Moxie & Oliver

Things in My Light Box

2012-01-20T13:39:00.001-08:00

I took a few photos for the Wintergrass “Passport” and for the Bellevue Art Fair application this morning. I love the way my work looks on a white background. I might do it more. I ended up with a few extra surprises in my light box, too. One of these surprises is now trying to eat my lunch. Anyway, enjoy.

The non-leather ones are Astrophel and Stella, two Siberian Forest Cats from Tormodkot Cattery. Love these two little kitties, and their very large personalities!

Love My Customers

2012-01-19T10:48:00.001-08:00

Every once in a while a wonderful customer will send me a photo. With permission from Carole, here is the Plume Mandolin Strap on her mandolin. Doesn’t it look fantastic?

Thanks Carole! You rock! (or bluegrass?)

Winter Wreaths

2012-01-18T09:59:00.001-08:00

I had an extra “platinum” colored 3’ tall fake Christmas Tree. It was a pre-lit tree, and the first one I bought, the lights didn’t work. So they sent another, and I had two.

I decided to cut one apart with a wire cutter, and bind it to a pretty, sparkly, slightly binding wreath:

Not my favorite photo of it, but I think it turned out pretty well. Next year I’ll add stars or bells or lights or something, but by two days before Christmas, nobody had decorations anymore, just wrapping.

I did, on my holiday adventures, manage to find this beauty in a vintage store (for only $20! I couldn’t pass it up!):

I love the happy deer! Maybe next year I should just glue toys to my sparkle wreath? Sparkle toys?

Back to leather…

xo

c

Artist Statement: Take One

2012-01-16T12:33:00.001-08:00

I have to write an artist statement. I didn’t realize how short they were supposed to be! Here’s my first take:

I never wanted to become an artist. I wanted to be a lawyer. While working at a law firm, and deciding how and where to apply to law school, I found myself in need of a belt that was both work-appropriate and durable. After a fruitless search of department stores and boutiques, I reached back to my childhood experience tooling leather at family reunions, and bought a blank belt, and taught myself the fading art of leather working. For the last seven years I have been proudly producing durable leather goods in my home studio in Seattle, Washington. My work embraces my love of nature, geometry, and sometimes a little tongue-in-cheek humor. I delight in creating pieces that are functional, beautiful, and can bring an artistic flair to an item that would otherwise be overlooked, such as a belt, the band of a watch, or the strap on a purse.

Thoughts?

Starting at the Bottom

2012-01-14T14:43:00.001-08:00

I went out Wednesday to take some photos. I always love peoples artsy blog photos, but mine never turn out that way. When I went to college I genuinely wanted to be a photographer (I’ve actually worked as a wedding/event photographer before, but haven’t kept up my skills… I turned the darkroom into the dying room). There’s probably a reason I didn’t get in to the photography program. They always told me that my photos weren’t abstract or “artsy” enough. Of course, I always argued about that. Isn’t the beauty of a photo the ability to capture reality, through someone’s eyes? So maybe I should listen to my younger self, and embrace my photographic style. On that same note I should probably be glad I didn’t get in to photography school. I am relatively certain that if I had, there would be no Moxie & Oliver.

So, with a long introduction, here is the progress on the studio, in my style:

I’m told that the walls are now up on this little frame. I’ll go check on it tomorrow. If it isn’t snowing too hard.

Be Like Mike

2012-01-12T15:14:00.001-08:00

Today I’m taking a sick day. I didn’t sleep much at all last night, just a few 15-minute segments here and there. I stayed in bed late, missed my coffee date, and was trying to do something productive today. Like buy Mike Doughty’s “The Book of Drugs” and curl up under a blanket, reading about, quite possibly, my favorite musician ever.

When I was in high school I was really into music, and going to concerts. And boys. I think those all kind of went together, especially if you take into account that I was (and still am) more than a little on the tone-deaf side. This was a source of constant annoyance to my high school boyfriend, a talented guitarist who would play little pieces of songs in different notes (keys? I’m not sure honestly) and ask which I liked better. I would say they both sounded the same. “No, listen,” he’d say, and play them again. They still sounded the same; they always sounded the same.

So with this bit of a musical obstacle, I always find it somewhat ironic that I ended up making guitar straps. And I make a LOT of guitar straps. I tried playing when I was a kid (again, I think that this had something to do with boys, or being cool, I’m not really sure) and it was a complete disaster. My guitar teacher was hot. That’s all I remember.

Every year when I prepare for Wintergrass I stock up on straps. I had three (!!) left in stock at the end of December, a record low. I should have 60 in stock by the end of February. Some will be new patterns, some old in new colors, and they generally come easy to me. There is one pattern, though, that has been giving me trouble for years. I’ve wanted to make a Clarke strap with my plaid on it, but could never get the layout right. Then the other day I saw a picture of Mike Doughty fixing his plaid tie, and it suddenly all made sense.

So here it is, dedicated to Mike Doughty, the very first plaid strap. And Mike, if you’re reading this, the strap is yours if you want it. Just say the word.

For everyone else, it is available at www.moxieandoliver.com.

Astrophel & Stella

2012-01-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

They’re getting big, and naughty. They spent yesterday stealing dog treats and trying to eat packing peanuts. But they are good company. Do you think they’d like to go with me to my new studio? I will just take them, and the two dogs, with me every morning. Cats like car rides, right?

In the Light of Day

2012-01-10T09:15:00.001-08:00

My daughter woke up at 5:30 this morning (two hours early) going “UUUH! UUUH!” every few seconds. She did this for at least an hour before finally going back to sleep. She woke up around 7:30 to the sound of my husband coughing. And I woke up with his cold.

In that space between when she went back to sleep and when he woke us all up I had a dream about the studio. It was coming together, turquoise countertops and all, and looking fabulous. Then, in my dream, my daughter tumbled down a short flight of carpeted stairs. I watched in slow-motion, unable to get to her in time. She’s only 18 months old, and I was terrified. I called 9-1-1 and the operator laughed at me. I was beyond furious.

I tossed and turned in bed before coming downstairs to a cuddly, adorable little girl, who was not the least bit injured by my dream. I’ve said (for the last year and a half) that the hardest thing about being a parent is sleep. Sometimes my work day ends early because her nap does, sometimes my sleep ends early because she wants to make adorable noises in her crib. And sometimes I think she does these things on purpose, because on my hardest days she seems to wake up the earliest from her nap, helping me to re-focus on what is important in life.

There were a lot of hard days last week, and more than a few made me want to just throw in the towel. She helps me remember something that I often forget: focus on the good in life. There is more of it than there is bad. I’m still unsettled on a few things, but regardless of what else is going on in the world, she is my light.

And speaking of light, here are the ideas I obsessed over yesterday:

Library Wall Sconces by Barbara Cosgrove, $325 for the pair. Clayton Gray Home. Or, just found out they are $248 from Décor Interiors! I think these would be great above a bathroom mirror.

Hollywood Boathouse Antique Nickel Light, $325. Clayton Gray Home. The best deal I found was $285 from J Covington Designs.

Bell Jar Pendant Light by Barbara Cosgrove, $115. Clayton Gray Home.

Marine Pendant Light by Barbara Cosgrove, $1015. Clayton Gray Home. (Totally not in the budget, but how cool is this?)

Hammered Iron Oval Pendant, $195. Clayton Gray Home.

Pulley Wall Light from Go Home, $497.50. Décor Interiors.

Dakota Wall Light, $849.99 (sale). Cultured Living.

Boston Plug In Library Sconce, $335.90 (sale). Bellacor. I like that this could be pulled closer to you, much in the same way a pulley light could. It would work well for task lighting, when you need a little extra brightness only where you are.

Extender Wall Lamp, $585. J Covington Designs.

1920’s Factory Sconce, $259 from Restoration Hardware. I love the distinctly Steampunk vibe they have going on, though I am not sure I can pull it off.

Then late last night I found this:

Benjamin 17” Bomber Porcelain Stem Mount Light, $239. Barn Light Electric.

I spent hours looking through the Barn Light Electric site. I love everything. I want one of each, all in Jadeite! The pieces are simple, a little industrial, a little vintage, and you can order them in plenty of colors. They aren’t cheap, but they aren’t break the bank expensive either. And barn lights + leather workshop, it just seems to fit.

Off to count down the days in my tiny studio…

Stop Obsessing!

2012-01-09T10:51:00.001-08:00

Over the weekend I picked up a pair of really (really) funky French doors from the REStore (re-building supplies in Seattle) as well as a medicine cabinet door that is currently sitting in my living room. And, woohoo, I got a sink on Craigslist for $20! Score!

And I obsessed more about lighting. I really think that recessed lighting is the way to go, I just hate it. I mean, really, really hate it. Or did, until I found this:

VE 863 Recessed Light by Ottocento from Lighting 55. $140.00

But at $140/ea (and I need 10) this isn’t going to happen. Maybe every other one could be special? Doubtful, so I did a little research and found some very sweet trims for recessed lighting, that might make them a bit more bearable. Almost all are under $30, and recessed lights are cheap when you buy boring ones, so this might be a good solution!

Victorian Trim, $11.99 from Lamps Plus.

Renaissance LR-105 in Old Wood Gold, $28 from Beaux Artes. They have others, too, but this was my favorite. They also have a ton of finishes, too, so you can get a totally custom look!

Recessed Light Medallion, $16 from Rensup. They also have other styles and this is one of the simpler ones.

Eurofase with Cast Wreath Gimbal Trim, $33.30 from CSN Lighting. I would definitely paint this one so it wasn’t shiny.

Or could someone just cut me a little star trim like the first one for each? I would be so thrilled. And I’d paint it a nice light turquoise color….

Counter Colors

2012-01-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

Never one to shy away from color, I’m thinking the Azurite Corian for the countertops (just in the kitchenette, though):

Is it too bright? Mint Ice is also pretty, and more along the lines of the color scheme of that plywood walled apartment:

Aaah, maybe that is better. Even better is stripes:

Photo from K+BB.

It’s a short post because I’m pretty decided on this one. Bright greenish blue countertops. Maybe a pop of pink somewhere. These will be perfect with my plywood walls and the vintage metal cabinets. So excited.

Lighting, Take Two.

2012-01-05T08:54:00.001-08:00

Had a sit-down with the contractors, Todd and Kent, yesterday.

Todd: “So what did you have in mind for lighting?”

Me: “I am kind of obsessed with the pulley pendants. I think they’d be great because I could pull them down to a workspace, then push them out of the way when I’m not using them” Yes, dramatic understatement. I’m completely obsessed.

Kent: “Did you check what the drop is when they are fully up?”

Me: “Nope” and thinking, oh, crap. That’s a deal breaker. The roof in the space slopes from 10’ at one end to about 7’ at the other.

I checked the drop last night. These little beauties dropped themselves right off my list. The shortest is 40” from the ceiling when fully retracted. That puts it closer to the floor than the ceiling in the shorter space. Darn.

So how about this, but inside:

These are strands of light strings that use full-size bulbs. I’m pretty sure one would be enough for the entire studio since it has 24 bulbs (eek!) on it. And they come in white. And they are well within budget!

Heavy-Duty Commercial Grade Outdoor Lights, $105/strand from Sival Lighting.

Just a thought, only a thought.

Taking Lighting to Task

2012-01-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

Contractors said they thought pendant lights were the way to go. And after a hard day of internet research, I found the Jade Rise and Fall Light from The French House on the Remodelista site (another new favorite). Sadly, I think getting a collection of these for the studio is not in the budget (they are about $262 US each, not including shipping from the UK). They are amazing, though, aren’t they? And being able to pull a light closer to me as I work, or push it out of the way when not in use, is such a functional attribute.

I found some others, though they all seem so blah in comparison:

Hudson Valley Rise and Fall Light. $380.00 from Lighting Direct

Industrial Single Pulley Pendant. $249 from Restoration Hardware.

Architects & Heroes Pulley Mini Pendant. $190 from Bellacor. This one actually might do. I like the milk glass shade.

Porter Pendant. $79-129 from the Pottery Barn. They are simple, and really not that expensive, all things considered. I think maybe (oh maybe) I can find some jade-colored high heat paint and just attack the metal ones….

A New Year, a New Studio

2012-01-02T08:56:00.001-08:00

I have never been fan of drywall. It seems so artificial, and it’s definitely not a sturdy material. Not sturdy enough for a studio. So I am thinking plywood. I don’t honestly know where the idea came from, but here’s what I found: it is awesome.

From The Kitchen Vote

Photos from Dezeen

Photos from Design Crisis. One of my new favorite blogs.

I love this one. It reminds me of my old neighbor Alice’s kitchen. Photo from Bijou Kaleidoscope.

