FIORI FALSI

three new custom bags

2011-02-24T08:52:00.000-08:00

New custom made bags:

11 inch Mac Book Air bag that is "business on the outside, party on the inside." Grey felt lined with neon yellow/ green. Fully padded with a button closure.

A definite first. This bag was made for a woman who uses a walker. It has a square bottom to fit all of the essentials (water bottle, wallet, lipstick, cell phone, etc), a button to help delineate space, and adjustable velcro to easily secure the bag to the walker.

A custom ordered Bosworth style bag with a single shoulder strap. Shiny black vinyl with light brown piping and tan lining. Two internal pockets and snap closure.

email fiorifalsi@gmail.com to get price quotes for custom bags.

coastermania

2011-02-23T10:29:00.000-08:00

Coasters are finally back in stock! Available in grey damask and brown woodgrain, each coaster is hand screen printed and approximately 4 inches square. Due to natural irregularities in cork, each coaster is slightly different. Sold in sets of four in the Fiori Falsi Etsy Shop.

The woodgrain variety is currently in stock at the Renegade Handmade store.

Fiori Falsi at Wolfbait & B-Girls

2011-02-16T16:53:00.000-08:00

I am so happy to announce that you can now buy Fiori Falsi products at Wolfbait & B-Girls in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago. Wolfbait is an amazing independent shop that showcases local designers. The store was recently featured in the New York Times.

wolfbait & b-girls

Stop by the store (3131 W. Logan Blvd. Chicago, Illinois 60647) and visit their facebook page.

The woodgrain Madison

2011-02-13T19:43:00.000-08:00

One of my bags was included in this great woodgrain inspired treasury.

'Splintered' by StudioZen

handmade WOODLYN T-... MadamChino $92.00	Antique Framed Mirr... RowansRoom $65.00	white love -natural... virtualdesignl... $16.00	Resin Crab paperwei... GlamDecay $16.00
Vintage Wooden Duck... AmyKristineVin... $12.00	vintage 70s brown g... persephonevint... $46.00	Antique Heavy Woode... BehindTheScree... $71.00	Super Geek Eyeglass... ifoundgallery1... $55.00
Shiny Blue and Tan ... RedsThreadsVin... $26.00	Old Wooden Shoe For... curiousrelics $15.00	1 BILLIE - Decorati... jeanpelle $40.00	Nature photography ... owlviperswildl... $15.00
vintage wood grain ... MossMercantile $10.50	THE MADISON FIORIFALSI $45.00	70s Wood Bangle Bra... NakedVintage $12.00	Woodgrain. Faux boi... toybreaker $30.00

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com A/B image testing.

new treasury

2011-02-07T13:58:00.000-08:00

I'm completely sold out of my woodgrain coasters, so here is a sampling of my favorites from Etsy while I work on making more!

'coasters for cold days' by FIORIFALSI

beautifully designed to protect your table from all of your piping hot cups of coffee and tea.

doily coasters uncommon $20.00	Evergreen Botanical... Zipper8Design $20.00	Florida Waters Vint... TheRetroRoad $24.00	Birch Trees - Set o... redbirdink $10.00
DRUNK letterpress p... amandamello $15.00	Sunshine Blossoming... rubypress $10.00	Simple felt coaster... MaryZoom $10.00	Cable Knit Coasters... redbirdink $10.00
Scrabble Coasters -... floridalisa $22.00	Ceramic Tile Coaste... craftyluna $12.50	Set of 4 Coasters -... crabappledesig... $24.00	Rustic Natural Juni... JasminsTreasur... $12.97
Robins Egg Blue Cot... CurlyGirlCroch... $6.50	Concrete Coasters Culinarium $19.00	Blue Kiku Coaster -... astridav $60.00	Set of 4 Repurposed... crabappledesig... $24.00

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com A/B image testing.

plants you can wear

2011-02-03T16:31:00.000-08:00

How amazing are these wearable planters? All of the designs are Made by Colleen, who asks "why should your plants stay at home?" Colleen makes all of the planters so you can fill it with whatever plant or flower you want. I love how simple and clean they are, from the form to the color.

image from madebycolleen

I may have to wait a few months before ordering mine though. I doubt my plant would survive this cold or the two feet of show we got yesterday.

where the sidewalk ends, apparently right in front of my studio

Found via craft gossip

you don't inspire me - prints from Mello Press

2011-02-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

Amanda of Mello Press is a longtime friend and amazing letterpress artist. The title of these prints is completely misleading however, because Amanda's work is far from uninspiring - it's humorous and insightful and wonderfully reserved. She recently made a beautiful series of prints based on a conversation we had a decade ago with the advisor of our high school newspaper. You can read all about the story behind the prints on Amanda's blog and see six of the finished prints (along with a lot of the other prints) on her etsy.

