oishii... knits!

Website update

2010-07-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

**our website is closed today for updates. please check back on 7/31 to see what's new!

Check out Oishii on Couturious

2010-06-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

Our cosis are featured on Couturious.com, a website where you can create outfits on electronic "paper dolls" using apparel and accessories for amazing established and independent designers. Check out some looks featuring our Cosis by clicking here!

what an honor!

2010-05-03T21:13:00.001-07:00

Super honored to be TwitterMom of the Month for May... click here to check out our feature!

atomic garden, oakland

2010-04-21T11:18:00.000-07:00

new collection at atomic garden, oakland.
many beautiful pieces for children and a few for women too! when you go, tell them Oishii sent you...

www.atomicgardenoakland.com
5453 College Ave, Oakland CA 94618

new kid's cardigans

2010-04-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

new kid's cardigans with antler buttons... the buttons are sustainably harvested in oregon (and they're absolutely gorgeous, mais oui)

Home Green Home...

2010-04-12T16:43:00.000-07:00

We had an amazingly wonderful and wonderfully exhausting time at the Green Festival.

Connected with many friends - some new & some seasoned - and shared our craft with our Bay Area neighbors. What a success!

Thanks to all that popped into our temporary studio for a visit. Your sweetness and your smiling faces are super inspiring - I do hope you will stay in touch.

Sending giggles, cuddles, and yummy soft goodness to one and all!

Oishii Handmade at the SF Green Festival - April 10 & 11, 2010

2010-04-06T10:44:00.001-07:00

Come see me design and knit new pieces for our summer collection at the SF Green Festival this Saturday and Sunday.

Our booth is a lean, green, fully functioning mini-studio. This is your chance to be a part of the behind the scenes magic of Oishii Handmade!

booth 225 in Eco-Fashion

http://www.greenfestivals.org/san-francisco-spring/

Teach a girl to fish or give a girl a fishstick?

2010-02-09T17:41:00.001-08:00

I have been researching how to grow Oishii into a bigger socially, environmentally, and financially sustainable venture and again and again am returning to the saying:

"Give a man a fish and he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish and he eats for a lifetime."

We created our personal development program based on this principle. And after many conversations with artisans and small business owners, I started to wonder - "What if our schools taught kids to fish instead of giving them fishsticks?"

(I'm not being super literal here... I know it's no longer 1988)

Think about it:

Give a girl a fishstick and she learns:

* To take what she is given or make do with side dishes
* To depend on others to do the heavy lifting (catching, cleaning, preparing, packaging, shipping, reheating, and serving)
* To make her greatest choice at the end of the process - "yes" or "no" to tartar sauce

Teach a girl to fish and she learns:

* How to strategize to get what she wants
* To hone her skills through trial and error
* That cleaning, gutting and cooking a fish can be terribly messy but there is a method to the madness if you are willing learn it

Best of all, she has a better understanding of what is in a fishstick - how much time, energy, training, and resources have gone into that breaded beauty. That despite appearances, the making of a fish stick is a pretty complex process.

At Oishii, we are all about learning to fish. We hope you are a fisher(wo)man in training as well.

*photo courtesy of artist mimi kirchner - www.mimikirchner.com

The heart of the matter

2010-02-06T13:33:00.000-08:00

When I was around 10 or 11, I used to play a pretty elaborate game of make believe with my cousin. I was the owner of a catalog business and she was my employee.

We had a seasonal catalog, an extensive filing, repeat customers with whom we cultivated ongoing relationships, and a really awesome calculator to do all of my super important calculations (of course). I would say "My business is incredibly important; I've got the President's ear on this one."

I believe the games children play are the seeds of the future dreams and ambitions. That as children we already know what we were born to do. I have taken on the challenge of reigniting those childhood games in my daily life through Oishii, and am working my tail off to see if I can eventually get the "President's ear" on this one.

Sure, we sell lovely knit goodies that feel like you're wearing a hugs - but our greatest offering is our hope, our enthusiasm, and our undying persistence to be the change we want to see in the world.

Are you willing to join us?

New friends, new year!

2010-01-07T11:01:00.001-08:00

Well, I am back in the saddle and the year has started off with a bang! Oishii received a hefty dose of press from some lovely blogs + websites over the holidays and I didn't realize it until the dust settled. We are so excited to become better acquainted with each new friend in the new year!

So, without further ado, allow me to introduce you to the first new site I am smitten with... Ecouterre!

