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    • The Button - Highlighting local artists in and around Cleveland

The local artist behind ARTFUL, step forward Shannon Morris...

28/6/2015

1 Comment

 
Back in March, Shari from Mi Tesoro kindly nominated another local artist - Shannon Morris.   I came across Shannon a few months back when I heard about an open meeting of artistic minds, to discuss a new Heights Community venture called ARTFUL (again, thanks to Shari!).

Handcraft button:
Shannon is a true eclectic artist.   It wasn’t  an easy task to pin her down on any one handcraft button and then I realized that she has many.  Shannon sees no boundaries when it comes to art and making things.  She even confessed to thinking about making a couch once until she was talked out of it.  Shannon is also the brainchild behind ARTFUL LLC, a local non-profit organization that focuses on bringing local artists from the Heights area together in a collaborative and functional way.

Style: 
Up-cycling, eclectic and community focused.

Can be found at:

Websites:
www.electricbelle.com
http://www.rescuedandreloved.com/
www.pureandsweet.net
www.artfulcleveland.org

Telephone: 216-470-8848

Email: shannon@artfulcleveland.org
 
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Shannon Morris
Background:
Based in Cleveland Heights, Shannon describes herself as having an artistic flair from an early age.  She attended Hathaway Brown School where she excelled outside the borders of standard science, English and math.  She successfully challenged her tutors to find a suitable fit for her by creating a photography course with her in mind, which is still going strong.  She graduated from New York University where she developed a sharp eye as a professional photographer. 

Shannon is definitely not someone who restrains herself to the inside walls of a box.  Far from it.  She describes herself as constantly working in many media and doesn’t consider herself stuck to any one thing.  She has her hand in many ongoing projects:  Rescued and Reloved, Electric Belle and Pure and Sweet, and ARTFUL to name a few.  Shannon is currently trying to combine all of these sites into one streamlined web page. 
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www.ElectricBelle.com is Shannon’s blog that accompanies Rescued and Reloved.  It chronicles her adventures and discoveries as an artist and parent.  
www.RescuedandReloved.net as I’m sure you can guess, is all about up-cycling reclaimed materials.  Items range from jewelry to home accessories with a strong message of being sustainable and green.  I’ve included some of Shannon’s interior projects and accessories in her gallery below.

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www.PureandSweet.net is a collaboration between Shannon and her close friend Sarah Curry.  They design and print (by hand) stylish scarves with a strong female message similar to www.thisgirlstees.com mentioned in The Button last month (May, 2015).  Their scarf designs are stylish and sharp with attitude for women that like to challenge stereotypical fashion, and each design comes in an array of different colors.  Here’s a couple of their popular designs:
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                                  Lovely and deadly (in Pink)
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Cranky Bitch (in Teal)                                    
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Inspiration: 
Early inspirations came from paying close attention to textures, color, finding her own identity by scouring thrift shops and re-purposing anything she could lay her hands upon.  Up-cycling runs through the core of who Shannon is.   She is inspired by everything.   She feels this used to be somewhat problematic, because she could never funnel her artistic flow into just one thing, despite advice from those around her who didn’t quite understand her unique perspective.

Three years ago Shannon was officially diagnosed with (ADHD).  This shed light on Shannon’s own awareness of her inability to focus on one singular medium and the incessant need to execute a project the moment it was thought out, or risk despair at the loss of the idea.  With the help of medication, a good measure of determination and grit, she is proud of the fact that despite her struggles, she shines through in her own artistic flow, and more recently in her ability to bring her idea of an artistic community alive.  With examples of people like Shannon it shows that it is possible to overcome obstacles and excel despite the challenges life throws at us.

Involvement in local community projects:
Some of you already familiar with Luluké or know me personally (and have seen the back of my car recently) may have seen this logo already:
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If you would like to receive a car magnet and support ARTFUL please contact me and I can send one out to you for FREE from my little stash I grabbed from this recent event last month (May, 2015):
Shannon is the main brainchild behind ARTFUL.  The vision she has is to establish and nurture affordable space that supports and educates local Heights artists (from all media) in their mission to create, sell and display their art while making creativity and inspiration more accessible to the community at large.  According to the ARTFUL website almost 18% of Cuyahoga County artists live in the Heights area, so it makes sense to provide affordable studio, retail and event space in one of the most densely artistic areas in Greater Cleveland.  