Golden Logs

2011-01-25T09:34:00.000-08:00

How wonderful is this golden stump stool?! Created by Jason Phillips and sold by The Future Perfect, this stool is cast from a real tree into chrome or gold. I would happily sit on this.

Renegade Handmade's Favorite Holiday Gifts

2010-12-13T18:21:00.000-08:00

My wood grain coasters are one of Renegade Handmade's favorite holiday gift list (though they are slightly obscured in the bottom right hand corner)!

The Renegade Handmade store is the only place you can buy them for the holidays (they took all of the sets that I didn't sells at the fair). The last day for Christmas shipping from Renegade is December 18th! They make a great gift for anyone (or to keep for yourself like I did) and at $15 for a set of 4 hand screenprinted coasters, you'll have money left over to put something in your glass. You can find the coasters here.

The Post Family Wants YOU to Buy Local

2010-12-10T11:47:00.000-08:00

James Ewert wrote a nice little blurb about FIORI FALSI and the importance of supporting local Chicago artists by buying their creations on the Post Family website.

If you haven't visited the Post Family before, do it immediately! It's an informative and thoughtful Chicago art & design collective that has a blog, gallery, store and website all rolled into one beautiful and easily readable package.

Check out the post here.

Fiori Falsi in Two New Treasuries

2010-12-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

I was curated into two separate etsy treasuries today! Check them out!

'Red and Cool!' by nikacollection

Most of these shops have 20 sales or less! This is a Team Discovery Treasury Challenge - anyone can play! You can check it out: http://etsyteamdiscovery.blogspot.com/2010/12/thursday-themed-challenge-december-9.html

Fresh Cologne for D... NaturalPetProd... $19.50	Red Roses Head and ... abhayafibers $40.00	Victorian Style Lac... cathybaron $50.00	Miniature Miner and... utopiapictures $3.99
BOGO SALE: Eat me -... cameracrazy $15.00	THE MADISON - FREE ... FIORIFALSI $45.00	Chunky Gray Cowl, G... SHEKERIM $49.00	Sassy Flower Neckla... GoodFlorist $55.00
INTAGLIO ARTWORK b... jenni4k $40.00	Metallic Red Holida... waterwaif $34.00	Tag Me Mens Tee WhiteRabbit7 $15.00	Newborn red and whi... lovinghandscro... $45.00
Blind girl -free sh... serdomania $65.00	Siam Red Earrings -... cherryandviole... $22.00	Midnight Ice Knitte... ImpossiblyAlic... $55.00	Red and White Hand ... AngelicaV $7.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

'Pounce- Fun Funky Finds from Undiscovered Stores' by treasuresbyteala

large round red fea... RosellaResin $40.00	Nautilus Pouch Craftsplosion $15.00	Mugs TerriDanekPott... $30.00	Handcrafted Soap Wicksandworx $4.50
Lavender wall or de... blinkintime $65.00	Primitive Mitten Bo... holeestars $58.95	Red Single Crochet ... DezinesbySydne... $22.50	Indian Head Admirin... CasablancaColo... $75.00
authentic vintage E... breakfastfourd... $390.00	Carnelian Turquoise... ChrysalisToo $47.00	7x7 Gilcee' Can... KymOjalaStudio $35.00	Nancy Crow's Al... pasticcioinc94 $6.99
Bamboo coffee box -... cjtelemarker $18.00	drops of glass 20x3... gelatinsilvers... $35.00	THE BOSWORTH - FREE... FIORIFALSI $45.00	Cynical Owl HomeSliceDecor $40.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

The Enthusiast Gift Guide

2010-12-09T12:23:00.000-08:00

Check out this awesome post about local Renegade favorites from Julia of The Enthusiast! Along with Fiori Falsi, Julia included Katy Collier, Maker & Maker, and Winter Session and I just love the items she picked!