Our wooly Cosi capelet (pictured above) was featured in Ecouterre's Green Gift Guide in December alongside some lovely goodies for keeping you warm through the shortest days of the year.

Here is who they are - in their own words:

Ecouterre is a website devoted to the future of sustainable fashion design. We’re dedicated to showcasing and supporting designers who not only contemplate cut, form, and drape, but also a garment’s social and environmental impact, from the cultivation of its fibers to its use and disposal. Our mission: To follow the evolution of the apparel industry toward a more environmentally sound future, as well as facilitate a conversation about why sustainable fashion matters.

Love, love, love the vision and the mission - excited to see what Spring brings!

j'adore... vagabond nyc

2009-12-09T13:08:00.001-08:00

just discovered this beautifully curated vintage store online... am in love with this gorgeous piece by kansai yamamoto... reversible, knit, tribal, pop... am dizzy... want!! http://shop.vagabondnyc.com/?content=detail&id=80skansaistripedsweatercoat&cat=Sweaters

Slow Fashion = Happy designers + Happy Consumers

2009-11-13T15:33:00.000-08:00

I am loving that fashion is becoming more immediate - more consumer driven design, less trend projection... Oishii is about responding to real people with real needs in real time.

The dinosaur of traditional fashion retailing is being replaced by an intimacy and immediacy that is really gratifying for designers and the clients they serve!

Check out this article on Style.com to see where we have been and what the future may hold:

http://www.style.com/stylefile/2009/11/faster-than-fast-fashion/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

etsy baby gift guide - holiday 2009

2009-11-11T21:05:00.001-08:00

etsy baby gift guide - holiday 2009, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

we are featured in the baby gift guide!

http://www.etsy.com/gift-guides/Baby/7

locallectual

2009-11-11T15:54:00.001-08:00

Locallectual found us... and stuck us on their site! This is the perfect tool for all you locavores out there...

Check it out - the concept is pretty amazing

http://www.locallectual.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,84/

oishii + daily candy

2009-10-30T11:35:00.001-07:00

oishii + daily candy, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Hip hip hooray! Oishii's got a not-so-secret admirer...

We are featured today on Daily Candy - San Francisco edition. Please do check it out and let us know what you think:

http://www.dailycandy.com/san-francisco/article/76907/Oishii-Knit-Capelets

We are besotted and our bellies are filled with butterflies... could we be a match made in heaven??

thank you!

2009-10-30T08:56:00.001-07:00

Oishii Darling Cardigan - 6M, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Thanks to all of you who met with us and shopped with us at the Appel and Frank Event in SF...

The show was wonderful (as usual) and we made tons of new friends. We will be sure to introduce some of them to you in the coming weeks!

Lots of good news around here at Oishii... stayed tuned for exciting events

xoxox
oishii

etsy treasury - 102209

2009-10-23T07:55:00.001-07:00

etsy treasury - 10*22*09, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

we are featured in another lovely treasury... please check it out!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=72752

treasury!

2009-10-18T15:18:00.001-07:00

treasury, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

we are featured in a treasury!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=88501

sage william glaser

2009-10-12T22:35:00.001-07:00

sage william glaser, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

we welcome to the world, sage william glaser. born september 13th, 2009 to the loveliest couple i know - maureen cane and mat glaser

my is he delicious - especially in his oishii finery!

New goodies for fall!

2009-10-05T21:10:00.001-07:00

oishii so-soft cosi, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Fresh batch of cotton capelets and beanies are here... available online or at Dish in SF!

Lava 9 + Grove Street Kids

2009-10-05T00:23:00.000-07:00

Oishii has found two new homes in the East Bay!

I am so excited to be in two great shops in my town of Berkeley. Do pop in to check out their selections...

Lava 9 is a fantastic accessories boutique on Solano Ave. owned by the famed Heidi Werner. This sister store to the original Lava 9 on Hayes has a wonderfully curated collection of goodies from around the world (including George, Gina and Lucy handbags... of which I own 2...) I was lucky enough to work at Lava 9 for a year before diving headlong into Oishii. Having my pieces there feels a lot like coming home!

Lava 9
1797 Solano Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 528-5336
{women}

&

Grove Street Kids is a lovely shop stocked with well-selected, gently used kidswear and new gifts for babies and young children. The owner - Ann Marie - is a gem and you will certainly find a few treasures when you visit.

Grove Street Kids
1644 MLK Jr. Way
Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 843-KIDS
{infant/layette, kid's}

kidsfaire was great!

