Its that time of the year again and I'm here at home working and watching hours of Addams Family reruns. There are less that two hours left of Halloween and it has really FELT like Halloween despite the fact that Molly came over to work for a while, we had a mishap with an over watered plant that leaked down onto my overlock, there were no trick or treaters, and I had a fitting at 8 pm tonight. I mean, the town is deathly still over on this side. I thought there might be some mayhem happening, but nothing. Its not witching hour yet, but that veil is super thin right now.
I saw a white mist swirl in front of me a while ago and a fly wont leave me alone. I think its my Grandma Crowley - she always comes and hangs out on this night. Its pretty cool. She gives me good advice. I know that sounds crazy to some, but when I ask her a question, I get an answer.
Lately Ive been staying up til 3 am just working on projects. Ive been on a roll and feeling pretty creative again. I'm feeling more and more like the aftershock of moving and changing my lifestyle is wearing off. Ive been getting used to preparing all my meals - I know that sounds silly, but I seriously have been surrounded by amazing food for the last 20+ years. Ive been soooooo spoiled and I still wake up thinking that I'm going to just run around the corner in my gym clothes after crawling out of bed and grab a bagel and coffee. Its an adjustment, but an OK one. I just make my own coffee and I try to always keep stuff to eat in the pantry.
I'm getting ready for vending at ShadowDance this Saturday coming up. I will have some garments in the Salome's Suitcase fashion show - and this week will see me literally cranking some of this out. I'm pretty inspired and so we'll see what we come up with!
Last week I had a big sale for custom orders, and this was very successful - not much of a profit margin for me, but it generated interest and I did realize that it really is the economy and not just the way that I run business that has slowed down the cash flow. Its just a global depression, that's all. It cant be Me! Not Meeeeee!!!!!! :) So that was a nice week.
Big news for my friend Chris March this month! Bravo is giving him his own show..........pretty exciting stuff for sure! If anyone deserves success, its Chris. He's the bestest in the West - or East now at any rate!
Maybe next year I will go out and celebrate the new year/Halloween/All hallows eve........I'm happy staying home and being creative though.
Gotta start saving up for some big much needed purchases by the end of the year: a camera, a computer, a car. Not necessarily in that order - but gotta have em so the next few months will see me working up a storm!
Happy New Year! Listen to the ancestors. They know whats up. They have the answers.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Ridiculous Sale - But Thats What It Is and Thats What I'm Offering!
If you were sitting on the fence, its time to jump off it now and take advantage of this ridiculous sale. I'm offering my custom Etsy goods for 20% off. I don't think this will happen again, as my custom prices are already pretty darned good as they are, but it feels good to be able to bring the prices down to about where they were when I started making them - if even for a very short time. And while I already have a pattern template that I work from for these designs (and this is how I can make these customized for you at a lower than custom rate), I take your measurements, I go find your fabrics, I make these for you and you alone.
The wait time is the same. There is a long line for my creations, but the line has shortened, Ive got the supplies, I have some help again, I'm all settled into my new studio, I get lots of sleep now, I'm bright eyed and bushy tailed and ready to take on more work! Maybe this sale will be just the incentive to get that amazing pair of pants that you were lusting for!
KathleenCrowleyCostumeCouture will be taking just a few orders - for no more than a week, and then its prices back to as they were. So grab them now!
Go directly to Etsy and click on my custom ordering section. If something isn't there that you wanted, it may have just sold and I have not been able to re list the item yet. I will be checking in regularly to watch this. And I will stop the sale as soon as I think Ive sold enough. Ive learned not to get greedy and pace myself. It isn't fair to you - it isn't fair to myself - the wait is long enough!
You can also email me directly at kc.costumecouture@gmail.com .
Saturday, October 16, 2010
That Old Cliche' Of Flying Through The Air With The Greatest Of Ease
I made a pair of red velvet Sampants for Rose Nisker to wear while dancing and tumbling through the air last night at the Crucible. I regret that I couldn't go to the event, but a friend forwarded me the link to the photos. Ta Da! Just gorgeous! We put some sparklie fabric under the first layer of flounce and then added flounces to her pre-made corset - which she also wears with a red flamenco skirt to die for from Spain. I raised the waistline on the pants and we attached the pants to the corset so that her costume wouldn't twist in the silk. This must all be quite stunning while floating in the air!
I added a little bit of sparklie trim to her flamenco skirt (not shown) to make her corset and skirt look like one cohesive piece when worn together. This is a nice little trick if you want to take two pieces of clothing and make them look as if they were designed to go together - take some fabric or trim and place it strategically - and perhaps subtly on both garments. If done well, this tricks the eye into thinking its a unit and not separates.