Shop Local - Handmade in the Windy City

2010-12-08T17:43:00.000-08:00

While participating at Renegade I had the opportunity to leave my booth for a few minutes and take a quick look at the other vendors. Inspired by how many amazing items I saw, I created this Etsy Treasury. Whether you're looking for something for your mom, boyfriend, girlfriend, dad, brother, best friend, etc, you can find a great handmade gift made here in the Windy City.

'Shop Local - Chicago - Gifts for Everyone' by FIORIFALSI

Inspired by the Renegade Holiday Fair last weekend, gifts created by Chicago artists and crafters for everyone on your list.

Partridge Family Be... OneHoney $18.00	Stripes End Table -... PlywoodOffice $679.00	Necktie Billfold-7 ... RogueEmpire $28.00	Diagonal Cowl in Na... ministryofyarn $52.20
Midwest is Best T-s... meganleedesign... $24.00	SALE Red-Orange Bra... LowlaBug $12.00	Blue Plate Special ... diffractionfib... $80.00	Chicago Love Tote B... girlfacedesign $8.00
Navy Pier Crochet E... muggytuesday $30.00	Gold Star Winter Cy... KoziePrery $32.00	Taupe and Silver Se... HeartFeltByAvi... $30.00	Gumball Goodness Moxiedoll $85.00
lo bowl monster tru... CircaCeramics $45.00	Soy Candle In Glass ZenfulGoods $7.50	FREE WORLDWIDE SHIP... ClarkandDivers... $65.00	MINI Monstoe Green ... Monstoes $18.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

And the Winner is...

2010-12-07T09:31:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I held a raffle during the Renegade Holiday Fair to win this wood grain lap top case, which fits a 15 inch computer.

wood grain laptop case

I opened up the box this morning, made sure none of the tickets were stuck in funny places, and randomly pulled out one person's name.

feeling the tickets

randomly picking a ticket

the winning ticket

And the winner is ... Michelle Trurkey! I sent Michelle a congratulatory email and the laptop case will be in the mail to her shortly. To everyone else, if you're heartbroken about not winning, don't be! I can custom make you your very own laptop case, or you can pick from one of the many I have in stock for only $35!

Thanks to everyone who participated. I'm looking forward to having more raffles and giveaways in the future!

Renegade Recap

2010-12-06T14:16:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, I was a little worried when I woke up at 7am the first day of Renegade to find a few inches of snow on the ground. Where I grew up (near Philadelphia) we often use this much snow as an excuse to sit inside all day by the fire or make snowmen, not go shopping. It was a good thing that the site of the fair was only a block from my apartment, because if it had been any further, we might not have made it without a car.

I was worried... then I remembered that this is Chicago. A place where I wait for the train outside in -20 degree weather. A place where during the three years I was in school, I never had a snow day. A place where 15 degrees is a warm February day. A place where our football team plays in December without a dome. I quickly realized it was going to be just fine.

Katy Collier and I shared a booth on the second floor in a room with amazing looking lights that unfortunately did not really work. It was so dark that a few hours into the fair I went back to my apartment to get a lamp.

the booth

the bags

the pouches and accessories

katy and me near the end of the second day, still smiling

Overall it was a great experience and I'll definitely do it again. Though I didn't have a lot of time to visit with the other vendors, I met some amazing crafters and saw some really handmade goods (which I'll tell you all about a little later. Just know that I bought a skirt last night and already ordered a custom hat today).

Thanks to everyone who stopped by the booth this weekend!

And don't think I forgot about the raffle! I'll be announcing the winner of the wood grain laptop case tomorrow!