These last three were the ones that really started it all. Originally from Country Home and re-posted in many places, I love the light aqua color against the soft light wood. It’s that perfect combination of vintage, modern, and industrial that I can’t resist. Contractors are onboard. They break ground on Wednesday. I can barely contain my excitement.

Deck the halls…

2011-11-20T23:15:00.001-08:00

I started putting festive lights up today. My daughter wanted to play with them.

Stockings are coming soon to my house, but are already available in the shop!

Available at www.moxieandoliver.com – and I would love to make custom ones with names on them!

xo

Holiday Shopping Deadlines Coming SOON!

2011-11-15T14:12:00.000-08:00

Every year I’m asked again and again when the deadlines for holiday shipping are. I go by the USPS Holiday Shipping Dates to figure out when I have to ship things, but here’s a quick overview of when you need to ORDER from me by:

If you want a CUSTOM or PERSONALIZED ITEM, here is your timeline:

US Customers – Order by December 10

International Customers – Order by December 1

APO/AE Customers – Order by NOVEMBER 25

If you are purchasing an “in stock” item through my Etsy store, here is your timeline:

US Customers – Order by December 18

International Customers – Order by December 13

Central/South America and Africa – Order by December 8

APO/AE Customers – Order by December 8

APO/AE ZIP 093 – Order by December 1

And there you have it! If you have a question on whether something in my Etsy shop is in stock or not, you can look for “in stock” in the “tags” underneath the item description. My made to order pieces also say that they are made to order in the descriptions. If you are ordering from www.moxieandoliver.com or www.aleremodern.com, it is best to assume that your item is made to order. I may have it in stock for quicker shipment, but the majority of the items on both sites are made to order.

Any questions? Ask me! caitlin[at]moxieandoliver[dot]com

Custom Zodiac Guitar Strap

2011-11-14T13:58:00.001-08:00

I love doing custom work, and I love it the very most when a customer gives me carte blanche in making the piece. This strap was for a customer who already has two of my straps, which she gave me pretty free reign on, but this one was almost completely free. I suggested an air theme, and her request was:

“some juxtaposition of fire and water, cool colors and hot colors, moon and sun, Leo & cancer would be fun. The artwork I brought back from Italy was of winged lions, the wings were multi-colored. Classical crab artwork as opposed to cartoon crabs. Sort of a classical sensibility overall.”

And here is the result:

This is one of my favorite straps of all time. It is something that only could have been created as a custom item – the combination of the Leo and Cancer signs only works for a select few – but I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to make it. It is amazing!

Love my customers. Love custom leather pieces. Not so fond of winter, but at least it gets me an excuse for a lot of studio time!

xo

Coming this week

2011-11-05T22:24:00.001-07:00

New Work–Nov. 5, 2011

VIEW SLIDE SHOW

DOWNLOAD ALL

That Duomo Portfolio is one of a kind, and that Duomo Tote has a flat bottom!

Holiday Shopping–Handmade Style!

2011-11-04T15:13:00.001-07:00

So to start off, since I know most of my customers are online, have you heard about Small Business Saturday? You can register on the your card here, and then on Saturday November 26, you can shop at any participating small business and receive a $25 statement credit.

Guess what!? Moxie and Oliver is participating!! So on Saturday, November 26, go make a purchase from www.moxieandoliver.com and get a $25 statement credit when you use your American Express Card! But GO REGISTER NOW SINCE SPACES ARE LIMITED. What are you still doing here? GO!!!

Then, if you happen to be in the Seattle area, here are the events I will be attending:

Saturday November 26th – Sunday November 27th

Etsy Rain Holiday Show at the Intiman Theatre

201 Mercer Street, Seattle WA

11am - 5pm both days

Ditch the mall/downtown rush and come here instead! I promise lots of unique gifts and you get the distinct pleasure of meeting the people who you are supporting.

Saturday December 3^rd – Sunday December 4^th

Urban Craft Uprising Holiday Show at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall

305 Harrison Street, Seattle WA

11am – 5pm both days

SCHWAG BAGS!!!! The first 100 people through the door on Saturday get a goodie bag that is guaranteed to include an awesome Moxie and Oliver coupon, good for early birds only! Last time I did this show there were people lined up for hours before, so grab some coffee, throw on your hand-knit scarf, and come on down. It’s worth the wait!

Saturday December 10^th

I Heart Indie Holidays Show at the Wallingford Boys and Girls Club

1310 N. 45^th Street, Seattle WA

10am – 7pm ONE DAY ONLY!

When I first started out I did the I Heart Rummage show every month, and it will be fun to go back! New venue that I haven’t been to, but I’m so thrilled to be returning to my roots. And know what? This is your last chance to shop! With 14 days left before Xmas, it’s the perfect time to do that last-minute shopping!

Hope to see you at one of these! And if not, you can always find me online: www.moxieandoliver.com and www.aleremodern.com

Dragon!

2011-11-01T23:18:00.001-07:00

This is going to be a quickie, but it was promised, so here goes.

My daughter Aife had her first real Halloween this year and after years and years of making my own costumes, I was so excited to make one for her. She has a collection of my old stuffed dragons that she adores, so I thought I’d make her a dragon costume.

I bought a dragon costume pattern from Simplicity not thinking really too much of it, bought the fabric, then cut it all out (painstakingly – that takes forever!!) and realized that this dragon is not a dragon at all!

It has no ears. It has no wings. It has two sets of fins that are full of interfacing, and no fins on the back of the costume, because (I think due to CPSIA regulations) it has velcro up the back rather than a zip front like they all had when I was a kid.

So I get to work altering the pattern. I cut an extra set of fins from the contrast fabric, used the ears from another of the costumes in this pattern, cut them down a little smaller and folded them to stitch them on to the hood, and then cut a pattern for a pair of wings. I moved the zipper to the front, which meant altering the tummy piece.

All in all, I think my little sage and berry cotton velvet dragon costume was adorable! Sorry for the vague pictures – Kevin is still not keen on photos of Aife on the internet. But here’s one of me in a rainbow wig to make up for it.

Oh and P.S.

2011-10-31T23:13:00.001-07:00

I’ve sworn of Facebook, and it is day two.

I am feeling more productive, alive, etc., and a lot more engaged with the world than I thought I would be. I think the voyeurism that Facebook encourages tends to actually make me feel less involved in the world since I’m not actually interacting with anyone, just watching.

It’s strange. It’s a heck of a lot easier for me to give up Facebook than it is to go on a diet. Yeah, I’m supposed to be doing that too. We’ll see.

Gift for a Musician

2011-10-31T23:03:00.001-07:00

So you say you’ve got a musician in your life and you need a special gift. Something that he doesn’t have, something that she’ll treasure forever. A gift that is as unique and as beautiful as the music she plays, and that will outlast and survive his changing style.

Well, I have an idea. How about I make a guitar strap for you (also works with bass, banjo or dobro) for you, and I will personalize it with up to 1100 characters of your choosing. You can write a love song, you can collect quotes, you can write a poem, or a short story. Anything you possibly want, as long as it is 1100 characters or fewer, and I can put it on the strap for you.

This is the Smokey guitar strap, and I think I made my very first one in either late 2008 or early 2009 (even though the Smokey pattern was one of my first patterns and made its debut in 2004, it didn’t make it onto a strap for a few years), and I have since made over 200 of them (in several different colors).

The wonderful thing about this piece is that even though I’ve made 200+ of the “Smokey” strap, every single one has been different. We all find meaning in different songs, words of wisdom, scripture, or messages, and all have something entirely different that we want to communicate to those that we love. The Smokey line is a great way to do that. Whether it is a wallet, a guitar strap, a belt, or a purse, you can give someone a gift with your sentiment right there on it. Your personal message for them to carry with them always.

I’ve most often seen the ee cummings poem “i carry your heart” requested on various pieces (though oddly I don’t think I’ve seen it on the same thing twice – wallets, guitar straps, etc.) and in my mind this one is totally suited for an inscription for a loved one. There was a slightly… dirtier? ee cummings poem that someone asked me to put on a wallet for her husband. I can’t find the response, but he absolutely treasured the wallet, and wanted to show all his friends. I think it’s so sweet that you can give a gift with a sentimental message that your loved one will be proud to show off.

We a Smokey wallet to my mother’s boyfriend, my daughter’s fourth grandfather, with a message from his kids on it a few years ago, and were taking bets in the car on whether or not he’d cry when he opened it. He did.

And truthfully, a lot of people do when they open this gift. Here are some of my most recent feedbacks about it:

“I got my guitar strap last week, but wanted my husband to see it before I wrote you. It's awesome. He loved it, he kept telling me that the present he got for me was so lame compared to the guitar strap (I also showed it to my mom and she cried). Anyway, the strap is well made and beautiful and you got it to me so fast! Thank you so much. If I ever need something like this again, I'll definitely go to you.”

“I just wanted to say a huge thank you for your beautiful products! They arrived over the weekend, and I am stunned! They are all incredible, and so, so special. You are a genius! Thank you so much!
Now I just have to wait to give them to my husband and my Dad!
Thank you so much, Caitlin! I'm sure I'll be back!”

And now it is time for bed.

Studio, coming soon.

2011-10-30T21:45:00.001-07:00

This is my current hovel. And the day that this photo was taken it was actually pretty clean. I’m a little terrified to measure it but I think it is probably around 200sf. In the basement where it is cold, cold in the winter. I do have a small darkroom off to the side where I dye and pack the pieces, as well as a tiny display wall. All told, really, I think the entire thing is the size of a small bedroom.

But last month, my sweet, sweet, husband finally let me talk him in to this:

A 20’ by 30’ garage. Unfinished. In need of love and style, but absolutely huge. I think you could fit four cars in there. And I’m going to use it for my studio. HURRAY! The very day it was officially ours I went to the ReStore and found some used building materials to help it along. I’m going for an Industrial/Modern English Garden sort of look. Crazy? Sure, but I think if anyone can pull it off I can.

That’s the tub. A bathroom just doesn’t feel complete without one, and my studio needs a bathroom. I thought I’d go for a clawfoot or some sort of pedastal, but when I found this I fell in love with the lines. I think surrounded by some brightly colored tile it will be perfect.

And these are the cabinets, less the cardboard cut-out. They’re vintage metal cabinets, which is what I decided I wanted, and are in great condition. They’re clean and are all white, with a hideous countertop I plan on removing (more on that later).

This, although awesome, I didn’t buy because I just couldn’t justify finding a place for it. I love little drawers but find that I don’t use them. I really need to be able to see where things are, and I haven’t mastered the x-ray superpower yet. So I let it be. Besides, $250 seemed a little insane.

So that’s the current studio status. I’ve been planning, and planning, and planning what it is going to look like. I’m excited and totally anxious. I think I’ll be moving in spring!!

I'm swearing off Facebook

2011-10-29T23:15:00.000-07:00

Just for the month of November. Maybe the rest of 2011. So if you want me, you are going to have to email me - caitlin@moxieandoliver.com works every time.

The reason, you ask? Well, I've found it is a giant suck of my time. Not that I don't care what my first boyfriend looks like now or what my bff from childhood ate for dinner last night, but the truth is, I need to make flasks, and play with my baby. Possibly not at the same time. So for a few months, while things are busy around here, I'll post to the blog, and if you want to say hi, tell me you love me, tell me you hate me, whatever, just drop me an email. I promise I will answer.

Though, if you're wanting something fabulously custom for the holidays, I'd drop me that email sooner rather than later. My dance card can get mighty fool the closer to procrastination we get!

xo
c

I have no idea how this happened…

2011-10-28T22:44:00.001-07:00

But yet, I took off my gloves, and there it was.

A little something

2011-10-25T23:30:00.001-07:00

I don’t really have it in me to blog right now, so I’ll share this customer appreciation photo instead. It makes me smile.

Totally love my customers. You guys rock.

This is the Smokey Guitar Strap in action. Part of a line of personalized Smokey Pattern pieces that come with an inscription of your choice. Totally custom. Totally you. These honestly make the best presents ever. I mean, really, anyone you love enough to buy a fabulous Moxie and Oliver present for you probably love enough to tell them the sentiment behind it, right?

And the winner is....

2011-10-18T21:58:00.000-07:00

BANJO!!! Congrats to the pattern's creator, Cari Reynolds. She has one $500 worth of Moxie and Oliver merchandise, which I personally think should all be in the Banjo pattern.

Also worth an honorable mention were the two runners-up. New Nouveau got quite a few votes, and I love the possibilities that this pattern has. Odds are pretty good it will be made into something as well. Peacock and Blackberries were also very popular, and had I been able to vote, I would have had trouble choosing. I have ideas/plans for these patterns as well. So, sufficed to say, out of this lovely array of pattern choices, though only one gets the grand prize, there were many good ideas that deserve to be brought to fruition!