2009-09-28T15:28:00.001-07:00

laura and sammy in their new hats, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

we had so much fun this weekend...

check out a few event photos on our website:

http://www.oishiihandmade.com/eventphotos.html

xoxoxo,
Oishii

party dress

2009-05-27T09:35:00.001-07:00

tea dress, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

spring has sprung, summer is on the way... and oishii-ko sundresses are here to stay

here is a teaser of one of my favorites - a demure little frock embellished with handmade blooms.

perfect for afternoon tea!

oishii-ko sundress

2009-05-18T10:39:00.001-07:00

dress2, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

oishii hearts modish!

2009-05-01T15:31:00.000-07:00

And apparently the feeling is mutual!

Oishii was just featured on the blog Modish - a super swanky commentary on all things handmade.

What an honor! Do us a favor and please have a peek...

http://www.modishblog.com/modish/2009/04/modish-loves-oishii.html

we're baaaaack...

2009-03-23T12:51:00.001-07:00

3*26*09 etsy front page, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

whew! that super long hiatus came out of nowhere but we are back like a shooting star on a new moon's night

spring has sprung and there's no better way to say "hello, again!" than making it to Etsy's front page! (Knit Spring/Summer Capelet - top left)

new pieces for spring are on the way

we are in a bunch of new stores around the bay area

and...

we have an official website http://www.oishiihandmade.com

please check us out!

what all do i doodle-y do??

2008-12-29T11:03:00.001-08:00

104, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

i have had a number of inquiries by people who have seen my work in local boutiques and wonder why certain things can be found in the "real world" and others exist only in the ether on etsy...

so here is a link to the home of it all... oishiihandmade.blogspot.com

almost all of the pieces i make can be found on this site. contact information for placing wholesale orders can be found here as well (hint, hint)

i've also started making adult hats in super small batches. they sold out at sf indie-mart earlier this month (yeah!) so i am cooking up some more. stay tuned for photos!

the gang

2008-11-18T20:48:00.001-08:00

the gang, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

they're here (finally)! my newest batch of handmade dolls...

from left to right: delila, bettina, henry, oscar, and samson

they can be found at castle in the air (berkeley, ca) and seedlings (sonoma, ca)

you can custom order your co-pilot on etsy!

yipee!

fp 10-30-08

2008-11-03T07:53:00.001-08:00

fp 10-30-08, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

yipee! paolo made it to the front page of etsy!! i knew he had it in him... "if you believe you can achieve, dear boy!"

pour femme

2008-11-02T01:00:00.001-07:00

siren2, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

some new pics of my knits are up on flickr... also a custom skinny scarf for a customer on etsy.

take a peek!

sy is 3!

2008-11-01T19:44:00.001-07:00

sy is 3!, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

omg... my little man is sooo big! his birthday was 2 weeks ago and none of us can believe he is already 3. we're jonesing for another little one (i need a new hat model, no?)

here is a pic my lovely hubby took during a spontaneous photo shoot this afternoon while Sy sported his jammies AND his brand new backpack with his name embroidered on the pocket (a b-day gift from his grands - Skipper and Honeebee!)

thankfully he's practicing pouring in the sink here - so much better than the bedroom floor which is his preferred "pouring practice" location

cashmere!

2008-10-27T21:14:00.001-07:00

cashmere!, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

it's turned mighty cold in the evenings so i decided to pull out the cashmere yarn and have a bit of fun.

six new hats to post!

will be up on etsy tomorrow - stay tuned...

p.s. the show last thursday was tons of fun. sorry no pics (dim lighting). reconnected with old friends and met some new ones. will post more later!

autumn-winter 08

2008-10-20T19:49:00.001-07:00

autumn-winter 08 warm colors, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

whew! halfway through production for the appel and frank show this thursday

here's a sampling of what's to come. warm colors (above) and cool colors (below)

check my shopshop! later this week for the newest goodies - hot off the needles

oishii on the front page (of etsy, of course)

2008-10-13T18:36:00.001-07:00

etsy fp 10*13*08, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=14608

gorgeous front page treasury from theseawithin!

the "twins" hats have made a resurgence and i'm inspired to make more hats for multiples...

of course, i missed SEEING the front page because i was napping. while playing hooky from school. (bad bad naughty girl, i know).

so incredibly hard to come home to responsibility after a weekend frolicking with your hubby. drats!

road trips and websites...