Logan Necklace, Neon Totes, and Shopping Bags

2010-12-02T11:01:00.000-08:00

As promised, here are some more photographs of our new items. The Logan Necklace comes in a variety of colors and patterns. This one is a mustard colored nylon and is being worn long. It has an adorable bow closure, making the length adjustable.

logan necklace worn long

tie closure

I'm also very pleased to show you our new tote bags, perfect for carrying around extra stuff or trips to the grocery store because they easily fold to take up very little space. These are not your average, boring canvas totes. They are available in neon green, neon yellow, neon orange, or neon pink with either a woodgrain or lace pattern.

lace pattern on neon orange

We also just finished printing our shopping bags for renegade! They're made of recyclable semi-transparent plastic and can easily be used over and over again.

semi transparent shopping bag

Sneak Peak of New Items

2010-12-01T07:07:00.000-08:00

December is here with vengeance. It's been snowing for a couple hours here in Chicago with a windchill of 10 degrees fahrenheit. I've been living in the midwest for four years now (I'm an east coast transplant) and I still can't get used to how quickly and abruptly the weather changes. It was 50 degrees a couple days ago! Today is the perfect day to sit inside with my sewing machine and a large latte (which is exactly what I plan on doing when I leave work this afternoon) and put some much needed finishing touches on my booth and items for the Renegade Craft Fair.

I haven't had a chance to photograph the majority of the new items I'll be selling this weekend, but I thought I would share a few I have. Click on the photo to enlarge it.

Renegade Raffle!

2010-11-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

This laptop case could be yours! I'm very happy to announce that everyone who stops by the Fiori Falsi booth at the Renegade Holiday Sale on Saturday or Sunday will be able to fill out a free raffle ticket. One lucky winner will receive this case, which fits most 15 inch laptops, is hand screenprinted with a wood grain pattern, fully lined with unbleached muslin, and features two buttons for closure.

dark brown ink on tan cotton

button closure

Don't worry! Even if you're not the winner, I'll have a bunch of laptop cases at Renegade for sale and you can always custom order one just the way you like it!

Renegade Preparations

2010-11-29T06:58:00.000-08:00

I have been working like crazy for the last couple weeks preparing for the Renegade Holiday Fair, which is this weekend (December 4th & 5th, 11am - 7pm at the Pulaski Fieldhouse). I'll be debuting a lot of new designs, including ipod sleeves, laptop cases, necklaces, and fabric cuffs (photographs coming soon). Great gifts for just about anyone! Last night I finished making a banner for my booth, applique on unbleached muslin. It's reflective and very hard to photograph, but in person it looks great.

booth banner

If you're in Chicago, come by booth 111 (second floor) for Fiori Falsi and Katy Collier and don't forget to stop at the next booth over, my beloved Spudnik Press.

Learn more about the Renegade Holiday Fair at their website.

New Custom Bag

2010-11-17T13:25:00.000-08:00

A lot of the bags I've been recently making have been very feminine so it was a great change of pace to create a more gender neutral custom bag. Made to replace a much loved but pretty much destroyed bag, this messenger style bag is made of grey cotton and fully lined with red canvas. It has an adjustable shoulder strap with a release buckle. Three internal pockets, one zippered and two pencil slots with adjustable velcro closure. I couldn't be happier with how it turned out and I hope it's new owner will be too.

outside

red lining and velcro closure

big enough for magazines and books

adjustable strap

close up of fabric

Living in a Glass House

2010-11-12T07:36:00.000-08:00

My apartment is a blend of both real and artificial plants. Abe, the large artificial spider plant, hangs nearby Frederico, the tiny but adorable real spider plant, in perfect harmony. What I don't have, however, is a terrarium. For months I have been thinking about adding something to my collection from Tend Living, a company that provides sustainable "living sculptures." In addition to planting gardens and providing flowers for events, Tend Living creates these wonderful little clean and modern environments that I am absolutely obsessed with.

Check out their website, facebook, and twitter to add some green to your life.

Marketa New York

2010-11-09T13:46:00.000-08:00

I love these bags from Marketa New York. Minimal design with a lot of unisex appeal. You can purchase the clutches and totes in a variety of stores (full list on the website, none in Chicago). Visit the etsy shop here.

portfolio clutch black leather

leather mini clutch in antique gold

leather mini clutch in ochre yellow

The Needle Shop

2010-11-05T12:28:00.000-07:00

I was definitely excited to check out The Needle Shop (2054 W. Charleston St. in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago). I had heard great things about this little shop, which is tucked away on a quiet street just a couple of blocks from the hustle of Damen Ave. I was a little disappointed when I walked in and wasn't acknowledged by the person running the store (she didn't even look in my direction, despite the bell that rings when the door opens). She was cutting some fabric for another customer so I didn't really think much of it, and I started looking around. They have a nice selection of fabrics that you can see at their etsy shop, most of which follow a similar, cutesy aesthetic.