I have made a few flamenco skirts in my day, but I have not had the opportunity to inspect many real ones that the dancers wear. Those babies are heavy, ladies! They have so many layers, a dust ruffle, cording to weight the train down and make it lie flat on the ground - to swing gracefully when kicked around, these are not supposed to be cheap and flimsy. All those circular flounces are heavy - as many of you who wear my Fluffie Rufflies can attest to!
I believe that this is Juan Del Valle Flamenco - I want to give credit where credit is due!
Rose is such a lovely, warm person to work with -
I count myself so blessed - I really know some of the most talented people in the world!
I added a little bit of sparklie trim to her flamenco skirt (not shown) to make her corset and skirt look like one cohesive piece when worn together. This is a nice little trick if you want to take two pieces of clothing and make them look as if they were designed to go together - take some fabric or trim and place it strategically - and perhaps subtly on both garments. If done well, this tricks the eye into thinking its a unit and not separates.
I have made a few flamenco skirts in my day, but I have not had the opportunity to inspect many real ones that the dancers wear. Those babies are heavy, ladies! They have so many layers, a dust ruffle, cording to weight the train down and make it lie flat on the ground - to swing gracefully when kicked around, these are not supposed to be cheap and flimsy. All those circular flounces are heavy - as many of you who wear my Fluffie Rufflies can attest to!
I believe that this is Juan Del Valle Flamenco - I want to give credit where credit is due!
Rose is such a lovely, warm person to work with -
I count myself so blessed - I really know some of the most talented people in the world!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Friday, October 8, 2010
Stripes
I could probably sell striped pants til the cows come home..........I need to look up where that phrase originated from. Obviously a ranching or farming statement. But you get the picture.
Ive got someone in LA on the hunt for a good source since I cant get down there much. They really do seem to be scarce right now. In the right fabric. At the right price. In the right color.
I posted these the other day and they flew out the window. I like making small runs of fun little pants and things to wear. But I just wish the fabrics that I like to use were more readily available. Not just the cotton lycra (in the weight that I prefer), but rayons and other fabrics. I used to go into fabric stores and go nuts. Now I go "meh". Oh sure, if I could buy in volume, this wouldn't be a problem. But then again, it might if it cant even be found at the LA Fabric District.
What happens,I'm sure, is that it gets snatched up quick. Its out there. I'll find it. Ive got extra eyes now.
Ive got someone in LA on the hunt for a good source since I cant get down there much. They really do seem to be scarce right now. In the right fabric. At the right price. In the right color.
I posted these the other day and they flew out the window. I like making small runs of fun little pants and things to wear. But I just wish the fabrics that I like to use were more readily available. Not just the cotton lycra (in the weight that I prefer), but rayons and other fabrics. I used to go into fabric stores and go nuts. Now I go "meh". Oh sure, if I could buy in volume, this wouldn't be a problem. But then again, it might if it cant even be found at the LA Fabric District.
What happens,I'm sure, is that it gets snatched up quick. Its out there. I'll find it. Ive got extra eyes now.
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Thursday, September 30, 2010
The Indie Bazaar - October 23rd
I will be vending at The Indie Bazaar at Brief Space in the Metreon!
October 23rd
Saturday 12-5 pm
Salome's Suitcase will be there too and we will be bringing our hand crafted treasures for your enjoyment.........please join us there.........see all the new beauty we will be bringing with us.....this will be fun!!!!!!
This is such a cool part of town. parks, museums, movies, shopping, dining.....................and so easy to get to!
October 23rd
Saturday 12-5 pm
Salome's Suitcase will be there too and we will be bringing our hand crafted treasures for your enjoyment.........please join us there.........see all the new beauty we will be bringing with us.....this will be fun!!!!!!
This is such a cool part of town. parks, museums, movies, shopping, dining.....................and so easy to get to!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
A Review of Fluff
I was wondering how many Flounces Ive made over the last few years. I don't have time to do the math or go through all the photos, so I pulled a few pictures that Ive posted on Etsy and Im putting them here to see how pretty and fun they are. Fluffie Pantaloons, Fluffie Rufflie Dance Pants, Fluffie Leg Ruffles. That's a lot of Fluff.................next I want to post all the examples of pants I have sold.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Another Great Collaboration
A while back I made these harem pants for Elizabeth Strong. They turned out awfully cute and I wasnt sure about them until they were finished and she tried them on. Simply because Im not a fan of that dropped crotch look, ( I saw the damage done back in the 80,s).........but this seemed a bit different - and it was...........the "cutout" parts in the front have a cowled, drapey effect, and it really works with the rest of the outfit, although its hard to see whats going on in the photo. Lesson: you have to look at the bigger picture. Espeacilly when making components!