2008-10-13T00:28:00.000-07:00

just back from a lovely wedding on the beach in santa barbara this weekend.

did NOT get any work done and had way too much fun.

to atone (a naughty weekend on the beach in santa barbara ain't cheap) i've been toying with weebly creating a new free website for oishii.

have a gander and let me know what you think... oishii.weebly.com

(ahem... and did you notice the new banner for the blog?)

pssst! i am creating a crew of new dolls and ummm... they are amazing!!

2008-10-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

well, this one is a teaser... no pics! at least not yet.

i am creating seven new dolls for castle in the air (the most lovely of shops on 4th street in berkeley).

i absolutely adore them. these cousins of lefty, paolo and claudette are an international crew - hailing from every corner of the planet.

each has a story and a tiny treasure hidden inside. they are oh-so-super-yummy-oishii i can hardly stand it!

please stay tuned for more details...

upcoming shows!

2008-10-08T09:27:00.001-07:00

paolo, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

i have three fantastic shows coming up in october, november and december. all should be so-much-oishii-super-fun... hoping to see you there!

oct. 23rd in sf - appel and frank's eco-chic shopping event
nov. 9th in marin - appel and frank's babes and babies event
dec. 6th in berkeley - nest trunk show at studio grow (stay tuned for more details!)

click the links for more information!

new items in shop!

2008-10-08T09:21:00.001-07:00

19c, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

well, hello! i've been away from the blog for a while but am happy to let you know that i have some new items in the shop.

new fun colors and textures (yipee!) in hats and blankets.

please, have a peek!

the siren

2008-08-23T01:49:00.001-07:00

the siren...4 (front), originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

inspired by vintage fishnet stockings and the handmade nets of old fishing boats, the siren is a mercurial wrap knit entirely of luxurious mongolian cashmere.

using varying weights of yarn - some super-light and cobweb-y, others lush and chunky - this versatile wrap is exactly what a siren would covet as soon as she washed up on shore.

the siren can be worn any number of ways - four incarnations are pictured in my flickr (www.flickr.com/photos/oishiiknits)

each piece is one-of-a-kind and created as the ideal yarns become available. custom orders are possible but i cannot guarantee color availability.

cosi

2008-08-23T01:48:00.001-07:00

cosi...4, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

this "cosi", (italian for "like this" or "like that") is a classic shape with a modern kick.

crafted entirely of lusciously soft italian and uruguayan kettle-dyed merino wools, this piece is a fantastic wardrobe staple.

and the stretchiness of this knit gives you tons of styling options - it's a great light layer over warm weather togs on a cool evening and is a bright, modern layer to spice up obligatory winter coats.

*each "cosi" is one of a kind, created while i knit. designs can be repeated for custom orders or wholesale customers

striped watermelon/honeydew beanie

2008-08-22T18:57:00.001-07:00

striped watermelon/honeydew beanie, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

my beanie on a delicious newborn!

another luscious shot from "little posers"... www.littleposers.com.au/

appel and frank

2008-07-30T08:06:00.001-07:00

appel and frank display, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

yay! the trunk show was a total success! i had so much fun - i love the ladies who go to appel and frank. stay tuned for photos of lovely babes in their oishii hats...

cashmere baby!

2008-07-17T08:06:00.001-07:00

cashmere baby - close-up!, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

How delicious! Onthe7thday (a.k.a Lana) on Etsy bought a couple Oishii beanie to use in her work as a photographer.

She was sweet enough to send me a couple shots of one of this beanie in action!

Please check out her website: www.littleposers.com.au/

She is a very, very talented artist!

SF Trunk Show - Sunday, July 20th

2008-07-17T08:05:00.001-07:00

SF Trunk Show - Sunday, July 20th, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Come check me out at the Appel and Frank "Babes and Babies" event in San Francisco this Sunday.

This show is absolutely amazing! I did the event in Marin in May and had a blast. Check my sets for photos from that event.

Find details and register at www.appelandfrank.com/

Enter my discount code "DESIGNERBB" when registering and you can get into the event for free!

Hope to see you there

inside my knitting bag..

2008-07-14T11:13:00.001-07:00

inside my knitting bag.., originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

although the national holiday is september 8th, my mom-in-law (in town for the week) bought me this delicious confection.

these are handmade by a designer - offhand designs - in oakland, ca. they are constructed of super luscious vintage upholstery fabrics with italian hardware and findings (yes the gold clasp is stamped "made in italy" - yum!)

i have been coveting one of these bags for two years! yipee yipee for me!! thanks so much, cathy!

inside my bag... gorgeous pink silk blend lining, yarn (of course), samples of new hats (with pom-poms, yipee!), a blanket i am working on, and the new issue of moda with photos of the haute couture shows in paris... deee-licious!

lefty

2008-07-13T00:11:00.001-07:00

lefty, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

he's finally in the shop! check him out...

introducing... lefty!