The fabric is reasonable priced and I ended up with a couple yards and a few badly needed zippers. I ended up with a green leaf print from Jessica Jones of How About Orange fame, who I met about a year ago at the first Craft Social. I appreciate being able to buy fabric by local artists. I also chose a geometric diamond print, designer unspecified.

fabric from The Needle Shop

The store is cozy and filled to the brim, which can make for a slightly uncomfortable browsing experience. The woman working was very friendly to the two other customers in the shop, but a little short with me, perhaps because I only bought a couple yards rather than customer before me who bought a hundred dollars of fabric. I asked her whether they had any more of the oilcloth that covered check out table, and instead of helping me look, or suggesting something similar, she said "I don't think so," which didn't really leave me with much enthusiasm for spending more money there.

I liked a lot of the fabric (although not necessarily my style) and would definitely suggest it to anyone, but I don't know if I'll go out of my way to stop by again. They also hold workshops and classes for anyone who wants to learn how to sew clothing, tote bags, and housewares.

Ruffled Feathers

2010-10-29T17:44:00.000-07:00

I love hair accessories and barrettes. A few years ago a friend sent me a handmade feather clip from New Mexico that I wear it all the time (probably a little too frequently). I've been on the lookout for more to add to my collection and in my search I came across On Your Head, which is based in Florence, Italy. The designs are beautiful and whimsical. The birdcage piece is great, but I have my eye on some more subdued clips, like this navy blue one. Visit the On Your Head blog and etsy site. Enjoy!

"freedom hat"

"in the dark blue night"

Fabric Cuffs

2010-10-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

My sewing machine broke yesterday, but before it kicked I managed to make a few fabric cuffs. I had been making them with snaps, but decided to construct them with buttons instead and am so happy that I did. As soon as I get my machine back (which should be very soon - the man at the repair shop said it was a simple repair) I'm going to get back to work.

navy canvas with leopard lining and gold button

black denim with neon yellow lining and black/ silver button

blue and brown floral with tan lining and white button

Fake Flowers, For Real

2010-10-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

I don't usually post the art I've been working on here, but I thought this piece was especially relevant. It's constructed out of artificial foliage, and for those of you who don't know, FIORI FALSI translates from Italian to "fake flowers." I use a lot of "imitation" materials in my designs (vinyl instead of leather, lace that's printed rather than crocheted, printed wood grain) and they also make frequent appearances in my artwork.


jessica taylor caponigro, 2010

This piece is included in the show Girl: Please! at Woman Made Gallery (685 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago) which opens on November 5th from 6 - 9 pm. Stop by and say hello! As you may notice from the postcard, the show includes several MEN (for the first time I believe). Equal opportunity feminists. I approve. Visit the Woman Made website for more information.

Renegade Holiday Sale

2010-10-22T11:38:00.000-07:00

No, it's not too early to start thinking about holiday gifts - at least not for me. Although I was absolutely disgusted to see a huge Christmas display in a department store a couple of days ago (it's not even Halloween yet!), I found out last night that I was accepted for the 5th Annual Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale. This year, the fair will be December 4th and 5th at the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, so mark your calendars now! I will be sharing a booth with the wonderful and multi- talented Katy Collier, who I met in graduate school and love dearly. Katy makes original and handprinted curtains, tea towels, and much more. Visit Katy's etsy to see her designs.

I'm very excited to be participating but obviously have a lot to do before the fair. I'm expanding the line to include more accessories and men's bags, and possibly even some housewares. Think fabric flowers, cuff bracelets, and pillows, etc. What would YOU like to see included? The holiday fair is a great resource for handmade gifts, so what kinds of things are you going to be buying for your loved ones this year?

wind and trees flour sack towels by katy collier

exciting news!

