Paco+Lupe

+Introducing...Sulu Sea

2012-02-06T12:57:00.007-05:00

February has got to be the worst month of winter. It's been three months of cold temperatures, short days, dressing up in layers, shovelling snow, walking like a penquin, sliding on the sidewalks...enough already! I am just about done with winter! So, it's really good news that our Canadian groundhog, Shubenacadie Sam, predicted an early spring. YAY!!! (Read article)

To distract me from looking outside the window, I been busy working on spring/summer designs. I am very excited to use more colourful and lighter fabrics. So, no time like NOW to start showing off my SS12 designs.

First up...SULU SEA tote bag. Take a look at her mug-shots *smiles*. Front. Side. Close-up. Top. Measurements. For this pattern, I make a sample using non-bleached cotton. Usually, I just go for it and start cutting the main fabric but because the pieces of the pattern is a bit unusual, I had to make sure I measured right. Plus, the main fabric I used is quite precious so there is no room for waste.

Available at my Paco+Lupe shop.

+Introducing...Lausanne

2012-01-02T09:06:00.002-05:00

Oh my goodness! Has it really been two and half months since my last introduction? That's not good. Not good! Where did the time go and what was I doing? I need to be more productive and that's going to improve in 2012.

Starting off 2012 with a new introduction...Lausanne. Dark chocolate has got to be one of my favourite colours. I just love this rich brown microsuede fabric. Unfortunately, I bought enough to make just four of this handbag. I'm such a dummy. Next time, I need to buy more yards. I'm always wondering What if it's not popular? What if it doesn't sell that well? Yes, I second guess myself.

I used the pattern used to make Genève. Can you tell I love pockets? Just being beautiful aint enough. She has to be functionable too!

So here are the mug shots of Lausanne... Front view. Back view. Side pouch. Cool zipper pull for front pockets. Interesting printed cotton fabric for lining of outside pockets and side pouches. Profile view.

And there you have it. My first introduction for 2012...and more to come. Come visit me at Paco+Lupe to see what else I've been up to. And I promise to work on more fabulous designs.

I wish you all a great 2012. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

+Before&After - Smalll frames into wall clocks

2011-12-22T20:57:00.011-05:00

Here's another before&after. I bought these small frames from a local reuse centre for $2 each. I removed the embroidery art work, sanded lightly, painted and varnished. I make a habit of stopping by the paint department at Home Depot and check out the "oops" paint section. Why? Well, you never know when you'll find really cool colours. OK so some are hideous. For this, I used 2 colours, very pale grey and very light blush grey with a hint of pink. They were $1 each. Like, really. Why not!

The clock kits are from eBay store ClockStuffdotCom.

Wait!...I'm not done yet. Since one of them will be a Christmas present for my very BFF and she's such an animal lover, I thought I personalize one of the clock for her. Here is what I did... Step 1: I google search for cats and dogs silhouettes. I save some of them and resized so that they placed well and proportionally on the framed clock. I cut the silhouette poses and see how they will look. Looks good! Step 2: On a stiffer paper, I printed the silhouettes. Then with an exacto knife, I carefully cut out the shapes. Step 3: Each cut-out silhouettes is taped into position. For the next step, you'll need small brushes, paper towel and paint. For this, I used an "oops" paint I had already. Step 4: Make sure you don't overload the paint. Tap onto paper towel each time to get a dry-ish brush. Remove stencil and touch up rough edges. Step 5: Step back and be proud of yourself. I kept the art work space matte to contrast the satin finish of the frame. I hope she likes it. I can't wait to see her face.

Breakdown of cost:
frames - $4 ($2 each at Reuse Centre)
paint - $2 (2 colours, $1 each, oops dept at Home Depot)
plywood backing - $5 (bought/cut at Home Depot)
paint brushes - had them already
varnish - had it already
clock kits - $15 (ebay, incl shipping)
sweat equity - FREE
==================================
TOTAL COST: - $26 for 2 shabby chic wall clocks.

Tell me, where can you find a $13 wall clock?!?!? Right over here!!! And there you have it. So go out there and keep an open mind. You never know what you'll end up with.

Happy dumpster-diving!!!

+Before&After - Big Frames into Mirrors

2011-12-19T15:08:00.000-05:00

I'm catching up the my post on before&after. Here's another one. These frames were bought back in 2009. See post here. They've been sitting in the storage of all that time until I finally finished them back in summer 2010. I realized I didn't post a before&after so here it is. I spray painted about 2-3 coats of white satin finish. Then we brought them to a glass shop to get mirrors installed. Easy, eh? Mirrors were installed for both of them. I didn't have time to take a photo of the 2nd one...yet.

Breakdown of cost:
frames - $25 for 2 (garage sale)
spray paint - $12 (2xcans Home Depot)
mirrors cut&installed - $75 (local glass shop Vitrerie Raymond)
sweat equity - FREE
==================================
TOTAL COST: - $112 for two gorgeous ornately framed mirror.

Happy dumpster-diving!!!

+Before & After - Tall Lamp Redo

2011-12-11T14:09:00.000-05:00

I find brand new lamps from big retail stores to be so expensive and lacking styles and originality. So, whenever we visit our fave reuse centres, I keep a look-out for lamps. I pay attention to the silhouette of the post. It doesn't matter what state the shade and the wiring are in because those can be changed. Of course, there are lots of junk to swift through but somedays, I get lucky. Here's one we bought for $5. It was missing a few components. In fact, it was just the post, but that's ok since I always replace the shade and wiring with brand new stuff anyway. I can work with it.

I suppose I could have kept the original silver leaf paint but it wouldn't go anywhere in the house so I decided to spray paint it matte white. This way it can go anywhere. My hubby rewired it...as usual. He's the electrician. A few coats of matte white paint. A new shade. Et voilà !!! The final look has this French frou-frou à la Marie Antoinette feel to it.

Breakdown of cost:
lamp - $5 (Reuse centre)
spray paint - $6 each (Home Depot)
lamp shade - $15 (Wal-mart)
lamp kit - $17 (Home Depot)
sweat equity - FREE
==================================
TOTAL COST: $43

And there you have it. So go out there and keep an open mind. You never know what you'll end up with.

Happy dumpster-diving!!!

+Christmas DIY - Paper Wreath

2011-12-01T09:23:00.009-05:00

This Christmas, I've decided that I will be making most, if not all, Christmas decorations and gifts. Ya, right! No, seriously, I'll be giving this my best shot.
Well, here's the first DIY...a Christmas paper wreath.
Bare with me, there are lots of pictures so...here we go. You will need:
1x styrofoam round thing (hobby&craft store)--> $6
1x old dictionary (Salvation Army)--> $3
1x glue (hobby&craft store) --> $2
2x watercolour (2 colours, Omer de Serres, $1each) --> $2
1x scissors with swirly blade (Omer de Serres) --> $2
TOTAL SPENT: $15

Materials I had around the house already:
1x paintbrush
1x painter masking tape (you can use any round thing to cut the shape)
1x scissors (plain)
1x marker or pen
1x paintbrush

I chose an old dictionary because of the pattern the pages will create. You can use pretty much anything you want. Old papers are cool because they already have this old antique yellow discolouring. Plus they used thicker and stiffer papers back then. This makes it easier to mold the paper into shape. AND they don't rip easily. Originally, I was looking for old anatomy, chemistry or calculus book with lots of equations and pictures. I'll keep searching for those for future projects. Be always on the look-out! Step 1: Cut strips of pages. Glue strips around styrofoam form until completely covered. Let it dry completely...overnight. In the meantime... Step 2: Use round shapes to draw circles. I used two diameters, about 3.5inches (outer ring of tape) and 2.75inchses (inner ring of tape) approximately. I don't know how many large and small circles I cut but I went through words A to G. A lot! Step 3: Fold the circle in half... ...then in a third... ...and another third, folded back like an accordion. Step 4: With the swirly scissors, cut close to the rim. This will be the edge of the petals. Step 5: With plain scissors, cut the sides starting a bit from the centre to make the petals. This is what you should aim for...more or less. Open it up and this is what you get. Repeat steps 3-4-5 ...many more times. To give you an idea how many to cut, I used 3 layers of large and 2 layers of small per flower. Step 6: Time to paint the layers. I used watercolour paint because it is more transparent and it will show the prints of the old pages more, which is the cool part, really. So, I started with applying yellow keeping it quite liquidy but not dripping nor puddling. I started from the center and feathered out. I went back to some spots to make the colour deeper. Let that dry. Then the red paint. Started from the center and loosely fan out. Again, I went back to some to add more red. You can choose another colour(s).

Let them dry completely...or use a hair dryer. Step 7: Time to assemble the flowers. Dab a bit of glue in the centre of each layer...except the very top layer, of course. For each flower, I used 3 layers of large and then top it off with 2 layers of small. It's really up to you how bulky you want your flowers. Experiment. Lay them flat and allow the glue dry completely. Step 8: This is the fun part. Crumple the flower. If you use thin papers, don't crumple too hard. Since I am using a thicker paper, I was quite brutal in this step because the paper can take it. I crumpled the petals randomly. You can't screw up this part. The more randomly crumpled the better. Then unravel them and see the effect. Crumple more to your liking. Tada! Step 9: Glue the flowers onto styrofoam form. Their placements is totally up to your own creativity. A whole lotta cutting and folding and cutting! And a whole lotta painting! A whole lotta glueing. But it's all worth it 'cause it's gorgeous...if I may say so! That fireplace mantle is starting to look Christmas-y. Just need a few more ornaments...DIY, of course. I still have lots of dictionary pages left that I will keep for later projects. Maybe a decoupage clock? A decoupage mannequin? I hope this inspires you to go out to your local Salvation Army, buy & support your community by doing your own DIY project. Let your imagination go wild.

Stay tune for the next DIY...in the meantime, go create!!!

+Backyard Makeover - Day 32

2011-11-09T21:09:00.004-05:00

Day 32 - The sod is laid. After 31 days of constructing the hardscape and prepping the softscape, the grass is finalling installed. It's like the crown of the garden. Nothing says final as laying down the grass! It just glues everything together. And it was done in just under two hours! With just a few minor things left with the irrigation...I think it is safe to say...Phase 1 - Backyard Makeover is D.O.N.E. !!!!

Next spring, I'll be starting to add plants. That's going to be exciting. I'll definitely document that process as well. But for now, as winter approaches, it is time to put this puppy to bed!

Now, all we have left to do is admire our new backyard. And, oh ya, install the hot tub. THEN, it's over! YAY!!!

