Free Goodies for You!

Do your chirstmas shopping at Fasten and receive a gift yourself!

Free grab bag filled with hand-made goodies with every purchase (of $10 or more).

Dec 10th through the 23rd!

We love giving gifts. These bags are full of all sorts of special little things hand-made by our designers. Some items are made especially for the promotion, and we make them together, other items are actually small items from our designer's collections. Hey, Merry Christmas!

Craft Night! Wednesday December 10th

Tis the season! This craft night, get ready to dive into a motley pile of unwanted Christmas ornaments and decorations, and with a few tools, glitter, and googley eyes, construct masterful frankenstein ornaments sure to arrouse your loved ones and friends. Seriously, that's our craft night project! It's gunna be awesome, you'll see, just come on down. All supplies provided.

Wednesday Dec 10th 6-9pm

At Fasten

"Decay" Work by April Heding

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee student, April Heding, will be showing two bodies of work in this solo exhibition. The black and white photos with their ghostly and often abstract images are results of alternative darkroom processes. The other half of the show includes ink drawings again with photographic images burned into them. Both collections examine the artist's relationship with death.

Join us for an opening reception on Friday December 5th from 6-9pm. The artist will be in attendance along with local dj's BangLaFresh.

Craft Night

The next craft night is Wednesday Nov. 12th. Come on down to Fasten between 6-9pm. Bring a friend, a snack or drink to share, and some creative energy.

You may come to work on a project of your own, taking advantage of our space, tools, machines, expertise, and company. Or, if you don't have a project to bring, let us inspire you. This month Little Ocean designer, Janelle, will be leading the craft night group in making some adorable aprons. They make great gifts! You are encouraged to bring your own fabric (you'll need at least 3/4 yard), but as always, you're welcome to dig through our free bin, or purchase some of our vintage fabric. And if you have any cute trim you'd like to include, bring it along too!

See you there!

Featured Collection

Lindsay Keating-Moore is the designer behind KM Stitchery. Her line of 2nd hand tees feature inspirational women printed with hand-cut stencils. Read our interview with her below.

How long have you been crafting and designing?

I have been crafting since my sophomore year in college so about 5 or 6 years now. I remember how I started, one year for Christmas I wanted to make something for my boyfriend at the time, something handmade. I had never really crafted before. I went out and bought some fabric, used my mom’s sewing machine and made him a little stuffed animal. With the left over fabric, I made a bag and that’s how I got started!

How was KM Stitchery born?

I originally started KM Stitchery in 2005. Back then my line was totally different. After making my first bag, I kind of took off from there and eventually I was making applique clutch bags from recycled fabrics. Then in the fall of 2007, I felt like I wanted to make more of a statement with my work. Some of my friends were cutting stencils, and my husband decided to make a stencil of Dylan Thomas and I thought, “Hey, I could do that”. Then I thought about who I’d make a stencil of, I had been reading Emma Goldman at the time so I immediately thought of her. I really surprised myself at how well it came out! I thought it would be cool to print stencils on t-shirts and then I thought about folks I knew who were making t-shirts with Ghandi or Martin Luther King and I thought, “You know, you never really see any revolutionary women on t-shirts”. Hence, KM Stitchery was born!

Describe your line.

I make hand cut stencils of feminists and print them on recycled clothing. Each stencil is cut by me with an x-acto knife and printed onto clothing. My line is mainly about two ideas: feminism and being eco-friendly! I wanted to have a clothing line that exclusively features prints of women. I wanted to make a statement. I have seen lots of screen printing companies that print mainly or entirely men on their shirts. I find that to be really frustrating. Especially when it’s considered normal for women to wear male figures on their shirts but weird for men to wear female figures. That’s why I’m starting to print on men’s clothing too. When I tell people that they seem confused. That’s a double standard I want to break. So no more male figures, just awesome feminist women! Also, it’s really cool to see how excited women get about my clothing. I think it’s empowering for them as women. It’s also important for me to be eco-friendly. I print my designs on recycled clothing. I would rather reuse the tons of clothing that already exists than support the production of new clothing. Another reason why I don’t buy new clothing is because I don’t want to support sweatshops. Other ways that my company is environmentally friendly is that: I use non-toxic water based inks, all my fabric tags are printed on recycled fabric, I make my business cards and hanging tags on the back of cereal boxes, and I also recycle brown paper bags by using them for packaging up orders.

What is your background in feminism?

I was an English major in college but if I could do it all over again I would have double majored in English Literature AND Women’s Studies (or gone to art school!). I didn’t get into feminism until my senior year of college...a late bloomer. The first thing that brought me into awareness was the different beauty standards for men and women that my friends at the time had pointed out to me. Also, in my world literature seminar we were discussing gender roles in the novels we were reading, one example is, “The Passion” by Jeanette Winterson. That got me into reading a bunch of books about feminism and they really opened my eyes. bell hooks was one of the first authors I read. Now I’m at the point where I alternate between reading a feminist non-fiction book and then a novel. I’m always reading feminist books. Feminism is extremely important in my life.