Shannon and her team are currently seeking a building to house ARTFUL and they are keen on the Medusa Building (at Lee Boulevard at Monticello Boulevard in Cleveland Heights).  They are currently in negotiations with the owners.  Here’s a few pictures of the Medusa building in the 1950's and some more recent inside photos.  
Can you see something ARTFUL happening here?  If so contact Shannon with ideas.  This is a community project that is calling out to all local artists so make sure you have your say and be a part of it!
It’s difficult not to get excited about the prospect of The Medusa Building and the guys need all the support they can get to make this work.  If you can help in any way or know someone who could help (from making tea to construction), again, please reach out to Shannon. 

ARTFUL’S founding committee consists of artists, educators, attorneys, consultants and local business owners (including my husband).  Each of which have strong ties to the area.  You can also find out more about ARTFUL by following the link here artfulcleveland.org.

ARTFUL Development Board Members:
Shannon Morris - Founding Executive Director
Brady Dindia - Co-founder & Development Director
Dave King - Creative & Educational Resources Manager
Eric Mundson - Online Brand Manager

Sarah Curry - Artists & Education Advocate

Kevin Khayat - Business Strategy Manager (and a lovely husband ; )
Rachel Williams - Special Projects Manager

Hillary Lyon - Fundraising Manager


Luluké comments:  
Meeting Shannon and getting to know her over the past few months has been an interesting and smile inducing journey of discovery, understanding, pure honesty and friendship.  Shannon’s artistic beauty shines through her strong sense of identity and her fearless (but kind and gentle) persona.  Her energy is inspiring and her sense of purpose and commitment to her local community with ARTFUL is amazing to watch unfold and blossom. The fact that she has previously struggled with ADHD and overcome the obstacles she previously faced is inspiring, and a reminder to us all, that whatever obstacles we face in life, there’s a way forward and beyond with a can do attitude.

Whilst finding out more about Shannon and her journey there are some elements that remind me of myself and my fascination with texture, design and color.  As strange as it may seem, I love surfing clothes and accessory shops, looking at the different quality (and prices) between shops and feeling the textures of fabrics.   You'll often find me turning up garments or bags from the bottom, from a sleeve, or collar, running my fingers along the seams, turning them inside out trying to figure out how they were constructed, who designed them and why they chose the material, design and sewing technique, and most of the time wondering who and where they were made, and under what conditions.  But, I guess that’s a whole other blog or post for another time.  Oh yes, I will save you from my ever strong opinions today, about mass produced clothes in overcrowded factories outsourced from abroad to keep up with fashion and the worldwide demand.

I can understand why Shannon prides herself with owning a second hand wardrobe of clothes and accessories, and why she is driven to constantly (and only) up-cycle.  As I may have mentioned in earlier posts, the reason I wanted to start Luluké was to (in my own little way) push back at the chain store production lines and provide something alternative.  It gives me a feeling of great delight to see local artists like her drive forward the notion of keeping things handmade with an up-cycled ethos, and to watch her idea of bringing local artists from all media, businesses and the local community together in a sustainable and real way.  I am looking forward to continuing to ride with her on her ARTFUL adventure, and feel honored that she and the team would like to include Luluké’s The Button on the ARTFUL website in the future.

Upcoming Events:
“I feel like every day is an event” Shannon says.   When I pinned her down to one idea … she mentioned that she and the ARTFUL team will be brainstorming ideas for fund raising very soon.  If you have any ideas or experience in this area get in touch with Shannon.  Look on the Luluké Facebook page or like the ARTFUL Facebook page to keep up with updates of exciting ARTFUL events.   Shannon also talked about helping her friend design T-Shirts for her new gym www.crossfitdistinction.com  and being part of the T-shirt design for  “We are the Colony”, a community movement to support Brennan’s Colony and local Cleveland Heights traders after the tragic death of Jim Brennan a year ago, this month.  If you would info on how to purchase a T-Shirt please follow this link  www.facebook.com/weareacolonytshirt 

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rescued and reloved gallery:
Pure and Sweet gallery
ARTFUL gallery:
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Say "HELLO" to THIS GIRL'S TEES ...

25/5/2015

1 Comment

 
Back in March Shari from Mi Tesoro kindly nominated THIS GIRLS'S TEES for The Button.  I've had a lot of fun with this one, so much so, that I felt it deserved its very own spotlight because it's locally hand made and it taps into something my husband and I understand only too well ...
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Handcraft Button
THIS GIRL’S TEES is a unique clothing line aimed at dispelling gender stereotypes regarding girls and women while embracing their strengths.