Thank you, Plantenance!
Thank you, Waterwell!
Thank you, Pepiniere des Sources Nursery Inc!

Thank you to all that made this dream come true...now, who's ready for Phase 2?

To be continued....in SPRING 2012!!!

+Backyard Makeover - Day 31, Plantenance's Last Day

2011-11-08T22:35:00.006-05:00

Day 31 - Today is a very monumental day. It is the very last day on the major part of the backyard garden makeover...the landscaping. This means it is Plantenance's last day. It's been a great experience watching them build our dream backyard! Steps to the vegetable gardea area. Fresh top quality brown soil. And, this got to be my favourite part of this area...river stone pea gravel. I love the sloshing sound of pea gravel. It reminds me of being in those gorgeous European gardens. Now, I can have my mini-slice of that heaven. I can't wait to plant some tomatoes, green beans, paprika, cucumbers, strawberries, basil, cilantro, etc... I don't have to wait until spring. I will be starting from seeds inside as early as February. So exciting!!! So, our frontyard is a bit of a disaster zone but take a look at how the vegetable garden looks like when approached from the front. I'm already thinking of a design how to create some sort of arch leading to the back. Maybe this will be a future DIY for the hubby and me. My lovely pea gravel, how I love thee!!!

Now that the main landscaping part is all done, the only thing left is to finish off the irrigation, to plant the sod and to install the hot tub.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 29,30

2011-11-07T20:14:00.003-05:00

Day 29 - (Nov.5/11) Can you see my new Bloodgood Japanese maple tree by the steps??? A gift from Plantenance Inc.. This eave will direct water under the soil so no awkward metal drainage. The pipe goes towards edge of property and downward. No more puddling! I love this detail. Day 30 - Really close to being finished...clean-up begins. A view from the kitchen window. That's John making sure the grout is ok. Quiche for the crew. Cleaning up remaining excavated soil.

To be continued....almost done!

+Backyard Makeover - Day 27,28

2011-11-04T17:10:00.003-04:00

Day 27 - Rained so no pics. (Nov.3/11)

Day 28 - Vegetable garden area. Indian stones for the walkout from the basement. Retaining wall and steps to the vegetable garden. The end of the day...almost there.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 26

2011-11-02T22:10:00.001-04:00

Day 26: Irrigation installation began...being done by Waterwell Irrigation. Trenches dug out for the electricity and water. More trenches. At the end of the day, all the trenches were covered as if they weren't there at all. Amazing! With crew from Waterwell Irrigation and Plantenance present, there must have been eight men working in the backyard today. Woowee...that's a heck of a lot of testosterone! ;-D Top view of the walls/steps to the vegetable area. Nice!

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 25

2011-11-01T20:29:00.006-04:00

Day 25: Steps and retaining walls of vegetable area. New cedars planted by neighbour line. Walls and steps are started. Front view. On top of the mound will be the new vegetable area. I can't wait til spring so I can plant some tomatoes, green beans, cucumber, paprika, herbes, etc... Our new cedars.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 24 ...HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-31T21:04:00.002-04:00

Day 24: Base for the retaining walls/steps of the vegetable area is started. Crew working on a strong base for the retaining walls and steps. ra-tat-tat-tat-a-tat-tat-tat.... I HATE THAT MACHINE! Our new 8 Emerald cedars and 1 bloodgood Japanese Maple...a gift from Plantenance. So much excavation still to be done. Guess who took residence in the port-a-potty? I swear, it wasn't me who put that skull there. Who's the prankster??? Last time I heard, no one is admitting. That's hilarious! It is Halloween after all. It could have been worst. OK Stop kidding around...Get back to work! ;-)

To be continued...

+The reveal

2011-10-29T16:21:00.007-04:00

6 weeks from design, pattern to sewing,
800 something yards of tulles to ruffle BY HAND,
1 mask to make,
3-4 fittings,
countless sewing needles broken by the beads

...and TADA!!! La dress!!!

These picture are taken just before Cinderella arrives to get prepped for the masquerade ball. In the spirit of Halloween, I had decided to call this gown...GREY GOOSE...Black Swan's hip younger sister. *smiles* The sequined top is taken from a dress I found from The Salvation Army for $39.99. I salvaged the sequined sheer part and try to find pieces big enough to fill the top part of the gown. If I bought a brand new sequined fabric, it would have cost a lot more. The colour of the sheer was perfect. It was my starting point. From this, it was easy to choose the tulle colours. I bought the tulles from Canada Tulle. I chose charcoal grey, black, Williamsburg blue and glimmer light silver for some added sparkle. I used two colours together, like the black+charcoal and blue+glimmer silver, to add dimension so when she moves, the colours change. It's amazing to see in-person. Nothing adds instant volume than ruffled tulle. The volume depends on how tight the ruffles are. For this dress, I ruffled 5 yards down to 1 yard. So, eventhough I used 400 something yards of tulle (two layers), after ruffling, there were 80 yards sewn onto the long skirt part. It wasn't heavy at all.

Cinderella, aka my good friend, is about to arrive in a few minutes. I need to do her hair and makeup, and get her to the ball on time!!! Pictures to follow.

Panic time! I need a drink! Later!!!

+Backyard Makeover - Day 23

2011-10-29T16:09:00.002-04:00

Day 23: Hot tub base, planting for privacy, etc... Main top level grout drying. Love the grey grout. Base for the hot tub built...a 9'x9' base to fit our 7'x7' hot tub. Cedars planted along neighbour line to add some privacy.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 22

2011-10-28T17:59:00.004-04:00

Day 22: Grouted main deck level. More excavation for the side part (aka vegetable area) of the garden. Prepping area for the hot tub...that's right...HOT TUB! YAY!!! Vegetable area. Gravel sand for base of hot tub, black top soil.

To be continued...

+The Mask

2011-10-28T10:48:00.007-04:00

Cinderella can't go to a masquerade ball without a mask, right? Here's one I made myself. Sorry, I didn't have time to document the steps for making the mask. Between the backyard landscaping and the masquerade ball gown, I am scrounging for time these days.

Materials used:
plastic mask
feathers (long, short)
sequined ribbon
sparklers (craft store)
glue (heavy duty for feathers, ribbon, etc)
craft glue (for sparklers)
satin ribbon for straps
...and that's it.

+Backyard Makeover - Day 21

2011-10-27T22:27:00.006-04:00

Day 21: Excavation of the side (aka vegetable area) has begun... The big digger... That's Angelo (driver) and Fred (looking on). John helped me replant some of the rescued shrubs. That's a boxwood (upper) and a sedum (lower). More rescued boxwoods replanted along side of deck. Check out that slope from top of main deck to grass level. That's going to be some crazy gravity-defying rock garden. I ordered 8 emerald green cedars: 5 of them will be planted along the curve of the main deck to add some privacy. Shot taken from very corner of lot. The house seems taller. Side...another multi-level challenge.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 20

2011-10-26T20:13:00.006-04:00

Day 20: Black soil delivered and distributed onto planting areas. Ground is levelled around the main deck, prepping for the sod. Black soil transported from front driveway to side of house. Planting levels hugging the main deck. A more sandy soil for prepping the sod...the grass areas. That's Angelo. This is where a new Japanese rock garden -ish going...quite the slope from top main deck to the grass level. That's Angelo again. Like my cheap Made-in-China croc?

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 18,19

2011-10-25T21:08:00.006-04:00

Day 18: Oops! Forgot to take pictures. Paving started on the main deck.

Day 19: Paving completed on the main deck. Paved main deck. That's Louis. That's Angelo, levelling the ground prepping for sod. Trees at south-west corner were taken out. Don't worry, they'll be replaced by a gorgeous sour cherry tree...as requested by the hubby...only next spring though. Around this time, it's slim-picking for good healthy trees at the nurseries. Twenty pallates of hardscape materials later...mostly went to build the main deck and it's retaining walls.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 15,16,17

2011-10-22T18:03:00.003-04:00

Day 15: No pictures were taken. It rained so much, the crew worked for a few hours until the rain became unbearable. The backyard was like chocolate soup!

Day 16: The main deck was leveled more. The steps leading up to family room doors were started. The top most retaining wall is continued. The crew works non-stop. It's amazing how much is done in a day. The steps leading to the family room.

Day 17: Woohoo! Putting down the pavers has begun. It looks great!!! Every angle has an interesting look. This backyard will never be called boring again! Well, except for the background...that hasn't been started yet. Soon!!! Darn! So the wrong shoes.

To be continued...

+The Attack of the Fluffy Tulles

2011-10-21T23:17:00.007-04:00

It took over 600 yards of 6" wide tulles...all ruffled. I can't believe it either but it's true. My large sewing table was overtaken by tulles...and that's just the skirt part of the gown. Somewhere in all those fluff is the sewing machine. It became clear early on that this was going to be challenging...not because of the weight, which is really light but rather twisting, turning, feeding the material through the sewing machine while balancing all that fluffiness. I was, literally, drowning in tulle. Good thing no one was there to take a photo...well, except for the four men working outside on our backyard makeover.

There are only 7 days left to complete, what I started calling, "Operation Parfait". Why? 'Cause this dress is going to look light, airy, dreamy and sweet!

+Backyard Makeover - Day 12,13,14

2011-10-19T18:45:00.003-04:00

Second retaining is almost done. Second wall done. Prepping the stones for the next and top-most retaining wall. Top-most wall almost done. Prepping the base for the pavers. Looking really really good!!! Isn't this exciting? OH NO!!!The weather forecast not looking great. Rain rain go away. Come again another day...like April.

To be continued...

+I'm a fairy godmother

2011-10-17T20:58:00.009-04:00

So back in mid-September, a close friend of mine (and neighbour) mentioned that they had been invited to a masquerade ball on October 29. I asked "What are you wearing?". She said "hmmm I don't know. I guess I can rent something at a Halloween shop." I shrieked "What?!? No way, those clothes are awful. It's a masquerade ball. You gotta shine!". Then, the next thing I knew, I was offering to make her ballgown including the mask. Um, did I have an aneurysm? On one condition though...I must have carte blanche. I have free rein to design it and to choose fabrics. WOOHOO!!! And, oh yes, one more thing...I will be posting the final product AND she has to be a supermodel for a few hours. How sweet is that?!?

