also a fantastic instructor so if you've never handled a hook, have no fear.

Come out to Nathalie-Roze & Co.'s beautiful backyard garden at 1015 Queen St. E. on Sunday, July 15 between 1pm and 4pm. FREE.

[note from Becky: although we will have the church of craft collection of hooks and yarns on hand, you can also feel free to bring your own (just about any size will do). ]

more images: http://www.flickr.com/photos/sweetiepiepress/sets/72157600044464593/

good catch dog days craft fair this sat.

Go here for a link clickable version of poster.

Rev. Aitor will be in attendance doing unflattering portraits. Email him at
revaitor at gmail dot com for an appointment. Or just show up (and possibly have to wait a bit).

stitch n' pitch!!!

This cracks me up...(from Haley).

Stitch 'N Pitch Toronto! August 15, 2007, 7pm at the Rogers Centre

Come out to a baseball game for a gigantic Stitch N Bitch! Knit, crochet, embroider, cross stitch, needlepoint - we do it with needles! Bring your friends, family & colleagues and take in the game for a special discount ticket price of $20 (normally $26) AND receive a Jays tote bag full of goodies!

It's still early, but word on the street is that the Yarn Harlot herself Stephanie Pearl McPhee and Amy Singer from Knitty.com will be in attendance.

http://toronto.bluejays.mlb.com/tor/ticketing/stitch_n_pitch.jsp

To reserve your tickets contact your local Knitting store or check out our blog at stitchnpitchtoronto.blogspot.com. If you want 10 tickets or more e-mail Paul.Rabeau[AT]bluejays.com

bookhou on apartment therapy

Do you ever have fantasies about what your favourite maker's pad looks like? I always enjoy getting a peek into creative people's homes through magazines and blogs, and of course an actual visit is most satisfying in experiencing the translation of asthetic from craft objects to living space.

A little while ago I posted about Oorbee Roy (of Om Home)'s beautiful space, and now I have another to share: John Booth and Arounna Khounnoraj of Bookhou Design, as profiled by BC blogger Jan (of Poppytalk) on Apartment Therapy SF.

Both John and Arounna's work is so simple, organic & modern, and I think that this is reflected in their loft. I love how their work (especially John's furniture in the pictures provided) warms up the industrial space, and I really enjoy the sweet vintage and local designer accents.

Below are a few images from the profile. Go here to view the whole article & here for a slideshow with more photos.

mass craft at harbourfront centre

Link to bigger poster

TOAE 2007 highlights

Wanted to share some images & links from this year's amazing Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition. Other bloggy coverage of the show can be found here & here.


Top: Amazing fibre work by bookhou's Arounna Khounnoraj website
Bottom: Violent eyelet by Kate Jackson email Kate


Left: Arty Heart by Heather Marchand website
Right: Fantastical vessel by Lindsay Montgomery email Lindsay


Top: Sweet ceramics by Science & Sons website
Bottom: Lovely domestic print by Genvieve Jodouin website


Left: Regal brooch by Suzanne Carlsen website
Right: White squirl guts stuffie by Ugly Bunny/Sarah Jane Reynolds email Sarah Jane


Top: Wooden house earrings by Esther Lam/Lavier Designs website (not currently working) email Esther
Bottom: More animal guts by Ugly Bunny/Sarah Jane Reynolds email Sarah Jane


Left: Playful felted brooch by Keri Rounding website
Right: Committed knitting by Maria Litvin email Maria

consignment opp: kid icarus

Thoughtful TCA reader Robyn wrote to pass on a consignment tip to those of you looking for new places to sell your handmade stuff.

Kid Icarus is located at 75 Nassau St. in Kensington Market and according to their website they are looking for "DIY stationery, toys, paper products, small hand printed art / posters, letterpress or bookbinding goods." I'm not sure if they are open yet (the website says OPENING SOON & and my email enquiring bounced back) but it looks like it has the potential to be an awesome addition to one of the cutest streets in the Market.

ETA: Apparently they're open. So pop by, email them here, or call them at 416-977-7236.

one world community home jewellery & fashion show

You're Cordially Invited to

1st Home Party and Website Launch

Featuring

One World Community
One-of-a-kind contemporary art jewellery
&
Ingrid's Designs
Custom design clothing
specializing in Plus Sized fashions

Date: Saturday, July 14, 2007
Time: 4 pm to 9 pm
at Pape & Queen St

Please R.S.V.P. (416) 778-8167 / oneworldcommunity@gmail.com

www.our-community.ca

I would love you to attend the 1st One World Community Home Jewellery & Fashion show happening next Saturday July 14, 2007. I welcome you and your family to my home for an enjoyable afternoon to find a unique piece of jewellery to reflect your Natural beauty. Selah.