Liz brought me some burn out velvet to work with and I already had the rayon striped fabric that I had purchased earlier as curtains at Anna's Linnens on Mission Street in San Francisco. It had that bronzie vintage feel about it, I was saving for some future project, and I was happy to use it in this costume. Liz had a strong idea about what she wanted and I was able to play out that idea with a mockup and a couple of fittings.
Rose Harden embellished the pants later on and I believe that she and Medina Maitreya made the bra. FoolProof Studio completed the ensemble with headdress and ankle jewelry.
Another successful collaboration between members of Salome's Suitcase - what can I say. We all rock. And I do have to say that while we are all capable of making striking one of a kind outfits each on our own, it can be faster to have us all be making bits and parts here and there to pull together into one lush look. And lush describes what we do to a T.
These days, Ive been wanting to sit down again and make a whole outfit for myself or for someone else. The economic downslide has hit me hard here. I would love it if someone with great taste would just buy the lushes trims and fabrics and say, here, I'll pay all your expenses for a month if you would just concentrate on me and make me the coolest outfit that anyone has ever seen.........that's how I would like this all to work again.......It could be bridal or a great outfit or costume..........but until people are ready to spend again, it is a nice feeling to still be making striking garments - components to your wardrobe - and to help people shine in their spotlight!
Liz brought me some burn out velvet to work with and I already had the rayon striped fabric that I had purchased earlier as curtains at Anna's Linnens on Mission Street in San Francisco. It had that bronzie vintage feel about it, I was saving for some future project, and I was happy to use it in this costume. Liz had a strong idea about what she wanted and I was able to play out that idea with a mockup and a couple of fittings.
Rose Harden embellished the pants later on and I believe that she and Medina Maitreya made the bra. FoolProof Studio completed the ensemble with headdress and ankle jewelry.
Another successful collaboration between members of Salome's Suitcase - what can I say. We all rock. And I do have to say that while we are all capable of making striking one of a kind outfits each on our own, it can be faster to have us all be making bits and parts here and there to pull together into one lush look. And lush describes what we do to a T.
These days, Ive been wanting to sit down again and make a whole outfit for myself or for someone else. The economic downslide has hit me hard here. I would love it if someone with great taste would just buy the lushes trims and fabrics and say, here, I'll pay all your expenses for a month if you would just concentrate on me and make me the coolest outfit that anyone has ever seen.........that's how I would like this all to work again.......It could be bridal or a great outfit or costume..........but until people are ready to spend again, it is a nice feeling to still be making striking garments - components to your wardrobe - and to help people shine in their spotlight!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Sunday, September 26, 2010
I Need A Logo
I know. It just isn't right that I don't have one. That will have to change soon.

Right now, I'm getting some scarves and gloves up in the Etsy shop. And maybe I should put those Halloween pasties up that have been needing homes forever. I just found them packed away in a suitcase that has never been opened since.......I don't know when. It really is incredible what I find in corners and bins all tucked away.
And Ive got more Sampants and Ivypants on their way. Just have to get caught up with a few more orders and then I can start cutting and sewing these up.
So much to do!
Friday, September 24, 2010
Etsy Equinox Sale!!!!
Im having a little Autumnal Sale on Etsy for specific items that perhaps you are sitting on the fence about...........
like this plus sized coffee dyed and distressed 18th century styled corset........very Steampunk (well, they traveled back in time) .........15% off might help!
I'll be putting new things up for sale and for your perusal as well as a new mark down here and there. Ive already marked my aprons down by at least half - so no new mark downs for those! :(
Thank you, everyone who helped me with your purchases, for getting me jump started into a new location and a new life! Im loving it here!
kc.costumecuture@gmail.com
like this plus sized coffee dyed and distressed 18th century styled corset........very Steampunk (well, they traveled back in time) .........15% off might help!