Who are the women in your line and how do you choose them?

The women I currently have stencils cut of are: Angela Davis, Gloria Steinem & Dorothy Pitman Hughes, Victoria Woodhull, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, bell hooks, Susan B Anthony, Frida Kahlo, Audre Lorde, Lucy Stone, and Simone de Beauvoir. I try to have a diversity of women represented, especially race, nationality, periods in time (first wave, second wave etc), sexual orientation etc. The great thing is that I am always cutting new stencils! I cut 1-2 new stencils per month. As I build up my stencils, I would like to have a very diverse selection of women. I started out cutting stencils of women that I knew about and liked, but then my customers/people interested in my line emailed me their suggestions. Now I have a nice long list of women! I try to cut stencils of well known feminists and also women who are not as well known, women who’ve been left out of history. A perfect example of this is Victoria Woodhull. She actually ran for president in 1872, before women had the right to vote! That’s a pretty momentous event....but for some reason it’s been left out of history. I want to give the recognition they should have gotten.

Featured Designer Lee Tracy of WeHeartObama

Politics are in the air. This October we thought it would be appropriate to choose WeHeartObama as our featured designer. We have the line of USA organic tees in all colors and sizes with great designs that speak about Obama's policies on Healthcare, Energy, the Environment, Iraq, and Economics. Lee Tracy is the designer behind the tees. Read our interview with her below.

1. How long have you been designing and printing tees?
Three years now. It is a new medium for me and I am just now starting to grasp the potential of this type of messaging. I am a fine artist and I thought that designing tees was going to be easy. It has taken time for me to begin to feel comfortable inserting my art in this manner. I never sought to settle on a basic concept, my intention is to learn how to push through some barriers and create designs that have meaning; tees that can educate. I also thought long-term about how this collection can continue into the future when the real work begins. With Obama as president he will need the support and energy of American citizens to push his plan through. We all we need to know the issues, the bills that are written, and how to get involved to enact our power to assist in change.


2. How was WeHeartObama born?
From truth. I do heart Obama and I know others that do. I so much needed a real life hero, one that would meet my expectations amidst the current trend of celebrity newsmakers. Before designing the current collection, I downloaded Obama's policies; 35 pages. I had never done this before, I needed to study. I also downloaded McCain's so that I could compare. I read McCains first because it was only 2 pages. Once I finished reading Obama's ideas I was thrilled because he actually has a plan with goals that I desire. Obama has a world in mind where I actually want to live -- with compassion, respect, stewardship, justice, transparency, independence and freedom.
The name "We Heart Obama" has allowed me to find the intense amount of hope that I had when I was younger. The name resonates with a touch of naivete found in a high school crush. Personally, I felt it important that I turn up the volume here to make the point.

3. Describe the tees and how the designs speak about the issues that Obama stands for.
I have a design for Health Care with a red cross over the map of America. This tee is not only about the option of a new health care system but also about the healing of America in general. The issue is that by helping all to be healthy then we will have a healthy nation. Logically, it will save lives and funds at once. My design for the environment depicts wheels that are turning and says "Turn it around." We must turn back the clock on many of the policies that have ignored stewardship of our planet and protection our resources
There is also a broken oil rig that represents the end of our dependence on foreign oil and draws attention to new innovative ideas for energy. And there is a design that uses an old stamp from the 40's that highlights "security, health, education, conservation" and I added "Long Term Thinking."
All the designs have subtle word plays or double meanings.
In light of the current economic crisis my new design is only words; "Obama works for me."

4. What other political endeavors are you involved in?
Before the last election my husband and I went door to door in WI (Madison and Racine.) This year we just hosted a moveon.org party for calling volunteers in the swing states. We plan to do more. My partner, Maryanne Colter, who encouraged this tee shirt project and funded it's startup, went to "Obama Camp." She departed to Missouri for 4 weeks to be a lead captain in organizing volunteer efforts. It is an exciting time for all of us that want to usher in change and I am happy to see that the work force is strong and willing.

5. What other art/design endeavors are you involved in?
I have my fine art. On October 5th I am in a group show at the Evanston Art Center called "Heating up." This exhibit is about global warming and I have a full room installation called Found. In it is an old desk and chairs. The walls are stained as if there was a flood. On the desk I have journals from the future. They are somewhat destroyed, yet the reader can make out some of the entries. In the books I offer clues to a changing world, some remarks are startling (the extinction of the polar bear) while others offer hope (inventions yet to be invented.)
I am also involved in studying the "green movement" and have been exploring organic agricultural, fabric, manufacturing, dyes and inks.