--
One World Community
Reveal your Natural Beauty
www.our-community.ca

events this saturday at the good catch

Click to enlarge in flickr

nathalie-roze & co. turns one! (plus necklace workshop)

nathalie-roze & co. celebrates...
365 Days in Leslieville!

As a big thank-u to all of our customers and friends in Leslieville and beyond who've supported us in this first year, Nathalie-Roze & Co. is offering 20% off everything in the store this Sunday July 8th (12noon to 5pm).

Please join us for deals on oodles of handmade goodies created by over 80 local indie designer-craftistas. Free cupcakes, lemonade and iced tea will be served on the side patio.

Everyone who pops in has a chance to enter the anniversary raffle to win one of several gift certificates and other crafty-cool prizes. And, the first 15 shoppers will receive a special goody-bag.

WHERE:
nathalie-roze & co.
1015 Queen St. East @ Pape, Leslieville
12noon to 5pm

Info: www.nathalie-roze.com OR 416-792-1699

::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Still spaces left in...

Jewellery 102: Super-Fab Necklaces
Saturday July 7th, 10am to 1pm

In this fun beginner session participants will learn how to use key tools and basic techniques to create various contemporary pendant and beaded necklace designs incorporating wire, beads, buttons, fabric, leather, found objects & semi-precious stones. Samples and inspiration sheets will be discussed. Everyone will leave with, at least, 2 completed designs. All tools and materials (beads, wire, etc.) will be provided, although particiants are encouraged to bring extra beads and findings with them to customize their creations.
$60 + GST, including basic materials as well as gourmet tea & baked goodies served during the break
Instructor: Nathalie-Roze Fischer

seeking a profesh way to display your wares?

DISPLAY GRID FOR SALE (4 grids each measuring 2 ft by 5ft) BLACK, COMES WITH HOOKS AND GRID HINGES. PAID OVER $200, WILL SELL FOR $125 FIRM. GOOD CONDITION. GREAT FOR CRAFT SHOWS. FOR DISPLAYING HANDBAGS,CLOTHING, SCARVES ETC. CALL 905-665-5232. ASK FOR TRICIA. IF INTERESTED PLEASE EMAIL: p_rob63[AT]hotmail.com

toronto outdoor art exhibition starts tomorrow!

One of my favourite shows begins tomorrow – the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition. I love this one because it is a great mix of art, fine craft, and crafty elements – which is rare to find in local shows. I always discover new makers at this show & love seeing the student work (which is usually the stuff I can afford!).

A couple of TCA readers have gotten in touch to invite us to visit their booth. They are:

Izik Levy @ Booth #221

&
Jocelyn De Backere @ Booth #381 (in the Green Section)


If you’d like to be listed here with your booth info, please comment on this post.

Here are the show details:

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition
July 6, 7, 8, 2007
Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto City Hall
Free Admission * Rain or Shine
Hours: July 6, 10am-8pm; July 7, 10am-7pm; and July 8, 10am-6pm.

Find paintings, drawings, sculptures, fibre works, jewellery, watercolours, metal works, original prints, ceramics, glass, wood works, mixed media works, and photographs by 500 artists and craftspeople!

Preview the artists' work at www.torontooutdoorart.org

Win a $500 Art Shopping Spree! Tickets are $5 each. Buy them at the TOAE office or at the Main Information Booth at Nathan Phillips Square during the show.

NEW THIS YEAR: You be the judge! Vote for your favourite artist to win the PRIME People's Choice Award - cast your vote on the square by 3pm on Saturday July 7

For more information: 416.408.2754 or toae[AT]torontooutdoorart.org

screenprint in the 'saug

Via akimbo



PRINT E-Z: DIY screen-printing
Exhibition and Demonstrations

Public Demonstrations:
Saturday July 7, 2007 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Wednesday August 1, 2007 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Activity Tent / Civic Centre, Mississauga ON

Focusing on the entire process of screen-printing, Jesjit Gill will demonstrate every aspect of the print-
making process from drawing the initial designs to the finished product. Do-it-yourself and join the exciting assembly line of poster art production.

Exhibition:
Art Gallery of Mississauga
Opening Reception: Thursday July 19 at 6:00 pm
July 19 - September 9, 2007
Hours: Weekdays 9 am to 5 pm, weekends 12 to 4 pm

Featuring Jesjit Gill's recent poster and wallpaper work along with pieces resulting from the collaborative efforts of the participants from the Square One Youth Centre and the artist.