I'll be putting new things up for sale and for your perusal as well as a new mark down here and there. Ive already marked my aprons down by at least half - so no new mark downs for those! :(
Thank you, everyone who helped me with your purchases, for getting me jump started into a new location and a new life! Im loving it here!
kc.costumecuture@gmail.com
Monday, September 20, 2010
Port Costa Art Show
Yesterday was a vending day for me at the Port Costa Art Show. It wasn't technically a Salome's Suitcase gig, but those of us living nearby set up a booth there. It was such a great day! We hung out and schmoozed with the neighbors. I met a bunch of new people and made new friends, I sold some of the new scarves that I made last week, and my sister brought my niece and nephew - so the afternoon in Port Costa flew by. I had no expectations for the day other than to participate in a fun cause, hang with friends, and meet new ones.. I was kind of blown away by the high caliber of creativity in this area. Its not your typical arts and crafts event. We've got some fairly famous people in their particular chosen craft living here in this remote oasis.
I participated in an art show several years ago here at the school and they have done a lot since then to fix her up and keep her going. The school was built in 1911 and the community is working hard on preserving this landmark that I have grown very fond of.
And then, after the day, after the four of us helped each other unload, we all headed over to Toots Tavern to unwind - also conveniently located. I proclaim the day a success.
Now to clean up the clutter that a vending excursions creates, and on to finishing up some projects. This will keep me out of trouble for the day!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
I participated in an art show several years ago here at the school and they have done a lot since then to fix her up and keep her going. The school was built in 1911 and the community is working hard on preserving this landmark that I have grown very fond of.
And then, after the day, after the four of us helped each other unload, we all headed over to Toots Tavern to unwind - also conveniently located. I proclaim the day a success.
Now to clean up the clutter that a vending excursions creates, and on to finishing up some projects. This will keep me out of trouble for the day!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Rashani World Fusion Every Third Friday In San Francisco!
Our L's Cafe gig is getting more and more popular! Its really a nice way to start off your weekend! The cafe is easy to get to, nice to hang out in, and not one of those super trendy pretentious places where attitude is key. Don't get me wrong, I like those places too .....but I'm saying this as a compliment to little neighborhood establishments! You can bring your mom - or grandma - or your kids - or the in laws - or a first date for a little happy taste of San Francisco in the Mission District!
Happy Hour rocks!
Rashani world fusion performs two sets every third Friday of the month! 7 pm and 8pm.
I was in moving hell for a while and couldn't participate, but I'm back! This Friday I will be dancing with Wendy Marlatt and Jessie Gauld!!!! Jessie was a member of FatChanceBellyDance once upon a time and now subs for Jill Parker when Jill is out of town. Jessie and Wendy are both amazing dancers and a treat to watch - and well, I just have a blast, so you will have to judge for yourself when you come on down!!!!!
L's Cafe
September 17th
7-9 pm
24th street and Bryant
"Rashani World Fusion is a place where ancient tradition meets contemporary California innovation. A blend of Tribal, Tribal Fusion and Tribaret with a sprinkling of Flamenco, Romany and Indian styling.
I invite collaborations from friends and fellow dancers to provide a unique monthly line up every third Friday at L's Cafe. Always fresh........always improvised!"
Wendy Marlatt
Happy Hour rocks!
Rashani world fusion performs two sets every third Friday of the month! 7 pm and 8pm.
I was in moving hell for a while and couldn't participate, but I'm back! This Friday I will be dancing with Wendy Marlatt and Jessie Gauld!!!! Jessie was a member of FatChanceBellyDance once upon a time and now subs for Jill Parker when Jill is out of town. Jessie and Wendy are both amazing dancers and a treat to watch - and well, I just have a blast, so you will have to judge for yourself when you come on down!!!!!
L's Cafe
September 17th
7-9 pm
24th street and Bryant
"Rashani World Fusion is a place where ancient tradition meets contemporary California innovation. A blend of Tribal, Tribal Fusion and Tribaret with a sprinkling of Flamenco, Romany and Indian styling.
I invite collaborations from friends and fellow dancers to provide a unique monthly line up every third Friday at L's Cafe. Always fresh........always improvised!"
Wendy Marlatt
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Breakfast Blogging
I need never worry about being bored or lonely here in Crockett. In fact, I have more company and things to do to keep me entertained than I did in the city. Granted, I felt I had just plain done it all in the city and was ready to move on, but I have a full plate every single day. I am constantly amazed and inspired by all that goes on around me in this small town.
Never a dull moment.

Our last Stitch N Bitch started at my house. Sandi, Lee, and Katherine Summer each brought their current project over and I worked on a quilt that Ive never been able to finish. But then the subject of photo shoots came up and we headed over to the Port Costa Warehouse for Bloody Marys, Manhattans, and the keys to the Burlington Hotel.