On a very personal side note, this pattern contest was an emotional roller coaster for me. I am highly aware of the ability for anything involving online voting to become a popularity contest. To try to mitigate this, I pestered my friends and family while voting was up so that I could get as many unbiased votes in there as possible. I wanted to make sure that the best pattern really did prevail, and when all is said and done, I'm confident that the winning pattern truly was the favorite among unbiased voters. Vote counting took me a little longer than originally anticipated because I looked for the source of each vote, and took that into consideration when making the final determination of who the winner was. The reason that I'm sharing this is that I want you all to know that I value you, your ideas, and the fairness/justness of the process. I did work in law, after all, and have never been able to shake the extreme importance I put on truth, justice, and equality.

That's all for now. Winner, finalists, and entrants should receive an email from me shortly. If you do not, please send me one with your pattern name/number! All of you deserve a special thanks for participating in this creative contest.

xo
C

Stella

2011-10-14T23:29:00.001-07:00

Sweetest kitten ever. Sprawled out on my desk. Looking for tummy rubs.

The daily, or nightly, Stella.

My Studio Table

2011-10-13T22:04:00.001-07:00

This is what is currently on my table. Maybe she is in progress – she is eating a lot these days – but she seems pretty perfect to me. She just sits there and purrs, and purrs, and rolls on her back and purrs some more. She’s lovely.

The wider view, with Jax and Delilah. I’m starting to feel like I am running out of space for me. Which is why a new studio is coming soon, though I do believe I will take them with me to the new studio, every day….

Pattern Finalists

2011-10-12T22:56:00.001-07:00

So today was an exercise in endurance. I don’t sketch, but for the pattern entry finalists, I had to sketch out each pattern.

It’s a little funny since I don’t know if these are how people really intended their patterns to look, but I did my best from the descriptions that I was given. There are a few that I see as versatile patterns that I could put on anything and everything in my collection, and others that are a little more limited. Some of them bring a new direction to the line, and some fit in like they have always been there.

So, in no particular order, here are the sketches. You have to go to my Facebook page to vote, though!

STELLA!!!!!! STELLA!!!!

2011-10-09T22:11:00.001-07:00

I’m way behind in my blogging.

Last weekend we went to Ellensburg to pick up Stella from our friend Barbara. Kevin and I first met her when she was a wee little kitten (back in August) and he fell in love. She was the runt of her litter and such a sweetheart. He carried her around for our entire visit. Unfortunately, though, she already had a home and it wasn’t ours.

A few weeks later we found out that Stella could be ours. The home that she was going to had a different request, so Barbara offered her to us. We were excited, and a little nervous since we had planned on getting two boy kittens. Neither of us had ever really bonded with a girl kitty in the same way we had bonded with our boys. But, we figured since he’d fallen so in love with her initially, it was meant to be.

So we talked about her, and Kevin suggested that we name her Olivia. I love the name, so last Sunday we went to pick up Olivia. As we’re sitting in the living room of Barbara’s house, I’m holding the kitten, thinking, I don’t really want to name her Olivia. I think she is more of a Stella.

We have our visit, pick some plums, squash, carrots, and all sorts of other amazing things that Barbara has in her garden for us, get in the car, and hit the road. We are in the car for about ten minutes when Kevin says to me:

“I bet you don’t want to name her Olivia. I bet you want to name her something like Stella.”

To which I respond with a series of half words, gasps, squeaks and other forms of startled exclamation as I try not to veer the car off the road.

“How in the world? Did I say that??? HOW DID YOU KNOW???”

He never did answer me. And I think I asked him about every five minutes for the entire drive home.

So Stella it is. And when we call her, we say “STELLA!!! STEL-LA!!!!”

And she sits on my lap, and my desk, and cuddles and purrs, and lets the baby pick her up. She is a sweetie. I really, really adore her. We all agree that our home feels better with a kitten in it. It just hasn’t been the same without our meows!

(and to those of you who ask why we didn’t rescue a kitten since there are so many that need homes – we would have, but my husband is allergic. And there are not many Siberian kittens to be rescued. Kevin was sweet enough to put up with Oliver for seven years because we were a package deal, but new cats have to be hypoallergenic).

Shoe School

2011-10-07T16:17:00.001-07:00

So in late September I traveled to Port Townsend and learned how to make shoes. This post has been a long time coming, and has backed up some other posts I want to make (like about the kitten!!!) so I have to get it done. Anyway, here are some photos of the process. It was amazing in many ways, and very stressful in others. I’m not used to being away from my daughter (who is 15 months), so this was the first time I really ventured out into the world. And I’m not used to following instructions – one of the pleasures of being self-taught – so there was a little bit of an adjustment there for me as well. I did learn some new tricks for my own work, made a pair of shoes, drank a lot of coffee, and made a new friend. It was, all in all, a good five days.

And here are some photos….

Beginning of day four, I think, with my shoe outsides all stitched together. And a big cup of coffee. Seriously – 24oz Mocha. INSANE!

“Heel Counters” on the backs of the lasts. Basically tooling leather molded to the back of the shoe last to keep form/structure in the shoe.

Alan, the instructor, on the left showing Mark how to last the liner on his shoes (pulling it tight, gluing in place, hammering down, to create a smooth upper on the shoe).

Shoe uppers waiting to be lasted. I think those are John’s in the front, and mine in the back.

Uppers lasted, heel counters on, waiting for the “toe puff” or toe cap.

Toe puff in the toaster oven, me waiting to see it. Coffee in the foreground. Lots of it.

Me smoothing out the toe puff.

THEY LOOK LIKE SHOES!!!! Toe puff in, uppers fully lasted, just waiting for some sole!

Shoes sitting on the sole.

John lasting his shoes.

Me breaking the shoe off the last.

LOOK! IT’S A SHOE!!!!

Shoe insides.

Lasts after having been broken off the shoes we made.

John modeling his new shoes.

All of us with our shoes. You’d think we would be happier about it!

My new shoes. Blucher Oxfords, with a little of my own style added in. Don’t they look fast?

Pick a Pattern!

2011-10-03T11:36:00.001-07:00

So the entries are in!! And there are a lot of them. So in no particular order, here they are. Choose your favorite based on the descriptions, and leave your choices in the comments below. Some people did submit drawings, but I have left those out so as not to skew any voting. Good luck to all those who entered!

1. Crowned Kitty: Kitty with a crown sitting on a moon. Stars in the background, and lines of little diamonds that look like strands of jewels. A Victorian chandelier is hanging from one of these strands. The pattern would be just one color, with the design branded in. The feel would be Victorian and glamorous.

2. Dachshunds: Simple dachshund dogs playing in different positions/stances, and a few bones and paw prints to fill in the empty space.

3. Woodland Forrest: The center would be a big knotted Lord of the Rings style tree with woodland creatures - bunny, skunk, chipmunk, owl, fox, raccoon, hedgehog – and some mushrooms at the tree base. Colors would be traditional browns and greens.

4. A Bit Witchy: Simple black background with suns, moons and stars in warm tones.

5. African Language: This pattern would incorporate elements of an ancient West African language called Adinkra which is composed of symbols. The symbols are simple graphic elements, representing strength, adaptability, energy, harmony, unity, and other qualities.

6. Blackberries: Prickly, but with the reward of a sweet fruit, this pattern would be composed of blackberries and brambles. It represents the person who is slow to warm up, but worth the reward.

7. Unity: Two wolves sleeping together, with their heads towards the center of the image. One wolf has her head down, sleeping, while the other has his head up, keeping guard.

8. Wings: Angel wings in creamy whites against a caramel colored background, at all sorts of angles. Dreamy and rustic,

9. Aspen: This piece would incorporate the seasons of the Aspen tree, and the complexity of the leaves (simple at a glance, but complex close up). It would have leaves in the changing colors, and trees in several seasons.

10. Grass: Blades of grass in different shades of green with one tiny red ladybug.

11: Dragonfly: Fluffy white clouds with a turquoise sky and one dragonfly.

12: Minimalist Hiker: Dark brown leather with leafy vines as the border to the pattern. In the center, a top-down view of a stump.

13. Roots: A tree laying down roots in many directions, trying to find the most stable structure. The result would be more like a texture than an image. Colors would be muted shades of red, green, and some purple, with brown to represent the earth, stability and body.

14. Peacock: The body of the bird would be smaller, and the tail feathers would be the focal point (tail feathers closer to the viewer). The colors would be blue, green, purple, gold and black and the lighter colors would be spattered/dripped as accents. The eyes of the feathers could be cut out (on items that can have holes).

15. Night Gardening: Dark blue or antique black background with white flowers in the foreground, moon above and moths flying up to it, possibly the green Lunar Moth. Stars in the sky and a moth silhouette against the moon. The design would evoke the feeling of walking through the garden in the moonlight – quiet and peaceful but awake and magical.

16. Anteater: Tamandua anteater (smaller species) with black and gold coloring with its tongue out, eating up ants, stars, hearts, snowflake, flowers, berries, and all sorts of other things. The design would be flexible and customizable by changing what the anteater is eating. The design would be sweet, fun, original and quirky with meaning enough to make it special.

17. Pegasus: A Pegasus inspired by Roman myth. Colors would be night blue and an elegant black creature. Deco style pattern to evoke both the ancient Egyptian and Roman styles.

18. Flamboyan Tree: The pattern would be a Flamboyan tree with the 2 o’clock sun casting an elongated shadow, and the branches blowing in the wind with flowers flying off. There would be a wild brown goat taking shelter from the sun in the shadow of the tree.

19. Pictures + Words: Inspired by surrealism, this pattern would combine words and images. One example would be a piece inspired by the Chinese proverb “Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think” where the words “its later than you think” are written in a circle, making the face of the clock, with the hands of the clock being made up of the words “enjoy” and “life”. Or a pattern with a sunset and the words “tomorrow is often the busiest day of the week” (Spanish proverb).

20. Thrifting: Inspired by handmade cotton doilies, this pattern would have a single round doily carved into the leather as though it was just placed there, off center, in unexpected colors. Dark brown and black against lighter colors, as though someone forgot to move a doily before painting the table, or they left it there for decades exposed to the sun, and when they took the doily off it revealed the beautiful damage – a happy accident.

21. Summer Squash: Inspired by gardening and farms, the pattern would be a combination of squash, squash blossoms and squash leaves.

22. New Nouveau: This pattern would have vines and roses, buds and flowers with a few leaves and thorns. The vines would be twisted and climbing with butterflies in between. It would symbolize growth, development, transformation, and pure beauty with a bit of sadness and unspoken pain (the thorns). Roses would be red with deep green leaves and vines, the butterfly would be off-white for purity, some would be teal/turquoise, orange and yellow, and an antique black background.

23. Banjo: A banjo fretboard that has come to life. Silver lines representing the strings and climbing around these lines are vines with deep orange Japanese lantern flowers and small teal lotus flowers. A few little scrolls in silver to represent the inlay.

24. Crazy Quilt: This pattern would be made up of fan shapes that are formed by vertical bands of colors in varying widths with pointed tips. The bands would be outlined by branding marks for the “stitching” and the colors would be teal, orange, magenta, pink, purple, black and metallic.

25. Archer: For the straight-shooter, this pattern would be made up of boldly striped arrows in teal, orange, red, black and silver with simple feather tails and copper tips.

Thanks to all those who entered!!! There are a lot of amazing ideas here. I look forward to seeing who the winner is!

xo

A Space of My Own

2011-09-28T13:12:00.001-07:00

After seven years working in the basement, on the kitchen table, and anywhere else in the house that was unclaimed, I’m finally getting a studio!! It isn’t move-in ready, but I’ll get it all spruced up and ready to move into by spring, I hope. Yes, it’s far away, but there is a light. Hopefully a lot of it, with windows and skylights, and ventilation. Better than my basement hovel.

Until then, I will draw pictures like the ones above (from Brendan’s Leather Book – which is FABULOUS if you can find it) of my own workshop. Complete with log stools, and beadboard walls.

There is hope

2011-09-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

So yesterday after being told that I couldn't make a shoe in vegetable tanned leather I decided I would find a way.

Then today I find, in the studio, a pair of continuous wrap sandals. I asked the instructor what they were made out of.

"Veg tan"

Huh. Couldn't you have just said that yesterday???

Then someone in class showed me abk shoes, based in NYC. She is obsessed with the shoes, which are very simple, tooling hide shoes that aren't dyed on the inside.

Interesting, I think. I could do that. But with flowers. And lace cut-outs. The world is too beautiful to fill with brown shoes.

Night,
C

Think Shoes

2011-09-24T22:47:00.000-07:00

I'm at Shoe School this week.

9.5 hour days, away from my daughter and husband. I'm spending the time after she sleeps looking for Vegetable Tanned leather shoes. I've been told that I can't make Vegetable Tanned Leather shoes.

At first this was depressing.