Can be found via:
 Email: kris@thisgirlstees.com
 Telephone: 216.394.9591
 Website: www.thisgirlstees.com
 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisgirlstees
 Instagram: https://instagram.com/thisgirlstees/
 Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thisgirlstees/this-girls-tees/
 Other: https://www.thisgirlstees.etsy.com

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Owner, Kris Williams
“Be your biggest fan” Kris Williams – THIS GIRL’S TEES
Background
Based in the Cleveland area, Kris has been a Graphic Designer for nearly twenty years.  She has worked as a fine artist, painting and illustrating works for children, for the last eleven years.  From 2004 – 2007, she taught at Laurel School in Shaker Heights.  When asked how long she has been handcrafting, Kris responded by saying “Ha!  Since I could sit up on my own!”  She saw a need for an alternative apparel option for girls that would defy the negative stereotypes often perpetuated on mainstream clothing and set up THIS GIRL’S TEES in 2013.  Instead of sentiments such as “I love glitter”, THIS GIRL’S TEES highlights messages that encourage girls’ and women’s strengths.  Kris ran a Kickstarter campaign to get started that was a total success within the first week and the brand is still growing.   She and her team are also committed to fair and progressive employment practices and all materials and production are:

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If you want to find out more about how the Tees are made follow this link, Learn more about how our shirts are made >

Inspiration
Kris shares two daughters with her husband and feels inspired by the way they are so packed with possibility and joy.  She and her husband believe their daughters are capable of doing anything and feel that the girls should believe it too.  Kris also emphasizes the influence of her parents.  Her mother felt that “at any moment in life she could decide something and then make it happen” while her father asserted that “people may place labels or limitations on you throughout your life, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept them, let alone should you place any upon yourself.”   

Kris also has her own design firm, Tiny Desk Design (www.tinydeskdesign.com) and her own fine arts label, We & The Bean (www.weandthebean.com).

Upcoming events
This GIRL’S TEES can be found at Bike for Beck @ The Beck Center for the Arts May 31st, 2015.  Here’s a link to the event, http://www.beckcenter.org/events/bike-for-beck-beckfest-2015/

Involvement with local community art projects
Kris donates her professional design services to a number of non-profit or community-based projects every year. The most recent of these efforts involved her designing a logo for the 1 Life, 1 Voice, 1 Community Health Fair, a large health fair focused on health disparities around birth outcomes and infant mortality rates taking place on June 20th at the Cleveland Convention Center.  Kris says “Cleveland is so incredible. There are so many people out there doing good work to improve the lives of the people who live in our community.  I am thankful to have the chance to participate.”

Luluké comments

What a treat and joy to highlight this local artist!  I have to say, I have been blown away by THIS GIRL’S TEES.  Kris is passionate about her business’ mission and is actively making fresh changes that are well overdue in the fashion industry.

I get a strong sense of change in the hands of a balanced artist who says it’s not about hating glitter, pink, kittens and rainbows, just providing an alternative to the stereotypical sentiment that fashion imposes on girls.  THIS GIRL’S TEES is more about embracing the available, the alternative and challenging stereotypical sentiment aimed at girls through clothes.  THIS GIRL’S TEES recently succeeded in changing the perceptions and stocking choices of the NYC University Bookstore.  See the link to the story here http://www.thisgirlstees.com/whats-new/nyu-drops-hate-celebrates-girls-instead-with-this-girls-tees.  Thank goodness THIS GIRL’S TEES has replaced messages such as “I Hate my thighs” (on a baby onesie!!!) with ones like these,

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If you have any suggestions for Kris to make a new line of tees with a message of strength then just drop her a note at kris@thisgirlstees.com.

Raising a girl ourselves, one that, as you can see, blasts away any stereotypes that girls are ALL just about kittens and rainbows,

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I appreciate, feel thankful and totally applaud THIS GIRL’S TEES for addressing the unbalanced stereotypical sentiment on clothing and challenging retailers, fashion and the clothing industry to be conscious of the products they produce.  The clothes girls wear influence them and those that see them.  Let’s break this cycle for the existing and next generation of females.  Here’s a link to a powerful story that I understand very well.  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/12/03/dangerous-lessons-from-sexist-shirts_n_6102096.html?ncid=fcbklnkushpmg00000063.  Last year, I too had to venture into the boys section at Target at our daughter's request, to find a Minecraft Tee.   I strongly recommend anyone who is raising girls to explore the THIS GIRL’S TEES website and share this blog.  I think THIS GIRL’S TEES is going to get bigger and land in a shop near you soon… if it isn't already!  I know which Tee I’m buying for our girl warrior …
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Nominations for The Button in the future:
Jane Pierce of ZJayne
Karen Bush of Aviron Jewelry,
Amy Bennett of Mod Lux, 
Textile artisan - Christy Gray
Metal Artisan - Chris Zielski.
Kris commented” I could list so many more, but these ladies come first to mind”.