Ive blogged about this town before, I was yearning to live here once. And while I looked at several places for rent, the timing was never quite right and it felt just a little too isolated - which gives it that charm - but maybe not so great for the likes o me without a car. However, now it is just a stones' throw away and so handy for a sometimes much needed break! Port Costa was a booming little town in its day and now it is the place to head to for charm, great drinks (Bloody Mary heaven ), outlaws and colorful characters. I'm a total tourist right now. But hopefully I can integrate into the culture of this area somewhat............
Katherine Summer got the keys and we went into the hotel for a look see. Supposedly an old brothel and haunted, it is available for rental and we got super inspired. It even has the names of the girls on the doors.Whether this has just been fabricated for amusement, I don't know - I don't think anyone really does anymore - but it sure is a fun bit of local lore. I got lots of new ideas from wandering those halls! You can see more about our adventure here at the Salome's Suitcase blog.
Check out the wallpaper.
Theater Of Dreams is across the street. I'm a big fan. I believe Wendy Addison spends her time between her home here and her friends and business connections on the east coast. Her studio is usually open twice a year, but if she is around and you are around, she might let you in, Ive been lucky enough to catch her and check out her fabulous storefront. Can you say Vintage German Glass Glitter?
In order to start connecting with the community, several of us in Salome's Suitcase will have a booth at the Port Costa Arts and Crafts show this Sunday the 19th of September. We are not going to be representing Salomes' Suitcase - but will be hanging out, enjoying the day, and bringing some of our personal and unique artsy crafty pieces that will be sure to be a hit. It will be at the old Port Costa School. Follow the winding road. You cant miss it!
So now I'm off to finish wrapping up some Etsy merchandise and making a trip to ye old post office!
See you Sunday!
Never a dull moment.

Our last Stitch N Bitch started at my house. Sandi, Lee, and Katherine Summer each brought their current project over and I worked on a quilt that Ive never been able to finish. But then the subject of photo shoots came up and we headed over to the Port Costa Warehouse for Bloody Marys, Manhattans, and the keys to the Burlington Hotel.
Ive blogged about this town before, I was yearning to live here once. And while I looked at several places for rent, the timing was never quite right and it felt just a little too isolated - which gives it that charm - but maybe not so great for the likes o me without a car. However, now it is just a stones' throw away and so handy for a sometimes much needed break! Port Costa was a booming little town in its day and now it is the place to head to for charm, great drinks (Bloody Mary heaven ), outlaws and colorful characters. I'm a total tourist right now. But hopefully I can integrate into the culture of this area somewhat............
Katherine Summer got the keys and we went into the hotel for a look see. Supposedly an old brothel and haunted, it is available for rental and we got super inspired. It even has the names of the girls on the doors.Whether this has just been fabricated for amusement, I don't know - I don't think anyone really does anymore - but it sure is a fun bit of local lore. I got lots of new ideas from wandering those halls! You can see more about our adventure here at the Salome's Suitcase blog.
Check out the wallpaper.
Theater Of Dreams is across the street. I'm a big fan. I believe Wendy Addison spends her time between her home here and her friends and business connections on the east coast. Her studio is usually open twice a year, but if she is around and you are around, she might let you in, Ive been lucky enough to catch her and check out her fabulous storefront. Can you say Vintage German Glass Glitter?
In order to start connecting with the community, several of us in Salome's Suitcase will have a booth at the Port Costa Arts and Crafts show this Sunday the 19th of September. We are not going to be representing Salomes' Suitcase - but will be hanging out, enjoying the day, and bringing some of our personal and unique artsy crafty pieces that will be sure to be a hit. It will be at the old Port Costa School. Follow the winding road. You cant miss it!
So now I'm off to finish wrapping up some Etsy merchandise and making a trip to ye old post office!
See you Sunday!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Why I Make Things The Way I Do
Ive been thinking more and more these days about teaching. Its not that I know everything about sewing or constructing clothing. Its not that I have endless ideas that I want to pass on or the patience that this takes. Its not that I know better than many about how things are supposed to work. Its just that I want people to sew and create and keep the fabric stores open. I don't want this skill to die. I want fabric stores to stay open with well stocked shelves. I want people to experience all the highs and lows of making something with their own two hands. I want people to learn how to problem solve. I want people to think about how things are made and why they are constructed in the manner they were created.
This morning I posted a blurb on Facebook about a new pair of pants that I recently made. I named them after my granddaughter Ivy. I just changed out the ruffles on a basic upper body that has been working well for most. I had been wanting to make these for a long time and they turned out pretty cute. Immediately someone said they were cute but would look cuter if all the ruffles were in lace, and not just the lower one. All ego aside, this made me think about why I made them the way that I did and I was very grateful for her question. I didn't have to make the upper body AND the first tier of flounces out of the cotton lycra. I could have made all the ruffles out of lace. So many others do things like this - but why didn't I? Why will I do this on the longer pants and not the shorter pants?