It is morphing into inspiring/motivating, as I remember that I've never been one to do what people said I should do, and to stop when they said that I could not. Telling me I can't have something is always a fabulous way of making sure that I will obsess over it.

I will make some fabulous shoes out of vegetable tanned leather.

Soon.

The photo above are Think! shoes, and I find them pretty inspiring. The Aida shoes remind me of shoes Gretel would wear when she grows up.

Festive Leather

2011-09-22T11:42:00.001-07:00

Eventually I’ll make myself a leather house, one piece at a time.

Here’s my first Christmas stocking – it will be available on the website soon – and I have ideas for many more. It is the least hairy leather stocking you will find. And it’s big, and fabulous, just waiting to be filled with goodies.

But for my Jewish friends and fam – any ideas for leather Judaica? I’m stumped. I don’t think a leather menorah is a very good idea…

Lucky Me

2011-09-14T13:00:00.001-07:00

Someone told me recently that my work reminded her of Lucky Brand (which was her “favorite”). Here’s a side-by-side so you can judge for yourself.

Lucky’s Perforated Cutout Belt and my Alabama Lace Belt

Lucky’s Suzani Floral Embroidered Belt and my Belle Belt

Lucky’s Sunset Convertible Tote and my Duomo Tote

One thing you can’t see from the pictures is the quality of leather and of course the goodness of handmade! Full grain tooling leather is the strongest leather available since it is minimally processed in comparison to the “garment” leathers. A full grain bag will last you a lifetime (literally – those 60s and 70s bags that you see kicking around are full grain leather – that was 40-50 years ago that they were made!).

Happy shopping,

A new collaboration

2011-09-13T11:59:00.001-07:00

I was contacted by Elizabeth From Counting Sheep Studio to do a leather bag strap for a knit bag. Not something I had done before, but she asked so nicely that I couldn’t say no!

I love how it came out, and she does too. I’m still waiting on final photos of the bag, but here are the preview photos of the strap. It is in my Plume pattern and available for purchase from my website, if you would like to knit a bag of your own! Elizabeth will be making a knitting pattern for the bag itself, and I will post a link to that as soon as it is up.

Happy crafting,

It’s not leather…

2011-09-12T13:59:00.001-07:00

But then, we all need a break sometimes. And we all know I love poppies – I’d love nothing more than to have my high 80-degree weekend back, and be laying in the sun with a field of them. Was sad when I woke up this morning to realize that it was Monday, and my husband had to go to work. My solace is beautiful things and a fabulous little girl to keep me company. And the Johnny Cash station on Pandora.

Found this today in LD Photography’s Artfire shop.

$500 Giveaway!

2011-09-07T21:57:00.001-07:00

When I started thinking about actually blogging – like, committing to posting at least once a week – and what I would blog about, there were two things that came to mind. The first, of course, is leather. After seven years of working with leather day and night, I think I know a thing or two about it. But the other thing I know a lot about is helping people find their personal style. One of the core elements of my work has been creating custom pieces for people who can’t find exactly what they’re looking for on the shelves.

As I approach listing my 200th pattern on the Moxie and Oliver Website, I’d really like to celebrate. And I can’t think of a better way than a giveaway, and adding yet another delicious pattern. So here is the deal – if you help me create the next pattern, you could win $500 in Moxie and Oliver merchandise of your choice. Get a purse, get a wallet, get a portfolio, whatever you want. It’s all yours, in the pattern you help create.

So how do you enter? Well, it is easy! Give some thought to the question posed below, and then email your answer to caitlin[at]moxieandoliver[dot]com with the subject “New Pattern Entry”. Then make sure to subscribe to the blog, follow M&O on twitter, and like M&O on Facebook. After all the entries are in, I will post the descriptions for voting. The top ten ideas will be sketched and posted on the blog and to facebook for a final round of voting. The muse of the winning pattern will receive $500 in credit to MoxieandOliver.com to spend on whatever he or she likes – including custom pieces!

So here is the question:

If your personality were a Moxie and Oliver pattern, what would it look like? Be as specific and descriptive as possible, including colors, animals, symbolic elements, etc.

II would answer it myself, but I think that part of the reason I have nearly 200 patterns is that I have been trying to answer this for myself for years through exploration…

Sweet dreams,
Caitlin

(nitty gritty – all entries must be received by September 30, 2011. Voting will take place October 2nd through 15th, and the winning entrant will be notified by October 18th, 2011 – with plenty of time for holiday shopping! All pattern ideas submitted for this contest will become the property of Moxie and Oliver. By entering the contest you agree to relinquish all rights and reservations to the pattern submission and any drawings or items that are produced as a result of your pattern submission.)

Real or Fake?

2011-08-23T12:13:00.001-07:00

No, I’m not talking about the collection of Betsey Johnson dresses I bought on Ebay before finally ending up getting a real one (I had to send back two fakes, and am still awaiting a refund on one of them), I’m talking about leather.

One of the main reasons I started making leather goods initially was that I kept burning through synthetic/vinyl bags. I was going through one vinyl messenger bag approximately every six months, and they weren’t cheap! When you wear a hole in vinyl, there isn’t much you can do about it either, other than throw the bag away. And every time I did it, I thought – LANDFILL!!! So I built myself a leather messenger bag, and almost seven years later, it is still in one very happy piece.

The Apartment Therapy Blog actually does a pretty good pro/con list of leather and pleather/pvc/vinyl. I’ve always felt like the lists were pretty biased against leather since it is an animal byproduct, and that my list might be slanted in the other direction. With a little inspiration and a push from Apartment Therapy, here’s the pro/con list as I see it:

Benefits of Leather:

1. Animal byproduct – cow leather comes from cows that are used for meat, and are not slaughtered specifically for their meat. The cattle industry uses a remarkable percentage of the cow (I’ve heard numbers up to 95% but haven’t been able to verify it) for various purposes.

2. Current vegetable tanning techniques are less environmentally impactful than previous chemical tanning methods.

3. Leather is durable and can easily last 50 to 100 years or more, if well cared for. Not easily torn or punctured, as synthetics can be.

4. Leather can be re-dyed a different color if desired, or the color can be touched up when it fades.

5. Leather develops a “patina” over time, and breaks in (think of an old baseball glove or a leather jacket) and will become more comfortable as it ages.

6. Breathable, and less “sticky” when hot than leather.

7. Generally hypo-allergenic.

Benefits of Synthetics:

1. Vegan friendly – not an animal byproduct.

2. Can be any color or pattern that you desire.

3. Easily cleaned and maintained – doesn’t require oiling or conditioning

4. Won’t crack or fade over time.

Did I miss anything? Let me know! And if you have comments on the above list, feel free to leave them. For now, I’ll leave you with two chairs, one old leather, and one old vinyl:

I love the way the leather chair is worn, and how it has aged over time. You can almost see someone sitting in it right now… and it looks like it is for sale, so maybe that someone will be me!

Off to the studio…

Caitlin

Leather Care: Conditioner

2011-08-16T23:20:00.001-07:00

I remember getting my first pair of Dr. Marten’s. They were black, eight eye, lace-up boots and I think I must have been no more than 12. I convinced my parents that I desperately needed a pair for those harsh Seattle winters. I also bought a container of Sno-Seal to really sell the idea that these were winter boots. I carefully read the instructions, turned the oven on, and warmed up my boots until they were ready to coat. I wore those boots most days for the next few years, and they got me to college one snowy morning that I had a midterm. And they kept my feet dry the two miles that I walked in the snow.

I am actually asked a lot about leather care, and conditioners. Living in a relatively moist environment (I heard someone say today on the radio that we are the “fungus capital” if that gives you an idea) I don’t actually have to do much to my leather goods to keep them in shape. The truth is, if you’re in a decently humid environment and you use your leather pieces, they’ll be just fine. The oils on your hands transfer to the leather, and keep it soft and conditioned.

If you’re in a dry environment, however, or if you have pieces you don’t use very often, you may want to consider treating them. Scratch that. You may need to treat them. When leather ages it will lose the oils that keep it supple and will begin to crack. You can think of it like really dry skin, but when leather cracks, it doesn’t heal. And there isn’t really anything you can do about it once it does, other than give it Frankenstein-style stitches.

So here’s what I recommend: Lexol. It is the only thing I use for leather these days since it absorbs well and doesn’t leave a sticky residue. The times I have treated shoes with Mink Oil it has always been sticky after, which is pretty, well, gross. I’m going to sound like the bottle here but I’d always test a small patch of the leather first before applying it to the entire thing. Lexol shouldn’t affect the paint or the dye on your leather, but since every piece is different, it’s worth testing it out. If you’re applying it to full-grain leather pieces (tooled leather, or your Moxie and Oliver wares) it will also help to soften up the leather’s initial stiffness. It’s really just accelerating the process here, since the leather does loosen up on its own.

Lexol is appropriate for anything from automotive leather to shoes to bags and your furniture. I did a personal stash clearance sale recently and sold a belt that I hadn’t worn in years. Some of the branding lines were a little cracked and starting to show wear, so I rubbed a bit of Lexol on it and voila! Good as new. I just use a soft paper towel, but you can use a cloth or whatever you have on hand that doesn’t shed. Just be careful – you don’t want to put a cloth in the dryer after you’ve saturated it with oil. Apparently it is a fire hazard.

So those are my thoughts – I hope they help! If you’re in the midst of a heat wave and bored, maybe it’s time to condition your leather! If you are looking for a local place to buy Lexol, or another conditioner, try your local Shoe Repair. They’re leather workers, and usually have quite a good selection + insight.

Next: Leather cleaners and waterproofers.

g’night

Caitlin

A place to rest your feet

2011-08-09T22:27:00.001-07:00

I have been thinking a lot recently about the things I can make with leather that aren’t your standard bag, belt, shoes (coming soon!!), and other wearables. One day it occurred to me that maybe, just maybe, our dining room chairs could use some new Moxie and Oliver leather seats. And that Ottoman in the living room that has fuzzy gold fabric on it, well, it could use a makeover too. Then, of course, I renewed my obsession with leather ottomans…. where I would put one, I have no idea, but here are a few favorites!

A few years ago I found a leather ottoman on Horchow and absolutely fell in love. Knowing what I know about that site, it seemed best to wait for a sale. They routinely send out coupon codes that can be up to 25% on furniture. It would be totally worth it to wait. So I waited, got a coupon code, and went to buy and they were gone. Not just out of stock, completely disappeared. And customer service said they didn’t know what I was talking about! Well, I’m not nuts, because someone else found them, and here they are:

They’re actually technically nail head storage cubes, I guess, and they are covered in white leather with geometric nail head patterns. I was in love, but waited just a little too long. The very same blog where I found the pictures of these lovelies also had a picture of this one, which I love even more (but alas, still unavailable, because it is from Horchow):

Horchow also has a fantastic Silver Leather Pouf that I can’t seem to grab the photo to, but luckily, some other stores have it in other fabulous colors for about the same price ($199-$250 range). The turquoise one from Buy.com is awesome (though if I were to get one, I’d opt for silver just to torture my husband):

Anyway, where totally stuffed leather pouf-like ottomans are on my list, I think I better learn to decorate with them before making or buying them. And clear some space in my living room. Right now, I have two little ottomans to strip and re-cover with leather of my very own. Progress photos coming soon…

‘night

Cait

Goodbye, Oliver

2011-08-08T23:05:00.001-07:00

I know I need to write this post, but I’ve been having a hard time starting, then finding the words to finish.

Over the weekend we said goodbye to Oliver. For the last few years we’ve affectionately called him the “grumpy old man.” He’d developed kidney disease a few years back, and could be a bit of a grumpus at times, mostly protesting Guapo’s insistence that they always sleep in the same bed, or his constant pestering of Oliver to play with him. As much as Oliver complained, though, he absolutely adored Guapo.

Oliver was a stray who showed up on my parents doorstep about nine years ago. He was a long-haired orange kitty with striking green eyes. I stopped to pet him in my way in the house, and told him that I wanted to steal him and take him home with me. I went in, and my stepfather asked me from the bathroom, “do you want a kitty?” I excitedly asked if it was the one on the front porch, and he said yes. Oliver had been hanging around for a few weeks, asking for food, love, etc. and it was clear that if he had a home, he wasn’t interested in going there. He wanted to be somewhere else.

So my stepfather fashioned a little kitty cave on the porch out of blankets and I started feeding Oliver, just until we could take him home. My mom protested me giving him food because he wouldn’t go away if we fed him. I told her that was the point. Eventually my college-living situation was sorted out enough that my then boyfriend took Oliver for 9 months until I got an apartment of my own that allowed pets, and Oliver came to live with me.

What we quickly found out was the reason Oliver was a stray. Though loving and handsome, he had a tendency to pee, specifically on carpet. Not really a desirable trait in an animal, but I loved him anyway. He moved from my boyfriend’s house into my apartment, then to our house when my husband and I bought it. He ruined the floors everywhere.