I started on the design immediately, not wasting any time since I had 6 weeks to complete it. The fit is more-or-less done. Probably one more fitting just to be sure. I can't show too much because I want to keep her gown a secret as much as possible, but I'll show you a little peek. Most of the gown will be drowning in tulle. She's gonna look like a parfait...a seductive parfait. *smiles* I bought the tulles from Canada Tulle. Believe me, I compared prices between Fabricville, online, etc... and Canada Tulle has the best prices on tulle. I ordered close to 800 yards of 6" wide tulle, which I will ruffle and then sew on the main fabric. AM I NUTS?!?!? I will be drowning in tulle for the next few days. Enough chatting, my tulles are waiting. There's just 9 days to go. EGAD! Quietly freakin' out.

Just call me Fairy Godmother. On second thought, DON'T CALL ME I'M BUSY!

+Backyard Makeover - Day 11

2011-10-13T23:29:00.003-04:00

Steps leading up the main patio start taking shape. Two steps down...eight more to go. Good grief! I told you we have major elevation issue in our backyard. Entrance to my "atelier" in the background. Retaining wall against the "atelier" side. Top view of the retaining wall where I plan to plant lavenders and other fragrant flowers. Weather looking yucky! BOO!!!

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 10

2011-10-12T20:58:00.003-04:00

The first step leading up to the main patio is started. More-or-less the shape of the main patio area...with lots of steps leading up to the top part. You'll see. A short retaining wall along the wall of my "atelier" where I plan to plant tons of fragrant lavender...just like in Avignon, France. Unfortunately, the weather isn't going to be cooperative for the next several days. I am sure the construction will have to be put on-hold for a few days, which is totally understandable due to extreme unappealing working conditions. The crew has been working really hard, I'm sure the break will be welcomed. I will miss the tat-tat-tat-a-tat-tat of the ground pounding machine just outside my workshop windows...NOT! I tell myself...no pain no gain no pain no gain. I will get a gorgeous backyard after all this. *smiles*

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 9

2011-10-11T20:59:00.005-04:00

The lowest retaining wall completed...more or less. At this point it's ready to connect to the many parts of the rest of main patio. This design has so many twist-and-turns that the pieces are eventually going to meet at several points. You'll see. The ditch is closed up with tons of 0"-3/4" loose gravel stones and compacted with sandy stones to make sure that base doesn't EVER move. That's important 'cause that's sorta where the hot tub is going to be. PLUS, remnants of hurricane Jova is going to bring rain in the next six days. BOO!
This area is much better than it was before. Nothing but good stuff for this garden, I'm tellin' ya. It's hard to tell but there has been so much progress. The Plantenance crew has been working extremely hard. Look who came to assist with the landscaping...Inukshuks, courtesy of my husband and I, to remind us the value of strong relationships, not just to point the way.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 8

2011-10-08T23:24:00.002-04:00

The build-up of the main patio has begun...starting with the lowest of three retaining walls. This is going to be some major build. How exciting. It already looks great!!! This part took about 6 hours. Precision is key! It may take another week and more materials to complete the main patio. What a ginormous task! And to think that my husband thought he could have done the same with just a wheelbarrow. Um...I don't think so, MacGyver. Ah yes, the ditch. Well, it's good news. There's no need to spend money and effort to install a sump pump to control the water accumulation since the water level does not seem to rise near dangerous level at all. So, the crew will fill the ditch with as much 0-3/4 loose gravel, compact it and then soil. Delay averted. Phew!

To be continued...HAPPY THANKSGIVING, CANADA!

+Backyard Makeover - Day 7

2011-10-07T23:08:00.002-04:00

The main materials arrived today - pavers, stones, caps, steps - about 20 palettes. And this is just the beginning. YAY!!! How an 18-wheeler cause minor traffic on the street. So sorry everyone. *smiles* The crew checking out the plan...again. Boy, they are so precise. Sitting pretty, getting ready to start the main patio...tomorrow. Just outside the basement walk-out.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 6

2011-10-06T20:55:00.001-04:00

FINALLY!!! It stopped raining. As the weather forecast says, we are looking forward to at least a week of NO RAIN. WOOHOO!!! Pounding the lowest level of main patio. Ah yes, the port-a-potty has arrived. The exit of basement or my "atelier".

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 5

2011-10-05T20:47:00.002-04:00

Look what four straight days of rain brought... Not exactly what we envisioned for our hot tub. The trenches accumulated so much water. A sump pump is brought in to help pump water out. In the meantime, the big machines sat quietly.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 4

2011-10-01T21:42:00.002-04:00

Loose stones for the retaining wall of main patio arrive. More digging around main patio. More shaping of the retaining walls. Somewhere out there is our backyard.

To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 3

2011-09-30T22:28:00.000-04:00

The main patio starts taking shape. Measure many times, dig around, adjust, measure...and repeat. The main patio levels are starting to take shape. From side. The main path from back to front. Whatever can be saved...we save! More hauling out the dirt from back to front from back to front...repeat many many MANY times.

To be continued...

+I am inspired by...Jean Paul Gaultier

2011-09-28T23:54:00.002-04:00

What a gift to have this exhibition come to Montreal. Check out the Jean Paul Gaultier exhibition hosted by Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal. These are just some of the wonderful pieces of art. Please come back again, JP!

+Backyard Makeover - Day 2

2011-09-28T14:44:00.001-04:00

Today, the crew spent most of the day moving dirt from back to front...back to front...back to front...ALL DAY! From back... ...to front. To be continued...

+Backyard Makeover - Day 1, the first dig

2011-09-27T23:56:00.002-04:00

And so it has begun...the first dig! We asked for the bedrocks to be saved. They will be added back throughout the new backyard. Not much was saved. Most of the plants were in stages of disrepair. I was sad to see this part. Next, the upper patio. I told you we have some elevation challenges. BIG machine defying gravity. I hope I get the chance to drive that thing...on flatter grounds, of course. Rougly carving out the new levels and boundaries of new patio. End of day 1. No more old patio. ...to be continued.

+Garden Makeover: Phase I - The Backyard (the calm before the storm)

2011-09-26T09:18:00.009-04:00

Like, my husband and I are not busy enough! This year we decided that we are going to invest some major mullah on the outside of the house...the dreaded garden. It has been the source of many backaches, sore knees, bug bites and sunburns. We had spent quite a bit on grass seeds, gloves, gardening tools...still can't get rid of those friggin' weeds. There are days when I feel like only a blowtorch will solve our problems. Besides the softscape challenges, there are the hardscape issues that we have avoided long enough. Like, crumbling retaining walls, water puddling in certain areas, sick trees, etc.

So, this year we decided to dive into a huge project...our garden makeover. Scary, I know! We started thinking about what sort of garden we wanted. I kinda always loved that old English garden look...you know, not symmetric, grown in, random placements of plants like they've been there for a long time. Serene curvy pathways, no hard edges, lots of sitting areas, pea gravel, stepping stones, peaceful, lots of colours. The only request my husband has...make sure there's a place for a sour cherry tree, a buddha and a hot tub. OK, I can do that!

So, I put on my thinking cap and started gathering ideas and sketching designs. With the help of landscaping company Plantenance Inc, my vision was put on paper. There were some challenges due to the multiple elevations the back has...let's just say, it is topographically challenged. But I believe the design we have is the best BECAUSE we worked with the levels of this yard. Instead of fighting them, we worked with them. There were a few dramatic moments with city hall...some by-laws. Whatever! But the design is finally approved. We can't wait to see it completed. I won't share the design itself until the end...it would just ruin the reveal.

After chipping away the nice-to-haves to keep cost down, we broke down this challenge into phases starting with the backyard. Make sense since BIG vehicles will be driving through the yard so may as well start from back to front...typical practice. PLUS, the backyard is one nightmare away from a landslide.

Here are some BEFORE shots of the backyard. This is a nice angle because you can see the four floors of the split level. The garden has so many levels...it's a designer's dream come true. We so love the challenge, don't we? The crumbling retaining wall of the main deck. Seriously, this was poorly executed. The only thing holding up the main deck are the roots of those poor plants...which we couldn't save. One side of back...the future vegetable, fruit, herb garden. This is where I'll be spending most of my gardening time...next year. YAY!!! These pavers are not mortared at all so we are definitely saving these. We will use them somewhere in the garden in the next phases. They are in excellent shape and really nice. The love the colours. The ants have worked their way through these railroad wood. It's like one-step away from an accident.

The first dig is scheduled for September 27. I'll post some during pictures as it progresses...SO EXCITING...and scary at the same time!!!

+Introducing...Kenya

2011-09-16T13:38:00.003-04:00

Just one look at this woven fabric, I am reminded of scenes from the romantic movies "African Queen" (1951) starring Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart and "Out of Africa" starring Meryl Streep and the ever-so-dashing Robert Redford. I had to be careful not to make that typical animal print handbags...you know, the over-the-top, frou-frou types. So, I chose a simple shape that I've used before...one of my slouchy designs. The shape is simple and classy making the fabric the main star. This is a limited edition. There are only 3 available. So, here is Kenya. I love this shape. I used this pattern several times already. I reserve this shape for those fabrics that want to be seen A LOT! There are no obstructions in front. Simple simple simple...and classy. I kept the logo to a minimum using my side seam label instead of the square one. Side view. Where's my close-up?

Kenya is now available at my shop Paco+Lupe.

So...what do you think?

+My Makeshift Photo Studio

2011-09-15T16:11:00.001-04:00

You think I have a fancy-schmancy studio to take photos of my products??? YES...the answer is YES!!! Are you kidding? I wish. But this is the truth...my photo studio is a mere makeshift corner in my kitchen. That's my assistant, Joya, instructing "a little more to the left. no right. no left."

I use a corner in the kitchen just beside a big window. During sunny days, I run frantically setting up my "studio" so I can take advantage of that natural lighting. Those days are fewer during the fall and winter, so can you imagine when there's a great day? I am obsessed with the weather channel. Sometimes I think I work on my stuff around the weather forecast. I rush to make my samples for the photo shoot aiming to complete them for the sunny days. It could get stressful.

All that set-up goes down after the shoot. And here's a perfect shot.

+Introducing...Genève

2011-09-14T12:20:00.013-04:00

I love the fall season for so many reasons. One, the change in colours. Two, the change in colours. Three, the change in fashion. It's the only season when I don't mind if the temperature is a little cooler. One gets to bundle up in cozy sweaters, wear boots and suede jackets...and carry fabulous fall bags...like my latest tote. How's that for product pumping? *smiles*

How did I name my latest tote? Well, I had a few ideas but sometimes I want to see what people think when they look at my stuff. So, I decided to ask my friends to suggest a name. It had to be a city name though. The suggestions are aplenty. Too bad I had to pick just one BUT the process was so much fun I just have to do this more often. I think, for the next time, I'll ask a name based on alcohol drinks, as suggested by a friend. Oh you know who you are! *wink* *wink*

So, here is she...Genève. Front side. Two large zipped pouches in front. You can stick whatever you want it them. For those wet fall days, I choose an umbrella. A peek at the nice cotton printed fabric as lining for the exterior pouches. And the back side.

