This book arrived a couple of days ago and I have carted it around with me instead of knitting whenever I thought there would be some waiting around time, and I have been stealing moments with it whenever I thought get away with a little peak.
I have been aware of the work of Natalie Chanin through her company Project Alabama for some time, and I have been fortunate enough to see and admire some of the beautiful garments they produced, and sold in stores like Bergdorf Goodman. I have been thrilled to read that these same artisan stitcher’s continue to be employed making beautiful objects through Natalie’s new company, Alabama Chanin.
I knew I would buy the book as soon as I heard about it, even if it hadn’t included a pattern and instructions on how to make the inspiring garments. I had kind of figured out how to create the reverse applique that Project Alabama was known for. But I find that the book is inspiring and helpful and filled with wonderful ideas and techniques. So perhaps now I will actually use the recycled t-shirts I have been saving up for just such projects. There are all kinds of ideas for projects beyond shirts, including wonderful floppy flowers and a fabulous boa.
But the truth is, that I love it just as much for the stories about the stitchers that create the Alabama Chanin garments, for the sense of history and culture that permeates the book.
I applaud Natalie Chanin for creating the opportunity for this kind of work and for figuring out a way to keep it going when Project Alabama had to close.
Obviously I am besotted.
Comments
4 responses to “Give me a needle, some thread, your old t-shirts”
I have had that book for a couple of weeks and love it, also. How can you not love a book that has a section about “loving your thread”?
Chanin is a bit farther on the process-product continuum than myself, but I enjoy her stories and her work.
I have been in love with her work since the first time I tried on a Project Alabama jacket at the Susan boutique on Burlingame Avenue 4-5 years ago.
I have had that book for a couple of weeks and love it, also. How can you not love a book that has a section about “loving your thread”?
Chanin is a bit farther on the process-product continuum than myself, but I enjoy her stories and her work.
I have been in love with her work since the first time I tried on a Project Alabama jacket at the Susan boutique on Burlingame Avenue 4-5 years ago.
Okay so here’s yet another book I need… But seriously, thanks for pointing this one out. The more I learn, the more I know there’s so much more to learn. And that’s a good thing.
Okay so here’s yet another book I need… But seriously, thanks for pointing this one out. The more I learn, the more I know there’s so much more to learn. And that’s a good thing.