muchachaK handmade

...meanwhile, back at the muchacha cave...

2009-05-16T21:45:00.000-07:00

Hello! Oh yes, it's been awhile since posting has occurred, not out of lack of desire, but lack of time. muchacha K is actually technically on a break, although we are still at work in the studio.

If you'd like to see why I've been WAY too busy to post here, come visit the CONCORD ARTS MARKET website, because we're ramping up for opening weekend (May 30th) and it's gonna be great. Amazing artists and musicians are booked, just waiting for a call back from the weather fairy to ensure that we'll have a perfect day ;)

Let's get this party started...

2009-03-07T21:22:00.000-08:00

Planning the details of the Verdigris Artisans Open Studio Reception this week...

Diane Terragni and David Preece

2009-03-03T21:34:00.000-08:00

I had a great night out in Manchester tonight, checking out an exhibit of the work of Diane Terragni, jewelry designer and David Preece, painter. Their exhibit, Back to basics: Two friends' perspectives will remain in Manchester's City Hall, I *think* for the entire month. Also on display are the paintings of two young men, Ben Demers and Chris Fram, extremely talented young men, each with their own distinct styles of painting and amazing stories.

I played papparazzo, a role I rather enjoy...

Etsy's CEO, Maria Thomas

2009-03-03T07:24:00.001-08:00

As a member of Boston Handmade, I had the chance to meet Etsy's CEO, Maria Thomas this past Friday.

For those who do not know what Etsy is, who Maria Thomas is, or why you should care...the shortest version of an explanation is that Etsy is an online site that basically revolutionized the sale of handmade goods by individual artists and crafters. After three years of explosive growth, and many, many highs and lows, Etsy got it's first post-founder CEO, Maria Thomas.

This was a HUGE deal...imagine if the CEO of pretty much anything you rely on for a portion of your living came to visit YOU and ask YOU what you think of their service? Such an opportunity!

And such an opportunity it was. Maria really took it like a champ...we Boston Handmade gals have many thing we love about Etsy but we had a lot of concerns too and a lot of questions. Maria really did take the time to try to answer as many of our questions as possible, and she seemed to welcome our criticism as a learning opportunity.

It was a long, intensive meeting and I really came away with a lot to think about. With muchacha K handmade in a time of many changes (for the better, I believe) it was a good time to really get my own mind thinking about how I sell, what I sell, what my own focus is as a business...and how Etsy might fit into the future of muchacha K.

(pics courtesy of Kerry Hawkins and Jessica Burko)

OPEN STUDIO DATE!

2009-02-25T12:56:00.000-08:00

muchacha K is all moved in the Verdigris Artisan studio now, along with Nilaven Jewelry and Sandpiper Beads.

That, of course, means it's time for an OPEN STUDIO RECEPTION! YAAAAAAY! We're opening the studio to the public on the evening of Thursday, March 19th. More details to come! We'll all have work on display and may even have some visiting artists. We will DEFINITELY have tasty, elegant snacks and beverages.

Visit the studio website here: VERDIGRIS ARTISANS!

Concord Area Transit!!!

2009-02-19T10:44:00.001-08:00

Big apology to my out of town readers, but this is a local issue that I just gotta plug!

Ever wondered why buses in Concord buzz, empty, round the same clearly over-serviced routes and yet there are whole neighborhoods in Concord where there are no bus routes? Ever think about how nice it would be to NOT have to park downtown? Ever wonder about more ways to get people from different parts of the city to shop downtown? ME TOO!!! In fact, I think about this stuff all the dang time, which is why I am so excited to discover this website: http://concordareatransit.com/

An efficiently run public transportation system would be so good for downtown business, it would give those of us with cars more options for traveling our lovely city, and it would give those without cars better service than they are getting now.

If you love public transportation, or would like to use it if it actually went through your neighborhood, and you like to see money spent well, check this site out and see how you can get involved. The woman behind it is named Marcy and I'm so glad she's doing this.

Custom Bridal Orders

2009-02-18T21:01:00.000-08:00

Wow. I hadn't anticipated how unpopular my decision to cut off custom bridal orders might be! There's been a little feedback on the issue, and trust me, I fully take that as a compliment. So here's the dealio...if you have an event coming up before our official custom order moratorium is over in the Fall, please contact us. We will let you know if we're able to accommodate your order at that time. Really, we want to give you the best service we can, so if that's just not possible right at that moment, we promise to do you the favor of drawing the line :)

PS: we are also doing some renovating in the shop at this time. So, don't be alarmed by the empty shop. It's temporary and will all be back soon!

New studio...

2009-02-11T10:06:00.000-08:00

...I've been able to work in the new studio and...here's a teaser pic! The full unveiling will be in March at our Open House. We'll also have music, treats, good people and good times at the Open House, but that's another post for another day :)

Heading back to the studio right now...I have a PILE of stuff to finish. I have had to cut off additional orders until Fall because things are so busy. The good news is, I know my limits! If I'm turning you down for an order, trust me, it's for the best, because with FINISHING GRAD SCHOOL (can you tell I'm a little excited about it???) and finishing existing orders, our turnaround time has gotten way too long. Yes, individually handmade work takes time, but I still like to offer a certain level of service and we just can't take more orders right now and maintain it. So I guess the other good news in all of this is that when we come back full force in September...? We'll be far more ready to "deliver". If you're local, come by the new studio! We're at 88 N. Main in Concord. Send me a note and I'll send you directions/hours. We've got a selection of items on hand that you can see in person.

Wedtro.com ad Sarah Arnett

2009-02-09T17:56:00.001-08:00

I LOVE it when other wedding professionals find me and are interested in helping to promote my work. Not just because I love the extra promotion, but because really...I geek out on wedding doo-dads and goo-gahs too. I love the dresses, the cakes, all the goods. It's fun stuff. Well at the moment I've been featured on the Wedtro.com blog. Wedtro is a site dedicated to wedding planning in the Louisville, KY area.