I’m off now to write to Target and Justice about stocking THIS GIRL’S TEES, I encourage you to do the same to get our "girls’ world" into balance …
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Here’s a couple of direct links to Target and Justice/tweenbrands, just in case you would like to do the same,
Target: http://www.contactcustomerservicenow.com/contact-target-customer-service/
Justice: customerrelations@tweenbrands.com

Enjoy the THIS GIRL’S TEES photo gallery below …

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New additions to Luluké's Aura Collection and The Button, showcasing local favorite Metheny Weir...

25/4/2015

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With Mother's Day around the corner on the 10th May and graduations near, the Luluké studio has been busy working on a few projects.  I've also been busy interviewing local artists again and I'll introduce you via The Button to the fabulous Metheny Weir, specializing in decorative furniture finishes. 

Firstly, I've added new jewellry items to Luluké's Aura Collection, a collection of pieces made up from semi precious and precious stones such as rubies, jade, labradorite, spinel, citrine, rainbow moonstone and hematite.  I can also make up a bracelet or a piece to your requirements and design, and I have gift certificates available upon request too, a lovely touch for a Mother's Day or graduation gift.
Click on an individual picture to see more details or go to the shop here.  
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Secondly, working on multiple items of the same pattern at the same time helps me to master the ins, outs and little quirks of following a pattern.  However, Luluké's latest pattern project has been bigger than originally thought and thus taking a little longer than anticipated.  Any of you that like to pay close attention to what Luluké gets up to will remember the little facebook page teaser recently, asking you to guess what the pieces to the left were destined for.  Well done to those of you that guessed that they were the inside pockets of shoulder bags. 

The first pocket found its way into this creation and sold before I had chance to complete it...

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*SOLD*
The design is from the lovely Leona bag pattern, from Delinda Boutique. I'm currently working on the following fabric combinations in the same pattern: 
If you are interested in owning one of these one off combinations click here.
This week in The Button, I have great delight in introducing you to Shaker Heights based, Metheny Weir.
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Larchmere Road, Shaker Heights studio location
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Detroit Road, Rocky River
studio location
Handmade button: Metheny Weir Painted Finishes is a decorative painting business specializing in custom furniture finishes.  They are also retailers of Chalk Paint® decorative paint by Annie Sloan which is a mineral based paint developed by Annie Sloan 25 years ago in England. Metheny Weir teaches workshops on how to use the paint to repurpose furniture for Do It Yourself enthusiasts.

Can be found at:  Store locations are 13001 Larchmere Blvd, Shaker Heights, OH 44120 and 20254 Detroit Road, Rocky River, OH 44116.

  
Email: sue@methenyweir.com & kim@methenyweir.com
Telephone: 216 707 0301 (Shaker Heights), 216 303 9755 (Rocky River)
Website is www.methenyweir.com 
Facebook: methenyweirpaintedfinishes
Instagram: methenyweir
Twitter: @methenyweir

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Owners, Susan Weir and Kim Metheny
Background: Sue and Kim started their business in 1998 in Kim's basement in Shaker Heights.  Their children were in kindergarten together and they started painting in their own homes, and soon friends and neighbors started asking them to help them with their projects.  The ladies eventually moved to a studio on Larchmere in 2008 where they worked with homeowners/designers on their residential painting projects.  Three years ago, Metheny Weir became retailers of Chalk Paint® which means the shop carries and sells the complete line of products, teaches workshops, and creates custom finishes on furniture.  In recent months the ladies have opened another shop for the residents of Rocky River.

Inspiration:  Both Sue and Kim are inspired by other painters, traveling, magazines, fabrics and color.  They have both also learned and mastered their artistic talents by taking workshops with other painters across the country who they have found to be their true inspiration.