2008-07-02T00:57:00.001-07:00

introducing... lefty!, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

what a flirt! with his one green arm and roguish smile, lefty is a wonderful addition to the family... and he is ridiculously eco-friendly to boot!

lefty is knit from our lovely pima cotton/modal blend yarn and stuffed with 100% luxurious bamboo fiber. without a doubt this super yummy, bamboo-filled boy is a treat for baby and for the planet.

o! baby baby - oishii window display

2008-06-25T00:50:00.001-07:00

o! baby baby - oishii window display, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

So, I finally brought my wares over to O! baby baby on Solano in Berkeley. This boutique is absolutely darling and all of my oishii bits fit in like a hand in glove.

Everything they carry is absolute eye candy and they specialize in organic, sustainable and handmade gear for the world's newest citizens. Needless to say, I am absolutely thrilled that they put my little goodies in the window.

The display is exquisite - stop by if you get a chance!

O! baby baby, 1885 Solano Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94707
http://obabybaby.com/

it's an honor

2008-06-17T07:44:00.001-07:00

it's an honor, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

I feel super honored to be included in this treasury as I absolutely adore every single piece!

Great aesthetic and composition, beautiful pop colors.

This beautiful creation was pulled together by theseawithin (on Etsy) who makes lovely little bags in AMAZING prints (honestly - they are really, really special)

Please check out her shop when you get a chance!

kaya's graduation dress

2008-06-08T00:51:00.001-07:00

kaya's graduation dress, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

So when I'm not parenting, knitting, working, studying or vainly attempting to launch my knitwear line... I'm sewing, of course! (or sleeping...)

Kaya graduates from 6th grade this Tuesday and asked me to make her dress. I was excited and nervous because this was my first time using a store bought pattern.

All of the kid's patterns were hideous so I decided to work with an adult pattern. Soooo many alterations needed to make it fit her! And of course I have almost no patternmaking or alterations experience so this was all off the cuff. I did know enough to make a "muslin" (or sample dress) to make the alterations easier.

************

So, I'm almost there and am very, very happy with the result. Just need to add the finishing touches (lining hem and insert the zipper) and voila! it's done.

Details: 100% cotton eyelet over 50/50 silk/cotton lining. Olive velvet ribbon trim

Will take and post better pictures in the morning - check my flickr!

my india

2008-06-06T00:07:00.001-07:00

FEV2006-Delhi (25), originally uploaded by escalepade.

Gorgeous find on Flickr... can't wait to go back to India with my camera!

modern knit cotton baby blanket

2008-05-31T22:00:00.001-07:00

modern knit cotton baby blanket, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

New in the shop!

Available in mini (23" x 27") or maxi (23" x 32")

Knit with super soft 100% pima cotton yarn - the texture of this blanket is absolutely gorgeous!

modern knit cotton blanket - mini

2008-05-26T23:00:00.001-07:00

modern knit cotton blanket - mini, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Finally! I have been working with various yarns and drafting revision after revision on patterns for months in an attempt to create the perfect baby blanket. I had some serious doubts it was even possible to create my ideal knit blanket (four months is a long time for a continuous string of failed prototypes!)

Thankfully I had my "Eureka!" moment on Thursday when I knit this "mini" blanket - the perfect size when a big ole' crib blanket just won't do.

The yarn is ridiculously soft and the hand is absolutely perfect - it has great weight but isn't heavy. It feels rich and luxurious, is all natural (100% natural fibers) and is absolutely delicious.

This "mini" is available in my shop on Etsy - it's the perfect size for a car seat blankie, a cuddly mat for tummy time or a nursing cover up!

learning japanese

2008-05-21T00:37:00.001-07:00

learning japanese, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Learning Japanese, I think I'm learning Japanese, I really think so....

As I am head over heels in love with so much of Japanese culture, I thought it only fit to study the language as well (those who know me well will in no way be surprised... I have studied eight languages - Spanish, Hindi, Sanskrit, Arabic, French, Dutch, and a teensy bit of German and Portugese)

Picked up these CDs at the library tonight. Will listen to them while knitting!