I found this dress on their blog too...TO-DIE-FOR. By designer Sarah Arnett. This dress is so must-have I can hardly stand it:

Built for SPEED

2009-02-07T11:56:00.000-08:00

I'm still enjoying the power and the finesse of my JUKI Serger. I can finally make sense of all the piles of knit fabrics I've had stashed for years. It's sculpting with overlock, it's ahhhht! Now that the serger is running I can't believe I never had one before...in short, totally worth the investment.

Feeding My Soul

2009-02-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

Well hello...I'm back. Sometimes a blogger needs a break and boy did I ever. When waking up from a long, long sleep/hiatus/break to take care of buziness, you often need to feed your soul. And so...I present to you REPRO DEPOT, home of all things, lovely, fabric-y, hinting at colors from your grandmothers house.

I love revisiting sites that make me happy :)

on hiatus...

2008-12-27T00:23:00.001-08:00

Hello all, things are so very busy here in muchacha K land, that I have to take a break from blogging. Visit all things muchacha at the website though, as my focus for the next little while will be filling the shop and making some revisions to the site: muchacha K handmade It's all about more sewing, more promotion, and getting moved into the new studio.

I'm also starting the updates and planning for Concord Arts Market, so that site will be hopping too!

I'm at Downtown Crossing today!

2008-12-12T09:56:00.001-08:00

I'm staffing the Boston Handmade Downtown Crossing shop today...if you haven't visited, here's a peek:

Photo by Kerry Hawkins Photography.

Jewelry roll fabrics...

2008-12-11T12:16:00.000-08:00

For yoooour convenience I have updated my selection of jewelry roll fabrics. As always, I'm happy to embark on a search for THE fabric, if what a person wants is not to be seen here...but I did just add some really pretty options...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/muchachak/sets/72157605406861947/

RSS Feed!!!

2008-12-10T14:00:00.000-08:00

Want to subscribe to the muchacha K shop? Be the first to see the freshest muchacha K items:

MUCHACHA K RSS Feed

Enjoy!

Favorite things!

2008-12-09T11:17:00.000-08:00

These are my favorites from Dawanda.com. Dawanda is a really fun site that I like a lot...it's Europe's answer to Etsy. Basically you can buy really great handmade stuff online. And let's say you have a friend in Germany...and would like to send it to them without having to ship it a billion miles? Find a nice German sellers of handmade delights and have them send it! One of the things I love about Dawanda is that the site is trilingual. You can set the site for English, German or French.

The New Home of muchacha K handmade...

2008-12-07T09:57:00.000-08:00

...what? Yes, that's correct. muchacha K is getting a brand new home. More details will come very soon. But isn't that a fantastic, light, airy space? The new place opens in January 2009, and I'll be telling more about my great STUDIO MATES in the near future too!

Midnight Merriment!

2008-12-05T15:20:00.000-08:00

Tonight is Midnight Merriment night in Concord. Come out to support local business. There are GREAT places to get unique gifts and delicious food on N. Main St. and thereabouts...all you have to do is show up and browse and shop if the spirit moves you, but the cool part is, that all the shops are open until MIDNIGHT. Yes, MIDNIGHT. This is no small excitement in Concord...although I should mention that many Main St. shop ARE staying open later these days anyway and if you haven't noticed, you should look into it, because they'll stay open later if people are out shopping later. The bottom line is this: if you want a healthier local economy, a thriving Main St., and successful local businesses, and an interesting, more happening community...these are the events you need to support! So...go put your wallet and your browsing eyeballs where your mouth is...go out and have a sparkling good time!

Start Planning for Spring Weddings!

2008-12-03T15:04:00.000-08:00

Yes gals, it's that time. If you are having a Spring wedding and you haven't started planning, you'd better get yourself in gear :) And muchacha K handmade can help! Have you SEEN our clutches? Have you SEEN our jewelry rolls? It just so happens they make perfect wedding accessories and bridal gifts. Come visit the muchacha K website, and online shop, or just contact me...you can pick your fabrics (it's your wedding) to coordinate with the wedding colors, OR with your bridesmaids' personalities. Lots of fun...send us a note, we're happy to help!

NH Magazine!!!

2008-12-02T21:54:00.001-08:00

Okay how in the heck did I forget to post this the other day!? I was included in a fantastic article about Concord, NH, in NH Magazine. Here's the ARTICLE, and I'm very happy with it. You never know how people will quote you when you are interviewed and I felt very accurately represented. I am also delighted to see the city of Concord's cool hidden treasures a) being recognized and b) surfacing! Concord is chock full of amazing art and talented artists...and delicious food...and it's all just coming to a wonderful blossoming point.

No further than the cutting board...

2008-12-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

...this is the shell of a passionfruit, and it's lovely shape and smell have been popping back into my head since it was eaten.

There is nothing subtle...

2008-11-30T07:53:00.000-08:00

...about the imagery of Catholic worship. For whatever reason, (no, I am not a tortured survivor of Catholic schools) this is a theme that continually inspires me.

A visit to L'Oratoire St. Joseph (St. Joseph Oratory) in Montreal has inspired me in this vein yet again.

You'll notice that my handbag palette is generally comprised of very bright, bold colors, unexpected contrasts of fabrics prints and colors...currently I've also snuck the Virgen of Guadalupe into my shop, a lovely lady in those same bright colors. Central American Catholic imagery tends to be the most boldly colorful and therefore appealing to me...

Here at the Oratoire St. Joseph the rows and rows of lit votives in candy colored glass are flanked by racks of crutches, symbolic of the many sick, injured and dying people who have trudged up Mont Royal to received the blessing of the church and of God himself. That's dedication...because that hill is enormous. And I think it's that kind of faith and dedication, along with the bright colors and flamboyant imagery, that inspire me...there's something very potent about that kind of perserverence, even if you are not a religious person.

Ever the International Seamstress of Mystery...