2010-10-20T13:27:00.000-07:00

As of yesterday afternoon, you can now buy Fiori Falsi bags, clutches, and pouches at Pilsen Vintage and Thrift! Located at 1430 W. 18th in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, the store is full of amazing finds (I know because I had a really difficult time not spending all of my money there yesterday). Admittedly, yesterday was my first trip to the store, but after spending just a few minutes there, I'm completely in love with it.

from the pilsen vintage and thrift facebook site

Check out the store (they just got a new shipment) and let me know what you think!

photo by mary lucile miller

Scarlett O'Hara: queen of upcycling

2010-10-18T10:48:00.000-07:00

I have probably watched Gone with the Wind twenty times since I was a child (which is no small feat considering it runs a healthy three hours and fifty five minutes). I watched it again recently and, like always, cried like a baby straight through the last thirty minutes. I found humor in watching one of the most famous scenes - when Scarlett pulls down her mother's lush green velvet curtains to make a dress for her meeting with Rhett in jail. Seriously ahead of her time, Scarlett O'Hara was the queen of upcycling.

the curtains

the dress

Unlike the idea of wearing velvet in Atlanta, velvet in the fall is very appealing to me. I don't know if I could pull it off as a dress, but a bag is a different story!

I made this bag a few months ago and now it needs a good home. It's made of light brown suede and lined with floral cotton. It has plastic tortoise shell handles, two interior pockets, and a snap closure. Visit the Fiori Falsi website for more pictures and dimensions.

Next time I'm at the fabric store, I'll definitely be on the look out for green velvet. You can see Scarlett's dress in person at Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas at Austin. Learn about their quest to restore the curtain dress to its original condition and see images of all of the other wonderful Gone with the Wind costumes in their collection at their website.

Accidental Trip to the Ribbon Store

2010-10-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

I accidentally walked into Soutache Embellishments a couple of days ago and literally spent an hour looking through hundreds (if not thousands) of buttons, ribbons, fabric flowers, feathers, and other accessories. The woman working there was wonderful and friendly, making herself very available to me and encouraging me to open every single drawer I wanted to without standing over me and making me feel uncomfortable.

ribbon (from the soutache website)

She told me that they teach classes on embroidery, embellishment, and creating fabric flowers - something I wish I had known before I recently spent an entire day teaching myself how to make fabric roses (which eventually turned out wonderfully and I'll post them soon).

They make a lot of the accessories they sell right at the store, in the cute little back area where they also hold the classes. I bought a broach, which is just my style, the perfect blend of tacky and tasteful with faux fur, glitter, and rhinestones. It's also really well made, which is something I always look at before I buy anything handmade.

my new broach

Overall it was a perfect experience and I'll definitely be going back for buttons and ribbons (and possibly some feathers) and you should too. If anyone decides to take a class there, I would love to hear how it goes! Sautache Embellishments is at 2125 N. Damen Avenue in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago.

Pattern Love

2010-10-14T22:16:00.000-07:00

I am absolutely in love with the citrus patterned fabric from Stella McCartney's Spring 2011 Ready-to-Wear collection. Fall is quickly descending on Chicago (a 20 degree drop from a couple of days ago) and I feel like I could wear this print during the dark days of winter and be extremely happy. If I start saving now, maybe I'll be able to afford one when the collection actually comes out!

You can definitely put this in the inspiration pile.

Photo: Monica Feudi / GoRunway.com

See the rest of the collection at style.com.

New Custom Bag

2010-10-12T09:01:00.000-07:00

Finished just a few days ago, this bag was custom ordered for a birthday gift. It is made of navy canvas hand screenprinted with a damask pattern in grey and is fully lined with light green cotton. It has two internal pockets, one zippered, and a snap closure. This bag is a variation of the very popular BOSWORTH style. It is a little larger and more rectangular, and makes for a very roomy (and sophisticated) tote.

Makr Carry Goods

2010-10-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was having a conversation with the lovely Margot of Pitch Design Union. In addition to being an excellent resource for me as a novice blogger, she has a great eye for interesting design, art, and fashion. Margot pointed me in the direction of Makr Carry Goods, which makes beautiful handcrafted bags, wallets, and other items. I'm not a huge fan of backpacks, but the Farm Ruck Sack definitely caught my eye. Simple and restrained (quite a leap from my usual aesthetic) I can see myself carrying this.

brown canvas farm ruck sack from makr carry goods

Head over to Makr Carry Goods to see all of the other items they create.

look ma, no hands.