WeHeartObama tees are organic USA cotton from field to tee. My hope is that the USA organic cotton manufacturing will continue to grow and we can find more garments made locally.
The world is changing and so is the role of the artist. I will do my part and continue to experiment with ways to communicate. My hope is to set an example for younger artists and illustrate how creativity can be put to good use outside of the small nucleus of the art world.

Lee Tracy
http://www.leetracy.com/
http://www.worldriversproject.com/

Craft Night is Wednesday Oct 8th

Come to Fasten Wednesday Oct 8th from 6-9pm for some social crafting. Bring in a piece of clothing or a bag to adorn if you'd like to join "Papavier" designer Jessica create hand-made stencils and stamps. Or bring another project from home. See you there.

Rebecca Schoenecker on Gallery Night

Gallery Night
October 17th 6-9pm
Opening Reception for “Buggin” New Work from Artist Rebecca Schoenecker
At Fasten 2224 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. in Bayview

Schoenecker returns to Fasten to show a new collection of embroideries, paintings, and fiber artworks from October 13th to November 28th. Uncanny and sometimes cutely morbid characters are embroidered on vintage linens and lace, presenting a very expressive body of work, intriguing by way of the subjects as well as the process and materials.

Rebecca Schoenecker is a Milwaukee native who now lives in Chicago . She commutes back to Milwaukee weekly to teach at MIAD part-time.

Oct and Nov Classes

To sign up for a class, please call 414-747-9229.
Or mail a check along with your name, phone#, and the class date to:
Fasten Collective
2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53207

Basic Sewing
Wednesday, October 22nd, 6-9pm
Tuesday Nov 11th 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop for all those with an interest in garment making or repairing with little or no experience. Students will learn how to use their machines and with guided practice become comfortable with basic seams and hems. We will also discuss the basics of garment construction. Materials: Your machine and it’s manual. All other supplies provided.

Intermediate Sewing
Wednesday November 19th, 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. A follow up for students who have taken the basic sewing class, or for those with some experience. Students bring their own machines, and should already know how to use them well. The focus in this class is garment construction. Types of fabrics, notions, and tools are discussed. Design techniques such as draping, swiping, and pattern-making are also discussed. Students will complete one garment. Materials: Sewing machine, 2 yards of stretch-knit fabric.

DIY Screen-Printing
Thursday October 23rd, 6-9 pm
Thursday November 20th, 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. Learn the best tools and techniques for in-home screen-printing. Through demonstrations explore stretching screens, image prep, drawing and photo emulsion, exposing screens and the printing process. Supplies: all provided.


GENERAL WORKSHOP INFORMATION
-All workshops will be held at Fasten in Bay View
-Students are expected to bring their own machines, however, there is a house machine available for a $5 usage fee.
-Students receive a 40% discount on supplies purchased at Fasten during the month of class.
-Students must sign up at least one week before the class date.
-Call 414-747-9229 to pay by credit card, Or mail a check with your name, address, phone number, and the class title to Fasten Collective 2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave. Milwaukee WI 53207

Featured Designer

Erin is the designer behind howl. handbags and is in the spotlight as our featured designer this month. We carry her line of suede and leather bags, and absolutely adore her quality craftsmanship, attention to details, and her fun style.

How was howl. handbags born?

As silly and mystical as it might sound, howl. sort of always existed somewhere in my consciousness. I've always been frustrated by a seemingly homogeneous landscape of apparel and accessories, and have such always wanted to launch my own line that would meet my needs and aesthetic.The motivation I lacked in getting started actually launching the label finally came when I had to come to terms with the fact that I wasn't going to find the kind of satisfaction in my day job as I had initially hoped. I had tons of ideas, and though I'd always been a self-taught creator and fixer of things, I knew I lacked the polished skills I needed in order to really get serious about designing. So I did the only sensible thing I could come up with, took a few classes, bought too much pretty fabric, and got started sewing. I quickly discovered the nuances of fit in regards to apparel were a little overwhelming; to be honest, I was crap at making clothes. But what I then discovered is that the geometric world of handbag design fit my passions and abilities just right. Not long thereafter, howl. was born. :)

What materials do you use, and where do you get them?

I LOVE leather. Forgive my controversial enthusiasm, but I can't deny it. For handbags, leather is undeniably the most versatile, durable and rich materials you can use. To keep cost down and resources sustainable, I started using reclaimed materials whenever possible. Many of my pieces come from old coats, pants, skirts, etc. I've found that this is my favorite way to source materials, because, being kind of a literary nerd, I've always loved the stories that might be hidden in these pieces. Some of my favorites have been cut from objects that have colorful travel logs, like used burlap coffee bean sacks and my father-in-law's motorcycle chaps. It's exciting to take something that has a history of its own and then send it out into the world to have completely new adventures.

