Honk If You Like My Sewing Label

For my first-ever sewing label, I opted to go for the handcrafted hipster look.

I ordered a 1/2" x 2" rubber stamp on Etsy and picked up some sturdy 3/4" cotton twill tape today from Daytona Trim.  Also a black stamp pad (on eBay).

It's not fancy but I like it, and thank you, MPB reader JudyD for giving me the idea. The sample above is an early test; they'll get better as I get more experienced with the stamp and the ink (VersaCraft brand).  A hot iron will make the ink permanent -- I'll be sure to test that out of course!

I also now have a basic business card.  Even though both the card and the label are in the futura font, they don't quite feel related but that's OK: I just need something to carry in my wallet for now.

Meanwhile, I ran all around the Garment District today in search of 2 1/2" (a very standard size) plastic collar stays and couldn't find them anywhere; even Steinlauf & Stoller were out of stock.  I will have to order them from an eBay seller.



I also don't know the best place to buy bulk mother of pearl shirt buttons.  A few Etsy sellers offer them in bags of 100, so that's an option.  If you know of a good source, please share.



My latest shirt, a blue gingham with contrast inside collar stand and cuff, came out beautifully.





I'm especially proud of the collar stay pockets -- my first.





In other news, I did a little fabric shopping while I was uptown -- more window shopping than anything.  I thought this neoprene-type comic book print with laser-cut holes and mesh underside was kind of cool -- Spandex House.



For the first time ever I explored Fabrics & Fabrics (270 West 38th St.), after hearing raves about it on various blogs.  I was blown away by the selection.  Formerly Lace Star, they have some incredibly luxurious fabrics for sale there.  Not inexpensive but definitely worth a visit.







I rarely visit Elliott Berman without buying two yards of something, if only because I adore the people who run the place, Matthew and Eugenia.  I picked up the cotton batiste floral print (from Hugo Boss) below.  I know it looks a bit like a nosebleed at first, but if you look closely, you can see blossoms and branches.





I think it will make a stunning shirt for me or someone else.

And that's it: funny how buying fabric always gives me a feeling of accomplishment even when my other goals are frustrated.

Have a great day, everybody!