So, what do you think??? Genève is now available at Paco+Lupe.

+Introducing...Teacher's Pet

2011-09-12T09:16:00.002-04:00

This is the second time I am using this gorgeous grey printed cotton fabric. I used it for Learn Your ABCs for my messenger bag design. Now, I'm using it for my favourite satchel pattern. Wait, it is my only satchel bag pattern...hmmm, I need to fix that. Anyway...here is she, appropriately named for that time of the year, Teacher's Pet. As usual, I added lots of pockets at the exterior of bag. One big slip pouch in front and 2 at the sides. Main closure is a zipper with a cool pulley I found at this hole-in-the-wall store. I have to see if that guy is still there. This printed grey fabric has a silk-screen like effect. Very cool. She's got heels. I call them bag stilettos. The back side.

So, what do you think? She's now available at my shop at Paco+Lupe.

+Breakfast of champions

2011-09-09T09:24:00.004-04:00

How many times have you heard or been told REPEATEDLY...DON'T SKIP BREAKFAST! It is recommended to have breakfast within one hour of waking up. Oops! Does a mug coffee count as breakfast? No? Okay okay I hear ya!
We all have such busy schedules and breakfast seems to be the easiest to sacrifice when we need to save or gain time. Honestly, it doesn't take too much time to prepare. So why am I so lazy to obey? Maybe, I don't have the energy? Well, to have energy, I need nutrients. Like, duh! Make sense, right? So, here I am (again) trying to restart a good habit.
Start with your boring bowl of oats. Add 1 tsp Trophic - GREENS CONCENTRATE PURE ESSENTIAL Mix it well. Et voilà! Bon appetite.

At my last visit to my health provider, she recommended to add, besides protein, ANTIOXIDANTS to my diet. Here's just some of the benefits:
•better resistance to colds and flu
•softer, younger-looking skin - YAY!!!
•relief from allergies
•weight loss - WOOHOO!!!
•increased energy
•relief from asthma
•improved circulation
•reduced high blood pressure
•improved digestion
•relief from arthritis
•help in controlling diabetes
•improved sleep - OH THANK YOU!
•relief from menstrual symptoms
•better memory, concentration

I'll do my best to do this everyday...or every other day?...baby steps. I'll let you know how I feel in a few weeks.

+Wish you were here...Baie St-Paul, Charlevoix, Quebec

2011-09-06T09:14:00.008-04:00

Last long summer weekend of 2011 spent in Baie St-Paul, Charlevoix, Quebec with close friends. For a second annual Labour day vacation, friends and I rented a chalet in Baie St-Paul, Charlevoix region in Quebec. It's about a 4-hour drive from downtown Montreal without those damn road constructions. It ended up taking us over 5 hours to get there. Thanks to hurricane season, we managed to get one sunny day... ...so we took a long walk along the train track that weaves along the mountain side all the way to La Malbaie. Someday, we should try this train ride tour. Our rented chalet is that one. No. That one. No. That one. Oh heck, it's somewhere there. Boardwalk rue Sainte-Anne during low tide. ... the other days created some moody photos, which I didn't mind, actually. There are some gorgeous chalets-for-rent there. Check out these sites:

Chalets au Quebec
Les Immeubles Charlevoix

+Discovering...Recycled Displays in Toronto

2011-08-29T12:38:00.009-04:00

Ever wonder where all mannequins go to rest once they are no longer needed? When they become so 2010? When their looks are no longer in-fashion? Well, here's their rainbow bridge located in Toronto ... Recycled Displays. We stopped by this weekend to check it out. We left with a box of 50 hangers for $50. Not bad, eh?

+Look up in the sky...it's a bird, it's a plane...it's Spyderpig?

2011-08-22T10:49:00.006-04:00

What a perfect day to fly a balloon...in this case, over 100 hot air balloons!!! We packed some food, grabbed a blanket and headed over to see Balloon Festival at Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu this past Friday. Then after the spectacular show, we got treated to a fabulous concert starring PitBull with our very own Jacynthe opening.

This could be habit forming. Already looking whether to go to the next event...more info over at Hot Air Balloon Events.

Here are just some of the pictures I took. Clair du Lune from Quebec. Balad D'air from Quebec. Bloomin from Pennsylannia, Propane Express from Quebec, Liberty from Tennessee and Dream Chaser from New Jersey. Tracer from Florida. Sir Prize from New Jersey. Mr.Bup from Belgium never got the chance to lift-off that it was amazing to see up-close nonetheless. Check out how huge this thing was! Amazing!!! Some special looking creatures were roaming the sky that night.

+End-of-Summer Sale

2011-08-15T10:52:00.010-04:00

Yup! I know, I dared to use the word "end". But good thing about it? It's sale time! All our in-stock hanbags, clutches and much much more are 20% off starting today until quantities last. They're going fast so don't miss out on the savings.

Please share with your best friends...or maybe not? ;-) Come visit us at Paco+Lupe.

+Size does matter

2011-08-11T12:36:00.008-04:00

I don't know if you notice but, today, I changed my blog to have a wider post column. From now on, I will be posting any pics wider as well. I think it will look better.
So instead of this... ...you'll get this... Better, right?!?

+Have camera...will travel

2011-08-07T15:09:00.023-04:00

An Etsy treasury inspired from our vacation in Europe...also here.
"One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things." - Henry Miller

Vintage Nikon FM2 35mm ... NicLyons $380.00	FIND YOUR WAY with this... GlazedBlackChe... $25.99	vintage antique rare 19... simplicityisbl... $325.00	Antique L'Ecolier P... StoriesDivinat... $46.00
Italian Vintage Style M... PaperBoxStudio $4.25	Antique Rare Ivory Oper... ParisCoutureAn... $435.00	FM017 wool coat gray FM908 $98.00	Roadside in Germany - P... shopkhollin $14.00
Vintage 1950s Boy Scout... alchemievintag... $72.00	Milan Train Station - F... AaronHuniuPhot... $25.00	Vintage Steampunk Goggl... Vintage50sEyew... $89.00	Pocket Guide to Europe ... allthingsmod $50.00
Suede Wool Hat katarinacoutur... $128.00	RESERVED Custom Order 5... VitaNostra $263.00	Vintage Inspired Travel... KarenGeddings $42.00	Spring 2011- In Touch C... downstairsDesi... $29.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

+Mom vs Son

2011-07-15T08:36:00.002-04:00

Overheard neighbour across street:
(mom) Get in the car. Come on. I don't have time for this.
(son) NO! I don't wanna. *grunt* NO!
(mom) G.E.T. I.N. T.H.E. C.A.R. NOW!!! Or else...
(son) else what? huh? *grunt*
(mom) I'll get Grandma to stay with us for the ENTIRE summer...ELSE that!
(son) *sprints towards the car* SO NOT FAIR!

Moms have to get creative sometimes...ENJOY!

+Before&After - Wine Cork Board

2011-07-12T15:23:00.006-04:00

I've been collecting wine corks for...gee...quite a long long time. I even recruited our friends to keep their corks for us. It became a habit for my friends to give me a small bag of corks whenever we visit them. And they often ask, "Don't you have enough?" I'm not sure how many we have already... a lot! As you can see, though, from our latest Before&After Project, this cork board used quite a bit. In fact, 198 wine corks in total. I glued the corks using E6000, pretty powerful stuff. I love this glue. It has funky smell so make sure you use it in a well-ventilated area. Leave it for 24hr to cure...obviously, the longer the better. Breakdown of Cost:
Pre-loved frame: $5
plywood backing: $2
E6000 glue (1 tube): $8
198 wine corks: generously donated by many friends
TOTAL COST: under $20

CHEERS!

I placed the cork facing all directions so I don't have to worry how to hang the board later. Besides, it looks more balanced this way. A chateau, what else. Two corks that says MOMA placed together to spell the word. A grape.

Onto the next cork board project...which means, I will keep collecting corks so please don't stop drinking, my friends. 8-)

xo,
celia

+Purple Urchin - a fave of mine

2011-07-09T10:29:00.006-04:00

Look what arrived yesterday!!! As you can tell by the photo...I love Purple Urchin products. My order arrived yesterday all the way from Sault Ste-Marie...record time, despite Canada Post slowdown. I met the owners of Purple Urchin a couple of years ago when we were both vendors at a craft fair in Ottawa. Ever since then, my husband and I have been using their "Don't Bug Me" all natural insect repellent spray to keep those nasty blood sucking pests off. It works very well. AND it smells nice not like those chemical bug sprays. So I ordered a bunch and maybe...just maybe, I'll share it with some friends. I haven't decided yet. I also ordered a couple of lavender soaps. They smell divine. Did I mention lavender is one of my favourite smell in the entire world?

Go check out Purple Urchin ... and as they say "no, there are no urchins in our products!".

xo,
celia

+Sad day...saying goodbye to our biggest trees

2011-07-08T15:32:00.007-04:00

Today is a sad day for me. Yes, I'm admitting I'm a big wuss. Two of our biggest trees on our lawn went down today. They were sick, of course. Two maples that must have been over 60 years old. They had to go... it was either them or our roof...or worst, our neighbour's roof. It was heartbreaking to watch pieces of them coming down. We definitely gained more sunlight on those parts of the garden though. Some smaller trees nearby will really benefit from this. Plus, what used to be, what I like to call "dead zones" because I have failed to grow anything underneath those trees, now there's a big chance I can...still. Those trees provided so much shade and view, now, those areas are so bare. I look at those empty spots *sigh*...I miss them already.

+When I'm feeling blue all I have to do is take a look at you...and you...and you...

2011-06-27T09:40:00.005-04:00

+Introducing...Apple Blossom

2011-06-20T14:26:00.003-04:00

Apple Blossom name was inspired by the tiny white flowers against the chartreuse green background of this lovely lovely fabric. The pattern is the same as Orange Sorbet and Strawberry Sorbet (I'm beginning to sound like an ice cream shop). Limited edition, only 3 available...over at Paco+Lupe.

xo,
celia

+Introducing...Strawberry Sorbet

2011-06-20T14:19:00.004-04:00

Strawberry Sorbet is a follow-up to my very popular Orange Sorbet...hmmm, there's a theme here 8-) Same fabric...different colour...same vibrant graphic print. Again, it's a limited edition, only 4 available at my main website Paco+Lupe.

xo,
celia

+True Blue

2011-06-16T11:30:00.004-04:00

There were taken around the Old Port, Montreal.

xo,
celia

+Since we're on the subject of clutches...