What in your daily life, or in the art world, influences your design?

Oh, just about everything. I'm constantly absorbing shapes, colors and textures around me and dreaming up relationships between them that excite me. Often, the materials I source inspire their own designs; other times, I draft out a pattern that goes unused for months, until one day it comes to life. I trend toward a very organic (some might say undisciplined... ;) ) method when I work on my designs, and I find that often that results in the best, most unique pieces.

What excites you the most about what you do?

I've always had a need to put things together. This certainly satisfies that need, but what surprises and excites me the most is how joyful the people are who carry my bags and wear my accessories. I understand the inevitable link between a person's appearance and the way they feel, and to see my pieces inspire confidence in someone else just about makes me giddy.

Is there any new howl. project, or other artistic endeavor in the works right now?

I've started expanding howl. to include fashion jewelry and accessories. I still adore handbags, and it's still the label's main focus, but I've found it's helpful for me during the design process to have another outlet in order to keep things fresh. I used to make jewelry when I was in high school and found that I haven't lost my love for poking around with tiny things. Plus, sewing leather can try the hands, eyes, back and patience, so smaller items give me a little breather, while still allowing me to create.

Craft Night

Come on down for Craft Night on Wednesday, September 10th from 6-9pm.

As always, guests are welcome to bring in a project from home to take advantage of our space, social atmosphere, sewing machines, and advice. Or you may opt to come empty-handed, and let us tell you what to do. This month, Madam Chino will lead us in making "trouble-free cuffs for the well-behaved". We'll explore surface design techniques using scrap fabric and water-soluble paper. All supplies will be provided. "Oh snap!"

Featured Designer: Emily Frances

Meet Emily. She's the designer and seamstress behind her label "Emily Frances". We have a great collection of her women's tops, as well as some adorable children's jumpers and booties. Her work is very well made and she uses especially beautiful fabrics in every piece. Read our interview below, and then check out her etsy shop.

Describe in your own words what you design and create.
I am currently creating a collection of women's and children's wear that is grounded in the ideas of simplicity of form and timelessness of style. All aspects of design and creation are done by me, by hand, in the most low-tech way possible. For instance, the prints found in my work all come from original stencils that I cut by hand and then paint one at a time. This results in a uniqueness and history for each piece not possible through more mass-production techniques.

What are your favorite materials?

I love to work with natural fibers, especially cotton, bamboo, and wool. These have a quality and richness that synthetic fibers can never quite match. I also love the hunt for fabric, and the feeling of discovery and inspiration when I find a fantastic piece. Some of my favorite fabrics have come from Japan and Sweden, but I have made great finds even at the local fabric store. I usually save a piece of fabric, sometimes for years, until I have the perfect idea for it.

What is the most important feature in your designs?

I would say a hallmark of my designs is a very simple form, executed in fabulous fabrics with a meticulous attention to detail. I love making practical art that will become a part of people's lives and experiences. We live in our clothes, we use them to express who we are, and they shape others' perceptions of us. I am so honored when a piece of mine goes home to someone's closet to become a part of their wardrobe and a part of their life.

Is there anything in art, design, or fashion that you really look forward to accomplishing in the coming months or years?

My goal is always to make my collection a little bit bigger and better each season. I look forward to participating in even more local fashion events, and forming partnerships with other local artists. Someday it would be lovely to design and print my own textiles. And of course the ultimate goal is to support myself by living my creative dream.

"Orla, TX" Photos by Nicole Tappa

"Orla, Tx", from Milwaukee artist, Nicole Tappa will be on the walls August 15th through mid September. The collection is an eerie story of a lonesome ghost town textured by decay and vast blue skies. Join us for an opening reception August 22nd from 6-9pm.




Nicole Tappa graduated from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee in 2005 with a BFA in photography. She then traveled onto Chicago. After completing one year at Columbia College Chicago's MFA program in photography she has returned. Chicago taught her one thing, that if she goes any further away, she'll start coming back.


About Orla

It's a long way to anywhere from Orla, Texas. Orla is on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe line, U.S. Highway 285, and Farm Road 652, five miles southeast of Red Bluff in northwestern Reeves County. The name is Spanish for "border" and refers to the countryside around the settlement. Orla was established as a section house on the Pecos River Railroad in 1890. A post office was opened there in 1906. By 1933 Orla reported the post office, a business, and a population of ten. Its population remained at ten until after World War II, but the number of businesses increased to two in 1943. The town grew between the late 1940s and the 1950s, the population to forty and then to sixty, and the number of businesses to three. In the mid-1960s Orla became a rural oil supply center. By the end of the decade its population had reached 250, and it had twelve businesses. From 1970 through 2000 its population was reported at 183, and it had variously anywhere from one to sixteen businesses. In 1990 Orla still supplied equipment for production in nearby Permian Basin oilfields. In 2005, its population stood at 2.

