CarolynStevenson's Profile

Bio

I have enjoyed creating new things since I was young. As a teenager I asked my mom to teach me how to sew-I had a very clear idea of what I liked and could never find it in stores. Reflecting who I am on the inside thru what I wear has always been important to me. As no 2 people are alike, neither should their style be. I enjoyed taking household things and turning them into clothes or jewelry. My younger brother's small dinosaur toy became an earring or a silk tapestry hanging on the wall in our family room became a fun mini-skirt!

I was lucky enough to go to a high school that offered crafts classes. I learned jewelry making, ceramics, batik, crochet, weaving, etc. I spent every free minute working on my projects.

As life went on I slowly parted ways with my crafting side. Now that I have 3 young children, I have found myself drawn back to it. Playing with play dough probably rekindled it!

My first attempts at appliques were in making clothes for my kids and myself. Shopping in chain stores I tend to leave disappointed and empty handed. I craved something totally unique and expressive and I found myself designing shirts in my head.

I have always had a passion for fabrics. I love unusual combinations of colors or designs and pieces that have a vintage feel.

My process has become taking an idea from myself or someone's custom order and sketching it on fusible paper. Adhering the paper to the desired fabric, cutting out the design, placing it on the garment and then hand or machine sewing it on.

I hope my pieces fullfill the need for color and interest for others as well. It is harder and harder to find unique items with many of the stores in the U.S. being large chains!! For this reason, one of a kind pieces are important to me.

My studio is in my home. I love that my kids are growing up surrounded by art and creativity. They are learning that everyone has creativity inside them and it can make a person very happy to be able to express themselves and fulfill a need for another person.

Favorite Materials

fabric, PolymerClay, yarn, beads