2011-06-08T10:24:00.014-04:00

Sophisticated ladies have been carrying clutch purses on their elegant evenings out for decades. Sequined, beaded or leather, boxy or soft, they are the perfect evening accessory--besides your date, of course! The clutch purse originated during the Victorian era...the reticule, a drawstring handbag or purse. They were small enough to store a lady's handkerchief and smelling salt. I guess they fainted quite often back then wearing those corsets. The reticule-style went out of fashion. Then the clutch came back in fashion post WWI. The roaring 20s. The Jazz Age. Art Deco. "Années folles" ("Crazy Years"). Modern technologies. Economic growth. The time where all traditions were broken. Decadence pursue. And the clutch made a comeback...still small but made of the finest materials. Sequined/beaded, fringed, satin, brocade, silk. Some were made to match the dresses or shoes. They were small enough to carry...well, not much. But back then, I believe the gentlemen paid for everything. If you want to take a look back to the 20s, go see the movie "Midnight in Paris" written and directed by Woody Allen starring Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Marion Cotillard and so many more... I'm not going to tell you what the movie is about because YOU SHOULD SEE IT and not read about it. It was hilarious. As usual, brilliant work, Mr. Allen. The 20s fashion is to die for. I love everything the character "Adriana", played by Marion Cotillard, wore. She had the best outfits. I have to figure out how to make that white dress. So adorable. This fringed dress must have weighed a lot. I know how heavy fringes can get. You'll need strong shoulders. Just lovely. I am inspired.

celia

+Introducing...Rita & Teresa clutches

2011-06-07T12:30:00.012-04:00

I bought "Las Senoritas" fabric by Alexander Henry about 3 years ago. I didn't know what to do with it yet. I just love the kitschy fabrics. I then got inspired by the Ed Hardy handbags, you know, the ones that have tattoo designs against black fabric. I like how the vibrant colours just stand out. So, I cut out my favourite girls off the fabric, satin-stitch applique them on black fabric...and voilà.

First up...Rita Doesn't she have a resemblance to Rita Hayworth? Next is...Teresa Both designs have a 24inch long strap (12" drop). Inside are 2 pouches and 1 zipped pocket. They are both available at Paco+Lupe. What do you think?

celia

+Atwater Market in full bloom...finally!

2011-06-05T12:02:00.000-04:00

Certainly was one of the wettest spring ever. April and May had such downpours. There were a few days when the sun made an appearance. When dryer days finally arrived, the outdoor stalls at Atwater Market started to get built. Spring has finally started...and so has the planting season. Here are just some of the gorgeous blooms one will find among stalls after stalls. This is my favourite part of the market.

+WIP - More clutches

2011-06-03T15:54:00.000-04:00

More clutches to come. I use big paper clips to hold the fabric to the metal frame until the glue cures. I do one side at a time. Let it sit for a day.

+Look what the rain brought...

2011-05-25T13:44:00.001-04:00

Something to be grateful for the rainy days...and there were lots of them...in April and May months. Gorgeous blooms from our neighbours crab apple tree. In fact, I've never seen the crab apple trees around Montreal these full of blooms. I just love spring. Yes I do!!!

+Introducing...Blue Crush & Green Chrysanthemum Clutches

2011-05-20T13:22:00.006-04:00

Inspired by shades of blues and greens...found in nature and fashion, of course.

Latest addition my collection of clutches... Blue Crush and Green Chrysanthemum For those times when you don't have to drag everything with you. A date perhaps? Or just meeting the girls.

More clutches available here.

What do you think?

+Happy Anniversary, my love - 8 years today!

2011-05-17T09:29:00.002-04:00

If I don't say it often enough, you must keep in mind...I do! I do! I do love you!!!

HAPPY 8th ANNIVERSARY, Csaba!

+Introducing...Lime Candy & Tuscan Sun Envelope Clutches

2011-05-11T13:10:00.000-04:00

Tis the season for clutches! Here are two more added to my collection.

First up... Lime Candy Next is...Tuscan Sun Check them out Paco+Lupe and let me know what you think.

Thanks!
Celia

+Introducing...Afternoon Tea Clutch

2011-05-06T12:22:00.002-04:00

I'm into clutches lately. Can you tell? Here's another addition to my collection...Afternoon Tea. I have started experimenting with different bag hardwares. Here I am using a metal purse frame with kiss-locks. The frame itself measures 9" across the top and 3" down the sides. The diameter of the ball-clasp is 22mm. I cut the fabric in such a way that produces 3 different styles. Group shot. And another group shot. So, what do you think?

+Charity - Red Cross Japan Relief

2011-05-02T12:09:00.009-04:00

For the month of April 2011, 10% of sales , which totalled to $150 CAD, was donated to the Red Cross Japan Earthquake/Asia-Pacific Tsunami. See receipt above.

Thank you for all your support. I couldn't have done it without you.

If you would like to receive news such as this, please sign up for our e-newsletter here.

Stay tune for the next charity event.

+another trip to the dumpster

2011-04-30T13:42:00.002-04:00

Great shape. Strip it, paint it, reupholster it...and voila! I love the skinny arms. And for $75, hello! It's a no-brainer. I have this thing for sewing tables. *smiling* Again, paint it and it's a dressing table. Most of these cabinets are made of solid wood. Not that cheap wood veneer pressed wood junk. For the princess room. Damn! It's sold. Skinny high table would have been perfect for a friend of mine who's looking for something like this. Oh well...not meant to be. Still looking for a pantry for our kitchen. In the meantime, that buffet/hutch is gorgeous...painted, of course. The armoire is nice too. Bed made for a princess. Channeling positive karma in the warehouse. Just part of the 10,000 square feet of possibilities.

What we came out with:
One silver-leafed lamp and one rustic wood frame/picture for $5 each. SCORE! The plan for them:
Lamp: Rewire, clean-up surface, maybe stain to create a patina, get funky lamp shade.
Wood frame: remove glass and poster, replace with smooth wood board, paint half with chalk paint, glue wine corks on other half. And give to a BFF for her cottage-y home.

I really gotta start a DIY list. It's getting a little out of hand. Oh you think that's gonna slow me down? NOT! *smiles*

+the day, the fashion, the dress, the hoopla

2011-04-29T12:36:00.006-04:00

Some couple named William & Kate got married today. I'm not a girly-girl, that's true, but I love beautiful weddings. Does that make sense? I love the creative process of making beautiful things. I think that's what I'm trying to say. Weddings can be so beautiful but not always. Some are especially over-the-top. However this wedding of, you know, that couple named William & Kate, was over-the-top BEAUTIFUL!!! Just like 30 years ago, another wedding of that couple named Charles & Di, I got sucked into the dreamland of royal pageantry. I get into the hype of it all. Then, when the excitement is over, it's over. So, just for a brief moment, we are swimming in royal wedding bliss. And why not?!? Admit it, so did you. Oh you know who you are! On the same note...
Ask me if I'll ever make wedding gowns again and I'll run away like a stark crazy loonie. NO WAY, JOSE! Don't get me wrong, it's not the making of the dress itself, but the pressure of it all. The last wedding gown I made, besides mine, was for a bff. I was one of her bridesmaid. I didn't have time to make my dress so I had someone else to do mine while I made the bride's. Twisted, I know. I was to turn a sari fabric into a modern one-shoulder, sleeveless beauty. I had the design done weeks before, fabric was bought, cut, sewn and completed a week before the day. A lot of thought went into it because I wanted to make sure the sari embroidery patterns were strategically placed. Everyone seemed happy. All that's left was the veil which I made myself. And ka-bam! The design had to be changed just 2 days before. There were second-thoughts about showing way too much shoulder skin in a Catholic wedding. Oh crap! Many cuss words later, design was changed to two-shoulder sleeveless top but use the veil to cover the shoulder. Phew! I finished the gown AND veil around 6am the day of the wedding. Sound familiar? Boy, did I ever needed lots of coverage for my raccoon eyes. Anyway, the bride looked beautiful. To this day, her hairdresser remember the veil I made. The best veil they had ever seen. **SMILING BIG TIME** Thank you! Thank you!

+Architect Drawers

2011-04-26T11:37:00.003-04:00

We bought our house almost 6 years ago and it remained sparsely decorated for the majority of the time. I like to call it the minimalist look. *smiles* Well, it's not like we, my hubby and I, have polarized tastes. We just like way too many things. So trying to settle on a piece of furniture requires a small debate. It's exhausting, I have to tell you. As a woman, I would think, just by gender right, I automatically have carte-blanche in terms of what goes into a home. One thing we do share, and I am to blame for introducing him to this hobby of mine, is a love for dumpster-diving. I think it all started for me way back in my university years. I was so flat broke ALL THE TIME that I had to be creative with many things...literally. I still have this table that I found close to the campus dumpsters. I stripped off layers of paint to discover a furniture made of solid wood. It was bloody heavy. Anyway, I began to think everything deserves second chances...and third...and fourth. This latest dumpster-diving find, an architect drawer/cabinet, is especially sweet for me. My original plan was to become an architect. Obviously, life took another turn. Well finding this on Craigslist is karma. I just had to have it. Plus it's super cool. The plan is to use this as a coffee table. I have to ask the hubby to build a platform with casters wheels and place the cabinet on it. This way, I can move it around with ease. This thing is heavy! ...out and about, looking for more furniture to rescue.

+Work is piling up and it's only Monday

2011-04-18T08:25:00.004-04:00

I tend to think "go big or go home". So when I have an idea, I work on the design, test the pattern, cut fabrics and sew like Evil Knievel. I don't try a few pieces to see if the new items will be popular. I know they will be. So I make a lot at first try. Like someone told me, "Failure is not an option!"

Here's a sneak peek of what's coming. Gotta head back to my "atelier"...work is piling up and it's only Monday!

+And the dumpster-diving season has begun...oh and ya Spring is here too!

2011-04-13T09:26:00.005-04:00

YUP! Spring! The return of Canada geese, bulb flowers peeking through the ground, grass pollen in the air, April showers, joggers, bikers, slush...and SPRING CLEANING!