Luluké comments:  I find Metheny Weir a fascinating and inspirational place. You can choose a piece of furniture of your own to paint, choose a paint from their many colors, use a finish to suit you, and you can do it all in their studio. When you walk into the shop/studio, the reception from Kim and Sue is always warm and friendly, the array of beautiful colors, different textures and (probably my favorite part) the artistic hive of activity is just everywhere and a delight to see.  
It all reminds me of the UK and how I discovered and fell in love with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint® just before I got married and moved to the USA in 2012. I purchased a piece of furniture painted in Annie Sloan Chalk Paint® that was featured in our wedding photos and now sits in my own studio.  These days the ladies are rarely seen together due to the exciting news that they have opened a new shop/studio in Rocky River.  I highly recommend a visit next time they have an event at either location to experience this inspirational place.

Upcoming events:  A complete list of workshops are scheduled on the Metheny Weir website at www.methenyweir.com or www.unfolded.com.

Nomination for The Button in the future:  Dash Dot Dash Studio located in Shaker Heights 

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Happy Easter & The Button featuring the delightful Emilie from Button Down Designs.

4/4/2015

2 Comments

 
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Happy Easter Everyone! It's my favorite time of year where the weather is desperately trying to turn into more bearable temperatures, the blossom buds can be seen on trees and fresh flowers start to poke up through the ground stretching out to the blue sky.  It's also the time of year that my lovely Mom and Dad send us a hoard of REAL Cadburys chocolate that includes my childhood favorite easter egg - The Flake.  Despite waking up to a light dusting of snow this morning, wearing a thick jumper to sit in the Luluké studio this morning and write this blog, I am delighted it's SPRrrrING!

Our Tower Garden arrived yesterday and we already have seeds prepared and planted. We are looking forward to lots of organic cucumbers, lettuce, basil, tomatoes, swiss chard, eggplant and peppers over the coming months.  The spinach seeds (my favorite superfood) are on their way in the post. I will stop now, I know it's not technically handmade but its homegrown and thought it worth a little share here!

I've been working on small sewing projects, such as upcycling curtains into table runners and continue to work on my secret multi project.  I've also made some more jewellry for the Aura Collection.  Things are a little behind than planned but all will be revealed in good time.

Now for...
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This week The Button highlights the very talented local artist... Emilie, from Button Down Designs...

Handmade Button: Bracelets hand sewn from antique or vintage buttons from the 1840's - 1940's.  "Art for your wrist".

Style: Art Deco, Victorian and niche.

Found at:
www.buttondowndesigns.com
Www.facebook.com/buttondowndesigns


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Owner: Emilie Collens Illson
Favorite outing, since age 3- The Cleveland Museum of Art
Background:
When Emilie welcomes you into her home it is immediately evident that she's an avid collector.  She has a range of collections, her favorite being vintage porcelain baby bowls.  She loves what they represent and the history of each one.  Unexpectedly, she doesn't consider herself a collector of buttons but rather more an artist who uses buttons to create.

Emilie came across the idea for button bracelets accidentally at a flea market in 2006, thinking, "I can do that and I think I can do better".  In the same year her son was deployed to Iraq, responsible for escorting convoys and diffusing bombs on roads.  This caused Emilie understandable anxiety and she found that making the bracelets helped to keep her calm and focused on something that tapped into her creative soul.  She didn't look back and since then has earned herself recognition by having her bracelets sold by two national museum shops, The Museum of American Folk Art (in Manhattan) and the Museum of Women in the Arts (in Washington D.C.).

This is not the first time Emilie has been recognized for her work.  She won the Laurel School Art Prize in 1969 for a story about her childhood experiences with a group of Amish friends that welcomed her into their fold.  This nurtured Emilie's admiration for hard work, dedication to a job well done and simple living.   This story was later accompanied by her own watercolor paintings and was then published.  I felt honored when Emilie presented me with a copy of her book and will treasure it as reminder of meeting someone very talented and equally modest.  In 1973 Emilie was awarded her Fine Art degree from Denison University.  Emilie has always loved to use her hands to create and her talent spans across writing, needlework, painting, drawing, and photography, to name some.  

Inspiration:
Emilie generally uses buttons made from the 1840s to the 1940s.