Oliver also howled. Make no mistake – this was not a meow. This was a howl. He would sit with his neck extended and make that circular motion with his lower jaw and this sound that was something like a baby crying would come out. When my husband and I lived in our apartment, we got a noise complaint from his howling. An official letter from animal control that said “your animal” but “animal” was crossed out and “cat” was written in it’s place, is making too much noise. We laughed. A cat, with a noise complaint. Hilarious. And then we moved.

Oliver continued howling, continued peeing on the floor, and if you happened to be sleeping and he wanted love, he’d wait patiently, staring at you, until you opened your eyes. Then he would start meowing. And he would meow until you paid attention to him.

Oliver loved being brushed, and he’d let you do it for hours. He loved it when you made a little circle with your thumb and forefinger that he would push his head through. He was also a drooler, and would get giant drool gobs on his mouth when he was happy, then he’d shake his head. He was a loving cat, who would let me spoon him at night to sleep, and use him as a pillow. When he was healthy, he weighed about 15lbs and was probably near 3ft long all stretched out. In the nine years I had him, I only heard him hiss twice.

He finally stopped howling when we got Guapo. He’d fuss when Guapo wanted to share a bed with him, but he’d always give in. The worst nights of complaining were when they were separated. Despite the cranking about it, Oliver just adored Guapo’s love, and as soon as Guapo died, his howling started back again, and his health started to go downhill.

His kidney disease got worse, and he was just sad. We planned on getting him two new kittens but he didn’t make it that far. I honestly think that Guapo extended his life by a few years, and I hope they' are together in the kitty ever-after, cuddling and protesting, biting and licking, and being happy loving kitties together.

When Oliver passed on Saturday it was peaceful. I had seen it coming for a while, and apparently told him not to die while we were gone as we left for England in June (I only partially remember this, but I think Kevin’s right, I did say it). He was sick, and I knew it. For a few days before he died, I was surprised to see him when I woke up in the morning. He could barely move, and he’d given up on life. He was ready to move on, though I wasn’t ready to let him. I said goodbye to him many times a day, told him I loved him, and how glad I was that he had found my doorstep nine years ago.

I’ve made a big print of the photo at the top of this post, and I’ll keep it in my studio with my big Guapo picture. That was Oliver’s “I want attention” face. I loved it. I still do. He was the best naughty kitty I’ve ever had.

I love you, Oliver. And miss you. I know you’re in a better place, and I hope it includes the restoration of your healthy cat body, and the companionship of your kitten, Guapo.

SHOES!!!!!!!!

2011-08-04T12:20:00.001-07:00

So it is no secret that I have a little bit of a shoe fetish. This is why, next month, I’m going to learn how to make shoes of my very own. It seems like the natural progression from making leather accessories for the last seven years. I spoke to one of the people who runs it today, and after looking at my website, she told me I’d be in 7th Heaven being able to make shoes, and I think she is right.

I was inspired after finding Yoma shoes when I was in Brighton. They have a little shop in the North Laines, and it is full of adorable sandals with flowers attached. How could I resist? Well, fortunately for me they didn’t have everything I wanted in my size (or I would have needed a new suitcase to bring it all home) but I did pick up a pair of these:

but in black (I was trying to be practical). They are relatively reasonable at about 50 pounds a pair (I think that’s about $85? Or it was then). But it really got me thinking – I could make some wickedly cool sandals with my leather lace patterns, or flowers riveted on. And in September, I get to learn!

So that’s my leather post for the day. If you happen to be in Brighton I highly recommend checking out the Yoma store. What was funny was that they don’t get great reviews when you do a Google search precisely because they have a distinct style. The shoes are comfortable, though, and seem to be built well (they are made in Spain). I found the sizing to be a little inconsistent, and I’d tend to recommend the sandals over the closed-toe shoes. It may just be the way my wacky feet work, but my toes always felt like the shoe was hitting my toenail, which isn’t terribly comfortable. One thing I do know about leather is that it stretches out over time, so where the shoes may start out a little tight, they would loosen up with wear. More on that later, when I bring you a fabulous deal on my favorite pair of shoes!

Soon,

Caitlin

Everything you love about leather

2011-08-01T16:52:00.001-07:00

So over the last few months I have done a bit of soul searching. I love to write, and I actually really enjoy the process of blogging, but I tend to get a little too scattered. In my life I’ve tried to be more of a renaissance woman than an expert in anything, but after seven years of working with leather, I think I’m approaching a certain expertise. And along the way, I’ve gained some useful knowledge that I would love to share with my friends, fans, and anyone on the internet who happens to find me.

Today is a virtual ribbon-cutting on the grand re-opening of the Moxie & Oliver blog. From now on, I’m focusing my blogging efforts on leather. What it is (there are more types than you may know), what to buy, and how to care for it once you have it. And since I am already trying one new thing, I thought I’d try a second as well.

My very first video! Over the years leather can crack and show signs of wear. Some people like that look (I am one of them) while others like something that looks new all the time. In this video, I illustrate an easy way to make your wallet, purse, belt, or other leather piece look like new again. Anyone can do it, and it requires three things: dye, topcoat, and paper towels. I do also recommend rubber (or nitrile, or vinyl) gloves, since the dye will discolor your hands, too.

Restoring the Jasmine Wallet

That’s all for now. My goal is to bring you some form of leather goodness at least three times a week, so be sure to follow my blog, and maybe even the YouTube channel – I’ll be posting more simple how to videos soon.

Happy Monday!
Caitlin

Where in the world is Moxie & Oliver?

2011-06-22T08:23:00.001-07:00

Maybe it is the book of brain teasers that keeps being passed around, or maybe it is being halfway around the world (well, not really, but it sounds better that way) but I'm inspired to play a little "Where in the World?"

So take a look at the photo above. This is where I am right now, and can determine your coupon! I think some of you already know where I am, so here is what you get:

1. Location (city) is worth 10% off
2. Name of the landmark is worth 15% off
3. Body of water that it is in is worth 20% off

All coupons good in my Etsy store through July 13 towards in stock merchandise only (don't worry, everything in my Etsy store is in stock, and I have someone shipping for me while I am gone! Yay!). Enter your answers all as one word (no spaces) into the coupon code at check-out. Not valid towards previous purchases.

Have fun - and good luck!

Caitlin

Unified Aesthetic

2011-06-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

Something I've struggled with in the past is a kind of "disjointed" look to my Etsy store. It happens again, and again, and again partly because of the way I create/list things in my shop. Well, maybe I'm doing this no more, or maybe I'm just not doing it right now, but today I looked, and I love the way that my shop appears, at least the first page. For the first time in years, I've had the opportunity to make a large body of work, and post it at the same time.

And for the first time in years, I'm not putting any made to order or custom work in my Etsy shop. I'll clutter up www.MOXIEandOLIVER.com with that, but the Etsy shop stays clean, at least for the next few weeks. If I haven't said it yet, I like the way it looks.

I created a body of about 70 new pieces to post this month - I've been working hard and sleeping little since our last trip to the UK. I found the fashion and colors inspiring, and where my work still has (proudly) a lot of my style in it, I think that the trip gave me the drive to be a little brighter, bolder and more adventurous than I have been in the past.

So here are a few of my favorites, in no particular order. I'll add them to the Etsy shop and to the website in the coming weeks, so keep an eye out. But for now, I hope you'll just enjoy the colors as I do!

Soon,

Emails make my day

2011-05-24T22:28:00.000-07:00

Especially when they look like this:

"I just got my awesome guitar strap in the mail!
I just wanted to say thank you thank you! I'm normally not a gusher but this is literally my favorite gift ever! It's so beautiful, just as I'd hoped! You do great work and I will certainly refer people to you and purchase in the future! Thanks a million!"

Just a reminder - June 1 is the last day for custom orders for Father's Day! I will be increasing my turn-around time to 6-8 weeks effective June 2.

XO
C

2011-03-28T01:04:00.001-07:00

It may be Thursday before we make it to Animal Talk with the donation - flu hit the household, we are at the ER.

And the photo has nothing to do with our adventure. It just makes me smile.

-c

In Loving Memory

2011-03-21T22:33:00.001-07:00

I've always loved animals. When I was a kid I would walk to the pet store closest to my house to visit the animals that I wasn't allowed to have (my dad was allergic) - mostly cats, since dogs were always out of the question during my childhood. Sometimes the owner would let me play with the kittens, or hold some of the smaller animals. I could have spent hours there, and I think some days I did, just watching the kittens. They were always my favorite.

The pet store that I would walk to was Animal Talk - it wasn't until I was an adult that I learned that they are actually a no-kill shelter, and all the adorable cats and kittens that they had were rescued. Over the years I have had many rescued kittens, and Oliver himself was actually "rescued" though he didn't come from a shelter, he just showed up one day on my front porch, lonely and hungry (how could I say no?). So, in loving memory of El Guapo, Oliver and I have decided to donate 50% of sales this week (March 21-27, 2011) to Animal Talk to help other kitties in need. Yep, that's right, half of every dollar you spend at Moxie and Oliver this week will go directly to help the kitties. So here are some ways to shop:

Moxie and Oliver

Etsy store

Artfire Store

Alere Modern (applies to Moxie & Oliver merchandise only)

To further honor the memory of Guapo, I've decided to plant some Tiger Lilies in the yard (the picture above is Guapo helping me garden in summer '10). Guapo was a plant eater, and they were the reason for his first (and thankfully his only) trip to the kitty ER. For the last three years we couldn't have any flowers in the house. Right now we have a vase of tulips on the table, and every time I walk past I look for bite marks.

Sweet dreams, and happy shopping - remember it's for a good cause!
C

My studio helper

2011-03-18T21:51:00.000-07:00

I am not entirely certain if the shock is wearing off or settling in - I can't believe Guapo is gone. Oliver is having a very hard time with it, too. Before we got Guapo he used to howl every night when we went to sleep (super annoying, but you get used to it). I always said that it was because he was an only cat, looking for kitty friends. It turns out that I was right. He started howling again the night that Guapo died.

That is one of the first photos I have of the two of them together. Oliver not looking too happy after this little kitten cuddled up on him, but he got used to it, and grew to love the relentless love from El Guapo.

As for myself, I grew to love the fact that he was constantly in my face when I was trying to work. Attacking scissors while I was cutting leather, biting my pencil, chewing on my string, climbing inside the hides if I left them somewhere tempting. Everything that I made for three years probably had Guapo fur in the stitching - luckily Siberians are hypoallergenic!

I remember so clearly the day we brought him home. My husband picked me up from work with this tiny kitten in the car (I'm sure I got nothing done that day in anticipation of the new arrival), and I picked him up out of his little carrier. He looked into my eyes and seemed to ask "Are you going to take care of me? To love me? And protect me?" And I promised him I would. In the end, I know that he was so well loved, by me, by my husband, by our baby, by our dogs, and of course by Oliver. He had a good three years here, and we enjoyed every moment with him.

Oliver is, of course, now sitting on my desk, nudging my face and hands, covering me in drool and making it impossible to type. He's a charming old man, and needs a little extra love at the moment, which I am happy to give him.

Goodbye, Sweet Guapo

2011-03-16T22:13:00.000-07:00

Orders and life as we know it will experience a little delay this week. Today we had to say goodbye to El Guapo, our three-year-old Siberian Forest Cat. He passed this morning, after chasing plastic Easter eggs, in the sunbeams in our front room. Apparently there was some thickening of the walls of his heart (cardiomyopathy) and it gave out.

Thank you, Guapo, for being in our lives. For stealing dog treats to feed to the dogs, for making it so that we could never have fresh flowers in the house. Thank you for letting our daughter pull on your fur, and smack you in the face, and for loving every minute of it. Thank you for playing fetch, rough-housing with our two large dogs, and for your general species confusion. Thank you for warming up the stroller, the car seat, the bouncy chair, and the highchair for our baby, and always staying out of her crib. Thank you for your visits to us in the bathtub - and the shower. You were an amazing cat, and a wonderful and truly unforgettable presence in our lives. We were blessed to have you, and will remember you every time we put flowers on the dining room table, or pass a paper bag, box, or basket that is not full of cat. You were as crafty and intelligent as you were handsome, and you kept us both amused and on our toes. I will miss you in the studio with me, and the way you were always on my lap when I was trying to work. I will also miss the way that you always came to me when I was sad and needed comfort. Guapo, what I wouldn't give now to hear the sound of your meow, to feel your purr, and to hold you in my lap just one more time. My baby kitty, I hope you loved every minute of your life. You have made an incredible impact on ours, and we will carry you in our hearts always. We love you, El Guapo, and we miss you.

I have no photos

2011-03-09T21:37:00.000-08:00

The computer I usually use is being "repaired" and for some reason my poor brain can't get it together to put photos on the laptop, so you're going to have to trust me on this one.