You know what that means to me? There's some goodies to be scored out there. So, I search Craigslist to see if I can find that armoire for the kitchen, antique coffee table for the living room, huge wooden frame that I can paint and turn into a mirror or cork board, bar stool, school clock...and the list goes on.

DUMPSTER-DIVING season has officially begun! So does allergy season. boo!

Last week, I found a Craigslist ad about an antique store in Hudson that is closing down after 30 yrs of business...sad but another sign of the times. So last Saturday morning, hubby and I checked it out just to arrive there and find out the address on the ad was wrong. We circled around a few times to see if we can find that antique store on Main...which is pretty much the "main" street in Hudson. No luck. We head over to Finnegan's. We asked a sweet old lady who told us where that store is. She seemed pretty saddened by the closing news. There's been quite a bit of antique store closures around downtown Montreal too.

Back we went... I have to say, it was luck for us that Frank, the owner, had the address wrong, because there were less vultures circling around the goodies. We did miss out on a chandelier, sold for $60 to another...oh well. And an art deco lamp of a naked lady, my husband misses that one the most, I wonder why?

We must have spent 2 hrs there. There were so much stuff. You have to take your time and look at everything. You just don't know what you'll find. Anyway, here's what we got! Frank told us that this cabinet is late 1890s when the Arts&Craft movement was flourishing. Similar cabinets designed by Gustav Stickley. A bunch of LIFE magazines dating back 1940s. Some of them deserve to be framed. Lots of vintage ads. These are super heavy. The stoppers alone weigh, what, 5lbs each? Anyway, I can't get these for $20 each. This is a great score! Plus they look great on our wine/liquor trolley...just need more wine and more liquor! I've been looking for nesting tables but some of them are sooo boring, square and simple...and costly. These are $100. SCORE! And you notice that the smallest one has different legs, which is unusual. I love these! Not sure if I should paint them though...we'll see. I'll leave them alone for awhile to get the feel....you know, "the feel". And lastly, crystal wine glass by Stuart. These are named "Lyric". I saw some are being sold on eBay for $40usd for a pair. These were $30 for 8. SCORE!!!

That's it for now...more to post later.

+Introducing...Mykonos

2011-03-25T11:53:00.004-04:00

Here's another slouchy for Spring/Summer 2011. When I showed this to my husband, he said I should name it "Mykonos". At first, I said "Nah!". But the name stuck. There you go, honey. You get to name a bag...finally, he says. The more I look at her, the more I think about those hot white houses against the background of the deep indigo blue sea...kinda like the intense contrast of this fabric. So, here she is then...Mykonos.
I used a strong nylon band for the handle of the strap. In the exterior front side, I placed 2 zipped pockets, perfect for your metro bus pass, cell phone, ...whatever. The main closure is a zipper to keep your valuables from slipping out. I used a non-bleach cotton canvas as interfacing to add structure and durability. Plus I find it makes the bag drape so much better. Mykonos is now available at Paco+Lupe.

+For Japan...

2011-03-16T12:11:00.002-04:00

For the past few days, I've worked in my studio distracted by the devastation happening in Japan. There's just so many words...disbelief, heartbreaking, sad, scared... The images are haunting. How are these people going to get through this? I am sure the same thoughts have ran through your mind. My husband and I have donated to the Red Cross already but it isn't enough. During these hard economic times, you give what you can spare. So, I have an idea.

For every sale of my latest clutch Ipanema, I am donating $25 to Red Cross. I have about 10 at the moment. That is a possible $250 donation from you and me...to start. Depending on how successful this is, I may extend to same or other products. I plan to make more Ipanema but I need to buy more of those clasps.

Why Ipanema? Well, I have more of that fabric left. Usually I like releasing limited edition. The pattern of the clutch is the easiest I have designed...EVER, less twist and turns, definitely less pieces as oppose to my usual 20-or-so pieces for some designs. Yikes!

I will definitely post the donation certificate on my blog, twitter and facebook page as soon as I'm sold-out of Ipanema, as well as send out a newsletter. I promise.

Please pass this along to your friends and families.

Thank you so much. Celia

+Introducing...Casablanca

2011-03-14T16:18:00.005-04:00

For SS11, I designed a few slouchy bags, a diversion from my usual more structured bags. One slouchy was introduced just last week - 100% Pure Cacao. For my second slouchy, the shape is simple and comfortable also. Read the start of this particular design here. I love that it is seriously roomy without being bulky. It's like carry a beautiful scarf over your shoulder, really. Here she is...Casablanca. The minute I saw this linen fabric, I just had to get some. Of course, I safely placed it away until I figured out what I can do with it. The print is so exotic, so rare. It reminded me of those beautiful Moorish architecture, colourful graphic tiles and exotic food. Yes, I said "food". I used a dark olive, heavy-duty band for the strap. It has an 18inch strap drop, definitely comfortable to carry over the shoulder. Main closure is a zipper. Usual stuff inside: pouches, zipped pocket and swivel hook for your keys. Casablanca is a limited edition. I made only 4 of her. I know, I'm crazy not to buy more of this fabric. Oh well...this just makes her more precious then *wink* *wink*.

Find her at my shop - Paco+Lupe.

+Introducing...100% Pure Cacao

2011-03-08T11:42:00.005-05:00

You know Spring/Summer is coming soon when I start introducing slouchy, comfortable handbags. I guess I am imagining the days as sunny and warm...just perfect to be taking it easy and just lay back. When I get that vision, I think everything you wear should be the same...easy and laidback. So, here she is...my new super slouchy handbag...100% Pure Cacao. Feel free to let me know what you think. Available at Paco+Lupe.

+Promo Giveaway - IPANEMA

2011-02-28T11:52:00.004-05:00

OK...so who likes giveaways??? I DO! I DO!

"LIKE" me on Facebook Page for a chance to win IPANEMA, my latest clutch. I'll be using http://www.random.org/ to pick the lucky winner.

DEADLINE: March 6, 2011
WINNER will be annouced on my Facebook Page on Monday, March 7, 2011

DON'T MISS IT!

(UPDATE: March 7, 2011)
The winner is...Kate Emmett-Sweetser. YAY!!!

+Introducing...Clutches

2011-02-22T14:34:00.014-05:00

I've been meaning to add clutches to my collection of handbags for quite some time now. In fact, I already had the pattern done but I just didn't have time to squeeze them in. I even ordered those twist locks months ago. Since I started Paco+Lupe back in 2007, I have been designing really roomy handbags . WOW! Time flies. Almost 4 years this coming June. I should come up with something big for the anniversary, something different, what? what?...hmmm. (oops! I digress.) It is time to add something petite.

So here are my latest...envelope clutches!

You're Just My Type

This is a limited edition. I bought this medium-weight linen fabric years ago. I was just waiting to use it. There is only 9 of this made. Hmmm...maybe I should keep one for myself? Maybe.
...and Ipanema

I had help from a close friend who is travelling the world with naming this one. Right now, he is somewhere in beautiful Myanmar. Thanks, TB!
Both are available at Paco+Lupe.

So? What do you think?

+I can't tell you yet...but here's a hint

2011-02-17T11:42:00.002-05:00

OK, I showed you too much already! 8-) Well, I've been working on "something". I can't go into details but it will be a new collection of... oh you'll just have to wait and see. I don't have enough done yet so this is why I need to keep it under wraps for the time being. But believe me, I am working feverishly on it.

Break over! Back to the workshop I go! Later!

+Cute things - Salix discolor (aka pussy willow)

2011-02-15T11:08:00.003-05:00

The latest addition to my plant family...salix discolor aka pussy willow. It's a really cute plant. I am obsessing over those cute furry catkins. OK, how many times have I said "cute"? Once spring arrives, it will be moved outside. In the meantime, I can wake up to see what new things develop. I think I'm going to miss it being inside though so I'll have to see how to propagate it so I can always have a mini one just for me.

+What a nice surprise

2011-02-04T09:50:00.006-05:00

It is such a nice feeling to receive a hand-written thank you card from a customer. It really is. I get lots of email THANK-YOUs which I totally appreciate but it's somewhat special to take the time, write and send. Check-out the beautiful handwriting too. I used to do my "C"s the same way. That was PRE computers, cellphones, iPad, iPhone, iDunno... The customer bought Learn Your ABCs bag...in fact the very last one. SOLD-OUT! The fabric is still around but I'm going to use it on a different style. Anyway, the bag was a gift to her friend. Isn't she sweet?

So, dear Virginia, thank you so much for taking the time to write this card...it gives me joy. Truly!

+From Vision To Fruition - Making of a Slouchy Bag

2011-02-03T11:06:00.012-05:00

Sketching a slouchy bag is not that easy - for me anyway. You want to draw enough details to sort of give you an idea about the shapes of each pieces of the pattern. That's not so easy when the bag has many folds, droopy fabrics or twist-and-turns. So, I don't even bother drawing my ideas. Instead... (bend your head 90 degress towards the left shoulder...sorry, needed to take the picture landscape to get whole shot)
I draw the silhouette of the bag using straight lines. I take into account the final size...more or less. I work on half side since the pattern will be symmetric for this style. I draw a few lines to indicate where the fabric will bend when being held up...remember there is going to be a bit of fabric give. These pieces are then cut. Using masking tape, I placed the center piece along a line on my cutting board. The following pieces are taped forming a more spread out, relaxed shape. See how the top line is more stretched out. This will make it easier to sew a zipper for the main closure. Once I'm happy with the shape, I place pattern-paper on top. I can easily see the cut pieces underneath. Again, align top paper along center. Using a bendable ruler, I redraw the shape along the outer edges of the cut pieces. From straight lines to curvy lines.
**NOTE TO SELF** Look into buying a bendable ruler with an actual measuring tape on it. This way, I can measure easily. Searching eBay as we speak... Do the same for all outer edges that are curvy. For handbags, I use a ½ inch seam. Because slouchy bags tend to use a lot more fabric, it would be wise to have the option to cut the main shape in smaller pieces. This is an option, of course, which I like to do with my patterns. I don't have to redraw basically the same shape(s). Label them. Put notes on them, like CUT ON FOLD, CUT 1, etc... Cut the pieces. Include pattern grainlines. Oops! Forgot the side gussett. Now, the next fun thing...choosing the fabric. I have this fabric that I kept (almost hidden so I won't be tempted to use it) for a couple of years now. I have been saving it...I dunno why, I'm like that. Of course now it's no longer available. It's by Chris Stone. See? It's on the main page of the site too! I'm sure I can reorder but I may have to buy the whole bolt which I will need to sell a kidney. If the fabric has an obvious pattern, make sure the center pieces are centered. Gosh, like how many times can I write centered? Anyway, you know what I'm trying to say. If the fabric is solid then this makes it easier. Respect the fabric grain...that should be on a bumper-sticker...when placing the pieces. I had almost 4 yards of this gorgeous fabric and manage to cut for 4 bags. Next step is to cut the lining and interfacing. I like using interface to give the shape more volume, especially if the main fabric is not a heavy-weight one.