2008-11-25T22:51:00.000-08:00

I visited Montreal, Quebec this past weekend. What to say about Montreal...it's just so fabulous. One big, bi-lingual, urban adventure, with delicious foods everywhere, fun people...they're so stylish it's ridiculous. Another great things about Montreal...they have a handful of great public markets. You had to know this was heading in that direction, lol...everywhere I go, I visit the nearest market. Ah, my favorite ancient human tradition!

This weekend we went to Marché Jean Talon (Jean Talon Market) a colorful, bustling collection of farm stands, fresh foods, ranging from pastas to meats, people selling soap and knitted hats, cool North African groceries and so much delicious stuff you couldn't possibly eat it all in one visit. We ate everything from wild boar to chocolate covered fruit on a stick...and bought a big tub of olives, and almond and rosewater cookies.

Crafts at the Carriage House

2008-11-20T21:57:00.001-08:00

My lackluster setup notwithstanding, my day at Kimball Jenkins selling at "Crafts at the Carriage House" was a very pleasant day. I just didn't have the right "stuff" with me to give my display the levels it needed to be more effective. But enough about that...nice people, tasty food, sold some stuff, all good.

One amusing note: the painting that was behind me! "Mutiny" by Jim Blajda. It evoked speculation all day long about what the story of the painting was, what exactly those stuffed animals were up to...ha...take a look and judge for yourself. Personally, I think they're up to no good!

Thank you to Gigi Laberge for organizing.

A rainbow of fabric flavors...

2008-11-19T19:46:00.000-08:00

Very busy these days in the studio...lots of pouches and clutches coming off the sewing machine...and pulling fabrics for wedding orders...

A lovely evening at Butters...

2008-11-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

"Before" pics...

...the artists reception and wine tasting at Butters was so lovely. A ton of friendly people, DELICIOUS wine, lovely shop. Butters is located at 70 N. Main St. in Concord, NH. And many muchacha K creations made their way to new homes...

Buy Handmade; Support Hopsice Care

2008-11-13T11:47:00.000-08:00

Gigi Laberge is a glass artist here in NH and she is also a regular supporter of local hospice care services. To further fuse the relationship between her art and her desire to support hospice, Gigi has created Crafts at the Carriage House.

Crafts at the Carriage House is happening next Thursday, November 20th from 12-8PM and I will be one of the featured sellers. It's an intimate, personal shopping event, complete with delicious food, and high quality handmade gift items (at great gift prices). We're taking over the Carriage House at the Kimball-Jenkins estate (at the intersection of N. Main St. and I-393) in Concord. There is a $1 suggested donation at the door, for local hospice services.

Gigi's WEBSITE

Kimball Jenkins is a great place to enjoy art and handmade items...come by, enjoy the food and the atmosphere :) I'll have a colorful selection of my fancy clutches available, and some pouches and other items as well.

This is HUUUUUUUGE!

2008-11-12T14:39:00.001-08:00

Okay so, I am a member of Boston Handmade, a juried collaboration of artists, based in Massachusetts. Yes, I am based in NH, it's a long story, yes, I'm an anomaly. My point though, AHEM...the City of Boston just gave Boston Handmade it's own STOREFRONT for the holiday season!!!

That's right...a whole shop, right in the middle of Boston, at Downtown Crossing, full to the brim with great art and artisan work...knitted goods, handbags, children's clothing, cast-metal jewelry, beaded jewelry, encaustic works, paper goods, art dolls...TONS of great stuff.

Here is our announcement WEB PAGE for the event...
And here is our BLOG so you can learn more about our member artists and our work...

(necklace and photo by Betsy Baker/Stonehouse Studio, member of Boston Handmade)

When I'm not sewing...

2008-11-07T20:22:00.001-08:00

You never know where you'll find me ;)

Wine, cheese, handbags!

2008-11-05T21:41:00.000-08:00

Why not? Come out for an evening of the lovely things in life, wine, cheese, handbags, and Ahhhht, darling, at Butters Fine foods in downtown Concord, NH. Butters is a treasure trove of savory treats and wines, and on November 14th, 5-7 (hmmm, I'd better double check that time actually) they're hosting an evening artist reception, at which muchacha K will be displaying. It's the season for fancy, colorful clutches, and I'll have a stash on hand for you to enjoy in person. Come by, say hello, sample some delicious treats...

For info on location click HERE!

Asia Fantasia

2008-11-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

muchacha K, meet Scorpion Bowl.

Canadian Smocking! and link to tutorial...

2008-10-30T21:18:00.000-07:00

Lest you be given the impression that I've suddenly become obsessed with Star Wars, allow me to explain. See the amazing visual texture of the blue robe in the photo??? THAT, my friends is Canadian, or North American smocking, and that is the focus of my obsession. It's a method of gathering the fabric on the back, so that it gives that rumpled, elegant texture on the front. For a tutorial on how to do it, visit Savvyseams (I also borrowed this white smocking sample image from their site). I LOVE the result of this technique, so stunning...another site to check out for guidance on how to create this gorgeous texture is the Padawan's Guide (I borrowed the pic of Padme, above, from that site).

Cool New Fashion Venue

2008-10-29T19:47:00.001-07:00

Allow me to introduce: Design Hive, debuting this holiday shopping season in Cambridge, MA. Design Hive is an exciting, new indie designers market that I will be selling at this season. The Design Hive will feature a rotating collection of clothing (new + vintage), jewelry, accessories, home décor, and art by different emerging artists every Saturday starting 11/1 through 12/20.

Please stop by my booth on these dates to see my latest items:

November 29, December 6, December 13 and December 20

I'm excited about their fashion-centered focus and can't wait to bring my latest snazzy batch of fancy clutches to share...for more information, visit their WEBSITE.

Industrial Strength

2008-10-27T19:53:00.001-07:00

Apologies for the interesting lighting, but I had to share my newest vintage machine. I'm still investigating its pedigree, but you can see just looking at it, that it's an antique. It's also a heavy duty industrial, so it will open up whole new worlds of project possibilities...and hopefully I won't accidentally sew through any fingers because boy oh boy, does this sucker move FAST. Its external motor (not pictured) is larger than my head.

