Shadow Play - Found On A Friday

Le Grand Carnival, Shadow Box Diorama Frame by LaBoom, Etsy.

Paper is such a wonderful thing, it can become so many different things in as many different hands. When we are children, we are given paper and crayons or finger-paint, and let loose to make a mess. When we learn to look at books, we can see magical images on the same flat plane of paper. When we begin to read and write, we form letters and numbers with pencils and pens and begin to express ourselves in a non-verbal way that other people can understand. But by far, my favorite use of paper is to alter it from it's usual one-dimensional form, and to create something entirely different.

3D Pedestal Display - A Day In The Island - by LaBoom, Etsy.

By layering, gluing, scrunching, folding, cutting, painting, and any other number of manipulations, we can turn paper into magic. We see the world in dimensions, though we may not be as aware of it as we are when we sit in a movie theater looking at that flat screen with those goofy 3D glasses on. There is perspective all around us, some things are closer, some things are farther away. When light moves over the land, be it natural or artificial, different things are highlighted. We see shadows, we see new items illuminated that we didn't notice before, and everything can change in the span of a few hours. Think about your favorite place to be, it looks different based on how much light there is, and where you are in that space.

Handmade 3D Display - Ludella On Stage - by LaBoom, Etsy.

Shadow boxes and dioramas are becoming a lost art, and that is a true shame. Children create their art on a tablet or computer screen, and it never achieves the same quality of a hand made work. If you never play with sizes and shapes of cut out paper arranged closer or farther from your eyes, and with different light sources, you will never fully understand the magic of perspective. No matter what technology comes along, there is nothing that can beat a plain old arts and crafts kit full of scraps of paper, trims and findings, glue, paint, and colour.

3D Shadow Box Frame - The Journey of a Teapot -, With a Light by LaBoom, Etsy.

Today I stumbled upon the most magical of things, a wonderful Shadow Box Diorama created by the very talented hands of Tatiana Kontouli. Tatiana's Etsy Shop, called LaBoom, contains a bounty of wonderful examples of 3D sculpture, shadow boxes, dioramas, lighted boxes and other magical hand crafted paper creations. Tatiana's creations vary in price quite a bit, from $12.00 US for smaller shadow boxes, to $55.00 US for her most intricate creations. This makes them affordable for almost anyone to add to a collection of curiosities, or as a perfect gift for that person that is impossible to buy for.

Handmade 3D Frame Display - Miss Nagg's Kindness Spirit - by LaBoom, Etsy.

Comprised of vintage ephemera, paper cutouts, fabric trims, wire, glitter, cardboard, and illusion, Tatiana's work is fascinating to look at, and really makes you want to take a closer look inside the box.  From grand multi-figure displays, to simple seeming light boxes, each piece is so very special. You can see the careful combination of elements, the thoughtful placement of text and hidden creatures, and the small touches of magic that make these more than just crafty little items, it makes them something very special indeed.

Handmade Shadow Box Frame - Peachy Wonderland - by LaBoom, Etsy.

A close look at the individual listings I have selected to show you, or any of the dozens of others in the LaBoom shop, will show you different angles and close-up views that will enchant you utterly. Tatiana Kontouli's "whimsical wonderland" ships all the way from beautiful Antiparos, Cyclades in Greece, one of the most magical and mythical places on the planet. It all just makes the story come together for me, Greece is the seat of a great deal of the historical evolution of sculpture and art.

Light Box Diorama Display - Watch Out Girls - , Light Off by LaBoom, Etsy.

Light Box Diorama Display - Watch Out Girls - , Illuminated by LaBoom, Etsy.

I urge you to take a closer look at LaBoom, and hope you see something so special you simply must bring it's whimsy and magic into your home. If nothing else, it will have you heading into your old scrap box of bits and bobs, grabbing an old cigar box or cardboard frame, and planning to spend a little time with a glue-stick and some newsprint in the near future. Dioramas should not be on the endangered list of folk arts, too many things have already gone that direction.

3D Shadow Box Frame - Party Dog -  by LaBoom, Etsy.

So hit up the local craft shop or dig into your old stash of findings and create your own shadow box, and include the children in your life in the process, they will be enchanted by the magic that can be found in paper. Don't let them think of paper as relegated to school work and books alone, as much as I love books - they need to learn to see possibility in all materials, and not just take them for granted. In the time before television, computers, and video games,it is too easy to forget about real creativity.

Shadow Light Box 3D Frame Diorama - Hippolyte - by LaBoom, Etsy.

Where will our future sculptors, crafters, designers and architects be without knowing the magic that can be found in 3D? I am so glad I found Tatiana Kontouli's Etsy Shop, LaBoom on a Friday, and now you can be too. Have a great weekend everyone, do something creative with paper and rediscover the magic.