Craft Night!

Wed August 13th 6-9pm
At FASTEN
2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave

Come once again to our monthly craft night. Fun times are had by all. Bring your own project from home (sewing machines and advice is available) or make something with the group. This month, our group project is tote bags! Little Ocean designer, Janelle, will show us how to stitch up some easy bags and even embellish them too. Bring a snack or drink to share.

August Classes

To sign up for a class, please call 414-747-9229.
Or mail a check along with your name, phone#, and the class date to:
Fasten Collective
2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53207

Basic Sewing
Wednesday, August 27th 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop for all those with an interest in garment making or repairing with little or no experience. Students will learn how to use their machines and with guided practice become comfortable with basic seams and hems. We will also discuss the basics of garment construction. Materials: Your machine and it’s manual. All other supplies provided.

Intermediate Sewing
Wednesday September 24th, 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. A follow up for students who have taken the basic sewing class, or for those with some experience. Students bring their own machines, and should already know how to use them well. The focus in this class is garment construction. Types of fabrics, notions, and tools are discussed. Design techniques such as draping, swiping, and pattern-making are also discussed. Students will complete one garment. Materials: Sewing machine, 2 yards of stretch-knit fabric.

DIY Screen-Printing
Thursday August 14th, 6-9 pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. Learn the best tools and techniques for in-home screen-printing. Through demonstrations explore stretching screens, image prep, drawing and photo emulsion, exposing screens and the printing process. Supplies: all provided.


GENERAL WORKSHOP INFORMATION

-All workshops will be held at Fasten in Bay View

-Students are expected to bring their own machines, however, there is a house machine available for a $5 usage fee.

-Students receive a 40% discount on supplies purchased at Fasten during the month of class.

-Students must sign up at least one week before the class date.

-Call 414-747-9229 to pay by credit card, Or mail a check with your name, address, phone number, and the class title to
Fasten Collective
2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave.
Milwaukee WI 53207

Craft Night

Tuesday July 22nd

6-9pm

Stop into Fasten on the 22nd and enjoy the company of crafty friends in a craft atmosphere. Bring a project! Expert sewing advice, and extra tools and supplies are available. Or join in on a "Treat Tree" building project hosted this month by V-Gear's designer Vonn. The project will be a colorful blossoming candy topiary; all supplies are provided. The fun starts at 6pm and continues til 9pm. Share a snack or drink if you can.

Gallery Night is July 25th

Join us Friday July 25th from 6-9pm for a reception for "Stitched, Painted and Put on Display: Drama Rama" work by Leah Kwarciany.


This Southeastern Wisconsin native has won several scholarships and awards for her multi-media work, and has shown in several exhibitons, including the current show in the Schneider Gallery in UW Stevens Point, where she currently studies.



Artist Statement

"My current work is all about combinations. I’ve come to realize after doing a bit of self-reflecting that I find myself and so many other women to be complicated combinations of traditional femininity and abrasive modernity. What I am working through is getting these opposing ideas to visually come together by combining soft, elegant feminine details and ragged heavy-handedness into one entity, because goddamnit I don’t need anything from anybody but would you like some cookies while you’re waiting?"

"I’m very interested in details, contrast and design. I love a good strong line…and also a crazy, unpredictable one now that I think about it. I also really enjoy bright, synthetic, melt-your-retinas color. I enjoy working with mixed media because it allows me to expand my visual ideas into what I like to envision as a jewelry box of colors, patterns, and textures. Organized chaos in primaries and shiny secondaries, if you will."

"Honestly, I’ve got some pretty special artistic relationships going on right now with glittery stuff, overused iconic imagery (that’s right--farm animals and kitchen utensils), bad caricatures and ugly fabrics. Really I just strive to make work that has the charisma of a candy store with neon signs and a dedicated owner."

Featured Designer

Becky Tesch is the designer behind the bike-part earrings, bracelets, and cuffs that we carry under the label My Mish Mosh. She is a recyling wonderwoman, and can turn almost any discarded item into art or fashion. Inspired as we are, we decided to interview her as our featured designer this month.