I'm making an easter basket.

Out of leather.

It will be awesome.

I should be done by Monday.

But first I have 900 more pieces to add to the new website.

xo
c

Oliver

2011-03-07T22:28:00.000-08:00

We got a call from the vet today. Hubby took the kitties to the vet on Saturday (both in the same carrier - hilarious) and they did bloodwork on Oliver. Turns out that he has kidney disease. We've known for a few years. When he first showed up on the porch we got him up to about 15lbs - a healthy weight for his size. He's been at 10.8 for a few years now. Scary, when you take away all the fur, how skinny he is. But he's not losing more weight, and the vet says we are doing all the right things.

It was sad to hear that he definitely does have kidney disease. We don't know how old he is because he was a stray, but my guess is about 14 or so (I've had him for eight years). The good news is that is progressing slowly, and he seems happy for a cranky old man. He really is the sweetest kitty. He puts up with the rest of our zoo, and all he wants in return is water from the tap in the bathroom.

Sweet boy. If I could make him a new kidney I would. For now, I'll just keep feeding him the crap food he wants to eat (really? Friskies over the expensive stuff? Well, at least it's not poop.) and letting the water in the bathroom drip all day...

Built to last

2011-03-05T22:00:00.000-08:00

Wintergrass got me thinking about the durability of leather again this year. Last year, a guy named Arthur brought me two pieces. First, he came up to my booth with a guitar strap that a friend of his made him in the 1970s. Though the guitar strap probably didn't look just the same as the day he got it (apparently it started out a deep red/burgundy) it was clearly nowhere near giving up. He asked me to make him a guitar strap, the same as the one he had, but new. I looked at it, and said okay.

Then he came back with a belt. It was a brown crackly sort of color. Apparently it had started out black. The belt was also from the 1970's, and had clearly gotten a lot of use since. I agreed to make a belt as well.

The guitar strap was a little harder than I anticipated. It was two sections of what is called a "magic braid" where you take a strip of leather and slice the middle. The ends stay connected, then you weave the strips in and out of each other to form a braid. I remember recruiting my husband when I was trying to figure it out. It took weeks before the mathematical part of my brain kicked back in and I finally got it, and could do it consistently. Anyway, here is the result:

I did dye the leather a darker color after this, but for some strange reason didn't photograph it. Must have been pregnancy brain kicking in. Anyway, he came back with the strap this year and it still looks great. Seeing pieces out of the same materials that I use that have lasted generations already, with so little signs of wear, just makes me happy. My philosophy has always been to buy it once, buy it for life. Yeah I know someone has a slogan similar to that (Kohler? I can't remember) but what I mean is basically that it makes more sense, from an economic, environment, etc., standpoint to buy the thing you really want, that is good quality, and built to last, the first time, rather than compromising on your initial purchase when it will just result in a) you breaking down and buying the other thing later, or b) the thing that you bought breaking down and needing to be replaced. After all, part of the reason that I started making leather goods in the first place was that I burned through three vinyl bags in one year! And since the big hole in them couldn't be repaired, off to the dump they went.

This past month, the first messenger bag I made for myself turned four:

and she's still going strong. Looks as great as ever - made the daily commute with me on the bus for years, now doubles as a smaller diaper bag for shorter outings. No worse for wear, either. Someone said recently that the bag just looks better with age - it develops a patina all it's own. Just think, if I had been buying synthetic messenger bags this entire time I would have gone through 12!

Off to bed, so I can make new iPhone cases in the morning. And yes, I am sure the case will last longer than the phone :)

Moxie

You asked, I listened

2011-03-01T22:52:00.000-08:00

So the new site is up, and so far I've been able to fulfill one request from the Wintergrass wishlist - Mandolin straps without buckles.

Easy enough, right? All my mando straps are now being offered in lengths from 35-47" (two inch increments, it seemed reasonable) as well as adjustable. Best way to find your strap length is to measure your current strap. All of my mandolin straps come with a bit of leather lace (no, it's not lace, it's more like a really thick leather cord, sorry for the years of confusion) to attach it to the instrument, so it's best to order shorter if you are between two lengths.

Oh, and I can't say how many times people asked me if the straps were "splits". They're not, they are made from tooling leather hides, which is a full-grain leather. And what is a "split" you might ask? Well, if you have seen my work in person you know that the leather that I use is quite thick. It is possible to litterally split the hide into layers. A split is one of the inner layers that has been split apart from the top layer, or the grain layer. The grain layer is the strongest, and splits are much weaker (split is what is used to make suede).

I hope that makes sense! One more listing on the new site then it is off to bed.

c

Wintergrass Wishlist

2011-02-28T16:48:00.000-08:00

So we just returned from Wintergrass -- this is the only show I have done in the last few years, and I probably won't do another show until next year's Wintergrass. It's a fun festival with good people, good music, and it's always interesting for me to talk to customers in person about what I have, and what they'd like to see me make. So, after four days of hearing people react to my work, here's what they would apparently like to see:

1. Leather suspenders, with instruments on them
2. Luggage tags in the shape of aligators
3. A guitar strap with an aligator
4. A thinner strap for banjo
5. A buckle-free strap for mandolin
6. A wallet with an expandable coin section
7. A belt with bees on it (this one I have in the works)

And that's about all I remember. I thought the leather suspender request was hilarious since I asked my husband a year or two ago if leather suspenders would be a good idea. Apparently, they are! I'm starting with flowers though, since I probably will keep the prototype.

Baby is awake! More later -
C

What is Valentines Day....

2011-02-13T22:45:00.000-08:00

without chocolates? I mean, really, this was not the best month for my husband to decide it is time to diet.

But there you have it - diet month! Yes, February is National Heart Health Month, and it is a good thing to be mindful of even when you don't have a history of heart disease in your family, but really. Who put the chocolate holiday smack in the middle of Heart Health Month? Or who decided that this was a good month to deprive people of chocolate?

In all seriousness, this is the longest I have ever gone without eating chocolate. Fourteen days today, and fourteen more to go. I am already planning what I am going to eat on my first day off the diet...

I found out that Jet City Pizza has gluten free pizza (yay! I haven't eaten there since college!) and there is some new burger joint (now I can't help but think of Fabio from Top Chef - booger!) that has gluten free buns. Maybe lunch and dinner for the first day off the diet? Or breakfast and lunch? Aah, and for dessert...

a big giant cupcake from Trophy Cupcakes. Yes, I realize they're not gluten free. And no, I don't care at all. I have been dreaming about chocolate cupcakes - that is how much I miss chocolate! And I figure, it's better than making a gluten free batch at home, and eating all of them, right?

Time to go to bed, and dream....
C

Under Construction....

2011-02-10T22:46:00.000-08:00

So the website is under construction. That is why it doesn't work, or at least that is what I choose to believe :)

We are currently working on getting the site set up to do full e-commerce (woohoo!) so you will be able to find all of your old and new M&O favorite pieces on www.moxieandoliver.com. As if you didn't have enough trouble deciding...

The good news is that it will be easier to navigate than flickr. And you can shop.

But now, time for sleep.

xo
moxie

In a nutshell...

2011-02-01T22:53:00.000-08:00

Stupid, stupid blogger. I just wrote a wonderful blog post and then away it sailed, into the internet ether, never to be seen again.

Well, since it is now past my bedtime - husband, baby, dogs and cats are already asleep - this has to be super short with the promise of more tomorrow. One thing that everyone should know about is a giveaway of two M&O pieces - a Ginger belt and Ginger Flask - as part of the Handmade with Love Blog Hop. They're available here - http://www.aleremodern.com/pages/artist.asp?aid=2 - if you aren't the lucky winner and need one of your own!

Details tomorrow on why I am posting so many guitar straps in my Etsy store, and what is next for my very website.

xo Moxie

Cleaning House

2011-01-15T23:24:00.000-08:00

So this year my resolution was to get rid of everything I don't use - I've taken three carloads of stuff to Goodwill so far this year (yep, only the 15th, so that's pretty good in my book!) and now we are down from having three fake trees to just two. It's a long story, but we're actually keeping the two. One for real presents, one for white elephant presents. And they're only 3 feet tall, so they don't take up that much space... I know, excuses, excuses.

But I'm cleaning out my studio, too. Getting rid of old stuff, making room for new work. I actually have a whopping 1/4 of my shop in my SALE section and everything in the SALE section is 40% off through the end of the month! It's all one of a kind, so be sure to not pass it up if you want it!

And happy new year!

C

Well, poo....

2011-01-07T17:40:00.000-08:00

I wish I had better news to report, and this news is particularly hard for me. I don't usually do giveaways, promotions, etc., and with my new life and love for the world (as experienced through my six-month-old daughter) I've loosened up a bit, and this holiday season decided to give a few of them a try.

And I learned a lesson in the process.

I learned that the promotions that are within my sole control are a good idea. Ones that require collaboration are not. After weeks and weeks of trying, I have been completely unsuccessful in getting in touch with Veronica Willngham, the artist who was supposed to be giving away earrings to my customers.

And I am sick about this.

Some of the would-be earring recipients were old customers and friends, some were new. I believe in my heart that the people that I have worked with before know that I never would have done a giveaway on a whim, or without reason to trust the person I was working with on it. And I didn't. And I wouldn't. But as I have learned people may change, and things don't always work out the way that you plan.

So because the only thing I have control of is me, I will be giving something to all those who were supposed to receive earrings and did not. It will be in the form of Moxie & Oliver goods (trust me, you don't want earrings that I make - it's been years and the last set involved fishing lures), so if you were supposed to and did not receive your earrings, please contact me by email (caitlin [at] moxieandoliver.com) before January 31.

Thanks for your understanding and support - and happy 2011!
xo
Caitlin

Huge Sale!

2010-12-20T08:35:00.000-08:00

Huge sale, going on in my Etsy shop right now. Serriously huge. 40% off a dozen or so pieces - old favorites that need good homes. And most of them are purses, which will still arrive in time for Christmas.

The sale ends when they sell, so this is your one and only chance to get them at an insane price.

I don't usually do sales, as many of my fans know, so why now? Well, in my studio I have three shelves for work. One is entirely full of purses right now. Some are new, some are old, but the truth is that I want to make more, and just need the space for the new pieces. So, on sale they go, along with a few other pieces that have been sitting in the studio for a while. Fantastic deals, especially when you factor in the other promotions (see my older posts).

Happy holidays!
Caitlin

Earring Update

2010-12-18T10:30:00.000-08:00

Here's what is left - and going fast!

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_315/Orbital-Sterling-Silver-Disc-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left! ($52 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_307/Nestled-Pearl-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - ALL GONE !! http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_294/Trio-Black-Onyx-Earrings.htm 3 Pairs left! ($55 value)

For purchases of $250 or more of Moxie and Oliver merchandise (from moxieandoliver.etsy.com or from www.aleremodern.com) you may additionally choose:

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_306/Blue-Chalcedony-and-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 5

Publish Post

Get 25% off your order through December 31!

2010-12-15T13:34:00.000-08:00

COUPON EXTENDED!!!

Here's how to get 25% off your next purchase from Moxie and Oliver:

As a one time only special I am offering coupons for 25% off your next Moxie and Oliver purchase when you make a purchase from Alere Modern between now and December 31. All you have to do is make any purchase from Alere Modern (it doesn't have to be Moxie & Oliver merchandise), then you can start shopping for Moxie & Oliver goods from my Etsy store at 25% off!

To receive the discount, just enter the word ALERE followed by your Alere Modern order number in the "coupon" field, and your discount will be applied

And the GIVEAWAY!!!

Publish Post

Pairs ($69 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_291/Trio-Peridot-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left! ($65 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_297/Jade-and-Smoky-Quartz-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left!
($85 value)

For purchases of $350 or more of Moxie and Oliver merchandise (from moxieandoliver.etsy.com or from www.aleremodern.com) you may additionally choose:

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_304/Gaspeite-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 1 Pair left! ($92 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_301/Labradorite-Amethyst-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 2 Pairs left! ($125 value)

These earrings are a great way to check that one extra person off your holiday shopping list (by giving them an exquisite present, I might add) or to get yourself a little something special during this holiday season. To receive your earrings, just send an email to caitlin@moxieandoliver.com with your receipt and your choice of earring and we will send them out to you!

Happy shopping!
Caitlin

Want 25% or even 50% off your order?

2010-12-05T14:19:00.000-08:00

Here's how to get 25% or 50% off your next purchase from Moxie and Oliver:

As a one time only special I am offering coupons for 25% or 50% off your next Moxie and Oliver purchase when you make a purchase from Alere Modern between now and December 15. All you have to do is make any purchase from Alere Modern (it doesn't have to be Moxie & Oliver merchandise), then on December 15 you can start shopping for Moxie & Oliver goods from my Etsy store and you will get at least 25% off your purchase. One lucky shopper's coupon will even be 50% off!