3D Shadow Box Frame - Fox In The Woods - by LaBoom, Etsy.

Bohemian Bangles Galore - Motley Mode Mondays

Hippie Bracelet/Bohemian Gypsy Style [Pink & Mint] by One Of A Kind Jewelry Designs, Etsy

I spend a lot of time on Etsy just window shopping, browsing, basically foraging really. I discover new things I never knew I wanted or, *sigh*, needed and had to have. It's a rather addicting thing really, looking at all these amazing hand-made or vintage items, seeing others creativity and brilliance, and knowing that no matter how much the world is changing, there are some things that remain blissfully unchanged. People still have an attraction to things that are one-of-a-kind [OOAK], items that are made by hands with love and intention, treasures that are truly irreplaceable. As I look at these amazing items, I am always drawn to something that seems to speak to me in a way that is very unique. I know what I like, I just couldn't really tell you exactly what that means until I see it.

Friendship Bracelet Bib Statement Necklace or Choker, Vintage Rhinestones and Swarovski in Hot Pink, Blue, Purple - Prom Necklace OOAK

Ibiza Chic Hippie Cuff Bracelet - Friendship Bracelet Cuff With Studs and Swarovski, Hand-stamped "Peace Love Joy" - OOAK

Swarovski Flower Earrings in Coral, Orange, and Khaki, Antique Silver and Gold OOAK

This entire blog is a testimony to that fact, everything I blog, every item I share, is something special and has something wonderful about it, be it a story, an artistry, a craft, or a soul.  Often I can pick one or two items special items out of an Etsy Storefront, the various individual shops set up directly by the creators or curators, but every now and then, I find myself adding a heap of little 'love it' hearts to an entire shop because I am simply in love with everything I see. Every heart means that it is a favorite item, something I want to keep an eye on, look at again and again, something that I may very well eventually buy, bank account willing. But when you find an entire shop full of those amazing things that you love so very much, the best thing you can do is to share the love, and let people know about it. So that is exactly what I am doing. 

Bridal Hair Comb Lavender Moonstones, Vintage Rhinestones - Shabby Chic Wedding OOAK

Romantic Chandelier Earring with Vintage Pear Drops OOAK

Peacock Wedding Bracelet, Shabby Chic Vintage Style Cuff - Bridesmaid Gift OOAK

Karin van Rijn, from the Netherlands, is one such creator and shop owner.  Her self described 'young and edgy Dutch jewelry brand' is very special indeed. These amazing handmade pieces of pure genius are like looking through your grandmother's old jewelry collection, and then mixing and matching the best bits to make totally new and unique bits of wonderful. Rhinestones, acrylic flourishes, paste jewels, metals, leather, woven threads, glass beads, and semi-precious stones abound in astounding combinations of shine, bling, and colourful clashes of fancy. If you are into minimalist and architectural jewelry, I am afraid this is not your day. But if you are into bohemian flair, bangles of brilliance, and wedding jewelry and accessories that are as one-of-a-kind at the Bride herself, then you have just hit the mother-load of awesome.

Bridal Sash Brooch, Vintage Flowers and Sparkling Rhinestones [MADE TO ORDER] OOAK

Bridal Headband - Rhinestone Wedding Hair Piece, Art Deco Style OOAK

Bridesmaid Set of Three [or More] - Shabby Chic Wrist Corsages, Bridesmaid Gifts

One Of A Kind Jewelry Design is exactly what it sets out to be, and van Rijn's talent for mixing and matching elements and textures is masterful. Never have I seen such a skilled hand at pulling together beads and baubles into harmonious and unique creations that are somehow still very personal and have a note of heirloom quality about them. These are the items you will pass on from one member of your family to the next. This is the gift you give to the one-of-a-kind woman in your life that speaks more than words. A friend would consider herself very lucky indeed to be in possession of one of van Rijn's creations, or re-creations as the case may be.

Bohemian Hippie Bracelet, Wide Crystal Swarovski Friendship Bracelet Cuff OOAK

Bib Statement Necklace, Hand-painted Neon Pink Ombre Vintage Rhinestone Necklace OOAK

Wedding Cuff Bracelet in Vintage Collage Style, Statement Cuff OOAK

If any of these items tickle your fancy, then you had better get ready to be tickled to death, there is so much more to see at van Rijn's Etsy Shop. Currently, there is a 50% off sale on some of her collection, so if you are looking for the perfect gift for yourself or someone you love, don't hesitate to snap up some pretties.  Prices for these items range from €11.50 Euros, about $16.00 US/CDN Dollars, up to
€398.00 Euros [$550.00 US/CDN Dollars] for the most intricate and large pieces. Really there is something for every budget and every taste, from smaller items like earring or rings, to bangles and bunches of bohemian bracelets, necklaces, headbands, and other amazing bridal accessories. One Of A Kind Jewelry Design also has some amazing sets for bridesmaids, where you can get three of the same look for one great price, so that all of your bridesmaids can match and still be the only ones in the world with that particular design.