How did MyMishMosh get started?
Well, I have always made stuff and I've been repuropsing things since I was a little kid. I always hated throwing things away. I Loved "The Littles" on Sesame street, I thought thier car with button wheels was so great, and thier trash can was a toothpaste cap! I loved it! I studied and made art all through high school and college. I moved to AZ in October of 01, after graduating. I still kinda thought MKE was a boring town back then, so I went out into the world looking for adventure. I came back for a visit and saw a call for artists for the first Art Vs Craft. I also saw an early ad for Kunzelmann-esser lofts, and I couldn't belive that was happening in Milwaukee without me! I started looking at Indie craft stuff on line and thought: "Holy shit, when did this start?!?!?!?!? That's it! that's my thang, that's my ship! I better not miss it! so I looked at all the stuff I had been making, and thought about what I could do to recycle, get suplies for cheap or for free, and be a part of the inde, DIY craft wave. After about 3 years of small town desert life, we moved back to MKE, and I jumped in with all kinds of good stuff I had dreamed up while living in the desert. I got a sellers permit, put up a website, opened and Etsy store, adn started applying to shows!

My fiance and I are also bicycle people. We especially LOVE mountain biking. We commute to work and run errands and go out at night by bike here in town every chance we get. I ride my bike to work every day I possibly can, inclding a lot of winter days.

So, I had been making jewelry and thinking about design, and riding bikes for years and had all these bike parts laying around. I looked at some of the bike parts one day and thought "hey, those could be beads..." The bike part jewelry was born.

The duct tape stuff came to me in high school. my memory isn't really clear anymore on how that all happened, but I started making wallets, and the purses were the next logical step. And of course I make lots of other things too... Picture frames and keyholders and sculptures and furniture and stuff. All of it just comes out of fidgety hands, the pack rat instinct, and some happy madness in my head.

What materials do you use, and where do you get them?
Mostly spent bicycle parts, which I get from Crank Daddy's Bicycle Works. They have a little box in the service department with a sign on it that says to save junk for me, and they do! I have more than I can use most of the time. The junk I use for sculptures and other things is just found on the street usually. You see a lot more stuff when you're on a bike than in a car, and I stop and pick it up. I order Duct Tape on line. (I'm sure I'm on a government list somewhere for ordering copious amounts of duct tape... ) I also have a running offer for cyclists of all stripes: Anyone who donates a used chain to me gets a free bracelet out of thier own chain!

Are you inspired by a particular asthetic or culture?

Definitly inspired by the DIY stuff, Make mag, Readymade mag, Stuff on ETSY, folk art, art history, I love the Dada people... And I'm super cheap. I like the idea of making stuff out of garbage. "Materials can be free" a wise old professor told me that once, and I've never forgotten it. also, america is sucha wealthy and wasteful place. One can do quite well with that kind of trash! I love stuff that I find at rummage sales and thrift stores.

What do you get the most enjoyment from creating?
That's a tough one. I think I most enjoy the moment when I come up with something new, like the new bike tube cuffs I've been making. I had always wanted to make cuffs, and then thought of using the popped bike inner tubes. The moment where I figured out how to make laces and attach ribbon was so great! I got realy excited adn couldn't even make them fast enough.

Will you be at any craft shows in the coming months?

Yes, I will be very busy!!!
I will be at the South shore Froliks on July 13th,
in Chicago at the Pitchfork Music Festival July 18-20. this music festival has a craft section run by the people who put on the DEPART-ment shows in Chicago. That's going to be amazing!
Sputnikfest in Manitowoc September 5 & 6th

I'll also be at Vital Surce on Gallery Night and Day July 25th and 26th.

Hopefully I'll be at the Discovery World market in August and December.

And you can see some of my handi-work in the Insurgent Theatre's productions at the Alchemist Theatre. Performances are the second, third, and fourth weekends in July. I made some sweet props.

Swap-O-Rama-Rama

Clean out your closets, SWAP-O-RAMA-RAMA is here!
Saturday June 21st 1-5pm
Fasten Designer Collective
2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave. Milwaukee
$5 and any sized bag of your clean unwanted clothing to enter

"There is no beauty in the finest cloth if it makes hunger and unhappiness." Gandhi

Join in the communal process of reuse and celebrate our collective creativity! You are invited to Swap-O-Rama-Rama, a giant clothing swap and series of do-it-yourself workshops in which a community explores reuse and creativity through the recycling of used clothing.

It's easy to make the move from consumer to creator - and it's fun. At this Swap-O-Rama-Rama you'll find a host of talent brought together to teach you how to transform your new/used clothing into works of your own. You'll find professional designers with sewing machines ready to teach you secrets on how to make modifications to your new/used duds. Or you might try the hand sew area and decoration station where you can learn to embroider, knit, applique, etc. A stenciling station offers many amazing designs for immediate transfer as well as iron-on decals.

Of course the core of the swap is the gigantic piles of free clothing sorted into categories: pants, shirts, skirts, sweaters etc. These piles are the collective total of each guest’s contribution of any size bag of unwanted clothes so clean out those closets and let go of what's no longer inspiring. Take home as much clothing as you can carry, it's all free. Remainders go to Goodwill.

More Information about this International Event: http://www.swaporamarama.org

Contact for questions: fastencollective@yahoo.com

See you there... oh and pretty pretty please... PASS IT ON!

