CraftedSystems, Doing Good with Design

CraftedSystems, of Portland Oregon, has combined the art of handcrafted felt weaving with skill development and economic empowerment for women. In partnership with the YMCA women's shelter, CraftedSystems produces innovative designs in felt. Interlocking, geometric wool pieces are transformed into vessels, wall art, floor coverings, lighting and table accessories in an environment that encourages collaborative and communal work. This ecological and people friendly company is the creation of designer Aurelie Tu. For more information on this inspiring use of design and craft or to purchase products, visit CraftedSystems.

Four Winds Gallery

While I was away I stopped into Four Winds Gallery in Pittsburgh, PA. What an amazing place. They carry the work of Southwestern Native American artists whether historic or contemporary as well as work by Mira and George Nakashima. I was blown away be the sheer quantity and quality of their collection. Rugs, pottery, jewelry, painting, sculpture, photos and so much more. Of course there is much more than I can cover here so you are just going to have to visit in person. It's worth it.

New Flor On Your Floor

I just received my new Flor carpet catalog and noted a few cool things that look new. The top photo of birds sitting on wires is my favorite, but the cut outs for outdoor use are right up there on my list. The round carpet comes in several colors and is divided into four sections so you can mix colors. Visit the site for more.

ICFF, Salt

Salt is a UK textile design company that uses light as their main inspiration. They also use environmentally friendly materials and techniques. They will be showing their work at ICFF.

Pittsburgh Center For The Arts

As I get closer and closer to moving day I spend more time in Pittsburgh, recently ranked most livable city in the US, and reaffirm my desire to live there. Last Friday I attended a record release party and show at the Pittsburgh Center For The Arts. Our friends were married there years ago but I almost forgot how wonderful the Center is.




The Fiberart International 2007 exhibit is currently up and there is some spectacular work. But more importantly the Center was filled with young and old, enjoying one of the many cultural joys that Pittsburgh has to offer. Visit their site for upcoming exhibits, amazing classes and links to so many other arts and culture outlets in this most livable city.

Lustgarden Pillows

From Design House Stockholm come these delightfully patterned pillows with blasts of color. The funky garden designs are the print work of Ljungbergs, a well known Swedish textile company. They are divine; will spice up your decor. Available at Design My World.

Yarn Textiling

If you're looking for yarn or ribbon tape for any type of textile work, the Yarn Market is an amazing resource. They have the most incredible collection of fibers I've seen. I even use there products in my jewelry making.

Organic Minimalisim

I have a brown and tan summer blanket from Swans Island Blankets in my modern bedroom, and it is a perfect match. It adds an organic feel that softens the room. The texture, color and weave of these blankets is beyond compare. They will become heirlooms and are worth every penny.

Colorful Rugs

Modabode has a huge selection of contemporary rug in many colors and patterns. I chose to highlight some of their more colorful options.

LoooLo Textiles

LoooLo is a textile design company that has created uniquely textured items which are environmentally friendly. The textile industry is one of the heaviest environmental polluters, so they have chosen to design a line of organic products in an amazing range of colors. Organic is in the design as well. Available at 2modern.