To receive the discount, just enter the word ALERE followed by your Alere Modern order number in the "coupon" field, and your discount will be applied

And the GIVEAWAY!!!

Veronica Willingham, maker of fine jewelry, has asked me to give away thirty pairs of her earrings with a Moxie and Oliver purchase. How could I say no? Veronica and I discovered one another way back when I started Moxie and Oliver, and the earrings that I got from her then are one of my very favorite pairs! Sparkly and feminine, just the thing that any urban cowgirl needs.

So, while supplies last, with a qualifying purchase, you will receive a pair of earrings of your choice! Be sure to shop soon, because there are only 30 pairs in total, and a limited number of each style.

For purchases of $150 or more of Moxie and Oliver merchandise (from moxieandoliver.etsy.com or from www.aleremodern.com) choose from:

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_315/Orbital-Sterling-Silver-Disc-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left! ($52 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_307/Nestled-Pearl-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - ALL GONE !! http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_294/Trio-Black-Onyx-Earrings.htm 4 Pairs left! ($55 value)

For purchases of $250 or more of Moxie and Oliver merchandise (from moxieandoliver.etsy.com or from www.aleremodern.com) you may additionally choose:

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_306/Blue-Chalcedony-and-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 5 Pairs ($69 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_291/Trio-Peridot-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left! ($65 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_297/Jade-and-Smoky-Quartz-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left!
($85 value)

For purchases of $350 or more of Moxie and Oliver merchandise (from moxieandoliver.etsy.com or from www.aleremodern.com) you may additionally choose:

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_304/Gaspeite-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 1 Pair left! ($92 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_301/Labradorite-Amethyst-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 2 Pairs left! ($125 value)

These earrings are a great way to check that one extra person off your holiday shopping list (by giving them an exquisite present, I might add) or to get yourself a little something special during this holiday season. To receive your earrings, just send an email to caitlin@moxieandoliver.com with your receipt and your choice of earring and we will send them out to you!

Happy shopping!
Caitlin

The fine print about the coupon:
All customers will receive a 25% off coupon with a purchase from Alere Modern, and the 50% off coupon will be awarded at random and revealed when entered in the shopping cart on check-out. Coupons are one-time use only, no limit on number of coupons per customer. Coupon is not valid for made to order or custom orders, good on in-stock items only. Not valid on sale items. Not valid on prior purchases.

GIVEAWAY!!!

2010-11-12T17:00:00.001-08:00

Giveaway!!!

Veronica Willingham, maker of fine jewelry, has asked me to give away thirty pairs of her earrings with a Moxie and Oliver purchase. How could I say no? Veronica and I discovered one another way back when I started Moxie and Oliver, and the earrings that I got from her then are one of my very favorite pairs! Sparkly and feminine, just the thing that any urban cowgirl needs.

So, while supplies last, with a qualifying purchase, you will receive a pair of earrings of your choice! Be sure to shop soon, because there are only 30 pairs in total, and a limited number of each style.

For purchases of $150 or more of Moxie and Oliver merchandise (from moxieandoliver.etsy.com or from www.aleremodern.com) choose from:

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_315/Orbital-Sterling-Silver-Disc-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left! ($52 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_307/Nestled-Pearl-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - ALL GONE !! http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_294/Trio-Black-Onyx-Earrings.htm 4 Pairs left! ($55 value)

For purchases of $250 or more of Moxie and Oliver merchandise (from moxieandoliver.etsy.com or from www.aleremodern.com) you may additionally choose:

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_306/Blue-Chalcedony-and-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 5 Pairs ($69 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_291/Trio-Peridot-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left! ($65 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_297/Jade-and-Smoky-Quartz-Earrings.htm - 3 Pairs left!
($85 value)

For purchases of $350 or more of Moxie and Oliver merchandise (from moxieandoliver.etsy.com or from www.aleremodern.com) you may additionally choose:

http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_304/Gaspeite-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 1 Pair left! ($92 value)
http://www.veronicawillingham.com/item_301/Labradorite-Amethyst-Sterling-Silver-Earrings.htm - 2 Pairs left! ($125 value)

These earrings are a great way to check that one extra person off your holiday shopping list (by giving them an exquisite present, I might add) or to get yourself a little something special during this holiday season. To receive your earrings, just send an email to caitlin@moxieandoliver.com with your receipt and your choice of earring and we will send them out to you!

Happy shopping!
Caitlin

Custom Orders are Back!

2010-11-03T11:00:00.001-07:00

But more excitingly, you can now find all of your Moxie and Oliver favorites at Alere Modern! I have moved my most popular Woody Wallet there, and have added new items such as a Belle Lace Belt (there really is nothing more luxurious than a hand-cut floral leather lace belt). And it comes in a variety of colors - yellow, turquoise, purple and pink!

Oh, and about custom orders and my SMOKEY pattern (the ones with the handwriting on them) - they are available in very limited quantity between now and mid-December, so get them while you can! If you are thinking of either for a holiday gift, shop early to make sure you can get it in time! Holidays do tend to get busy here around the studio, and I think the baby is still too young to help out...

xo
Moxie

What I'd like to create...

2010-08-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

My main problem these days is not enough free time. I feel on some level I can learn to do anything if I just have the time to do it - not the mastery of 10,000 hours (which I think I am getting close to in leather) but just enough to be passable.

One of the things high on my priority list when I do get the time to do it is to create a large gate. When we bought the house six years ago, my husband, stepfather and I put in a brick wall. It took ten times as long as we thought it would because none of had any masonry experience and really couldn't estimate it, but we got it done and it looks fantastic. And remarkably, is still standing. I can't help but think it would look all the more incredible with a unique gate in the front, keeping the neighborhood riffraff out!

I go back and forth about the design, but it would definitely be some sort of cut out steel (I don't think that leather would be very durable for this particular project). There is a place locally that does laser cutting, so I was thinking I would design the gate on whatever that Adobe program is, that I don't know how to use, and then have it made, then weld it into a frame, which I don't know how to build.

But this is why we artists have artist friends in other mediums, right? So, does anyone know how to use that Adobe program? I think it is called Illustrator? It hasn't had much of a place in leather work over the years, but as soon as it does, I will learn, and will have one less thing on my "things I wish I knew how to do, but don't" list.

Then I will just need to learn how to weld... which I'd love to know how to do anyway!

Happy weekend all, I hope you are feeling better than I am!

xo,
C

This post is part of a blo(r)g(y) for the Handmade Division group of fantastic artists. Check out some of the other posts by clicking on the links below:

Andes Cruz: http://andescruz.wordpress.com/
NEDbeads: http://www.nedbeads.blogspot.com/
Lisa Hopkins Design: http://lisahopkinsdesign.blogspot.com/
Jewelry by Natsuko: http://jewelrybynatsuko.blogspot.com/
Beth Cyr: http://bcyrjewelry.blogspot.com/
ArtJewel Designs http://www.artjeweldesigns.blogspot.com/
Abhaya Fibers http://abhayafibers.blogspot.com/
Purified http://purifiedart.blogspot.com/
nova of sweden http://nova-designs.blogspot.com/
Bella-Bijou Jewellery http://bellabijoujewellery.blogspot.com/
Pink Crow Studio: http://www.pinkcrowstudio.typepad.com/
Sand Fibers: http://sandfibers.blogspot.com/
Alice Istanbul: http://istanbuldesigns.blogspot.com/
Thomasin Durgin: http://metalriot.blogspot.com/

All good things must come to an end

2010-08-13T15:24:00.001-07:00

In late June, we welcomed our baby daughter in the world. Now as she approaches two months old, and my entire life has changed, I feel the need to make a few more changes.

I used to say that doing custom orders was my favorite part of my business. I love working with customers to create a piece of their dreams, and over the years I have been fortunate enough to meet some wonderful people, and create incredibly unique pieces for them. Where I love it no less now than I did before, my time has been severely limited. I barely have time to work on new piece, and spend much of my time either creating custom pieces or made to order items.

So, since the reason I became an artist in the first place was to exercise my own creativity, I feel that right now I need to return to that. I haven't decided when yet, but soon (before the end of the month) I will be removing all made-to-order items from all of my shops (1000markets, etsy and artfire) and I will be discontinuing custom ordering. I will offer my Smokey pattern wallets and guitar straps for the holidays, but that is it. Other than the few Smokey pieces, my shop will be entirely limited to stock on hand.

I have already begun to work on new pieces, including an entirely new line for AlereModern.com. I am sure you will all love the new pieces being added to my shop - just remember that they will all be one of a kind, so if you see something you like, don't pass it up.

Cheers,
Caitlin

Taking the weekend off

2010-05-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

I have to say I'm feeling a little more relaxed this weekend than I normally do - not that I am refraining from working on orders and new work, but more that I'm not stressed about it.

See, this is the first weekend in several years that I don't have a "Monday morning" to look forward to. Friday was my last official day of work in the real world.

But I was out all last week with a broken foot.

That said, I'm feeling relaxed, and my mind is clearing a little, letting new work, sunshine, flowers, and thoughts of things to come in. Today while my husband has been reading comics (after so graciously mowing the lawn and picking up the dog poop - maybe the broken foot isn't so bad??) I've been working on some letters for the baby's room.

Everyone seems to do it these days, and I looked and looked at letters but couldn't bring myself to buy them, so I made a set. Hopefully when she's older, she'll appreciate that I made these just for her, and with any luck they'll grow with her, rather than being something she sees as a "baby" thing.

So here's a sneak-peak, in progress:

The colors are a little hard to see (the overhead lights in my studio are out at the moment... hard to work but I'm making do), but I'm really happy with the way these are turning out so far. When I can convince my husband to take me to the hardware store, I'll get some plywood to mount these on so they have nice little frames.

And yes, I'll be adding letters to the shop. How could I not?

Back to work, whatever it is I'm doing...

Moxie

Learning a New Skill

2010-05-04T17:57:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that as I sit here and write this, I'm not entirely sure what day it is. I believe it is Tuesday, but these last few days have been somewhat of a fog. You know that feeling when you're sick, where you can't tell the difference between being awake and being asleep, and everything blends together? That's the feeling that I've had since Sunday. Except I'm not sick. Just broken.

In the last 20 years I haven't broken a bone. I've always thought how awful it would be when I see people with a broken foot - I would hate to have that be me. I love running, and even walking is pretty great if you properly appreciate it. Then on Sunday, walking with my husband in the park going to get pregnancy pictures taken (yep, that's right, 34 weeks tomorrow) I rolled my foot like I've done a thousand times before, but this time, it didn't just roll, it fractured. At first walking hurt, then standing, then any pressure whatsoever. Between poses I told my husband the first thing that we're going to do when we get into the car is type "HOSPITAL" into the navigation and we're going to the emergency room. I knew I'd broken or fractured something.

After a day (okay, maybe a little more) of feeling sorry for myself and thinking of all the things I would no longer be able to do, I'm starting to realize all the things that I can still do - and appreciate them. They may not be my normal activities. I can't run, I can't swim, I can't really garden (though that one has yet to be tested), and I certainly can't paint the nursery. But I can read, I can draw, I can sit and enjoy the garden, and springtime, and my friends and family. A bit of a rude awakening in a way, but one I'm learning to accept. Part of this acceptance is knowing that the condition of my foot is temporary - it will heal, I will get better, I will return to "normal", but for now, I'm taking the time to enjoy the quieter, more peacful side of life.

Don't worry - I'm still in the studio daily. I've learned if enough things have wheels on the bottom, you don't really need two feet to get around the studio.

I'll write more soon... and probably more than I have been, now that there are fewer distractions. And yes, items are still going up on and for sale daily in my Etsy shop. I would have included the sale item of the day in this post, but it sold before I was able to finish writing. Guess I'm moving a little slower than usual....

Off to enjoy life in a new way.

Moxie

The Smell of Leather

2010-04-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

I was working in my studio last night when my husband came down with a friend of his, who immediately, upon poking his head into the studio, asked if I did leather branding and tooling. With leather strewn about the studio floor and tables, even hanging from the ceiling, I just said "yep" to which he responded, "it smells like it."

That familiar smell of leather, which I loved so much as a child. I remember the first time I really, really, was engulfed by the smell of leather. I was 13, and we were on a family vacation in Guatemala. I think we were at the biggest market in the city - it was underneath a plaza, so all the smells (both good and bad) were trapped below ground. There was an entire section of leather workers, and the aroma of leather was overwhelming. It is something that, every time I'm overcome with the smell of leather, I think of. There is something comforting about it.