Vintage Collage Bird, Romantic Soft Leather Cuff OOAK

Vintage Flowers Necklace - Blue Wedding, Shabby Chic OOAK

Native American/Aztec/Navajo Inspired Friendship Bracelet Cuff OOAK

Stop in to check out all the amazing looks at Karin's Store, and check back often, as new things are added almost every week. With a stock of almost 200 items listed for sale, there is just so much to look at and I have no doubt, something will reach out at grab you in that special one-of-a-kind way.

Clowns Keeping Us In Stitches - Time Travel Thursdays

Fabulous Forties Costume Pattern - Clown Around Vintage -Style at Momma Black Sheep on Etsy.

 My mother was always a crafty woman, where my dad had a 'workshop' in the basement, she had a 'sewing room'. My dad's workshop was filled with every imaginable tool, like most men he had multiples of many things that he forgot he already had, hitting Canadian Tire or Lansing Build All was a weekend staple destination for him back in the mid-1970s.  My father, no slouch in the fix-it department, actually build us a full 'play house' in the backyard of our North York, Ontario home. It was big enough to have the entire neighborhood's children all inside it and still have room for a table and chairs. 

McCall 2833, 1920s Girl's Clown Suit Costume at Fripperie on Etsy.

Vintage Advance Clown Pattern 701 - Men's and Women's - Size Large 18-20 at Dream Weaver 1954 on Etsy.

Simplicity 4864 Clown Costume 1960s for Children Vintage Sewing Pattern at Mrs. Depew Vintage on Etsy.

 My mother was someone who could sew, so it seemed absolutely natural to me that she would have a 'sewing room'. I though every home had one, just like a kitchen or bathroom, little did I know.  My mother was famous for putting patches inside the knees of our worn-out play jeans, for shortening the cuffs on our hand-me-down pants, and for mending our cloth toys and blankets.  She also made costumes for us, for Halloween, for our endless themed birthday parties [there were four of us kids after all], and for our dance recitals.

Vintage 1950s Delightful Children 's Clown Costume Sewing Pattern - Hat, Neck Ruffle, Pom Poms - Size Medium RARE at Farfalla Design Studio on Etsy.

Kid's Vintage Clown Costume Pattern Simplicity 6363 Size 12 at Kandiieee on Etsy.

Vintage Clown Costume 1976 Simplicity Sewing Pattern 9051 Medium at Claudette's Vintage Vault on Etsy.

 In the early 1980s, my mother actually stitched up a Care Bear costume for not only my little sister, but one of her dance class-mates. The were unbelievably detailed, and my mother still has the one she made for my sister. A full head-to-toe costume, the child's face actually peeks out of the mouth of the Care Bear in question. A pastel mint faux-fur body suit with an emblem stitched on the white belly, and a giant 'head' that went over the child's head, the scale was just as the stuffed dolls we had. Can you imagine an entire dance class of 12 six year-old girls trying to dance to "Teddy Bear's Picnic" in that huge and likely over-heated costume. You have to love it.

Vintage 1984 Butterick Pattern 6814 Care Bears Costume Size 2-6x at Gran's Treasures on Etsy.

McCall's 1940s Clown or Jester Pattern at Retro Recycle on Etsy.

Vintage 1965 Simplicity Sewing Pattern - Clown Costume Boy's Girl's Size 4-6 at Oh Vintage Threads on Etsy.

My mom also made us costumes for Purim, the Jewish holiday where dress-up is part of the fun. This year it falls on Thursday, March 8th/2012, so there is still time to get your costumes ready. Clown costumes are one option for Purim, as are the characters from the story the holiday is based on, including a princess of course. One year my mother made clown costumes for each of us kids, I must have been around 9 or 10 years old at the time, because I know she made them for myself and my twin sister, my brother, who was likely 7, and my youngest sister who was maybe 5 in her kindergarten class. 

Kids Clown Costume Butterick Sewing Pattern 3169 - Size 8 at Garden In The City on Etsy.

Costume Clown Simplicity 0664 Size BB 2-12 Children's Sewing Pattern at NANCE'S NOSTALGIA on Etsy.

1972 McCall's Sewing Pattern 3353 - Clown Costume Children's Size 10-12 at Full Circle Studios on Etsy.

The costumes were amazing. She made these huge ruffled neck pieces that went with them, a startling white compared to the colorful two print combo of the suit, trimmed with a lovely bright rickrack.  We also had matching hats, yarn pom poms accents and all. Too adorable for words. My mother went on to make a couple for adults, and then for many friends of the family, they became famous. My mother somehow found time for this with four young children of grade-school age, going to a school with no busing, cooking every meal we ate, and being a full-time homemaker. 