Its because short pants - Capri's - can very often look bad on most legs if the seams and hemline are in the wrong place on the leg. Any time you place a horizontal seam on those limbs, you are in danger of tricking the eye into seeing a shorter leg. When you don't carry that line down the leg, your legs look chopped up. And lets face it, most of us do not have models' legs. And even though I did have those legs and could wear a multitude of sins quite well back when the comets were hitting the earth, those days are over and many never have that chance. Yet we should all be able to wear fun clothing. I also want to be able to wear this stuff. The trick is to convey to the observer that you look just as nice in this garment as the next person. So if I had made both my ruffles out of lace on the Ivypants, your leg could have looked chopped in half depending on your body type, whereas now the line is more flattering.
I can successfully stop the flounces at the lower thigh on my longer pants because I know which fabrics will carry that line down the leg - and with five flounces, the eye does travel down the leg and doesn't stop at the lower thigh.
See - this is the stuff that you pay for when you buy my garments. There are lots of pants out there on the market now, but I'm telling you - without meaning to toot my own horn all that loudly - that many of them may be cute on the hanger, but not so much on you. Oh, the horrors of what Ive seen on stage!
I also want much of my line of clothing to be crossed over into other areas of dress - not just for stage or dance practice. I want you to be able to incorporate these items into your wardrobe as well as your stage wear. This isn't always possible, but I do design with that in mind when appropriate. So the pants just have to look good on your legs - tall, short, skinny, fat........the lines have to go in the right places. You don't want the eye to stop and screech to a halt in the wrong places - trust me on this. I sure don't!!!!!! I can make a lot of stuff. I can throw fabrics together and put seams in inappropriate place just to make a buck. You might even buy it - but I wouldn't do that to you.
Sorry for the bad photo - I'm saving up for a new camera that does the trick!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Monday, August 30, 2010
Aprons Are Not A Thing Of The Past
I found a box of aprons that I had made a while back (ok - several years ago). I had sold a lot of them, but then moved on to other things. I didn't want to make aprons for a living and it wasn't catching on like I had envisioned. But since then I have seen several adorable ladies wearing aprons over their capris and dresses - one in particular was wearing hers at our Salome's Suitcase trunk show this August. I wish I had taken a photo.
So now that I have a wall to shoot photos against, I pulled them out of the box, ironed them and started a little photo shoot. I could only get to 4 aprons so I guess its just going to have to be a slow process. I started putting them up on Etsy at a lighter price. There was a lot of work that went into some of them, but hey, its an apron. And I need to clear them out for new stuff. They will be great for Christmas and birthday presents!
You can wear them with your pants and with your skirts. I used to wear mine with tassels over my dance skirts because they are so long and full. They really worked well for a certain gypsy-esque look and it made me happy! But as you can see here, Sandi Ball of Hi Beam Bindis is looking pretty happy and snappy in hers! Ok - snappy is kind of an old lady word, isn't it. Phat. They look phat. No that doesn't work, What is the new slang.........snappy. They look snappy.
Cute. Very Cute!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Settling In
Ive been in my new space for almost 15 days now and for some reason I thought this move would go smoother than it actually did. It wasn't a horrible move, I just moved a lot of stuff - a whole lifetime of stuff all at once. Denial is a wonderful brain tool sometimes because if I had actually remembered previous moves in the past, I rarely did it all at once. If I had actually remembered how very stressful it is, I might have reconsidered waiting it out a while longer. No - what am I saying! I HAD to jump on this place when I saw it!!!!!!! The days of loading everything I own in one car are loooooonnnnnnnnnnggggggg gone. It was hiring a big truck and movers and enlisting the help of friends. In fact, I still have some stuff back at the Albion house that I need to go get pretty soon. I still have more stuff! Geese.........but the worst is over.
So Ive slowly been getting set up again and putting things where I want them to be - at least temporarily. I would like to paint this place, but white will have to do for now. Its more important to be up and running and getting my work done - getting a flow happening again.
I am very aware that I have back orders to fill and that my workload gets the best of me sometimes - almost there though. It is the nature of this custom beast and the dance of the dressmaker/designer/costumer. Some orders take much too long. Some are easy to fill. If I rush, I make mistakes. And thats why things go wrong in production - everyone has to sew as fast as humanly possible. Mistakes happen.