It joins the 1970's olive green Kenmore, the 1920's black Singer(rewired as an electric), the Blue 1950's Good Housekeeping, and the "Green Machine"--1961 Singer Spartan that I do most of my work on--in my vintage machine stable. The oldies are so great, because they do such good work and they last FOREVER. I can't wait to break this one in on a pile of vinyl!

Sometimes a song is all you need

2008-10-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

I am always listening to music when working, and no, it's not all the cool, hipster indie rock a person would expect if one had ever gotten an eyeful of muchacha K. Don't let the fashion mullet fool you. For example...Pocketful of Sunshine...or One Step at a Time or how about American Boy. Yeah that's right cool people of the world...muchacha K is rockin' the pop tunes in the studio this week, and she's not afraid to tell it.

Oh don't worry...one of these rainy days I'll pull out "You Just Haven't Earned it Yet Baby" again...in the meantime, I have happy pop tunes inspiring me to keep stitching.

Life A.M.

2008-10-05T20:45:00.000-07:00

After 2.5 months of planning and promotion madness, the Concord Arts Market Fall Preview Season is finished...sigh! What's a person to do next? Well it's Fall in NH...I went apple picking. The original goal was actually pumpkin picking at Lull Farm in Hollis (Hollis is so pretty). But it seems I got lost in this apple orchard at the Farm instead...and that apple was delicious!

FINAL WEEKEND! and Arts Concord...

2008-10-02T20:09:00.001-07:00

This Saturday, October 4th is the final weekend for 2008 of Concord Arts Market! Come out and support the market on it's final weekend...then spend the next several months getting as excited as I am that we're coming back next Spring!!! Yeaaah! Well, I know that's what I will be doing anyway ;) And I'm already working on securing the space.

Once the market is over I have another project or two up my sleeve. One of them is this new website, Arts Concord, where I am compiling not only all of our local arts resources, but will be featuring profiles of local aritsts, and neat emerging and underground events alongside the big stuff, and the classics. I think Concord's got an actual arts "scene" gelling and it's easier to see the progress when the news is all in one place!

There was life before the market...

2008-09-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

...haha, and now there is life after the market :) And I'm happy to report, that life after the market is lovely! Everything came together and the day was so fun. I loved meeting all the artists in person, FINALLY, after 2.5 months of emailing with them all the time.

Now, let the prayers begin for good weather this coming Saturday...pleasepleaseplease! It's not looking good right now, BUT, this is New England, and there's still time. Things can change up until right before, so I'm still hoping we'll get a dry day for at least ONE day this weekend!

Ohh lala...!

2008-09-18T07:02:00.002-07:00

Official market t's! We'll be the most stylish market crew ever! We'll be sporting the official market blue for week two!

Drumroll please.......

2008-09-18T07:02:00.001-07:00

Okay, I've got the garbage cans, and everything's packed in the buggy, all slots are filled, the cones are ready and waiting...the MUSICIANS are ready and waiting, can't even say how glad I am that they're joining us...

Here's a shout out to Just Be, the makers of the official market staff t-shirts. Michelle Pratt-Lienhartt is printing up some t's for us, and taking on the world simultaneously, with her hip t's focused on encouraging positive energy. Here's her website: JUST BE, but she'll also be visiting us in person at the market on the 27th...

I love a relaxing day outdoors.

Last Minute To-Do list...

2008-09-12T09:26:00.000-07:00

The countdown to opening day of Concord Arts Market has begun, it's coming up in one week...which is the reason I've been sadly ignoring my blog, of course. So many details to take care of, connections to make, flyers to distribute, calls to return, emails to send..and now here we are with ONE WEEK TO GO!!!

The last minute TO-DO list:

get garbage cans!
pack day-of supplies: broom, traffic cones, saw horses, signs, extra tables, tent...
OH YEAH, SIGNS...still painting those
finalize map of the space
assemble gaggle of volunteers

I'm sure I'll be adding to this list, of course...haha...the work of the market lady never ends...! I have my traffic cones already but maybe I can try to score some like the ones in the pic above...they're so hot! Art AND traffic cone all in one!

Wyrding Studios

2008-08-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wyrding Studios is one of the artists participating in the upcoming Concord Arts Market. Wyrding, aka Kythryne Aisling, creates gorgeous wire-wrapped jewelry from unusual finds: richly colored beads, antique watch parts, nuggets of stone. She'll be bringing her rich selection of work with her to the market...but also, in her own words "I will be debuting a few new designs there, as well as doing custom work on the spot."

That's right, the artist in action...hooray! I love getting to see artists at work...

They're everywhere...

2008-08-25T10:01:00.000-07:00

Markets are an ancient human phenomenon. And you will find them in cities all over the world. Throughout history they have filled basic human needs and wants. We buy food at markets, we buy other life necessities at market, we buy fun stuff at markets. And despite the fact that superstores and convenience surround us, there is something alluring about those tents on a sidewalk, or the flea market at the roadside venue.

Here in Concord we have our Farmers' Market, soon to be joined by our Arts Market...but even in big big cities like New York, markets spring up on city sidewalks. Here's one I walked through this past weekend:

Hurrah for software updates!

2008-08-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

So aside from the fact that things are INSANELY BUSY right now (I'm not even creating new posts on Etsy, but my order book is full for the next month and a half), there is another reason that my posts have been sparse. For many weeks, I have been trying to figure out why my computer won't recognize that my camera is plugged in. This is pretty craptastic, considering that my camera is my number three business tool, next to the sewing machines, and the computer itself. So here I am thinking something is seriously wrong with my camera, or my computer, when I read an article online that asks the brilliant question "Have you completed all necessary software updates?".

Software updates? You mean those annoying reminders that pop up when I'm trying to use my computer to get work done and the little icon bounces around driving me crazy until I tell them to go away? Those updates I probably haven't done in...uh....I don't know how long.