Favorite project:
Restoring the buttons that are part of “Aunt Minnie’s” collection.  Emilie was approached by the great niece of an avid button collector, Minnie Esworthy Dunbar (1875-1967), a member of the National Button Society.  She brought Emilie a large number of antique buttons that she had inherited from her beloved aunt.  These included seven “trays” of button art which Minnie put together in the 1950s, when she was in her eighties.  There were also many hundreds of loose buttons, from which Emilie was asked to make ten bracelets for the younger generation in the family.   Given the cost of restoring the buttons and making the bracelets, Emilie and the niece came to an agreement that no money would change hands.  Ten Victorian-style Mother of Pearl bracelets were “paid for” with the remainder of the button collection, giving Emilie scope for the restoration opportunity of her dreams.  Below show pictures of the bracelets and each of the trays.

Aunt Minnie's Collection
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Luluke comment:
It is clear to me that Emilie has a wealth of experience and is cut from quality cloth.  She is big hearted and talented.  She explained to me that she has given away over 600 bracelets since she started Button Down Designs and that each time she has given one away, she has been the one who received.  She takes joy in sharing her work and I will take great delight in using buttons from her stock.  She is a true inspiration to anyone who appreciates all that is hand made. 

Upcoming Open House dates:
Sunday, April 12 and Sunday, June 7, 1 to 5 P.M.
Nomination for The Button in the future:
Sandy Millman, Yours Truly
Handmade Button: Purses
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A catch up & The Button featuring... Mi Tesoro

21/3/2015

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Spring has finally arrived!  The temperature could do with dialing up a little to make it believable but there's hope of warm fresh air, sunshine, less clothing and flip flops on the horizon.  I'm looking forward to the first buds on the pink blossom tree I planted last year and the blueberry bush looks like it's promising abundance this summer.  We are looking into a Tower Garden this year too, so looking forward to some homemade food made with super fresh organic veg, herbs and fruit too!

I have also enjoyed a few short runs/jogs this week... My new philosophy is to set smaller goals that are manageable and achievable. I came to this after deciding to make six of the same thing recently. I'm still working on this colossal sewing project and if I count up my time already, I'm easily 4 full days in.  I think a smaller number will work better in future.  I am hoping to reveal all soon and put one or two of my UK friends in the know after posting teasers on the Luluké facebook page.  That's if they haven't all sold before I can post them up, I've already sold three of the six before they have been completed!  Here's another teaser to keep you guessing...
I'm already starting to look ahead at future projects such as yoga mat carriers beach bags.  If any of you have patterns or ideas that you would like to see me to work on, I am open to suggestions.  Just contact me here.

After all the excitement of introducing The Button to you last week that was shared by Shop Shaker, I have been a busy bee getting prepared for a second highlight of local talent based in Cleveland Heights.  I am pleased to introduce you to Mi Tesoro. ...
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Handcraft Button:
Baby hats and doll hats.

Contact information:
snacson@yahoo.com
216-548-0578 (cell, for calls & texts)
https://www.facebook.com/mitesorohats


Stocked at:
Cosmic Bobbins
In the 216

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Owner: Shari Nacson
Favorite quote:
"Love wins” - Nelba García Márquez
Background:
Shari has been been sewing for most of her adult years, having learned how to darn when she was in grad school, and sewing quickly become a hobby.  She then taught herself how to work on her parent's sewing machine.  She used to hand-stitch baby quilts for expectant friends and family.  She loved making things for moms as they anticipated their babies’ arrival and she enjoyed making things for her family.  As a sewer, Shari has always identified with her grandmother, who was also seamstress and an avid knitter.  Shari explains that her grandmother did intricate work for everyone in the family for as long as she can remember and Shari, her sibling and cousins all cherished the pieces she made for them over the years.  Shari now has her grandmother’s sewing box and knitting needles which mean the world to her.

Shari began crocheting two summers ago, when her daughter was six.  Shari’s learned to crochet when aged six so Shari figured that if she learned at that age, then her daughter could, too.  Shari made it a goal to continue for the summer and quickly became hooked.  She loved how easy it was to throw a ball of yarn and one needle into a bag, which then allowed her to be creative and productive while ferrying her daughter to sports practice. She played around with stitches, made things for her daughter’s dolls and tried to make hats.  

The following summer, Shari started crocheting baby hats with big chunky yarns.  She liked the look and found the work gratifying, completing a hat in one or two sittings.  It kept her hands busy when she needed to sit with her daughter as she did her homework or other projects and it was a way for Shari to keep off her phone and stay by her daughter’s side. By the end of the summer she had almost fifty hats, so knew she needed to find a way to sell them. 