Oishii of course is "delicious" in Japanese. My favorite word right now is "otokonoko" which means "little boy". I love the way the word moves through my mouth as I say it.

where'd all the students go??

2008-05-20T21:31:00.001-07:00

the lab - sewing machines, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Schooool's out for summah!!!

The semester is over and I am now free to commit myself to the other 15 projects I've embarked on over the last 5 months... yeah! Argh.

I just finished a year of garment construction and will begin the real work in September with 12 units of textiles, draping, patternmaking, and sketching.

Was feeling wistful on the final day of classes and brought my camera in to take a few shots. Here is a groovy shot of our sewing lab. More photos on my Flickr!

in my spare time...

2008-05-19T20:26:00.001-07:00

wedding garter, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Robyn of Handcranked Designs asked me to create a keepsake wedding garter to feature one of her gorgeous silver pendants.

I created the white garter to be worn on the day and the teal garter to be tossed.

After the ceremony the pendant can be removed from the garter and worn on the included silver chain.

Available on Etsy

angst

2008-05-16T20:50:00.000-07:00

We are in the midst of a heat wave and I've developed an itch I can't scratch. Creative angst. I love this feeling because I know where it leads. New, yummy, odd creations are on the way. I've got a wild glint in my eye that definitely makes my husband nervous.

I don't want to be responsible and prepare for orders in the fall. I don't want to study my favorite paintings and decide on a workable palette for a collection. I want to take all of my yummy cashmere and make a big multi-colored blankie. I want to knit a life-size Claudette. I want to make things that are wasteful and silly. I want to make a peacock out of silk tie fabric remnants.

I'm sure I'll have to tame the beast before too long. We do have a mortgage to pay after all. But for now I am riding the itch. And I don't need no stinking scratch.

gorgeous

2008-05-16T08:03:00.001-07:00

IMGP6450, originally uploaded by Mr.Q_Lin.

**UPDATE... So, more perusing of Mr.Q_Lin's photostream revealed a bit more info. A) if you are at all into fashion or visual art you should check out his photos and B) I am pretty sure he is based somewhere in Japan - I'm guessing a big city as there are some pretty serious visual arts happenings chronicled in his photos. My, oh my, I heart flickr!!!

This photo is a flickr find... no information whatsoever but I assume it's a fashion show somewhere in Asia.

I love everything about this photo - the parasol, the dress with a modern print and just enough volume. Electric blue dominates the composition. Just gorgeous!

in progress -- lace jacket

2008-05-13T00:15:00.001-07:00

in progress -- lace jacket, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Hand pieced chantilly lace bolero with organza sleeves - project for school.

The pattern was not particularly attractive so i made some adjustments. I just hope the end result is not hideously ugly...

Altered the pattern so I could have more fun with the construction - shortened the sleeve (was wrist length) and added lace at the shoulder.

Will post more pics as I progress

modern knit cotton beanie with monogram

2008-05-11T20:23:00.001-07:00

modern knit cotton beanie with monogram, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

The "b" is for baby, of course!

I was asked about monogramming hats earlier this week so I thought I'd give it a try.

What do you think?

treasury by handcranked

2008-05-08T23:42:00.001-07:00

treasury by handcranked, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Created by Robyn Hoke, an amazing jewelry designer (etsy user id: handcranked) and writer.

This treasury features SF Bay Area artisans... and one cute little plush from Berkeley named Yuki!

www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=9416

sample baby bootie

2008-05-08T00:26:00.001-07:00

sample baby bootie, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

I have been asked so many times if I make booties that I thought I should give them one more try.

I toyed with the idea of a modern baby bootie about two months ago and was stymied. The booties were either fairly cute but would not stay on OR were very hideous and stuck like glue.

I am actually pretty happy with this sample. It is knit with pima cotton blend yarn and has a black elastic cord as a tie for a snug fit.

If all goes well these will be available in two sizes -- 0-6 months and 6-12 months -- by June.

Hoping to make them in cashmere and mohair for the Fall. Stay tuned!

appel and frank "babes and babies" photos now up on flickr!

2008-05-06T11:19:00.001-07:00

Claudette, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Just posted the photos from my first trunk show, Appel and Frank's "Babes and Babies" event this past Sunday.

Click here to check them out!

appel and frank "babes and babies" trunk show

2008-05-04T18:07:00.001-07:00

appel and frank "babes and babies" trunk show, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Here's a pic of me at the trunk show today.

I had an absolutely amazing time!