Yes. Well, I uploaded all the updates, and voila...the camera works. And I got to download all the pretty pictures of new fabrics that I took this weekend...

LESSON LEARNED, and here, I pass it along to you, dear reader. It's good to be back.

Where's muchacha!?

2008-08-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

Okay okay...I know this blog has been a little quiet lately. We're not taking any new orders for August...it's just that things have been so busy order-wise, that we need to breathe for a minute (we've got brides placing orders through May 2009!)...AND, the Arts Market is requiring a little love right now.

So...hang tight readers, muchacha will return!

Squam Art Workshops!

2008-08-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

I could not be more excited to have received a message this week from Elizabeth at Squam Art Workshops. I have admired their site and programs many times, but have not yet had a chance to attend. Elizabeth wrote to give me a heads up about the Vendor Night they've scheduled for September 13, 2008. They have some tables available and are looking for a few more vendors to fill them up (ignore the signup deadline). Here is a link to the info: SQUAM ART WORKSHOPS VENDOR NIGHT!

If you are interested in participating, contact her directly at elizabeth@squamartworkshops.com

Also check out their classes and workshops for this September (and their gorgeous location!): SQUAM ART WORKSHOPS

(Photos courtesy of Squam Art Workshops' website; above print by Susan Schwake)

In With The New!

2008-07-24T15:27:00.000-07:00

I've posted sparsely about this previously, but here's the full update on what's up with the Speakeasy, the Arts Market, and muchacha K, since many have asked.

muchacha K will continue to produce awesome handbags and accessories, as always. The Speakeasy, our studio shop, has closed. Why? Because a person can organize just so much at once. The Concord Arts Market is a project I've been hoping to get off the ground for a while now, and when the opportunity presented itself, I had to jump on it. So essentially, I've traded up, traded my studio shop for an Arts Market, that will have the ability to be a waaaaaay more visible venue for the artists I love to help promote, as well as a super event that the entire community can enjoy.

I LOVE outdoor shopping! And after this Fall's kickoff of the Concord Arts Market I can't wait to get planning for next year. My goal is to continue the weekly outdoor shopping experience once things warm back up next May/June. Picture yourself wandering the Concord Arts Market, tent after tent of super handcrafted items for you to browse, and local artists for you to rub elbows with...maybe an ice cream cone in hand from the Cool Moose Creamery...a bag of veggies on your arm from the Farmer's Market...and a delicious lunch awaiting you on Main St. Hello!? Could this possibly be a more lovely afternoon? Maybe some acoustic music in the air (still working on that permit, haha, but still, imagine how great it would be!)

Just imagine!!!

For more information about the Concord Arts Market (which kicks of Sept 20, 27, and Oct 4, 2008 from 10am to 4pm) visit the MARKET WEBSITE.

(photo by Jessica Burko, an artist who will be participating in the Concord Arts Market this Fall)

How many people have...

2008-07-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

...walked through this same hallway in Grand Central Station? It's magical just thinking about it. And so are these pretty lights hanging overhead. It's moments and places like this that feed creativity and inspire creative people to keep on creating...

The Arts Market Website: it's up!

2008-07-06T22:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, the Concord Arts Market is ON! Need more info? Well funny you should ask because the website is up. Here's the link:

CONCORD ARTS MARKET WEBSITE

Just waiting for confirmation on the dates...check back to the site for updates!

Selling in Somerville, MA!

2008-06-28T07:26:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone,

If you'll be in the greater Boston area this weekend, come say hello as a sell my wares at the Boston Handmade Marketplace, in Somerville, MA. Today, Saturday, June 28, 2008 from 3-7. A gaggle of high quality New England handcrafts will be there for you to browse and buy and two live bands will be performing.

More info: Boston Handmade Marketplace!

Concord Arts Market "Those in the Know" List

2008-06-24T06:46:00.000-07:00

Are YOU on my offical Concord Arts Market email update list?

The market is still in its planning stages, but you'll definitely want to be in the know when the details all come together :)

Drop me a note at info@muchachaK.com and get in the loop!

Geometry

2008-06-23T17:37:00.000-07:00

How can I be a designer and be so unskilled in geometry? This pic of the Brooklyn bridge (taken as I whizzed acrost it) really makes a person think. Look at all those lines...look at that arrangement of geometric entities in space. I couldn't map it out for you in math-language, but I could eyeball its elements and come up with a really wicked handbag based on the visual themes therein.

NYC Day One: Renegade Craft Fair Brooklyn!

2008-06-18T14:39:00.000-07:00

Alright, for those of you who have never heard of the Renegade Craft Fair, here is your clue! Renegade Craft Fair is an enormous indie craft market that happens in three different cities, Brooklyn, Chicago, and San Francisco. It's a giant cornucopia of indie handmades by talented artisans and artists. I went to the Brooklyn Renegade, obviously, and I was NOT disappointed. There were something around 150 vendors, and a delicious vegan ice cream stand, DJ's...good times! I didn't even care that it was 100 degrees out. Okay, actually I did care that it was that hot, but it meant that I got to buy a gorgeously made cotton skirt that I shall post in a later post :) My jeans were just NOT the thing to be wearing in that heat!

I had the good fortune to run into a handful of New England area vendors that I know, some who were there selling and some who, like me, were there gawking and shopping. Adam Yothers of Boston's Dyslexic Press was there. His subversive mix of t-shirts and sarcasm fit right in, lol:

Learn more about Renegade Craft Fair here: Renegade!

OMG!

2008-06-17T18:55:00.002-07:00

Just came back from NYC! I'll post pics this week when I find that durned camera cord! What a great city...

Presenting....Michael Lewis

2008-06-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

Michael Lewis is a painter I couldn't be more delighted to have stumbled upon. His birds, even the tiny ones, have got more personality than most people I know (and I know a lot of great people!). A variety of them are perched here at the Speakeasy, come and pay them a visit...and visit the artists online home here:

Lewis Acrylics

Don't mind the mess...