Inspiration:
There’s big smiles between us when Shari explains how much she loves the newborn era, how special it can feel being cozy with a tiny being who won’t stay tiny for long.  She touches on how it’s a precious time that can also be a hard and lonely time, especially on the days when there is a lot of crying (and, by toddlerhood, a lot of refusing). Shari talks of the tenderness -- all parents understand -- of a favorite hat or an adorable lovey and how they become the silver lining that keeps a parent going.  She explained “I love those keepsakes from when we had an infant — and I love creating items that will become keepsakes”.  It’s clear during our discussion that this is the essence of what Shari and Mi Tesoro is all about. 

When she decided to sell her hats locally, she thought a lot about the name that would go on her tags.  She remembered how it felt when her grandmother held her near, kissed her cheek, calling her pet names in Italian or French.  Shari can still conjure the memory of that feeling—her warm cheek, her hand on Shari’s face, and whispered words of affection in Shari’s ears, including “mi tesoro” – my treasure.  With Mi Tesoro Shari’s goal is to endow each piece with the sentiment that its recipient is much loved and treasured by the giver. 

The Mi Tesoro tags are attached with red and white bakery string, another tribute to her grandmother, pictured with Shari below.  Shari recalls that in Brooklyn, cookies came from real bakeries, in white boxes tied shut with bakery string.  Frugal and sentimental, her grandmother would save that string for later use, leaving little balls of bakery string in her kitchen drawers.  When Shari moved away, her grandmother sent homemade sweets and treats in care packages tied shut with that same bakery string. 

Shari knows that needlework, sewing and knitting were a labor of love throughout her grandmother’s life.  An immigrant and then a widow, her investment in Shari and each grandchild, niece and nephew was paralleled by her investment in the details of every task she undertook.  Shari says “Emulating her with this part of my life — seeing my daughter treasure the work — I feel like I’m carrying on a lineage and also making it into something new, something that I get to share beyond my family”.

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Luluké comments:
I came across Shari last autumn, during our daughter’s soccer practice, always smiling with hands busy crocheting.  I decided to reach out and highlight her because I love her work and what it stands for.  She shines brightly in what she does and I adore her passion for creating treasured memories and keeping her grandmother’s legacy alive.  

Shari’s nominations:
Do-Over Clothes 
Electric Belle
Zygote Press  
This Girl Tees  
Studio 44 


The Mi Tesoro Gallery (March 2015):
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The first edition of "The Button", presented by Luluké... The House Warmings

14/3/2015

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Happy March! Brrrrrrr... It was a long February with temperatures at the lowest ever recorded here in North East Ohio but as the days roll into March they bring some much appreciated sunshine and the vitamin D supplement is helping too.  We are only a week away from the official start of spring...Wahoooo!  I'm looking forward to putting away the sleeping bag coat, hat, gloves and faithful Bog boots.  
Despite the cabin fever it's been a busy time getting ready for an occasional version of the blog called The Button which will feature local handcrafting talent.  I originally reached out to three very talented ladies and asked them if they wanted to get involved and to my surprise all three said "yes".  So we are starting this week with The House Warmings ...

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Handcraft button:
Repainted antique and vintage furniture, giving it a distinctive unique finish. Also stocks jewelry, gifts and many more unique items.
Style: European style boutique that’s simplistic, vintage and serene.

Can be found at:
Website: thehousewarmings.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHouseWarmings
Address: 13001 Larchmere Road
Shaker Heights
OH, 40122

e-mail: 

thehousewarmings@hotmail.com

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Owner: Carina Reimers
Favorite quote: 
“The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it” 
-Michelangelo 
Background:
Carina started painting furniture in her teenage years - without permission, which occasionally upset her father. She became more serious about it around 15 years ago.  It all started with Carina transforming pre-loved pieces of vintage and antique furniture into beautiful pieces of one-off art.  Positive feedback from friends turned into painting and restoring pieces of furniture for them upon request.  This inspired Carina to get more experience with different furniture finishes.  She can’t even count how many finishes she has experimented with but it is evident in her work that she knows what she’s doing.  She started up her own small business in the spring of 2012 and has found it to be a fantastic and rewarding journey, putting all those previous years’ experience into a unique space where people like to visit, sometimes just for inspiration.  Carina lives her passion for creating and giving previously loved antique and vintage furniture a fresh and unique look. 

