Try Handmade

Shopping blog featuring products made by people not factories.

Patrick Burt

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This amazing occasional-wear ring deserves your attention.

Patrick Burt: This was an experiment which I felt failed and was therefore not reproduced. Now, when I state that the design failed I mean that in the sense of wearability. The look of the ring, I believe, is terrific but I know that it won’t stand up to the rigors of daily wear.

Titanium is colored by an electrical process which builds up an ultra thin skin of Titanium dioxide on the surface of the metal. This coating is completely clear and just molecules thick. The clarity and thickness sets up a diffraction of light which appears to us as color. The result, as you can see, is wonderful but the color is just molecules thick and quite vulnerable to the wear that hands dish out.

Even so, isn’t it gorgeous?

Falling for Red

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Along with the changing leaves and dropping temperatures comes the new fall fashion and color trends. I already reported on capes and leopard print, and last but not least is the color red. I have to admit that the only red thing I own is lipstick, and that only goes on for special occasions, but that may change this season. The color red screams confidence and strength, and, well, who doesn’t want more of that?

A red party dress is the perfect way to stand out in a crowd of little black dresses. This silk option by Ikvot ha Mashiach has wonderful detailing–a series of sweet ruffles and pleats–coupled with a classic and universally flattering cut that accents the smallest part of your waist. Paired with a simple heel and jewelry, this dress is sure to turn heads.

This poncho by Sandmaiden is handmade from beautiful red hand-dyed wool jersey. It features a peter pan collar and belted closure, as well as a sophisticated cut that can be worn casually with a pair of jeans or dressed up with a skirt and heels. If aren’t too eager to wear red this season, this poncho comes in nine other colors. Best of all, it’s sewn to your specific measurements.

A red purse is a great way to make a statement with color this season. This leather option by Art On Crafts is perfect for work or running errands on the weekend. It features a zipper closure, both interior and exterior pockets, and plenty of room for all your odds and ends. The detailing on this bag is excellent; I love the larger zipper pulls and white stitching.

My mom always told me I should wear more red. This year I’m going to take her advice and pair my red lipstick with an equally red and stunning dress!

**The painting featured at the top of this post was created by Shira Sela.

New in the Gallery

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The Zipper end – Steampunk Choker

Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction, alternate history, and speculative fiction that came into prominence during the 1980s and early 1990s.Specifically, steampunk involves an era or world where steam power is still widely used—usually the 19th century and often Victorian era Britain—that incorporates prominent elements of either science… details »

Welcoming Spring Crochet Hat

This hot pink crocheted hat with a double-layered, lime green flower fits a little girl approximately 1 to 3 years old. This is a great color combination for spring! This adorable little hat is made with careful attention to detail in a pet-free, smoke-free environment. It is fantastic for… details »

Swarovski pearl and crystal spray Bridal Hair Pins

Three beautiful bronze, french hair pins with a spray of mauve, cultured, pearls and Swarovski crystals and pearls in lite gold. All perfectly hand wired with silver plated, artistic wire.These pins are a great accessory for a french pleat or up do, adding that extra something for a… details »

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Warm Up with Winter Mittens

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One of my favorite things about the cold winter weather is having to bundle up before you go outside. Hats, scarves and, mittens are not only necessary, but a great way to show your style, transform an otherwise bland coat, and pull together your outfit. While I don’t know how to knit, I’ve always admired the time and care that knitters put into what they make, objects that offer warmth and comfort.

These three cable mittens by LadyOverboard09 have a classic design and will match with any winter coat. The blue and black specks in the yarn add just a dash of color without taking away from the handiwork or the design. Made of 100 percent Merino wool, these gloves are sure to keep your hands warm on the coldest winter night.

These fushia mittens by Beaded Wire are a perfect way to add a punch of color to your winter coat and are bright enough to combat any gray winter day. Made of Lopi Icelandic wool and featuring a large cable knit down the middle, these gloves make a bold statement.

I love the playful design of these thrummed mittens by Lindfield Farm. Set against a navy blue background, these patterned gloves feature small white hearts all the way around. What better way to spread some love during the cold winter months? Made of 100 percent wool, these gloves are made by inserting unspun fiber through the knitting pattern to make a soft interior that will keep your hands extra warm.

I don’t have any warm clothes with me in Honolulu so my parents always bring some along with them to the airport when they pick me up. As an early birthday or Christmas gift, I may have to pass along a link to one of these gorgeous pairs of gloves and hope that they are waiting for me when I arrive in Chicago!

The lovely blizzard photograph featured at the top of this posted was created by IS Photography.

Hold me just a little bit tighter

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About De Novo Coats: I absolutely love coats! I can think of nothing I’d rather do than design a new coat, make the pattern, and fit it. I have 10 years of experience, working in San Francisco as a pattern maker and designer. A few years ago, after making a clothing collection for a few seasons I became pregnant with our first child. I then decided to focus my time on coats and jackets, where my heart is anyway.

Each piece is an original design. I work hard to find the best fabrics, and most are in very limited quantity. If you see a style you like but not the ideal fabric/color, please email me with requests. I have others fabrics in my studio and will be happy to send swatches!