2008-06-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

...it means we're really busy with orders! Doesn't mean we don't have time for yours though...need some custom clutches? We're on it, just send us a note...

Offbeat Bride!

2008-06-04T12:33:00.001-07:00

In honor of my bridal customers, who make up a huge portion of my customer base, I offer this: The Offbeat Bride.

I love this site. It is a love letter to every girl who thought weddings should be fun, and creative, and a little, well, off-beat. It's not for everyone, but if it's for you...it's PERFECT! Have fun, and make sure to check out the Wedding Porn section. It is nothing relating to actual porn, and everything relating to oogling other people's weddings...

Still chugging away...

2008-06-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

...no pretty pics today, I'm still chugging away on my outdoor market proposal.

But check out the new muchacha K website if you haven't already:

muchacha K handmade

Drawn Onward...

2008-05-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

Made right here in Concord...sold right here at the Speakeasy. A variety of colors and beads available...from Alison Murphy of Drawn Onward.

Have a Virtual Cocktail...

2008-05-23T21:26:00.000-07:00

...it IS the weekend after all, and we are, as always, the Speakeasy.

Rock and Race!!!

2008-05-23T19:32:00.000-07:00

In news of other great community activities, this past Weds was Rock and Race day here in Concord. Rock and Race is a huge community event, a race to raise money for the cancer center at Concord Hospital. My sewing studio on Main St is basically right across the street from where the race started. After about 4pm they closed the street off and the runners and walkers started gathering in front of the State House. By race time, the pulsing crowd's enthusiasm could hardly be contained, even when it started raining. A roar from the crowd went up from the crowd as the runners took off, but then, after the runners had gone by, and it was time for the walkers...that crowd literally oozed into and filled the street. I took pics out my window, and I have to admit, it looked like pretty much all of Concord was out there. I think next year I'll have to participate, it really looked like a lot of fun.

Speaking of Outdoor Arts Markets

2008-05-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

First off, I have to comment on the AMAZING amount of comments and support I have received so far from community members and artisans about my proposal for an Arts Market right here in Concord, NH. I will be sending out an email VERY soon to all of you with thank yous and more details.

Second, this past weekend was Opening Weekend of the SOWA Open Market in Boston. It's a beautiful weekly market in Boston's South End that takes place most Sundays, end of May thru end of October. I am the on-site Market Manager--the brave person who dares to set up vendors at ungodly hours of the morning and generally makes sure everything runs as it should throughout the day. We had an AMAZING opening weekend...no rain during the event, gorgeous sun, a mind boggling array of over 120 vendors, and lots of shoppers. Outdoor market's are terrific community events because everyone is welcome, and I love getting to meet all of the wonderful shoppers and vendors each week.

It made me even more excited about finalizing my proposal for a Concord Market, and getting it into the right hands. Concord deserves more community events, inclusive community events that really feed the city's spirit.

Concord Arts Market?

2008-05-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in seeing Concord, NH have it's very own outdoor arts market? We've got a farmer's market, but what about all the amazing artists and artisans we have right here in NH? And there's a ton, trust me!

If you'd like to be able to enjoy outdoor shopping on gorgeous summer days and support local, living artisans all at the same time, send me a note at info@muchachaK.com, because I've got a plan and I'd love to let you in on it or get you involved!

Sincerely,

Katy B.
"muchacha K"

Have a Virtual Cocktail, er...

2008-05-10T19:06:00.001-07:00

Hey don't laugh, it's the "champagne of beers"!

Cheers from the Speakeasy...

Art Concord 2008-TONIGHT!

2008-05-09T07:21:00.000-07:00

It's Art Walk night in Concord, and several terrific art galleries are opening their doors from 5-8pm to the public.

Come out and support the arts locally:

ART CONCORD 2008

And stop by the Speakeasy while you're at it because, guess what--we have original artwork too!

Photo above by Scott Bulger, featured tonight at Kimball Jenkins.

Satisfying objects...

2008-05-07T16:37:00.001-07:00

This satisfying object courtesy of Joe Forestall of Anderstall Artworks, in Bow, NH. Ahh the lovely weighty feel...it's here at the shop right now, and yes, we'll let you touch it too :)

Whatsa jewelry roll?

2008-05-05T17:45:00.000-07:00

A jewelry roll is a terrific accessory that you can store your jewelry in for travel. We just happen to make them here in the muchacha K studio, in vibrant, juicy fabrics...

One of the awesome things about coming in to the studio/shop is that you can choose you own fabric in person. It's pretty fun for us to watch people get all excited about pawing through our giant stash of fabric too :)

Click on the link to our online shop to see more samples (psst, look to the left hand side of the page!)...

OUTDOOR SELLING SEASON BEGINS!

2008-05-03T17:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, this blog has been quiet for the past week. Between orders and prepping for outdoor selling season I haven't had time to breathe, nevermind spend quality time online. Above? A lovely afternoon spent in Jamaica Plain, MA at the neighborhood's First Thursdays season kickoff. I love selling in JP, terrific people, nice city neighborhood.

INDOOR selling season is still on of course, as always, in the studio shop ;)

Too busy for blogging?

2008-04-28T21:57:00.001-07:00

Well, at the moment, yes...so enjoy the virtual cocktail just a tiny bit longer :)

My cats have hardly seen me either ;)

Enjoy THIS blog for the moment, from Susan Schwake of the artstream gallery in Rochester, NH:

ARTSTREAM!

Have a Virtual Cocktail on Us!

2008-04-26T21:08:00.001-07:00

We are, after all "The Speakeasy" :)

The smell could not be more delicious...

2008-04-22T12:09:00.000-07:00

...the Speakeasy has sprung alive with the wonderful smells of Stolat Organics body products. We've got lotions, body scrubs, soaps, mani/pedi kits, lip balms and more...all made from wonderful organic products, right in Newmarket, NH.