Inspiration:
Carina pulls her inspiration from everything around her – nature, art, paintings and even music.  She also utilizes a lot of the unique and chic influences of Europe when deciding on her projects and stock.  She layers her ideas in a non-stylized way creating a space that  is serene, unique and inspiring.  She loves nothing more than searching and finding the next project to get her painting mojo going. 

Luluké comments: 
Carina’s shop is a fantastic little gem that is constantly updated with items that are not mainstream but are unique and very stylish.  She keeps things nicely stocked and every time I go in there’s something new to see and fall in love with.  Check out some of Carina's hand painted items in the gallery below.  She also welcomes people to get in touch with her if they have a project in mind.

Upcoming Events: 
In May 2015 Carina will be participating in the annual Larchmere Sidewalk Sale.   

Nomination for future feature in The Button:
Metheny Weir, painted finishes

The House Warmings gallery (March 2015):
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Introducing The Aura Collection ...

15/2/2015

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It's been a change of direction at Luluké this week.  The studio has never looked so hit by a creative storm.  Here's the end result - introducing The Aura Collection.
Labradorite and Hematite
Labradorite and Hematite
Labradorite and Hematite
Labradorite, Rainbow Moonstone and Hematite
Tanzanite, Rainbow Moonstone and Hermatite
Pink Quartz and Rainbow Moonstone
Garnet and Spinel
Amazonite and Sterling Silver
Amazonite and Sterling Silver
Blue Chalcedony and Sterling Silver
Each piece is carefully created using crystals and sterling silver.  

If you visit the Luluké  store each crystal is described for psychological, emotional, healing and/or environmental enhancement.  The crystals detailed have more properties than described, and I have noted just a few of the most salient features of each crystal.

I know it's nearly the end of the month for Aquarians being the center of attention, but celestial energies are amplified by birthstones and Aquarians (Jan 20-February 18) have affinities with the following crystals:
  • Aquamarine
  • Amethyst
  • Amber
  • Angelite
  • Atacamite
  • Blue Celestite
  • Blue obsidian
  • Boji stone
  • Chrysoprase
  • Fluorite
  • Labradorite
  • Magnetite
  • Moonstone
If you have a particular crystal that you're interested in for healing, or you want to pay attention to your own birth crystals, a certain chakra, have a color scheme or want a full set of earrings, necklace and bracelet for a special occasion get in touch and we can see what we can do.

Over the next few weeks it's back to sewing, so look out for bags and in addition, exciting highlights on fabulous local artisans such as The House Warmings, Mi Tesoro and Button Down Designs.

With love,

Lou xoxox 
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Luluké is officially launched!

6/2/2015

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Welcome to... 













It's been over a year in the making, lots of learning, creating, seam ripping, smiling, business meetings, coffee, organizing, some last minute - admittedly - jitters and Luluké is now an established small business (LLC) with all the i's dotted and t's crossed.

There's a new website "HandMadeByLuluke.com" with a store, and those of you that are familiar with Luluké already will see a new logo and blog! 

The popular "Luluké Poppins" are also available in The House Warmings, just in time for last minute Valentine's Day gifts, here's a sneaky peek at some of what's in stock there.
..

If you visit the store tab on the Luluké website you will see a drop down menu that says "Luluké stockists" and you will be directed to The House Warmings shop.

Luluké will continue to grow and create new products, including yoga mat bags, more bag patterns and cushions.  

I will also use this blog to 
  • share my experiences with Lulukés favorite fabric shops, both online and local (Northeast Ohio)
  • sharing interesting finds in the world of handcrafting
  • discovering other local Cleveland area artisans and highlighting their work in a special edition of my blog called The Button.

Luluké's vision for the future is to create, share and inspire you to appreciate all that is handmade!

To celebrate all this exciting news and the launch of Luluké there's a free give away of any one item that's $40 or under in the store to a random winner, once Luluké hits 100 likes on facebook and shares.  So please like, comment on facebook or share this blog and you'll be entered in the draw.  Keep your fingers crossed!

It's all very exciting so please take a look at http/:handmadebyluluke.com, enjoy, subscribe, watch it grow over the coming months, get in touch, share, like and if you see something you fancy...go for it and if you have an idea for a small project get in touch.


With love


Lou xoxo
Create, Share, Inspire
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    Author

    Lou Khayat, Owner of Luluké (www.handmadebyluluke.com).

    "The Button"  takes a sneaky peek at local handcrafters in and around Cleveland.   Check back in regularly or like the Luluké 
    Facebook page (here) to keep up to date with my discoveries in the world of locally handmade.




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