Craft Night!

Tuesday June 24th from 6-9pm

Free and open to everyone

Once again, bring your friends to Fasten for some crafting and conversation. Either come with a project from home, or join us in a group project. This month, our friend Stephanie will be leading us in Applique and Embroidery! Learn a few embroidery stitches and rummage through our scraps to cut and stitch original designs onto patches, or even right onto a bag or garment you bring from home. All other supplies will be provided. If you can, bring drinks or snacks to share.

Featured Designer

This month, we are featuring Apiril Kelly of Gem Revolution. Her collection of wire and bead jewelry is intricate and stunning. You can see more of her work at www.gemrevolution.com

Read our interview with April:

Describe in your own words what you create.

I create one of a kind wire wrapped, beaded and macrame jewelry mostly using semi precious gemstones. I hand select my stones and materials. I use sterling silver and 14k gold filled wire and findings.

How long have you been making jewelry?

Since I was about 5 years old. A friend of my family bought me a kit with all sorts of little plastic beads and string and I went to town on it. I really got into it and it just progressed from there. My mom bought me a bead loom and I really got into the Native American style. Then I took some classes and learned different traditional stitches like peyote and brick stitch. I started making intricate woven amulet pouches and just felt very connected to that style which is kinda strange for a preteen/teenager to be drawn to. Just within the last 2 years my mom did some research and found out that we are Native American so I guess now it makes sense why I do what I do.

How do you choose the stones you use?

In february I went to Tucson AZ for the annual rock and gem show which is the largest show in the U.S. It takes over the whole city it is amazing. So I feel really lucky to be able to hand pick the most amazing stones for my jewelry.

What are your favorite stones?

Turquoise, Amber, Watermelon Tourmaline, Druzy Quartz, Opal, Rainbow Obsidian...the list goes on.

Are you involved in anything else artistic?

I am mom to a soon to be 4 year old boy...motherhood I believe is an art form.

Junkhouse Dollyard Returns to Milwaukee

We are very excited to announce the return of our friend and Fasten co-founder, Kathryn Wilson! She is back home after being in Japan and China for a year. We will be showing her most recent collection of photographs, as well as her new clothing designs.

Join us Friday June 6th at 6pm for an opening reception and homecoming party. Refreshments and happiness will abound.

Kathryn Wilson grew up in Wisconsin. She studied photography at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, during this time she also studied in Thailand and China. She graduated with a BFA and moved to Japan for a year. There she found a shop to sell her clothes, published photos in a magazine and showed her work in a few fashion and photography shows.

After that she went to Shanghai for three months to do an old fashioned apprenticeship with the master photographer Maleonn. She participated in a group photography show and modeled for a few photographers while continuing to work on her photography and clothing.
You can see her work at http://www.junkhousedollyard.com/.

Artist's Statement
"All of my work is very personal. I use it as a way to understand myself and this silly world and how we can work together or not. Art that is most powerful to me is very honest work and I want people who look at my photos to feel a connection to similar emotions or understand something about human nature."

"I made this series after one month of studying under the Chinese photographer Maleonn. I had the opportunity to become his friend and assistant for three months. During this time, his incredible talent and generosity inspired me and helped me discover who I am as an artist. This was a great transitional period in my life and a lot of powerful things happened around me that I can't really describe in words, but some of that is preserved forever in these photos. I look at them as a rung on a ladder and each time I create something new I'm taking another step towards something bigger than myself."

June and July Classes

To sign up for a class, please call 414-747-9229.
Or mail a check along with your name, phone#, and the class date to:
Fasten Collective
2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53207

Basic Sewing
Wednesday, June 18th 6-9pm
-or-
Wednesday, July 16th, 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop for all those with an interest in garment making or repairing with little or no experience. Students will learn how to use their machines and with guided practice become comfortable with basic seams and hems. We will also discuss the basics of garment construction. Materials: Your machine and it’s manual. All other supplies provided.

Intermediate Sewing
Wednesday July 23rd 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. A follow up for students who have taken the basic sewing class, or for those with some experience. Students bring their own machines, and should already know how to use them well. The focus in this class is garment construction. Types of fabrics, notions, and tools are discussed. Design techniques such as draping, swiping, and pattern-making are also discussed. Students will complete one garment. Materials: Sewing machine, 2 yards of stretch-knit fabric.

DIY Screen-Printing
Thursday June 26th 6-9 pm
-or-
Thursday July 17th 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. Learn the best tools and techniques for in-home screen-printing. Through demonstrations explore stretching screens, image prep, drawing and photo emulsion, exposing screens and the printing process. Supplies: all provided.