Its been a very rocky year. Yeah, like THAT is news to anyone! When the economy shut down, it forced me into an awkward position of trying to do way too much all on my own and keep an income coming in. If the economy had been able to remain in a somewhat steady place, my business would be running at top speed and orders would get filled quickly, new merch would be put up on Etsy more quickly, and I would have my patterns out on the market. It has been very hand to mouth in KathleenLand - as it has been for most businesses these days. I have had to do things that I don't want to do - like raise my custom prices for certain items, not hire help, and search for new sources of materials because much of what I used just disappeared overnight it seemed. It doesn't seem right - and its not. But that's the way the world works right now and I'm very grateful that I have a business that is still supporting me and a community that supports me as well!
It really worked well when I had my last little sale. I just shut it down when I felt I had taken in a few new sales and commissions - because this time I knew better than to keep it going for a whole month! So keep your eyes peeled for a sale now and then. I know it helps to save a few bucks these days!
I am still in shock about how much room I have to walk around in all day. I'm bruised from moving, but not from bumping into things that I shouldn't be bumping into. I go to sleep and sleep most of the night. I'm not woken up by bagel makers in the shop next door at 4 in the morning, or people fighting , or the girl upstairs stomping around at 3am, or people waking me up when they wake up. I don't have street people bothering me on my doorstep or people peeing in my driveway. I have a lot of good memories of living on Albion Street. It was a lot of fun quite often there. We had many people over and I liked living with Kristine and Spike and having Jessie pop in all the time, but now I clearly see how impossible it has been for me to focus and get things done in a timely way. I don't know how I did it at all. It was kind of madness in a way. You just cant work when sleep deprived and squished into too small of an environment. I know it made me very depressed, which I fought...........but this stuff affects everything.
So now, here I am with crickets and train whistles and good friends who share the same interests. I'm feeling organized. I think I know where everything is again. And I hope the universe forgives me for the last screwed up year and helps me to make my business prosper. Thank you everyone who has supported me in this endeavor to make nice garments that don't fall apart and that serve you well.
I found a bunch of aprons that I was trying to sell years back and I think I'll be putting them up on Etsy again to see how they do. They would really make great Christmas presents - and aprons are so NOW!
I have a big bag of Pasties that my friend Suzanne and I were making a long time ago - those should go up too. And of course, now that I found another source of lace and pretty knits, I'll get new things up on Etsy soon. But Ive got to tackle those back orders at the moment and get them sent off. Just trying to be honest here - its a one woman show these days. And sometimes Ive had to bite off more than I could chew - not on purpose!
I kind of put a bit of a halt on vending at events for a while (except for the three I did in August), but as I'm now feeling more inspired, I think I would like to do more of this on my own as soon as I get wheels - and with Salome's Suitcase, of course! We have Shadowdance lined up for the fall with a fashion show.........and Halloween is coming! I can feel it in the air! So much to look forward to!
One more cup of coffee and its back to work for me today. I'll be cutting out some new sampants with lace I think, Maybe a couple skirts. And if I can manage two Fluffie orders a day, I should be caught up in no time. I think I can.......I think I can........I think I can...........
Kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Almost Went Down The Rabbit Hole Today
I had quite a fright this morning. But it all worked out in the end.
I'm all moved in and my cable is back on. Wow. Its a mess in here - but I love my new studio so much and its just going to take time to get it how I want it. I just have to be patient. My dear friends Lee and Katherine Summer have been helping me out and letting me use computers etc. til cable got installed this morning. The cable guy got me all worked up because he said he couldn't get a signal and that I would have to get written permission from the landlord to have them go under the house, put in a new line and drill another hole in the floor. I almost passed out. So I frantically called the new property manager guy to get ahold of the owner and of course, nobody called me back. Ive not been able to conduct my business properly for too long now and I could feel myself starting to teeter over the edge of the rabbit hole..............but then my cable installer miraculously got a good signal and I have faster speed than ever before. I just hope they gave me the right package.
Anyway, now Ive got to answer a million emails, put out fires, sell, sell, sell.....................sew, sew, sew.........Moving sucks and it wasn't the easy move that I had anticipated. I was pretty organized, but helpers flaked, the movers were careless - all my orders were tossed around and it took forever to find things, they lost a big rug and a ladder. How do you lose a rug and ladder? Well, I guess you get what you pay for. And I didn't hire the best. I'm here, though. And now that I'm here, I'm here for a long time. I'm not going anywhere. I'm putting down roots. This is it. The buck stops here. I'm home.