...to be continued.

+Creativity: Curse or Gift?

2011-01-31T11:09:00.011-05:00

Most of my friends, wait..., ALL of my friends think I'm creative. They have told me how much they love what I can do with my hands. My mind is a wonder. They're in awe of me. Big words!!! But it's true. They're freaky that way. My best friend since childhood, Kim, is my biggest fan. I would remake a brown paper bag and she would scream with excitement. I think she's a bit biased to tell you the truth but I love her dearly for being so supportive. All these praises can be a bit uncomfortable because at times I think my creativity is grossly exaggerated. Yup! I am having one of those days today. A creative mind like my mind NEVER sleeps! I am always thinking of new designs, new ideas, new twist-and-turns. It's frightening. It doesn't have a PAUSE button. I would be seating in a public bus and ideas would pop! Damn! Where's my sketch book? Ooh, found it! Damn! Where's my pen? Ah, there it is! Busy busy busy! Sometimes, I just don't draw the ideas anymore...it gets overwhelming. Or, I forget...to be totally honest. They're like fleeting images. I even sleep with my sketch book nearby just in case Alexander McQueen decides to visit my dreams and show me a few tricks. I'm not the best drawer, I admit. So most of the times, the intricate details I have imagined in my head, I just can't put down on paper. But I have it in my head...somewhere. I just need time to actually commit to it and do it already before memory lapses set in.

Ah yes, time. Perhaps my battle with my creativity is really my battle with the lack of time? Is it because of shortage of time, I can not continue to be creative? And this is frustrating for creative people. It's like being handcuffed. Sure that makes sense, right? Unfortunately, there are other hurdles too. You know...those everyday stuff of life - housechores, money, relationships, etc. Again, time. It is an easy slide to discouragement when very little things around you seem to rotate the same direction at the same speed as you. And that's to be expected. I'm not naive. I know this is not Wonderland...I wish. Ahem...still looking for that rabbit hole. Having such a busy mind has become a detriment to my personal relationship. I don't mean to be distracted or uninterested, it just seems that way. I can totally multi-task my mind too. Women have that skill down-packed. I can listen to someone speak and still imagine a gorgeous drapey design using a super-fine linen fabric and have dinner planned for the entire week.

On the positive side though (yes, please end this post with a peppy send-off, you say), I love love love what I can do. I wish I've done something like this sooner. I wish I went to school to study design or something. But it's never too late to learn. Most of the things I've done are all self-taught. And I am super proud of myself for being able to learn and to be inspired easily. I think this is a gift. To be creative, to imagine, to construct...

And to conclude, a curse or gift? Well, it is a Yin-Yang world, after all. So it's both...one cannot live without the other.

+In the works...

2011-01-26T10:49:00.007-05:00

Boy oh boy, my end-of-season sale is going really well. About 30% of bags have been sold-out already. You know what this means??? More space for new ones. I've been so busy designing new bags. I want to get looser in my design, softer and less structured in shapes. It's not easy drawing "loose" on paper. There's lots of folds and flowy curves. I have so many drawings that sometimes I forget what I was envisioning. This is when I just take a piece of burlap and play around with it instead of attempting to sketch it. Here's one that I've been working on. I added a few pleats on the sides to add details. Working with light cotton non-bleached burlap can be deceiving. The weight is super light that sometimes the shape may look more droopy. But don't worry, I intend to use a medium-weight fabric, add interface to give it some more weight if necessary, then it won't be as droopy and skinny. Then when I'm happy with the shape, I make the pattern. Funny enough, this shape does not require a complex pattern, which I tend to gravitate to. In fact, it's only a one-piece pattern...well except for the straps which I intend to use a ready-made heavy-duty cotton strap. There is a lot of twist-and-turn in this design though so it's not THAT easy. Next is to try the pattern with a medium-weight burlap to see if everything jives. Then, onto the real fabric. More designs... And another one... To start SPRING 2011, I will introduce (soon I hope) 3 new bag designs. And more hopefully for SUMMER 2011.

Stay tune!!!

+End-of-Season SALE!!! - it's massive

2011-01-19T13:58:00.006-05:00

Well, it's that crazy time of the fall/winter season... SALE SALE SALE!!! I love this time. It means I am preparing to introduce new stuff and will be needing more room. So, I am offering amazing discounts on my handbags of the past and present. ALMOST ALL is on sale. Don't miss out.

Come and check out the deals at my main shop - Paco+Lupe.

+Sneak peeks - something new for 2011

2011-01-17T12:09:00.003-05:00

This week is going to be just like any other week - INSANELY BUSY! I have been working on some ideas for some months now. Here's a little sneek peak on my progress. STAY TUNE!!!

"LIKE" my Facebook Page to get updates about...well...everything, really.

+Weekend Dumpster-Diving

2011-01-15T16:55:00.000-05:00

We were due for a weekend dumpster-diving so we checked-out one of my Craigslist-discovery to see if there's anything new since our last visit that needed to be rescued. We checked out building "C" where retail store fixtures are sold. They had tons of mannequins, it's like a horror movie in there. They also have stands, display cabinets, hangers, etc. If you can stand the mess, you may be able to find something salvageable. I grew impatient with the old fart who was attending the place. He was sooo anxious to get rid of us than make money. He was deaf so I had to actually yell at him "HOW MUCH?!?" We got a female torso for $42.50. He was not interested in bargaining at all so don't even try. Oh well... Onto the next building - "B" - for furnitures and stuff. Check out the vintage pantry cabinet (above). Someone please take this piece. It's really nice. Sad to leave it. It would look great in a loft-like place on its own. These were the best chairs I saw that have so much potential. Fresh coat of paint, new foam and fabrics...and voilà. Again we left them there. Just don't have the time. But I bet once all done up, these will find new homes. This is actually a candle holder. You put the candles on their heads. Cute. This is a child's lamp. I always wonder who these things belonged to before they ended up in this dust-filled, unheated place? Alley of cabinets, dresses, etc...

This time...nothing. Well, not totally nothing. I was just interested in a small rescue-project this time. We'll be back though.

+Introducing...Las Flores

2011-01-13T09:25:00.005-05:00

I've had these bags hanging around...literally...for the past few months waiting for a clear sunny day to take photos. Well, finally, I managed AND THEN the holidays came. Well, here she is...just in time for SPRING. Yes, I said SPRING. Oh, why not? A girl can dream. On Las Flores, I used the same gorgeous fabric as Maya Bay tote bag. I added a zipped pocket on the front for your latest mini-gadget. The main closure is a zipper. For the bottom, I added 4 rounded purse feet. Aren't they cute? I used a solid black fabric for the gussett of the bag. The black really punches out the flowers and the grey background. This bag is a limited edition. There are only 3 available. You know me, I just love keeping things fresh and new.

Las Flores is available at my main shop Paco+Lupe.

+Hibernating in my workshop

2011-01-12T11:17:00.003-05:00

OK so it's been awhile since I last posted something. There's always that slow start after the holidays...we're a bit heavier, the house is a bit disorganized, catching up with friends, blah blah blah...

Well I finally got my act together, drew a few sketches of new ideas and I've locked myself in our basement workshop working on some. I can't say what they are yet. I am making enough to post and to make sure most of them are ready-to-be shipped. Of course, some will be limited editions. That's just because when I shop for fabrics, I just buy a few metres (yards in some stores) or grab whatever they have left. I like changing things up...quite often.

Anyway, I shouldn't be blogging right now. Time is an essence. So please stay tune for more info coming soon! Soon? Soon!

+Year 2010 in review

2011-01-01T12:04:00.011-05:00

Caffe Latte (oops! kinda self explanatory, right?) What is it about starting a new year makes us look back? It is, as if, looking back helps us move forward. We remember stuff that happened, stuff we have done, stuff we shouldn't have done. Friends we made, friends we lost. More importantly, has my Facebook friend count gone up??? It is a numbers game after all, right? Ah, curse you, Mark Zuckerberg! Pounds we gain and, hopefully, pounds we lost...I wish. Events we relished in and those we regret. Love gain and love lost. Autumn Leaves The year 2010 is just like any other year, really. However, when it is time to make that dreaded New Year's resolution list, some of us seemed to focus on the negatives. The negatives, yes. Those will never happen again. I will make them disappear in 2011. Like, "I will eat better", "I will exercise more", "I will not pay attention to celebrities-gone-seriously-bad", "I will pay off my credit card debt", "Perhaps I should just stop shopping first", "I will connect with my friends face-to-face more" (nah!)... You know, THE LIST. Full of great intentions that will just make our lives even better than the previous year. Sail boat on St-Laurent River Year after year! Does having a list really work? I mean, really??? I didn't think so. How can you predict that in the next 365 days nothing will happened that will divert your path to perfection? Life is full of surprises, after all. It's how we react to those diversions is unknown. Some we'll be more prepared for, some will hit us like a freight train! WTF was that?!? Purse feet And 2010 was indeed full of surprises. Good ones and bad ones. Like...
☺ I started selling my bags at boutiques in Toronto and Ottawa - good.
☺ I started selling my bags at a boutique in Montreal but didn't work out - bad but good too 'cause, at least, I tried.
☺ Sales weren't as great as before but I still worked hard and introduced new designs, keeping positive - good and fun!
☺ I had a health scare and survived it - terribly bad but good now!
☺ My husband ran the 10K Montreal Marathon - super good!
☺ A bunch of us spent the best vacation in Maine - so good!
☺ We spent Christmas with family in San Francisco and escaped the snow for a few days - always good!
☺ I spent more time with my friends, face-to-face, honestly - good!
☺ I had (and still have) the best people around me - really really good!
Store window You noticed how I focused on the good ones? Don't get me wrong, it isn't as rosy as I make it sound. It is a choice I have decided to make...ignore the nasties of 2010. I can't do much about them anyway. Turn away from the bad ones, if you can. If you can not, go at them with gusto. Just don't be complacent, don't settle and don't give up. I digress...back to the list. First snow storm So, what's on my list then? Well, pretty much the same as before.
♥ eat better (will ALWAYS be on my list)
♥ move more (2010 was special so I forgive myself)
♥ read more (not just magazines with lots of pics either!)
♥ write more (before my handwriting skills go down the drain)
♥ learn how to drive (I know, I am gonna be the oldest fart in driving school!)
♥ learn how to relax quicker when stress hits me (a work-in-progress)
♥ learn something new
♥ create something new
♥ cherish my loved ones
♥ be grateful for what I have

...and the rest, I will figure it out as I go. One foot after the other... Interlaken,Switzerland 2000...brave then, brave still

+And over here is the baby's room...