2010-10-09T11:32:00.000-07:00

It's an absolutely gorgeous day here in Chicago (sunny and 80 degrees), which obviously makes me think about all of the cold weather that will soon be coming my way. It may be one of the last few days I can wear my fanny pack without the awkward addition of a jacket, and I'm taking full advantage! I made this bag for myself with metallic bronze vinyl and safety yellow nylon. It has two interior pockets, a snap closure, and an adjustable waist strap.

in the studio with my fanny pack

I'm bringing the fanny pack back! If you want to join me, order a custom one now!

woodgrain pillows and my first treasury

2010-10-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I absolutely love woodgrain. These pillows are 14 inches square, one with gold fringe. They were hand screenprinted on tan cotton and have a removable cover for easy washing.

woodgrain pillows

fabric close up

After making these pillows, I was inspired to create my first ever etsy treasury of some of my favorite wood grain finds, including plush stumps, jewelry, housewares, and a poster from fellow Chicagoan Rar Rar Press.

'woodgrain!' by FIORIFALSI

found during my constant quest for everything and anything faux bois.

Birch Screen Printe... myimaginaryboy... $45.00	Faux Bois - Texture... butternutsquas... $12.00	Large zipper pouch-... simbiosisbyjul... $14.00	leather wallet bill... inblue $17.00
L-Modern Side Table jalexstudios $599.00	Faux Bois Gift Tags... maidavale $5.00	Woodgrain. Faux boi... toybreaker $30.00	woodgrain macbook c... brandbrand $10.00
Pewter Woodgrain Ri... fisforfrank $62.00	Deer in the Woods. ... PaperPumpkin $14.50	plush tree stump littleseedling... $22.00	Pine Wood Grain ECO... EcoOdd $3.00
Pewter Woodgrain Be... fisforfrank $65.00	you are so fin awes... rarrarpress $15.00	HANDPAINTED Green W... maneater $25.00	woodgrain baby crib... SewnNatural $110.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

Gift Certificates

2010-10-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been having the pleasure of making a number of custom bags. The problem, however, is that some of these bags are being made as gifts, with no input from the actual person who will use it. While I have an absolute blast spending an hour in my studio pulling out fabrics and asking "will your mom/ friend/ lover like this?," I have a feeling that gift certificates would alleviate some serious stress on the gift givers side.

So here they are! Available in any amount, these gift certificate allow you to purchase the absolute perfect gift (How are you supposed to know that your friend likes three pencil slots but hates zipper pockets?) It's never to early to start thinking about the holidays. Handmade takes time!

Learn how to Screenprint

2010-10-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

Ever want to learn how to print your own fabric? Here's your chance: Sign up for a workshop, taught by yours truly, at the Evanston Print and Paper Shop. The Evanston Print and Paper shop is located on adorable Florence Avenue in Evanston, walking distance from the Metra or Purple line subway. In previous classes, students have made four color t shirts, placemats, and repeat pattern douvet covers.

Introduction to Silkscreen
Sundays, October 10 - November 7 • 3 PM - 6PM

$220 (plus $20 materials fee)

In this class students will be introduced to screen printing techniques on fabric or paper. In the course you will learn how to apply images to screens using a variety of methods, including stencils, photo emulsion, and hand drawing. You will also learn how to mix inks, and practice printing to develop imagery, as well as color and pattern relationships. Instruction will culminate in the accomplishment of a chosen project, which can range from t-shirts, lengths of fabric for use in fashion or accessories, fabric to make a variety of household products such as cushions and curtains, or paper projects such as posters or greeting cards. No previous printing experience is necessary. (Maximum 8 students)

2010-10-01T10:34:00.000-07:00

As usual, Chicago Craft Social was a great success and an unbelievably good time. I had the pleasure of helping a several very talented crafters create their own personalized fabric with collograph printing (including Amanda of Greyhound Threads and Melissa of PomelyGrove). If you missed out this time, don't worry, a november get together is being planned!