Stolat's Shea Butter Lotion was also the winning hand creme among the magazine staff in March 2008's New Hampshire Magazine! Congrats! (and thanks for bringing up your wonderful creations!)

Happy Weekend from the Speakeasy

2008-04-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Holy cows! How did I forget to post my weekly cocktail! Sheesh...

NH Represent!

2008-04-18T06:36:00.000-07:00

Hey so, I'm sure you've figured this out if you're reading this blog with any regularity, but I thought I take a second to point out that here at the Speakeasy, we sell only regionally handmade artisan-made items. Regional meaning New England, BUT we primarily feature NH creators. Here's a list of the NH artists and towns currently represented in our shop:

Anderstall Artworks--Bow, NH
Blue Sky Bindery/Emma Bates--Warner, NH
muchacha K (yeah, yeah that's me)--Concord, NH
Little Lucy/Jillian Brown--Concord, NH
drawn onward designs/Allison Murphy-Concord, NH
Susan Schwake-Rochester, NH
Diane Terragni-Dunbarton, NH
Hoopties-Epsom, NH
Bags By Melanie/Melanie Chabre--New Ipswich, NH

This is why it's so cool to buy handmade--you can get great, quality goods, from local people.

(That little lizard guy up there? Official NH amphibian...the Spotted Newt...who knew we even HAD one!? He's cute! AND...he's LOCAL too ;) !)

Colorful, fun handmade books...

2008-04-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, handmade books. I absolutely LOVE blank books. And nothing could make them cooler unless...UNLESS...unless they were made by hand. Emma Bates of Warner, just happens to be a professional bookbinder, founder of Blue Sky Bindery. We have a lovely assortment of her books here at the Speakeasy (in fact one of them found a happy new home within about 1.2 hour of coming to the shop!), different sizes, styles, prices...stash your secrets and ideas in the creamy delicious pages of a gorgeously handcrafted book.

Need Studio Space?

2008-04-15T22:02:00.001-07:00

We're interested in sharing...if you are a seamstress or other fabric-friendly creator in the Concord area (that means paint and anything with a distinct odor might not be a good fit!), and you are looking for studio space, send us a message at info@muchachaK.com...great price, gorgeous light, and great company, how can you go wrong!

So you've never been to Etsy...

2008-04-14T19:00:00.001-07:00

If you haven't been to Etsy, you should visit. It's the host site for the muchachaK/Speakeasy online shop. It's also a treasure trove of handmade goods, if you're into making OR buying that sort of thing (and if you're reading this blog there's a good chance you are, we betting)...one of our hairclips had the good fortune to be featured on Etsy's front page last month. Etsy's front page is always filled with pretty pictures that will beckon you inside...

www.etsy.com

It's 6AM, do you know where your muchacha is?

2008-04-14T03:08:00.001-07:00

Don't know about yours, but ours is sewing. Yes it's true, nothing sacred anymore here at muchacha K's Speakeasy, not even sleep, haha!

Concord is way hipper than you think it is...

2008-04-10T17:28:00.000-07:00

In gearing up for our trunk show last week, I did a little research. I wanted to know what other businesses would be open while we were on a Friday night. Here at the Speakeasy, we're big believers in the importance of supporting your local economy, of small businesses and business people. There's a pervasive idea out there that Concord's Main St. "dies" after 5...but that's not what I discovered while talking to businesses up and down our N. Main St.

I found several businesses that are open on Fridays until 7, 8 and 9pm. These aren't big city hours mind you--but we're not a big city, lol. Here's a list of many of the downtown businesses helping to keep Concord cool by staying open later than you think:

Dos Amigos, fresh mexican eats
Madeleines, fine French pastries, outrageously delicious treats
Things Are Cooking, quality kitchenwares of all kinds
Zoe's Professional Bra Fitters, yes, bra fitters
Lotions and Potions, fine lotions, bath goods, cosmetics and the like
the Gallery Hair Salon
Britches, fine clothiers
Pitchfork Records, great selection, good indie selection, AND the bargain CD basement
Fabulous Looks Boutique
Pompanoosuc Mills
Viking House
Let's Dance, dance studios
Butter's, cheeses and wines and things
House of India, delicious Indian food
Siam Orchid, Thai food
Barley House, restaurant and pub
Margaritas, mexican food and drinks
Hermanos, best margaritas ever

There's probably a few I've missed too...see, long list!!!

I have to say, I was impressed, and I started to see Concord a little differently...

Speaking of Sew-a-thons...

2008-04-09T12:28:00.001-07:00

Must be Spring...the phone's ringing, the orders are coming in, and I'm sewing just as fast as I can to keep up ;)

What are YOU working on for Spring...?

Sew-a-thon

2008-04-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

If they find me here in my sewing studio tomorrow with my fingers grown onto the sewing machine, I will NOT be surprised! muchacha K is in the middle of a completely nuts sewing marathon...pics to come...must...keep...stitching...!

In answer to the question:

2008-04-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

...how did it go!? Answer: TOTALLY awesome. It was a cozy, sparkly evening, with a wonderful flow of enthusiastic jewelry and handmades fans from open to close. Must mention: the chocolate pate from Madeleines, cheeses, olives, drinks...yum. And Diane's jewelry, in its juicy spring colors really made a gorgeous display.

Thank you to all of the Speakeasy, artists, Diane, and to everyone who joined us, it really was a lovely evening...

Must be the day...

2008-04-04T06:51:00.000-07:00

Party dress--check! Awesome handmade stuff stocked in the shop--check! A whole extra roomful of Diane Terragni's terrific colorful jewelry for Spring--check! Tasty treats...? Check!

Sounds like we're having a trunk show folks :) 3-8pm today, it's free, it's fun, come on by!

Mmm, beads...

2008-04-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

Just another tasty sample, picked by hand like pebbles from a beach, from Diane Terragni, our featured artist for this week's trunk show (Friday, April 4, 3-8 here at the shop)...