Currently studying at the Ontario College of Art and Design, Jesjit Gill began screen printing a little over five years ago. He began by making t-shirts but, was exposed to the potential of print through his appreciation of independent music. In screen-printing Gill satisfies a need to become a machine and create large quantities of artwork while expressing himself in the most accessible of mediums, the poster. Originally from Brampton, Ontario, the artist now calls Toronto his home.

My Mississauga - Come Celebrate Summer at City Centre
June - September 2007
Bursting at the seams, the Art Gallery of Mississauga has exploded into the Civic Square offering dynamic summer performances and engaging multi-media presentations for the My Mississauga festival. The Gallery invites you to join our summer long open house of ideas and entertainment.

If you have any questions please contact Suzanne Carte-Blanchenot at 905-896-5507 or suzanne.carte-blanchenot[AT]mississauga.ca.

Got something to say about Mississauga's cultural scene? Comment at www.905arttalk.blogspot.com

ART GALLERY OF MISSISSAUGA
300 CITY CENTRE DRIVE, MISSISSAUGA
(905) 896-5088
WWW.ARTGALLERYOFMISSISSAUGA.COM

new nanopod action

Workshops on at the Science Center and the nanopod studio:



Great news! The Ontario Science Centre has asked me to come and teach several weekend workshops in their new Weston Family Innovation Centre.

These workshops are geared towards 8 to 23 year olds - but anyone is welcome to join in the fun!

Saturday, July 7th &
Sunday, July 8th
Workshops start at:
11am
1pm
3pm
and they are FREE!

http://www.OntarioScienceCentre.ca
Creative Science: Garbage Art Jewelry
July 7-8, 2007
Put your creativity to the test in this special workshop. Take inspiration from our guest jewelry artist, Tosca Teran of nanopod: Hybrid Studio and determine if you can concoct a ring, bracelet, or necklace from unexpected materials, recycled parts and eco-friendly items.
11 am, 1 & 3 pm, Sat. & Sun., Level D, Weston Family Innovation Centre.

Bring your kids, tell your friends & come make some wearable - upcycled - recycled - art!

Tosca Teran
nanopod: Hybrid Studio



Learn to hand fabricate
your own jewelry/sculptures
out of sterling silver.
You will make a ring band, learn one of the oldest casting techniques, set stones,
and much more...

Beginning Jewelry
Monday or Wednesday evenings starting July 9th or 11th
5 student max., 8 wks, 6:30p.m.-9:30p.m.
1 evening per week $250 + materials*
Pre registration required w/$100 deposit
Summer Love Give Back! Register with a friend and receive 15% off

week#1: working with copper- introduction, drilling, sawing, soldering

week#2: making a ring band out of silver(stamp, hammer finish, roller print, etc)

week#3: finishing your ring, patinas, polishing, working with wax for lost wax casting

week#4: continue working with wax, cuttlefish
casting in class.

week#5: cleaning up castings, creating your own findings (ear wires, jump rings, pin backs)

week#6: forming metal using the dapping block, disk cutters, married metals

week#7: riveting, bezel settings, tube settings- create a piece using learned techniques

week#8: finish up projects

*some materials included.
No Experience Necessary!

Intensive glass fusing & jewelry making workshop

Saturday, July 28th noon to 5pm & Sunday, July 29th, 11am to 6pm {hr lunch}
5 student max.
$275 includes all materials
(deposit of half down required to hold space)

This is a 2-day intensive workshop that teaches not only how to make beautiful fused glass cabochons or “stones”, but also how to mount and display them to their best advantage.
It is a fun, hands-on class that begins with glass cutting and ends with the completion of 6 to 10 fused pieces; cabochons for earrings, pendants and rings.
The next day using sterling silver students will choose from their fusings made on Saturday and learn how to’set them creating beautiful one-of-a-kind earrings,
pendants and rings.

Learn how to cut glass, emboss-it, embed things in it, and fuse-it then learn how to bezel set your glass pieces, make a ring band for your bezel settings, pendants, cuff links, etc. Resource list of where you can purchase materials, tools, equipment and how to set-up your own studio is included.
Class fee includes all materials: glass, sterling & fine silver, supplies, and firings.
Tools are provided. Lunch is included! No Experience Necessary!

Tosca Teran
nanopod: Hybrid Studio
322 Harbord Street
Toronto, ON M6G1H1
647 219 0585
http://www.nanopod.tv