Junk, I think not!

One man's junk is another man's treasure. That's how the saying goes right? I was given some liners to vintage military bags from some friends of mine who make awesome screen printed totes. After taking in their scraps, I wasn't sure what I was going to do with them. The bags were all beaten up, sitting in a box out in the cold, and looking pretty rough. I wasn't sure how they were going to clean up, but after taking the scissors to this bag I was able to get a few nice looking straps that have a story to tell. Scratches, stitching, and holes just to name a few imperfections that add personality to these fine looking straps. After much needed love, these pieces will turn into gorgeous treasures to add to Malamoose Beadery.

After shaving down the leather in some spots, and adding some glue to others, I've created this gorgeous One of a Kind watch. Using remnant leather will always allow for my creations to be eco-friendly and no two ever to look alike. This watch features a Bali style face with a turquoise background, vintage brown leather strap ( from the junk bags) and an underlay of brick red leather that is remnants from making boot laces.

For those of you who see things as trash no matter what, you might want to see if someone else can use it first. By doing so you are helping out the environment and some amazing artists who might be looking for just the thing you have. Take a look and see what junk you may have lurking in the attic or basement. If your not willing to give it up just yet, maybe this has inspired your creative side and you will think outside the box and put it to use in a new way.

Amazing People

There are some amazing people in this world and we all know at least one. I'd like to take a moment and tell you about a couple I know.

Mackenzie, and her sidekick Kate, are known for their Meatbagz. These awesome totes, with a wicked sense of humor, will help you lug around all your prized possessions whether you're male or female. These two woman rummaged through their scraps wondering who they could give them to. After thinking about it long and hard, Malamoose came to mind and is now happy to have some very awesome scrap leather. I can't wait to work on projects using this vintage leather. Thanks guys!

Another person I'd like to give a shout out to is my friend Jeromy. After working together in a camera shop and sharing our passion for the arts, Jeromy has inspired me to give back to the locals as well as help out those in need. Jeromy has just started a blog called Small Happenings , I suggest you check it out and see what other inspiring ideas he has to talk about.

New Home and Men's Collection for Malamoose Beadery

Malamoose Beadery has moved to a new location! Now located in the Northeast Kingdom in a small town called Greensboro,VT with a population of 700 people during the winter, and twice as many in the summer months it's still a very remote area. Known for it's gorgeous views of mountains, lakes, and wildlife this is a photographers and artists dream destination.

After spending time photographing everything in site, I decided I needed to put the camera down and actually get my studio set up and ready for business. I've claimed the upstairs loft just for this due to its inspirational views and warm sunny atmosphere. Although it's just a little nook in the corner of our bedroom things are working out well.

Due to this fabulous work area and amazing views I've been inspired to create a Men's Wear section for Malamoose Beadery. With it being NEW I plan on spending time in the studio creating more items to get this section fully stocked for the holidays. But right now here's a sample of what's to come.

I would love to hear from any of you who may have some suggestions about what you would like to see in this section. Please leave some feedback with you ideas and I'll get back to you about my thoughts. Now back to taking photographs and getting this Men's wear section filled up....

Update On Watch Featured

A few months ago I posted a blog about getting contacted by the editor of a magazine wanting to feature a watch from Malamoose Beadery. Turns out that it was legit and I did get featured! Here is the photo spread in Health magazine that came out in November 2009.

I'm very proud of my accomplishments as a small business owner selling watches on Etsy. I've done this for just over two years and have been grateful for all the sales I've had due to online shoppers. Thanks for all the support and you will be seeing more from Malamoose Beadery. If you are local to VT you can see some watches and earrings in person at a small hair studio in Rutland,VT called Hair FX. I'm also looking forward to showcasing some of my product in upcoming farmers markets and possibly other shops in VT.

Going Local in Rutland, Vermont

HairFX in Rutland,VT is now showcasing earrings, bracelets, and watches from Malamoose Beadery. This is very exciting news and I'm sooo happy that Peg has decided to carry some of my items. Thanks again to everyone who has given me support.

Happening this week

This week Malamoose is working on wire wrapped beaded leather bracelets. I currently purchase leather remnants and have ended up with a lot of smaller scraps left over from my leather watches. Who knew these scraps could turn into something so beautiful.

Single leather bracelets.

Multi wrapped bracelets.

I really like wearing them all together like the new bangle bracelets of today. However they are just as sweet worn by themselves and wont leave you disappointed.

I'm working on getting these listed on Etsy. They will also be available at a local shop here in Vermont. This is just the beginning of these treasures so if your interested pick one up fast cause I'm not sure how long they will last. If for some reason you don't see them right away at Malamoose Beadery leave a comment and I'll arrange a listing for you. I hope you enjoy your week and I hope to see you soon.

Neck warmer as a gift

I was searching around on the web to find a simple pattern for making a neck warmer. I kept seeing them everywhere and thought that would be something I could make for a Christmas present. After shopping for some fleece, and sewing a simple tube, this is the end results. Although a bit large, it still is comfy cozy on those cold winter days. Here is my boyfriend wearing his new neck warmer. He says, " I like it better than wearing a scarf". Now I just need to make myself one for these cold days of walking the dog. Here is the tutorial on how to make one of these: http://www.ehow.com/how_5534169_sew-neck-warmer.html