Jewelry Trunk Show, this Friday!

2008-03-31T19:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, indeedy, it's almost time for our FIRST Speakeasy event, our Trunk Show featuring Diane Terragni's chunky, colorful, fun jewelry.

This Friday, April 4, 2008 from 3-8pm, free to everyone, delicious refreshments will be served and a cozy, stylish time had by all.

Plus--it's important to support local hand-crafters, artisans and fine artists! It's a great way to feed our local economy--and nurture the arts that feed our souls.

A Twist for your Wrist...

2008-03-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

This is the handy work of Concord, NH jewelry and accessory designer Alison Murphy, aka drawn onward designs. These super cute wrist cuffs are IN stock in a variety of fun colors, and ready to go home with you. Also here, Alison's sterling silver earrings--they're all about modern clean lines and colorful bead accents...good times!

Happy Weekend from the Speakeasy

2008-03-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

Scarves...not just for Winter

2008-03-27T15:59:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's nice to have a little something to wrap around the neck on a chilly Spring morning. That's where Little Lucy Spring-weight scarves come in. Knitted right here in Concord, NH, from super-fun yarns in fantastic colors, by local knitter Jillian Brown...here's one now:

They'll be here next week, in time for the Trunk Show (April 4th!)...

You can't have it! Or can you...?

2008-03-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

This here is a custom-created clutch from muchacha K studios (here at the Speakeasy Boutique). It's already been picked up by its very happy owner. But if you need one of your own, just let us know--you can even pick out your own fabric here at the studio, and trust me, we've got a TON of fabric...

Delicious Turquoise...

2008-03-23T19:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, delicious is a term normally reserved for food, not jewelry...but look at these earrings!

That rich shade of turquoise is pretty much edible if you ask me. And the delicate wrapped wire frames it beautifully. Yes this pair of earrings just HAPPENS to be available right now here at the Speakeasy Boutique.

They're the creation of Somerville, MA jewelry artist Kate Feld. Her work has the most amazing delicate feel to it, but with really bold color and stone choices...a lovely selection of her pieces are here in addition to the earrings. Totally gorgeous stuff...

Happy Weekend from The Speakeasy

2008-03-21T17:43:00.001-07:00

OWL TOTES!

2008-03-20T15:41:00.001-07:00

Boston-area artist Chris Masci is creating a new line of reusable grocery totes featuring his designs! What do you think?

These two are here at the Speakeasy...come and get them while you can :)

TRUNK SHOW TIME!

2008-03-18T14:23:00.001-07:00

Would you look at those lush, colorful, gorgeous beads! These jewelry pieces are the work of Dunbarton, NH jewelry artist Diane Terragni, also known as Fun Fakes and Funky Findings. Unique, hand-selected beads are the trademark of her work. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets...we've got a rich selection of them right now, but even better, her work will be the feature of our first TRUNK SHOW!

Friday, April 4, 2008 from 3-8 PM we're holding our first Trunk Show reception.

What's a trunk show?

It has nothing to do with trunks and everything to do with designers bringing you a fresh preview collection of their works for the season. Diane will bring gorgeous, brand new baubles and findings from her studio, refreshments will be served...all in all, a lovely, relaxing evening affair...plus it's First Friday in Concord so you can make it an evening out!

Happy Weekend from the Speakeasy

2008-03-14T19:57:00.001-07:00

Fresh Deliveries!!!

2008-03-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

The Speakeasy gets fresh new items tomorrow...gotta visit the shop to see them all...but there's a hint...!

Fresh off the sewing machine...

2008-03-12T21:34:00.001-07:00

...one of the coolest things about having a "house brand" at your boutique is that new creations are coming off of the sewing machine all the time. It's not just any boutique that has a handbag sewing studio attached...this here is a custom order hot off the presses.

But a new beach tote found its way to the shop front today too, and stacks of them are cued up for stitching!

If you stop by the shop, ask to see the studio, we love visitors. If you hear the humming of a sewing machine, someone's busy at work...

Wait, where is the Speakeasy?

2008-03-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

The signage is now complete!

Cute Purse Tutorial

2008-03-09T17:14:00.000-07:00

Here at the Speakeasy, we're all about handmade. Well once upon a time, a friend brought me a really cool purse from Japan. "Here, see if you can make this," she said. It's never a matter of if, for the truly handbag obsessed, but a matter of how. So I came up with a tutorial for this purse, ages and ages ago, and posted it on Craftster. If you've somehow never visited Craftster, and you love making things, it really is a treasure trove of unconventional craft twists--mixed with excellent time-honored technique tips.

Craftster is also a bit of a Mecca for the resurgence in the making of handmade items.

The tutorial lives here: Japanese Purse Tutorial...don't laugh at my pics! They're vintage from my camera phone era!

Make your own!

Could this be prettier?

2008-03-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous lavender lozenge necklace with black/deep purple accent--created by Malori Anderson of Anderstall Artworks, Bow, NH. This lovely necklace is currently at home here at the Speakeasy Boutique. Luscious. I fall instantly in love with jewelry that looks delicious and these beads make me think of pastilles (can you tell I haven't had dinner yet today?). The kind my mother used to stuff in my Christmas stocking. Creamy sweet disks of goodness.

But wait, the point here is the jewelry.

Off to the kitchen--time for a pork chop.

The Speakeasy Boutique is OPEN

2008-03-07T16:09:00.001-08:00

The Speakeasy Boutique is born! Thanks to our many first day visitors, and special thanks to Lisa Chase for the chocolate pate...you haven't lived until you'd had Madeleines chocolate pate.

We opened with a beautiful selection of handmade goods--and even more are arriving next week. We're open 3-6 Tuesday, Weds and Fri. Drop us a line at info@muchachaK.com for more info.

Love,

muchacha K

Tomorrow's the day!

2008-03-06T19:22:00.000-08:00

The Speakeasy Boutique has its first official "open" day tomorrow! We're open from 3-6PM...pics on the way...