I get to hear the hum of the sugar factory across the street. Its a pleasant hum and it keeps that ringing in my ears at bay (use your earplugs, kids!) The train rolls by on the other side of the factory and blows its long, mournful horn. Its just far away enough that it doesn't shake the house, but close enough to be pretty loud. I LOVE it! I sleep like a baby! Its far enough from the fray that I almost feel like I'm out in the sticks somewhere, yet close enough to the city that I'm there quite a bit. Its great!
Not having a lot of access to the Internet was a bit eye opening. I didn't have TV. Just a crappy little cd player that skips if you play it at half volume. :(
I answered what messages and emails that I could. But checking orders and invoicing was almost impossible. I have a lot of catching up to do.
So what did I do? I sewed. I finished up what orders I could, I went to the post office twice, I climbed out of boxes, I stocked my pantry, I vended and crafted, socialized with my friends, explored the neighborhood and found out that the main drama is the parking war with the sugar factory. YAWN - these people don't know what parking drama is....................and I came up with a new system for keeping track of orders and bettering the flow. I'll be putting this into practice soon. And I cant wait!!!!!!!!!!!!
There are still a lot of boxes to open - things to put up on the walls.......things to put away. But that can wait. Now I have room to function. So I had better pull myself up off that edge of the hole and get to work!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
I'm all moved in and my cable is back on. Wow. Its a mess in here - but I love my new studio so much and its just going to take time to get it how I want it. I just have to be patient. My dear friends Lee and Katherine Summer have been helping me out and letting me use computers etc. til cable got installed this morning. The cable guy got me all worked up because he said he couldn't get a signal and that I would have to get written permission from the landlord to have them go under the house, put in a new line and drill another hole in the floor. I almost passed out. So I frantically called the new property manager guy to get ahold of the owner and of course, nobody called me back. Ive not been able to conduct my business properly for too long now and I could feel myself starting to teeter over the edge of the rabbit hole..............but then my cable installer miraculously got a good signal and I have faster speed than ever before. I just hope they gave me the right package.
Anyway, now Ive got to answer a million emails, put out fires, sell, sell, sell.....................sew, sew, sew.........Moving sucks and it wasn't the easy move that I had anticipated. I was pretty organized, but helpers flaked, the movers were careless - all my orders were tossed around and it took forever to find things, they lost a big rug and a ladder. How do you lose a rug and ladder? Well, I guess you get what you pay for. And I didn't hire the best. I'm here, though. And now that I'm here, I'm here for a long time. I'm not going anywhere. I'm putting down roots. This is it. The buck stops here. I'm home.
I get to hear the hum of the sugar factory across the street. Its a pleasant hum and it keeps that ringing in my ears at bay (use your earplugs, kids!) The train rolls by on the other side of the factory and blows its long, mournful horn. Its just far away enough that it doesn't shake the house, but close enough to be pretty loud. I LOVE it! I sleep like a baby! Its far enough from the fray that I almost feel like I'm out in the sticks somewhere, yet close enough to the city that I'm there quite a bit. Its great!
Not having a lot of access to the Internet was a bit eye opening. I didn't have TV. Just a crappy little cd player that skips if you play it at half volume. :(
I answered what messages and emails that I could. But checking orders and invoicing was almost impossible. I have a lot of catching up to do.
So what did I do? I sewed. I finished up what orders I could, I went to the post office twice, I climbed out of boxes, I stocked my pantry, I vended and crafted, socialized with my friends, explored the neighborhood and found out that the main drama is the parking war with the sugar factory. YAWN - these people don't know what parking drama is....................and I came up with a new system for keeping track of orders and bettering the flow. I'll be putting this into practice soon. And I cant wait!!!!!!!!!!!!
There are still a lot of boxes to open - things to put up on the walls.......things to put away. But that can wait. Now I have room to function. So I had better pull myself up off that edge of the hole and get to work!
kc.costumecouture@gmail.com
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Silent Sirens Theatre

There is a beautiful new show about to happen.When I first heard about it, and found out who was involved in producing it, I knew this was going to be a gorgeous peice of work. So you had better go see this one!
Salome's Suitcase will be vending at Silent Sirens Theatre on August 25th at the Brava Theater. The Brava is a wonderful old refurbished theater that lives deep in the heart of the Mission District. I know that this show will be wonderful anywhere it travels to, but the Brava is one of those relics from the past that we are still lucky to have with us. Ive been to many shows at this venue, so I can attest to what a great place it is to watch a show!
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