2010-12-17T13:17:00.008-05:00

YEAH!!! Here's the Baby's Room...FINALLY! I've been wanting to release this section on Paco+Lupe for quite some time now but there's always the usual reasons for the delay. But here it is finally.

To start, here's the very first baby item...My Little Bear. The print of this fabric is so adorable. Who doesn't love cutie bears? I love the soft colours of this fabric. So soothing and peaceful, just the way babies prefer. This is perfect for either a baby boy or a baby girl This is a 37x37 inch baby blanket made of 100% cotton (front) and 100% polyester anti-pill lambskin flannel (back). I have prewashed and preshrunk both fabrics before sewing. This is a limited edition...there are only 4 made available. So don't miss out. Available only at Paco+Lupe

Tell me what you think. Your comments are always valuable to me.
Thanks!
Celia

+Introducing...Layla

2010-12-07T15:54:00.008-05:00

Finally! Why I say that? Well, I've had this design since this summer. Pattern was made around September. Found a store that sells uncut fringes, which proved to be harder to find. And at that same store, I found these wooden circular buckles. Perfect! I have everything. Well, a few months later, I am so excited to show you my latest boho handbag!

Here she is...Layla. I arranged the fringes in a twisted, random manner in front. Embedded in the beautiful mess are two wooden buckles. The depth at the bottom is 4 inches so there is lots and lots of room. For the lining, instead of my usual solid coloured fabric, I used this batik-pattern indigo blue cotton fabric...just to add more boho into it. I think that dark chocolate and dark blue combo is so beautiful. Another shot of the twisted fringes. I made only 5. One belongs to Giovanna of Boho Market blog. That means there are only 4 left. So make sure you get yours!

Layla is now available at Paco+Lupe in limited quantity.

Tell me what you think. Your comments are always valuable to me.
Thanks!
Celia

UPDATE: Dec.8,2010: Check out her debut on Boho Market. Thanks, Giovanna, for the wonderful post!!!

+Introducing...Maya Bay

2010-12-02T13:21:00.007-05:00

Aint she pretty??? I named this one Maya Bay, a gorgeous beach in Thailand. I've never been there but someday...in the meantime...enjoy! I used 100% heavy-weight cotton fabric. The florals are so bold against the quiet grey. I just love the contrast. It is so attractive without being too girly. Kinda like quiet pretty. Two external front pockets, swivel hook for your key chain inside, the usual... I used solid black for the rim of bag. I made only 4 of these. Take a closer look at Maya Bay now available at Paco+Lupe.

Tell me what you think. Your comments are always valuable to me.
Thanks!
Celia

+Introducing...Raven

2010-11-24T13:21:00.008-05:00

Black is back...well, at least during the fall/winter months. Somehow, we just tend to go darker during these seasons. I used one of my fave fabrics to work with...microsuede. This fabric is so versatile. It looks like suede. It feels like suede. It hangs like suede. BUT... It's super light and totally FAKE...fake suede, that is. I love pockets...can you tell? The main closure is a zipper. The usual interior features: 1 zipped pocket (about 6"x6"), pouches (deep and wide enough for your cell-phones, calculator, pen, etc.) and a swivel hook for your keychain so you'll never have to empty out your bag to find them. Practical things. I kept the back simple. Check out RAVEN now available at my main shop Paco+Lupe.

Feel free to leave your comments, which are super welcomed.
Thanks!
Celia

+Black Friday-Cyber Monday Bonanza!

2010-11-23T10:41:00.006-05:00

YES!!! Finally, Etsy introduces Coupon Codes...YAY! We've only been asking for this feature for, like, years?!? Anyway, they're here and I'm very excited to use this new feature.

So this USA Black Friday/Cyber Monday tradition is crazy! I'm joining in the fun by creating an Etsy Coupon Code of 10% off on any item in my Etsy Store...can I mention "Etsy" one more time? Nah, I think you get the point.

When and When??? Starting today, Tuesday November 23 until end of Monday, November 29. Why wait until Friday, right?

So, all you have to do is enter the coupon code "Xanadu" (see pic above) and the math will be done automatically.

Happy shopping...or browsing. Can't decide, there's always Gift Certificates.

Please help me spread the word. Thanks!

+Fabric Sale - upcoming

2010-11-22T11:06:00.006-05:00

I wish I had another pair of arms/hands. I wish I had more hours in the day. But that's just wishful thinking...I know. Anyway, so I bought all these gorgeous cotton fabrics in hope to create something as equally gorgeous. A quilt, a baby blanket, etc...but reality is, there's just no time. So it pains me to tell you that I will be selling these fabrics. I haven't set-up where yet. Either at my Etsy shop or my main site Paco+Lupe. Hmmm...let me think about this. In the meantime, I need to take better photos of the fabrics for sale. Measure them to see how much I have left. Post them up. I think I'll send out a newsletter to see if that can spread the word faster. It's too bad. I had ideas for these. Some of them you just can't find them anymore. I have tons more... Stay tune for further annoucement.

+What I would do with this...old 4-seater school desk

2010-11-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

I confess...I'm a Craigslist-addict. Not a week goes by without me checking out what's new on Craigslist Montreal. I can give you a tour of our house and point out stuff we bought for a bargain. Some furnitures are not built the way they use to anymore. Most are made with pressed wood junk..."disposable furniture" - that's what they are. Lately though, sellers have been a little more enthusiastic about their pricing so hunting has been more challenging. But I am always on the look-out. Since I can't possible rescue all furnitures, I love imagining IF I have the room, what would I do with that piece. So I start a new series of WHAT I WOULD DO WITH THIS...

...old 4-seater school desk.

I remember in high-school physics class, we had this table. The table is bar-height. I'm guessing it is in this picture (above). We put our binders and books into the cubicles. It is great as-is. A bit of sanding, cleaning and varnishing, leaving a bit of the original paint is nice. As is, it can be used as a commode, place it behind a long sofa, or use it as a funky buffet table in the dining room. For me, I would cut the legs shorter so that it's about TV height. Place it along the "media" side of a room, ie: family room. Use the cubicles to store the DVD player (or VCR, if you're old-school, LOL), magazines, remote controls, recharging pod for your cell-phones, batteries, iPad, iPhone, iTouch, i-Whatever, etc...

That's what I would do. SO! Who wants to rescue this beautiful piece? If you're in Montreal, check it out here...old 4-seater school desk.

+Monday Pic - My precious Joya

2010-11-15T07:25:00.001-05:00

Here she is again! JOYA! She can't escape my prying eyes armed with digital camera in hand, always looking out for those amazingly cute poses, which she does quite often. I have tons of shots, it's crazy. She's born on January 1. She's gonna turn 13 years old pretty soon. She's probably saying...Not you again! Would you mind leaving me alone! I'm trying to cat-nap! Sheesh...crazy paparazzi!

HAVE A GREAT WEEK, EVERYONE!

+Getting back in shape

2010-11-14T22:17:00.004-05:00

The year 2010, for me, has been filled with many health challenges and it's not over yet. One of them is my weight issue. Most of my friends will smack me if they hear me say that I need to go on a "diet". At 5feet tall and 110 pounds, I am by no means overweight. But I am not as slim as I use to be, that's for sure. Therefore, I won't say "diet". Instead, I will say I need to get back in shape. I will be concentrating on improving my cardio and toning some problem zones. To help me reach my goal, I need to keep track of my measurements, weight and activities. To do this, I created a diagram that I will use to track these down. See pic below. Normally, people start exercising again after the holidays. I'm doing the reverse. I am starting now so I can go shopping this coming holidays for new clothes...for the new me heading to 2011.

Because I already eat healthy (I think), I don't need to track my meals. But there's always room for improvement. I'll just increase my veggies and fruit intake, reduce my salt, caffeine and sugar. Easy, right? No way!

Looking at the calendar, there are 6 weeks left before the holidays. Ah, holidays...the time of year where we throw away the scale. My goal is to lose at least an inch at each measurements, regain my muscles that seem to be hiding beneath it all, and be able to walk a little longer each day!

Can I do it??? I certainly gonna give it my best shot! So tomorrow is the start of Week 1. Time to measure up!

BTW, it's my birthday today! What better present to give myself.

+Gift Certificates now available

2010-11-09T09:09:00.008-05:00

After receiving requests from some customers, subscribers and friends, I finally added an option on my website Paco+Lupe to buy gift certificates. I just love it when there are really smart people out there that makes this sort of change very easy for non-web-savvy folks like me. Paypal has an option to add a button for this feature. I just cut&paste the generated html code onto my home page...and voilà! You can't miss it...bright orange button. Paypal also allows the purchaser to select the amount he/she wishes to give. The gift certificate can be emailed directly to the recipient. A redemption code is given so when the recipient is ready to shop and use the certificate, there is a paypal box that will ask for the number. Easy! Paco+Lupe Etsy store gift certificate For those who prefer to shop at Etsy store, I've added gift certificates there as well, valued at $10, $25 and $50 USDollars. Check them out here.

+Monday Pic - No time to waste...

2010-11-08T09:32:00.004-05:00

I just checked the calendar. Christmas is 6 weeks+5days away. PANIC!

It's a good thing that my two sisters and I decided that there will be no gift exchange this year. Well, for many reasons. My older sister just bought a condo meaning she has joined the rest of us mortgage-bound citizens. My business has slowed down this year due to that "R" word thing. So, YES, we're skipping the gift-giving thing this year. We'll just go out for nice dinners instead.

Not a good thing that I haven't bought anything yet for my husband's family who leaves across the Atlantic. And we all know how frigging unreliable our national postal service is. I really should be arranging a package soon and get it shipped, like, NOW!, since it will take at least 5 weeks to get there.

Plus I have to prepare for the Christmas shoppers...just in case sales pick up a bit. Boy oh boy, I'm so behind...AGAIN! One of these days, I will be at least ON SCHEDULE...that'll be a miracle. On that note...back to cutting, cutting and cutting some more!!!

HAVE A GREAT WEEK, EVERYONE!