I often get the same comment from customers - that they love how my pieces smell. It's a combination of the leather itself, the dyes, and the finish coat, but they do have what I find to be a faint and pleasant smell. Though I can imagine to anyone who isn't around it 365 days a year, it's a little more noticeable. For me, though, the faint smells of my own work are relaxing - the studio is my peaceful time. The overwhelming smells of leather like those I experienced in Guatemala, are transporting. They bring me back to my first mass exposure to handmade leather goods. To being a child, and to being in one of the most interesting and incredible countries I've ever visited.

Oh yes, and I listed my sale item today, so go check it out :)

7 days of work in the real world left, then more stories about leather, inspiration, and things of the like.

Sale continues! So do the sleepy days

2010-04-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

As you can see... it's 10:30 and I'm just now getting around to posting the sale item of the day on my blog! It would be a good day for a nap in the sun if I could convince it to stick around for more than a few minutes. Everything, even the computer, is moving slowly here today. A little more time for resting...

Spring Cleaning Sale Continues...

2010-04-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

Amidst the wanderings of two very tired dogs, and one very tired me, I just posted the sale item of the day to my Etsy shop. Hubby took the dogs running last night, and guaranteed they'd be tired today. He's right, though our soon to be one year old puppy, Jax, still can't sit still, even though he's too tired to play.

Me, I'm spending the day in the studio working on some new pieces. The sale item today is one of my very, very favorites. I'm hoping it finds a good home!

More soon...
Moxie

Sale Starts today!

2010-04-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

I put the first item up for sale today and here it is - http://www.etsy.com/listing/18055164/one-day-sale-aloysius-journal-leather-in - remember there is only one, and the sale ends either tomorrow at 9am to make room for the next piece, or when this one sells!

Spring Cleaning SALE & New Growth

2010-04-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

Over the last few weeks I've been working on new pieces - in batches. Two weeks ago I made 16 new lace style cuffs. Of all of them, I tend to think the Nelly Lace is my favorite, with the flower centered on the wrist and the skulls off to either side, but it's a really tough choice. I posted all of them to my Flickr page, and will slowly be adding them to my Etsy shop as time permits.

This weekend I'm hoping to get some work done on a new line of wrap watches. I think I have some really good ideas for them, though it's always tough to say how good the ideas are until I'm able to test one or two out, and see how they fit and function. I'm really excited to see how they turn out, though. This is, of course, assuming I don't get too distracted by painting the nursery, or planting the garden... *sigh* it's supposed to be beautiful here tomorrow.

Of course, in order to make all these pieces, I'm going to have to do a little spring cleaning, so starting tomorrow, I'll be putting pieces on SALE. Each one will be on sale for 24 hours only - they're all one of a kind, and the sale on each will end either 24 hours after it started (9am PST the following day) or when it sells. I know it's a little unconventional, but check back daily starting April 25th for the sale item of the day. I know I have at least two weeks worth of pieces to put on sale, so if you see on you like don't hesitate. It's the only one, and the sale won't last!

Happy weekend!

Moxie

Moxie and Oliver Give-Away!

2010-04-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

So, it's the rare giveaway time here at the Moxie and Oliver workshop. This one is a favor to someone near and dear to me - my husband. He needs people to participate in the following survey:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SandSSurvey

It should only take about 10 minutes to complete, and as a thank-you, we'll enter your name in a drawing to win a Moxie and Oliver flask. If you want more chances to win - just refer friends, and you'll get an extra entry for each friend who completes the survey.

We'll leave the survey up until May 2, and then pick the winner! I guarantee, it's totally worth the few minutes of your time for a chance at a M&O flask.

Good luck! And thanks for participating.

Caitlin

Giveaway!!

2010-01-19T19:18:00.000-08:00

Okay, it's not mine, but it's definitely worth a look - and this piece would go fabulously with that new Moxie & Oliver bag that you've been eying, should you happen to be the lucky winner...

http://rosyrevolver.blogspot.com/2010/01/its-giveaway-time.html

The giveaway is a Rosy Revolver pendant. Beautiful, unique, and free to a lucky winner!

Good luck!

Better late than never!

2009-07-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

The first and possibly only Moxie & Oliver give- away is ending tonight - so go enter while you can!!

http://indiefixx.com/2009/07/06/shes-got-moxie-moxie-oliver-giveaway/

And become a fan of ours on facebook to find out about local shows (there is a Seattle one coming soon!) and special offers only disclosed to facebook fans.

Happy weekend!

Moxie & Oliver on Facebook

I'm Storqued!

2009-06-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

I'm storqued! I'm featured in the Storque, on Etsy, that is. They've featured my Grace Backpack in a story called "The New Old School"

http://www.etsy.com/storque/spotlight/etsy-finds-the-new-old-school-4220/

Where this isn't the first time that I have been included in the Storque in one way or another, it's is my favorite feature. What the brief article states is exactly what I set out to do - I wanted to bring traditional western tooling into the 21st century. It is a craft that many have forgotten, or think is outdated, and it deserves a revival!

That's all for now... Artist's statement still to come. I promise.

My first fellowship application

2009-06-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

So I have to laugh at myself because now it's been darned near three months since my last post. I have no excuse, really. I switched jobs, but I'm still working full-time. I just now have Mondays off. I guess what it comes down to is, I have been busy enjoying myself. Life, as it should be.

Well, the news around these parts is twofold - the first exciting thing is that I have been doing a series of collaborations with Andes Cruz (andescruz.etsy.com) but maybe that's not such new news. It has been happening for a few months, but right now there is a large line of buckles in my studio waiting for belts to match. I will be working on these in the next few weeks and you should see many belt and buckle combinations to come.

The second piece of big news is that I just finished my very first fellowship application ever. Writing the resume component was a little, well, humbling since I really don't have an artistic career to speak of, which is fine because I like to consider myself a crafter. I always want my work to be used, abused, and enjoyed, and I think to do that (at least the first two) it really has to be craft. So, anyway, the resume fit on a page, and the entire bibliography section was blogs that people were nice enough to feature me in. So, a big huge THANK YOU to all you bloggers who were nice enough to give me a shout-out. There are/were a lot of you, and I really do appreciate you. Not only would I not have the customer/fan base I do without you, but I'd have no bibliography section in my resume!

I also wrote an artist's statement, which I will post at a later date. And, with the help of my facebook friends, selected ten works to submit with the application. In no particular order, here they are (because I promised I would share). Enjoy.

Downsizing

2009-03-23T08:26:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been almost two months since my last post! The time is just flying by, and I haven't been able to turn my ideas into products as quickly as I would like (but I seem perpetually plagued by that).

One project that I have been working on, slowly but surely, is converting my purse into a smaller, more manageable, version. For the last few years I've carried the Rosa messenger, but the problem with carrying a big bag, for me anyway, is that I tend to just cram extra junk in it. I'm always surprised - the inside of my purse tends to look like the backseat of my car! I was having the same problem with my wallet - months worth of receipts would occupy the space where my cash was supposed to be, until I couldn't properly close the wallet anymore. So, I figured, the less space I have, the less space there is for junk, and switched my larger wallet for this:

I call it the "June" pattern, and it perfectly holds all my necessary things without leaving too much extra space for junk. Here is what the inside looks like:

The best part is that it fits easily into any and all of my pockets! And, it, of course, doesn't take up much space in my purse. Now, if I could only find the time to make myself a new purse...

My Favorite Necklace

2009-01-28T11:11:00.000-08:00

About six or so years I found a little antique locket at a mall antique store. Not my usual haunt for unique jewelry, but it was too beautiful to resist. It was a glass locket that twisted open, so I could add a photo or two and they would be visible when I was wearing it. It didn't look much like a locket - more like a pendant where the image was trapped inside glass. My boyfriend bought the necklace for me, and I added a rose from the rose incense on one side, and a picture of my kitty on the other side. I strung it on a multi-strand sterling chain that had been sitting in my jewelry chest for years, but I rarely wore. They were the perfect combination. I wore the necklace every day.

I have recently been thinking about trying my hand in jewelry - I am really interested by the prospect of combining silver and leather. My friend Andes sent some catalogs to me so I could find some silver pieces to inlay leather into. What I found I couldn't have been more pleased with - little glass lockets, just like the one that I still have (and love). They also had a multi-strand sterling chain, similar to the one that I put my locket on. I immediately knew what to do - I had to make some leather pieces for the lockets. Thinking of Valentines day, I started with a sacred heart, and three others. Here is the Charger pattern piece:

This is another one - in the Jasmine pattern with a tiny hummingbird:

I will have more listed in my Etsy shop this week -- there is a round sugar skull necklace and a round one with an owl. I'm presently working on the square lockets, but need to give my eyes a break from all of the tiny work! There are a few other inlay pieces coming, including rings and a bracelet, that I'm quite excited to share!

Best,

Caitlin

Good Karma

2008-08-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to post about this for a while, but I've been too busy enjoying what little summer Seattle has, and making new creations (inspired, of course, by all the lovely colors of summer!).

I was contacted some time ago by Ang from Karma Charms (www.karma-charms.com) a website dedicated to big dogs. As some of you may know, I myself have a dog, Delilah, but she is definitely not big. She's a 57lb lap-mutt who loves to go running, despite her ever slowing pace, and adores our kitties (especially chasing the little one). She's not a big girl, and she doesn't pull on the leash or startle easily, but I've certainly been around dogs that are and do, and I can see the potential problems that this could create. Angs dogs are bigger, and stronger, than mine, and they require a bigger and stronger collar:

Ang and her business partner have created a business dedicated to finding products, including collars and leashes, suitable for big dogs. I'm honored to be a part of their site with my collars. Since Karma Charms is for big dogs, they are the exclusive vendor for 1.5" and 2" widths (dual-d and dual layer collars are also available by request). I will continue to sell smaller widths directly (just email me - caitlin@moxieandoliver.com or visit my Etsy shop).

That's all for now - I'll write later about why it's so exciting to be partnered with Karma Charms, and the decision that led to it. For now, I will just say that it's the only place you can get Moxie and Oliver goods, besides directly from me.

PS: Here are some of the posts that others have done regarding this partnership --

Nee's Post (Ang's dog, who is now the proud owner of a Moxie & Oliver collar)
Barkability Post

Environmental Concerns

2008-07-10T14:19:00.001-07:00

I was packing up the new Ginger Stripe Medium Messenger to send to it’s new home, and got to thinking about my shipping strategy, and my materials. I wondered if the new owner of this bag would look at the box, and wonder what I’d purchased from GNC. I wondered if she would realize that the packing peanuts that I used came from a UPS store somewhere in the Midwest to me, packed with two of the most fabulous tree brackets that I have ever seen from Knitsteel. I wondered if she would think I was cheap for re-using a box, or peanuts, or if she would realize that this was my little way of saying “I love you environment, and I want to keep you around.”

I sometimes hesitate to send things out in re-used boxes, mostly because I’m worried not everyone will realize that the reason is because I just couldn’t bring myself to put a perfectly good cardboard box in the recycle. Most of the boxes I receive in the mail are on their first use, and have at least one more use left in them, so I fold them up, and store them in my studio until I need a box just that size. I have a collection now. I’m also storing peanuts - right now I have such a big box that I can barely get in my door, but it’s worth it. They can be used again, and not just as entertainment for kittens.

The truth is that I have been thinking a lot about the environment, and how the decisions that I make affect it. We make a large number of decisions each day, and sometimes it’s hard to remember that so many of them affect other people, and the world around us, for generations to come. I plan on sharing some of those thoughts, especially the ones that pertain to my work here as proprietress of Moxie and Oliver, over the next few weeks, months, or years — as long as it takes for me to get them all out.

Next time you receive a box from me, though, and it has a logo on it other than mine, just know that this box is fulfilling it’s purpose - it’s carrying goods until it can no longer do so, and then it just asks that you recycle it, so it can be reincarnated and come back as a business card, only to be sent to you again. And those peanuts, you can bet they came to me via some UPS store, or Macy’s, the two largest suppliers of free and reusable peanuts to Moxie and Oliver.

I’ll return soon, with more thoughts on the environment. I may be thinking about it a little much, though, because animals, plants, and birds, keep working their way into my designs - here’s the latest:

All my best,

Caitlin

There's a First Time for Everything

2007-09-22T20:55:00.000-07:00

This is, well, my very first blog entry. Ever. It's quite exciting, actually. There's a lot going on in my mind, and in my workshop, so any way I have to share it with the rest of the world is welcomed with open arms.

I'm thinking fall right now. I had my first run in the rain yesterday and today it felt too cold for running shorts (though I went anyway). I'm looking forward to pumpkins, and everything they can be baked into, as well as the changing colors on the trees, and I may even be looking forward to the change in the weather.

With the change in weather I think I'll have more time inside to work on my leather goods, and love my blog. Hopefully this will prove a useful tool to give the cyber world a little insight into what's going on in Moxie and Oliver land.

Thanks for stopping by, and stay tuned. I think you may be pleasantly surprised!

~moxie~