eye see

Another sort of magnifier is this clever pair of cosmetic glasses, an especially unique flea market find.  The "optically correct Eye-See reflectogram" lets you put on eye makeup anywhere.  It's an excellent idea for traveling, though after getting dolled up with eye shadow, eye liner and mascara, you'll have a giant dent at the top of your nose from the weight of the glasses!

meniscus

I have a fun collection of magnifiers with interesting pieces that may have been used by jewelers or stamp collectors originally.  I find them very useful, especially the brass pick glasses, for analyzing intricate jacquard weaves.  Of course it's fun to look at skin and scabs as well!

storytelling records

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6a7eBX7oEQ

anthesis

My grandmother Jeanette made this little sewing case from suede, cloth and cardboard nearly a hundred years ago when she was in high school in the early 1920s.  I love how the pins and needles look tucked in their beds!  Gramma Jan was an amazing painter who had a way with flowers. Her thick textured florals were usually more colorful, but my favorite is the graceful one below that matches her serene personality.  The white hollyhocks grew by her house in Vermont, and she painted the picture as a gift for my mom.  

a more Bela Monde

Lisa Limer, travel photographer-turned-textile designer, has a beautiful new website from which her intricate patterns can be ordered on silk scarves and caftans as well as reversible cashmere and silk coats.  Beside every pattern is a gif showing one of Lisa's photos from which the pattern was derived.  I helped design the patterns earlier this year, and it's wonderful to see Lisa's arduous process result in such gorgeous products and a polished presentation. 

http://www.belamonde.com/

circa

Chris Duval's amazing vintage clothing store, Circa, has moved into a wonderful old warehouse on Court Street in New Bedford, MA.  Open on weekends and by appointment, it's a highly recommended fun few hours combing through thousands of interesting pieces filling the racks and decorating the walls. Unique items from 1900-1980 take you through a history of beautiful and strange fashions and can be yours to be reborn and reworn.

https://www.facebook.com/circavintagewear/

 

garnished

a dainty little way to decorate a gift box