Met many adorable moms and babies... will upload photos after a good night's sleep!

set up for appel and frank

2008-05-01T20:18:00.001-07:00

set up for appel and frank, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

I'm not entirely happy with this. Planning to add cellophane to the "bathtub" for Claudette...

Not quite sure what exactly is wrong. Maybe I need to replace the embroidered risers with simple ceramic vases??

I'm also thinking of laying a sheepskin under the set up to give it more warmth and fuzziness.

The table at the show will be bigger so everything looks mushed now but will have more breathing room on Sunday...

Feedback, please??

unfinished jacket

2008-04-29T01:54:00.001-07:00

unfinished jacket, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Just finished this jacket today and I love it except for the fact that the sleeves are too short for me to wear it. Fortunately, now I'll get to make the charmeuse sleeve extensions/armwarmers inspired by the lining hanging out of the sleeve in this picture.

No rest for the wicked!

More pics on flickr... Will post the finished jacket when I get it back from my teacher

My first feature in a treasury!

2008-04-27T13:32:00.001-07:00

first treasury!, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Well, this is a certainly a weekend of big firsts...

Signed up for my first trunk show yesterday, and now I've been included in a lovely treasury on Etsy!

Please check it out and leave a comment. This treasury features some amazing West Coast designers!

www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=41309

My first trunk show!

2008-04-27T09:43:00.001-07:00

Invite to my first trunk show!!, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

I'll be showing at my first trunk show next Sunday, May 4th

Where? Mill Valley Community Center, 180 Camino Alto, Mill Valley

When? 10am to 2pm

Who's hosting? Appel and Frank (www.appelandfrank.com)

Let me know you heard about the show on my blog and receive 10% off of any one item!

Etsy meet up at the Ferry Building!

2008-04-26T13:27:00.001-07:00

Etsy SF Group picture 4.26.08, originally uploaded by localcolorist.

I met a bunch of my fellow Bay Area etsy-folk early this morning at the Ferry Building in San Francisco.

Super fun!

From left to right (with their Etsy ids)

Beth, Bethela, Etsy Admin
Erika, moi!
Christie, bemidesigns (printing and letterpress)
Robyn, handcranked (modern jewelry)
Annie, curbsidetreasure (mixed media collage jewelry)
Nadine, theseawithin (handmade bags)
Eleanor, 2inspire (printed cards and calligraphy)
Nancy, localcolorist (origami cranes)

toca el cajon...

2008-04-26T01:27:00.001-07:00

toca el cajon..., originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Sylas turned our nightstand into a cajon (an Afro-Peruvian precussion instrument) tonight.

Dragged it out of our room and into the dining room for a performance!

His teacher at daycare, Lalo, is an amazing musician from Peru and is teaching him cajon... pretty darn cute.

He was singing a rousing version of "La Mariposa". Here he's telling me to stop taking photos and dance!

Modern baby bib - black/cream/lilac

2008-04-26T01:15:00.001-07:00

modern baby bib - black/cream/lilac, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Another modern bib... I really love these!

Available in my shop!

Modern knit cotton beanie for baby

2008-04-24T21:21:00.001-07:00

striped cotton baby beanie, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Fresh off the needles... new in the shop!

Modern baby sun hat

2008-04-24T00:44:00.001-07:00

modern baby sun hat, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

New in the shop!...

Knit with deliciously soft yarn and tons of love, this sun hat is just perfect for spring!

Inspired by the color studies of Mark Rothko and Josef Albers, this vibrant sun hat is an amazing addition to baby's spring/summer wardrobe.

Clean lines, saturated colors, and a generous brim to protect baby's eyes and sensitive skin make this hat a must-have for a hip kid-o on the go!

Claudette

2008-04-22T21:54:00.001-07:00

New in the shop!

Claudette is a lovely companion. She adores visits to the MOMA, cruising flea markets, and reading anything by the Bronte sisters.

Like her cousin, Amelie, she has a succulent permanent pout.

Claudette is not a fan of of "traditional" baths, so if she has a nasty run in with a soy latte or a vegan muffin, do spot clean.

This gal measures 23.5" (60cm) tall from the top of her head to the tips of her toes.

100% Handmade in the U.S.A.

A big step towards couture...

2008-04-22T07:48:00.001-07:00

notched collar jacket - in all its half finished glory, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

This is a jacket I am making for my construction class. It has been a LOT of work - 27 pattern pieces and a little over 100 cut pieces!!

I did not like this project at first. Way too many layers and prep work for someone else's design!

