We had a great time at the first annual San Luis Obispo Mini Maker Faire. Melinda’s t-shirt aprons were a big hit. Everyone wanted to make one.
(L) kids jumped in and got busy. (R) Melinda demonstrating her apron technique
Men made aprons
Women made aprons
Kids made all kinds of things
Ragtime booth
Maker Liz Cordoba and her bicycle vest journey…
Liz’s first vest and also her proof of concept, made from an old duvet using her own pattern. The inside seams are rather unseemly because she still didn’t know how to put them inside the lining.
This pink vest is the second attempt. It is made from a ball gown, reflective tape, and a faux fur scarf. Although it is pretty cool, Liz decided that she could do better if she tried again. The inside seems were still sticking out and the lapels were disjointed. The fur collar hides the lapel issues.
This brown vest is Liz’s third try at a vest. It is made from a table cloth, an embroidered belt and a monkey costume. The inside seams finally made it inside the lining.
This is the fourth vest in which Liz fulfills her “Bicycle Vest” vision. Made out of the same duvet, it has reflective tape so that the wearer can be seen at night while riding around.
Though we only meet once a month, the “ragtimers” have been keeping busy.
This cotton and stretch fiber sports dress was resized and sleeves added. It was appliquéd with stacked, tee shirt circles. Maker: Melinda Forbes
(left) Maroon Vest with a shirt-blouse, reverse applique and embroidered detail of flowers and leaves. (right) Wool jumper with felted flowers and detail blanket stitched. Maker: Meg Johnson
You will never believe that this unique scarf began as three knit golf shirts. It features reverse applique, hand embroidery and fabric pens. Maker: Mary Wood
Garment makeovers and reverse appliqué by Mary Wood.
(l) Hand-dyed slip dress embellished with thrift store lace and trim by Melinda Forbes. (r) Skirt transformed into a poncho with original hand stitched appliqués by Meg Johnson.
photos courtesy George Griffin
Our projects promote the fun of thrifting, and the repurposing of abundant ‘stuff’ found in our closets. RAGTIME views under-appreciated clothing as a resource to transform — from discards into funky, elegant, artistic, and/or useful garments.
