The Multiple Uses of Mic Stands
I've been meaning to post this for some time now, but couldn't find the proper images. I'm sure you've seen these things beside your favorite singer. They are easily missed, taken for granted, and ignored... but they are there! The trusty sidekick of so many musicians.
These are my uses....
Those of us who live in NYC know that space is often lacking. Even if you don't live here, you know what I'm talking about. I'm always looking for multiple ways of using objects to save space. Versatility is always a great feature in design, and inventing different ways of using something is even better!
So a third of my apartment space is dedicated to music equipment (thanks to Z). One day we needed a lamp, but all the available lamps were either too mumsey or way out of our price range. We decided to take an interesting shaped light bulb and an IKEA light fixture/cord to make our own modern lamp. We have a couple of mic stands lying around so we used one as a lamp post. The cords come in various colors which is kind of nice if you are crazy about small accents like me. (bulb-$5 + cord-$12)
Another day came by and I needed a few racks to hang some clothes. And along comes the old mic stand to lend a hand... or I should say... clothing rack??? The best part is that they are easily compact-able for storing or carrying and cost about $25.
Posted: Sept. 17, 2009The Kage Story
Some of you may know that Zach has been making these lamps. I like to call them "lanterns" because they require a dim light bulb, and I think that term has a moodier sound. Here's a peek into how they are made.
Process is always interesting to me... sometimes more than the actual product. In this case, it's just as interesting as the outcome. These new lanterns are named "KAGE" which means shadow in Japanese (Ka-ge), and due to the expanded metal, they look like cages. These are exactly what you need in your home to forget about that ugly light fixture in the ceiling. Or, just to add to your collection of modern, usable art. The shadows cast by these small-scale sculptures create installations out of rooms. You get a different effect as you re-position each light. Available in 4 shapes with sleek, stealth personalities of their own. Available atsoftboiled.etsy.com
1. Dip
2. Hang to dry
3. Bend (This was an undipped lamp)
4. Add light
About Virginia Kraljevic
I met Virginia during my first day of doing BIM. She had these amazing prints that exuded old lithography. I love her distinctive style of illustrating from quirky colorful oddities to intricate black and white doodles. Her work makes me wish I lived in these obscure swirly worlds... Check out her website for a little dose of her world. You can also purchase her work at her Etsy shop. Oh... and she included me in her "FIve Things".
The Best Packaging Design of the Month
It's the small details that keep everyday life interesting. Like this tissue box for instance. Am I the only one who finds the design of tissue boxes reminiscent of nursing home wallpaper? Also who (these days) wants to buy a tissue box cover? I was a little (too overly) thrilled when I discovered this tissue box at Trader Joe's the other day. The best features are that it's made from 100% recycled paper and only 99 cents!
Completed 1st 2 days of BIM!
Yesterday was my second Saturday of participating in the Brooklyn Indie Market. It was definitely gratifying to have people actually purchase something I worked so hard to make! It's that direct maker to user contact that I feel is very important to keep me going and inspired to make more things. My tie dye dresses were a hit! Hopefully they will be a hit on Etsy as well... it's hard to explain the ease, light, and soft feeling of wearing one thru the internet. I suppose when you touch and try it on it's easier to fall in love with one. Kathy, the founder of the Brooklyn Indie Market was nice enough to interview me.
Tie Dye!
Yes, I know it has a hippie dippy connotation, but I think it's still cool. Especially in the summer time if it's contrasted with something modern. I've decided, with respect to my recent bohiemian lifestyle, to make tie dye summer dresses, tanks, and skirts to sell at the Brooklyn Indie Market. Don't worry, they'll be in modern silhouetts and I'll have the nesting stuff there as well. Come out and grab lunch in Carroll Gardens and peep by to visit! I'll be there July 18th and 25th and would love to see you there!