Until then, read some reviews of Craft Social here:
Social Experiment - Chicago Craft Social
Craft Critique's Review

And be sure to check back soon for photographs from the event!

2010-09-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peak! For those lucky crafters who are attending Craft Social this Friday, I just finished the Fiori Falsi door prize. It has a cotton (and fully washable) outside and lining. The exterior is hand screenprinted with a woodgrain pattern. Snap closure, 4 internal pockets with 2 pencil slots, and a clasp for your keys. Long straps make it ideal for carting around your supplies or for daily use.

There are still a few spots available. Sign up at here and don't forget to stop by the Fiori Falsi table and try your hand at printing your own fabric!

2010-09-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

The brand new issue of Jettison Quarterly was released this past Friday and like always, it's filled to the brim with interesting articles about art (Theaster Gates and Jason Lazarus), fashion (Swaby), and a write up about ACRE (Artists Cooperative Residency and Exhibitions) where I was a staff member in the screen printing studio this summer. Start to finish, it's a worthy read.

In issue number 6 Summer 2010, Fiori Falsi was featured in the fashion section. If you haven't seen it yet, you can check it out here. Don't forget to subscribe, so you'll never miss another issue!

pages 126 - 127


pages 130 - 131

pages 132 - 133

2010-09-16T12:22:00.000-07:00

CRAFT SOCIAL IS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH!

For those of you who don't know what Craft Social is:

"What is a Craft Social?
This fun-filled event is a chance to craft and meet amazing people. Whether you want to learn a new craft, meet like-minded crafters or hang out with your friends for the night and make cool stuff... Craft Social is the place. You can bring your own projects to work on and share with new friends, we have plenty of space to create in. We also have over 20 different projects in every genre of craft from paper crafting to painting. You will decide at the event which two projects you would like to make and then sit at a table and create. While hand crafting your nifty little project, you will meet new friends, professional crafters or maybe even someone who likes macrame just like you!"

from the Craft Social Website

Like the last Craft Social, Fiori Falsi will be sponsoring a table and teaching Collograph Printing, an easy and inexpensive way to print your own fabric at home and without expensive equipment! Fiori Falsi is also donating a fabulous craft friendly totebag as a DOOR PRIZE for the September 24th event!

Sign ups are happening now and they tend to fill up quickly so reserve your spot today! Visit http://craftsocial.blogspot.com/ for more information.

2010-09-10T09:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the people at Busy Beaver Buttons, every bag purchased will now include a delightful FIORI FALSI button (available in mustard yellow or florescent green). Already bought a bag? Saving up for your perfect custom tote? Don't worry, anyone can get a button! Send an email to fiorifalsi@gmail.com to get yours now.

buttons!

2010-09-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

2010-09-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I started seriously gearing up for Renegade Craft Fair, which is Saturday and Sunday, September 11th and 12th from 11am - 7pm. I don't have my own booth this year, but I'll be selling things at the Spudnik Press booth. Spudnik is a wonderful community print shop in Chicago where I just recently finished doing a three month long residency. Spudnik also offers open studio days, classes, workshops, exhibitions, and print exchanges. If you're in Chicago for Renegade, come by the Spudnik booth and say hello! (and perhaps pick up some Fiori Falsi pouches and other amazing prints)

Getting ready for Renegade

Blanche loves to help me sew

2010-09-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

I recently started a major clean up / organization of the studio. I'm finally moving all of my art making supplies and finished pieces to a brand new off site studio, which is making some serious room for bag making (though right now it's more chaotic than ever with a ton of half full boxes stacked in the middle of the room). No more sewing on the kitchen table and cutting on the living room floor for me. Fabric organized. Finished bags organized. Zippers, piping, and other little bits organized.

organized fabric

finished (and waiting to be purchased)

I also managed to take a couple of pictures of new fabric choices. Three down, about sixty variations to go. Good start to the day (or afternoon) though.

dark brown ink on vinyl

dark brown ink on cotton

grey ink on cotton

2010-08-31T11:52:00.000-07:00

first ever blog post.

look for future posts on inspiration, hot off the sewing machine bags, great fabric finds, and interesting fashion.

Visit www.fiorifalsi.com to see more!