Moving Blogs

Now, here's a modern dilemma:  How does one move a relatively half-assed blog from one location to another? 

Not that it matters, not that anyone would care, but I do have 60-something entries in an old typepad account that will be defunct if I ever get this new website finished. Here's an example:

Waxing Poetic

Beyond Her has always had a fascination with totes.  And by fascination, I mean my personal, relentless, compulsive quest to locate the right tote to imprint with my designs. 

I've probably produced about 10 different totes -- all sizes, shapes, purposes.  I'll spare you the details, but it's not easy finding a size I like, in a suitable color, using a natural fabric, and having all the features I believe are essential in a practical bag.

Finally, this idea popped into my head:  "Life is not complicated enough.  Why not make my own totes?"

And so that adventure began.  I printed several designs on several types of linen fabric and actually hired a sewer to construct the bag to my specifications.  They were indeed beautiful -- but too expensive for real production. I keep these bags mounted on a wall in front of my desk.  They are my "art collection."

And so the quest continued.  Somehow the idea of waxing the fabric to give it more structure came up. And I loved the idea of making it waterproof.

So on to the trusty Inter-web, where I found Chris Franks of xray love, right there in Austin!  When it came to fabric waxing, whether for outdoor camping gear or his own signature backpacks, he seemed to know it all.

The rest is history.  Or at least it will be.

After a few conversations, I printed several more yards of fabric -- both canvas and also linen, which would be a new venture for Chris.  We made a trial run, and Hallelujah!! the results were just what I had hoped for:  A very durable, water-resistant fabric that remains easy to sew (so Chris insists) with just enough "oomph" to stand up and represent.

Turns out that Chris is also a mad leather guy, so we incorporated a few details that add both design and practicality.

To see the final results, visit my etsy shop. What fun, to see a dream come true! 

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. . . . And Speaking of Austin

A new vendor for Beyond Her is the very cool Parts & Labour in Austin, Texas.  Located on South Congress, this curated collection of artisan wares includes much of Texas -- at least the best parts of it.

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