Last week I decided to a little experimenting with printing. Using spray paint, speedball and screen-printing ink I came up with some interesting projects. Here is a look at one of them… a cotton ribbon that I printed, using a potato block print, sponge stamps and lino block print. Very cool!
I stumbled upon this book at the library and had to buy it right away, “Print Workshop” by Christine Schmidt. I have many printmaking books, but this one is EXCELLENT. The book gives you a clear understanding of print techniques, materials needed, and ideas for projects. I am so anxious to try out all the techniques in the book, not just one or two.
A happy deer screen-print, unfortunately it didn’t last long. My deer t-shirt went into the wash and came out with face missing! Oh no!!! A good tip is to make sure you heat set the screen-printing ink before you wash it. He is now the mystery deer!
“Books are more than pages, board, glue and thread-they are artifacts of the human spirit and hand” -Jason Thompson
A must have book for any designer, “Playing with Books“, by Jason Thompson. An incredible look at the art of deconstructing and re-imagining the book. The book highlights projects ranging from book jacket billfolds, paper necklaces, to book mobiles and ornaments. While I’m a little hesitant in ripping apart books, I will definitely try some of these projects.
A recent thrift store raid came up with magnificent find. Life magazines annual book “The world we live in” circa 1955. The book is chock full with panoramic illustrations of animals, landscapes and outer space. Such an inspiring book for reference, collage or an interesting coffee table piece. All for $3.
If you need modern home accessories, Fitzsu is the place. Nestled between Kid Robot and the Paul Frank, this store is definitely worth the trip. I instantly fell in love with all the cool unique gifts and novelties, especially the Pantone vases and salt & pepper shakers. Talking to the super friendly owner, she said many designers walk in her shop just for quick inspiration. I definitely got inspired, enjoy the pics.
Look at all the cool stuff we brought back from the Unique LA Indy design craft show! Stickers, screen prints, button, books, handmade apparel and ideas made its way back home with us.
It’s so fun getting all of the designers free stuff! See you all there next year!
Located in the Cedros design district of Solana beach, Solo is flat out awesome. Solo displays the unique approaches, and distinctive styles of several talented vendors.
Walking into the space you are immediately drawn to the diversity of the wares. I could spend all day here, hunting for the perfect gift or personal treat! You’ll find quite a selection of housewares, stationary, books, gifts and jewelry. Definitely bring your pocket book, so you can bring home the latest new thing.
Solo
309 South Cedros Avenue.
Cedros Design District
Solana Beach, CA 92075
House Industries that is. Last week was the opening show for Heath ceramics and acclaimed alphabet masters House Industries. Opening night was amazing, meeting the designers and getting screen printed bags from freshpressed! Check out the show it runs through December 31st, featuring products in clay, metal, ink, cotton, wood, lacquer, lithography and letterforms inside Heath Los Angeles. Be there or be square!
7525 Beverly Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90036