Vintage UNCUT Simplicity Sewing Pattern - Size Large 40-42 Adult's Clown Costume and Hats - Dated 1980 at In Grandma's Attic on Etsy.

Clown Costume Pattern Size Adult Medium - McCall's 4944 - Circa 1990 at Miss32Act on Etsy.

McCall's Crafts Boy and Girl Clown Costume Pattern 2623 UNCUT Size 2,4 at Lingonberries And Moss on Etsy.

People would call to ask to borrow them for all sorts of events, and they were generously sized so we got a good few years use out of them. I think it was quite an ingenious strategical move on the part of my mom to make the two oldest children's costumes, mine and my twin sister's, out of fairly gender neutral colors and prints, they lasted my siblings a long time in the years to follow. They pulled duty on trick or treat nights, Purim carnivals, and a themed birthday party where every child in attendance wore a similar costume.

Clown Halloween Costumes Pattern for Children Adults at Regency Cottage on Etsy.

1980 McCall's Pattern 7230 for an Adult's Clown Costume - Size Large at Lakeview Arts on Etsy.

Sewing Pattern Simplicity, Clown - Jester - Hobo Halloween Costume: Adult Medium UNCUT at Sew Alike on Etsy.

I could go on and on, but what today's Time Travel Thursday post is really about is those envelopes of patterns that you could buy at the fabric store, along with all your fabric and findings. It's about the days when people made their own clothing and costumes as the norm, and not the exception.  It is about those homes that included such things as 'sewing rooms', where magic happened in the hands of everyday people.  When your mother or grandmother would make you a costume that had never been worn by anyone else, that looked absolutely professional and fabulous, that no one else had, that was a treasured thing.  I have just gotten my first sewing machine, a very basic Singer model, just for making a few time saving stitches now and then.  My mother still has her first Singer too, it still works and she still uses it occasionally, and I know it is likely 40 years old, maybe more.

McCall's 9212 Vintage Sewing Pattern Child's Boy's Girl's CLOWN COSTUMES Size 6-8 at KatyBugVintage on Etsy.

Butterick 5073, Vintage 1990 Baby Jumpsuit Pattern UNCUT - Newborm - M at Vintage Vice on Etsy.

Halloween Costume Pattern Clowns Simplicity 7120 Size Small at AuntPittyPats2 on Etsy.

I would love to know how to use a pattern, to know how to use fabric so that the threads run the right way for stretch or fit, to know what seam technique to use, to  be able to create professional looking garments and costumes, just like my mother did. So few of us have the time or inclination to make things by hand, but I have found just the little bit of doll making I have been doing lately to be so therapeutic. To see a finished result, something tangible, something you can hold in your hands or give to a child to cuddle, it is a totally WOW moment. It's nice to see something through to the end, there is so much in our world that has become conceptual or intangible.  Whether you sew, knit, crochet, scrapbook, cook, or have some other hand-made hobby, you know exactly what I mean. The ability to create something is just as satisfying as it ever was.

Vintage 1961 Girls or Boys Clown, Devil, Little Prince Costume Halloween McCall's Pattern 2459 Size 6-8 at Lakeview Arts on Etsy.

VERY RARE 1960s Vintage Pattern UNCUT McCall's 7912 Size Medium Girl's Boy's Clown - Bullfighter - Devil - Bandit Costumes at GREAT SCOTT on Etsy.

McCall's Costumes Clown Pattern 6719 at KidLee on Etsy.

Today's post features a bounty of amazing vintage sewing patterns, almost entirely Clown Costumes all for sale on Etsy, along with hundreds of other patterns for every look you can image.  They are fun to look at, collect, even stitch up for yourself or a friend. Take the links under the images to reach the shops and listings, and have a look around.  Even if you don't have a dedicated sewing room, crafting room, or studio, any room can become one if you use it for that purpose.  This is a celebration of an nearly lost art, fabric stores are harder and harder to find, patterns for modern styles just don't exist the way they did in the past, it is so much easier just to go to the mall when you need new clothing. Just because something is easier, doesn't mean it is better.  As for these clowns, maybe one will be your first sewing project from a pattern. They are very easy to make and they are great for play and holidays alike. You can even get all your fabric and finishing elements on Etsy. Give it a think, and for now, sew long.

Butterick Kid's Clown Costume Pattern 4154 at Gothabilly 13 on Etsy.

Vintage Costume Sewing Pattern 1982 Boy's and Girl's Clown Costumes and Hats, Simplicity 5740 Sizes 2-4 at The Half House on Etsy.