But the more I sew and press the fabric I am falling in love - with butterflies in my tummy and everything. I am creating a garment with the care and precision I have wanted to execute for years.

My dream is to be able to construct any structure out of 2-D fabric. It's amazing to think that every single piece of this jacket was once on a bolt of fabric and has been shaped and molded by my hands, an iron, a straight stitch machine, and a whole lot of time!

Wool is wonderful to work with. With heat, moisture and pressure you can shrink, stretch, and mold the fabric into exactly what you need it to be. Such a beautiful medium!

And the techniques I am learning - building foundations within the garment to help shape and hold the outer shell - will help me create the confections that now only exist in my imagination!

Couldn't be happier with my progress. Check out more pics on my flickr

New in the shop - Modern Baby Bib!

2008-04-17T11:47:00.001-07:00

modern cotton bib, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

I love this bib! It's bright and modern, super soft, and able to withstand the rigors of babyhood.

This bib was designed to save others from the dilemma I faced when my son was younger - ruin a cute outfit with a blah bib or sign up for drool duty and changing t-shirts like a mad woman!

Who knew the bib played such a pivotal roll in a baby's wardrobe?

Thankfully, super clean lines and vibrant colors make this bib a great addition to any outfit (not a necessary evil)!

The Little Red Door

2008-04-16T08:10:00.001-07:00

zoo charmenagerie, originally uploaded by thelittlereddoor.

A gorgeous pic from Flickr by thelittlereddoor. She has a beautiful eye for color and composition!

Her shop on Etsy is bright, silly and full of whimsical kitsch. Please do stop by!

Shop at thelittlereddoor.etsy.com

See more of her work at http://www.flickr.com/photos/thelittlereddoor/

Amoeba Bib

2008-04-15T16:56:00.001-07:00

ameoba bib, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Sample of a new lil' goody for baby!

I never used bibs on my son because I could never find a bib I liked. I would rather be on constant drool duty than dumb down a cute outfit with a blah bib.

Super clean lines and bright colors make this bib a great addition to any outfit (not a neccesary evil)!

More pics at www.flickr.com/photos/oishiiknits

Amelie, in all her glory

2008-04-12T21:44:00.001-07:00

amelie, in all her glory, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

Plushie challenge, day 3...

This is posted a day late...

Sweet Amelie, my knit plushie co-pilot!

I love this plushie... she is so tremendously sweet!

A few people have asked to see more of my dolls, so I posted her on Etsy last night to see what kind of response she would receive. Hopefully she will go before I got too attached... She is such the little homegirl!

She will be modeling part time for me in the meantime...

________________________________________________

I need to take a break. School work is piling up (bound flap pockets - argh!) and my family is threatening a strike.

Hopefully I can finish another by Tuesday.

plushie challenge... day 2

2008-04-10T01:20:00.001-07:00

plushie challenge... day 2, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

here is the plushie for today... he is pretty sweet!

plushie challenge... day 1

2008-04-09T12:16:00.001-07:00

plushie challenge - day 1, originally uploaded by oishiiknits.

So I've decided to embark on a plushie challenge - 30 new plushies in 30 days...

Rather ambitious I suppose but I am excited to see what I create under duress. And I never said they would be BEAUTIFUL plushies

This plushie was inspired by an exhibition of Jose Gonzalez's artwork Stephen and I saw in Paris last fall...

He was a contemporary of picasso who worked in a staggeringly wide range of media. I love his work!

yuki and micah

2008-03-09T17:14:00.000-07:00

i am proud to introduce two new members of the oishii crew - micah and yuki (pictured here enjoying some sun in my studio window).

i heart alexander girard!

2008-02-10T22:46:00.000-08:00

Dwell from December 2005 featured an amazing retrospective on Alexander Girard - a brilliant designer of textiles, furniture and more for Herman Miller in the 1950's through 1970's. Girard made even the most mundane household items come alive with silly creativity and vibrant beauty.

I immediately fell in love with his pop art color palette and his abstracted images. His aesthetic - "modern folk" - draws on folk imagery from around the world.

I am completely obsessed with Girard's work! He was a designer's designer - able to walk the fine line between pure art for art's sake and the necessity of practicality, to create while balanced on the bar between the whimsical and the ordinary.

Girard had an infinite number of pet projects, from creating textiles for Herman Miller interiors to creating dolls, toys and tree houses for the short lived Textiles and Objects shop in New York.

Oh how I adore him!