Feature Friday: Alabama Chanin (and my skirt decision!)

Not that they need the press from our humble blog, but since I mentioned Alabama Chanin in a previous post, I thought it only fair to expound a little on their fabulousness.

They are a group of artisans working to create one of a kind designs and finished products in a sustainable way, and all right in the US of A.  This is the kind of clothing and textiles that counts as art.  Sounds much nicer than sweat-shop produced dime-a-dozen Dora the Explorer tshirts, right?  (Says the girl who is singlehandedly keeping Target in the black)

Here is the lovely skirt that inspired me to make a knit skirt in the first place.  Of course, I was lazy efficient and made mine with a machine, whereas theirs are completely stitched by hand.  They sell these as kits here, if you’re interested in a short-cut.

Their reverse-applique cut-outs are actually made using a stencil with paint first, then cut within the stencil for a slightly 3D appearance.  I think it really adds a lot to the finished look.  And they were generous enough to give us some free PDFs of their lovely designs for download here:

And, just in case you’re in the market, they do couture bridal as well.

A book of Alabama Chanin projects and inspiration is available here.  I think a throw pillow would be a great way to use and showcase this technique.

So, now for the big announcement.  What am I going to do with my skirt?  Well, first let me state that Crafterhours readers and commenters are clearly the wisest, most fashionable, and classiest of readers.  I read all the comments and everyone seemed to just reinforce what I was thinking.  First, if I’m going to do anything to the skirt, it will just be a little bit of reverse-applique along the hem with a simple design, and secondly, I love the simplicity and versatility of the skirt as-is and would regret changing anything.  SO, my decision:

I’m doing nothing.  And I’m going to make another one so I can decorate at will.  How’s that for compromise?