Adding Art-o-Mat: Phoenix Collection

           I've been meaning to post this for a month, but here's a few behind the scenes look at our new Phoenix Collection for Fall 2013. These are custom orange fire bracelets inspired by the idea of turning death into life. Because we will all fall, the question is if we choose to stay down or get back up. Me? I think there's a wealth of possibility waiting to learn and improve from failure (our own or others). Each one is individually designed and sewn. A lovely piece of art. And hopefully a message worth being inspired by.
           You can find pieces at in local art vending machines across with country with Art-o-mat for $5.00 each. Taking my love of leather and sewing to the next level. May it inspire you to try something new or step outside your comfort zone.
            The past month with Techshop RD's closing on short notice (3 days) and just general fall-out, Nash and I have had a number of occasions to look at each other and be grateful to have each other in the fox hole with us. I'm not going to pretend it's all been easy, but hey a little sharpening of the soul and craft is never a bad thing. Happy July 4th weekend.

PS- Will try and post more of our store and designer collaborations this month. If you're interested in having us produce for your store or private label work, short us an e-mail at: DaraPage@lisashay.com.

Black Leather Gauntlets in Etsy Shop

Nash finally had some time this past week to make a few pairs of black leather gauntlets that were so popular at AZ. We actually sold out last month which was a lot of fun. It's nice to see a particular design is well accepted. The smaller size is $18.00 while the larger size is $20.00. Hopefully I will get to see more awesome fights and theater cosplay as a result. Very fun and durable pieces.

Happy July 4th weekend everyone!
May your dreams and fireworks have fun!

Textile Friday: The Color Of Your Heart

        Wow, sometimes in fashion you get to see something beautiful and unique that takes your breath away a little. This week, I ran across one of those moments, which I am now sharing my joy with you. Watch this beautiful video of this leather and e-paper dress that responds to the beat of it's wearer's heart by changing color. Produced by Studio Roosegaarde, this is truly a modern work of art. I love how there's always something new in this business. An unexpected thrill of something yet to be discovered or surprised by. May your job excite and fill you with wonder too.

Custom Order: Bronycon Messenger Bag

           Today, I wanted to release a fun project I've been working on for a friend for Bronycon. Charlie was inspired by the stained glass windows in My Little Pony. Most of our custom orders are created to make my customers smile and this one definitely hit the mark. I was going to take more, but Charlie made off like a bandit with his new prize! Hopefully you can see the custom leather graphics we did based on his sketches below.
             Custom orders are always a favorite. I do need to start posting more requests online. Roughly 2% of the work our shop does ends up on the internet, the vast majority of it is sold directly to buyers. I'm horrible at taking actual photos as the making part is my favorite!
             But, sometimes...I have great friends and customers who let me take photos. So today...a custom bag for you to see. :-)
 

50% Off Summer Collection for Sparkcon

                Hey guys! Welcome to the blog. This week we are dusting off the tables for SparkCon. We have two really great announcements. The first is that we are putting our Pearls of Wisdom summer collection on sale for 50% off in person this weekend. So if you missed out on getting the perfect hat or scarf this summer, nows your chance to pick up a really great last minute deal of the season.
      Because who doesn't love a sale? Check back tomorrow when we give you a taste of our new fall collection: Beloved which we will be unveiling at SparkCon. I'll give you a hint, lots of leather and lace.

Have a great day one and all.

PS- Please note this sale is only available in person for the show. It is not available online.

Day One: Newly Redesigned Leather Labels

The first of our designs I am releasing this fall is our new leather labels for the season. They stand as a wonderful symbol of quality on our high-end couture pieces. These labels feature several specific improvements this season to stand up to a host of abuse and still look good.

First the labels are mineral dyed instead of vegetable dyed. This is a much higher quality and won't run or bleed the way traditionally finished vegetable labels will. I picked MBA quality cowhide this season. The leather is a lovely buttersoft that helps the textures pop in logos. Beside being resistant to bleeding, mineral dyes also create a better texture for the customer. The finish lacks the traditional wax, oil, or plastic feel used in vegetable dying. My favorite part is it sews easier making it a joy to work with.

Second, hardware. I have really fallen in love with hardware as a way to up the quality presentation for customers. You can either do rivets (traditional) or eyelets which goes great for things like: bookbinding, jewelry making, luggage tags... anything that would have a leather or silk cord go through it.

I've narrowed it down to the 8 colors on trend for the season that take etching the best for readable tags (most important for brand logos). You can order a kit with a selection of leather and hardware for $10 off Etsy all fall:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/81380017/custom-leather-labels-color-sample-new

I encourage you to order yours today. Have a great week. Check in next week for Day Two.