Novice Knitting
Tuesday July 29th 6-9pm
Fee: $25
A one day workshop for beginning knitters or those with some experience. Beginners will learn basic knit and pearl, those with some experience will be taught some more technical and complicated techniques. Students will choose one apparel project to design and complete Supplies: Please bring one pair of needles size 5 or larger. One skein of yarn will be provided, but students are welcome to bring their own.

Basic Hand Sewing and Embroidery
Tuesday July 15 6-9pm
Fee: $25
One day workshop. Learn basic hand stitching and embroidery techniques. These skills can be useful for all types of sewing and projects and inspire great additions to all your sewing projects. Basics stitches, their uses, and the techniques for using them will be discussed and practiced. Students will create a small appliqué purse using their newfound embroidery knowledge.Supplies: All supplies will be provided

Beautiful Beads
Sunday July 13th 1-3pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. Mix colors and shapes or add charms to express your own style. We will discuss basic techniques, as wells as beading supplies as you discover how to create stunning strung necklaces and bracelets. There will be a selection of beads provided to accent your own or swap with others. No experience or tools needed just fun. Supplies: Please bring 2-3 packages of beads (6-12 count) or 2 strands of beads. All Other supplies provided.

Featured Designer

This month, our featured designer is Leah Parkhurst of Rustbelt Fiberwerks. Her collection of printed tees are works of art. Read our mini interview to learn more about Leah.

How old is your business Rustbelt Fiberwerks?

I established Rustbelt Fiberwerks in the summer of 2006.

How long have you been printing in general?

I have been screen-printing for about the past 6 years.

Why do you choose to print on 2nd hand clothing?

I am committed to using recycled and repurposed materials not only to cut down on waste, but also because they come with their own history, which is very important to the subject of my work.

Are you involved in other art endeavors? What are they?

I have a solo show of prints coming up at the Mercy Hill Gallery located in the Hide House at 2625 South Greeley Street in Milwaukee. The reception is May 9th from five to nine p.m.

Where does your inspiration come from for the subjects in your prints?

My current body of work addresses issues of memory and talks
about our relationship to the past. I start with a subject or memory and then begin layering and building the piece. My goal is to provide people with elements to help record and hallmark their daily lives.

Hula Hoops at Craft Night

We will be hosting a hula hoop making party for craft night! Loyal Craft Night attendees, Beth and Marilyn, will take the wheel this month, and reveal to us the art of making your own hoop. All supplies will be provided.

Show off your hip-gyration skills after your hoop is complete. Maybe we'll come up with some sort of prize, and have a contest!

Wednesday May 14th 6-9pm

at Fasten!

Shannon Molter

This month, we will be showing the work of local artist Shannon Molter. Please visit us on May 10th from 6-9pm for an opening reception with refreshments. The artist will be in attendance.

Artist Statement:

To understand one another and communicate our passion, are the most basic elements of humanity. Visual art is my form of communication, that I feel can impact its audience, often on a much more emotional level than any other interaction device. I am interested in empathy: the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and sufferings of another. Empathy is the tool with which I try to convey messages of personality, interconnectedness and social issues. Derived from my adolescence, growing up in a tiny rural town in Northern Wisconsin, I have a strong sense of connectedness to the environment and try to arouse empathy within my audience for the natural world. In my academic artwork, I try to encourage viewers to think and discuss the beginning of civilization, its effect on nature, as well as why we should, or how we can change the current ecological situation. And in my more personal pieces I just try to make others feel something. To relate with me and consider the way they interact with others who are important to them.

About Shannon Molter:

Over the past three years Shannon Molter has developed her opinions and working thesis while receiving formal artistic training at the Peck School for the Arts. She has exhibited at numerous galleries across the state of Wisconsin and currently lives in Milwaukee’s Riverwest district. She has spent time in Italy, France and the Netherlands studying artistic processes and historical movements. She has been working in all media for several years and recently declared her passion to be in Fiber arts.

Puppet Show!

Saturday May 3rd at 1pm.

At the boutique

Free and open to everyone, young and old.

Fasten's own "Le Petit Forest" designer Sabrina Peterson, and her husband, published poet and educator, Josh Peterson master-mind this colorful children's event. Amazingly creative scenery, and loveable hand-made characters tell an educational story teaching the importance of listening. Stay afterwards for children's craft projects and snacks.

April's Featured Collection

This month, we're featuring our children's and baby items. We carry clothes, bibs, and accessories in sizes from newborn to 6yr. Designers include V-Gear, Rustbelt Fiberwerks, Papavier, Dimple Baby, Modesto, and Little Ocean.

Eco-friendliness is especially highlighted in our children's collections. They are our future, after all. Super cute retro fabrics compose vintage-inspired toddler dresses from Little Ocean. Rescued tees and onesies are refreshed with dye and original art screenprinted by Rustbelt Fiberwerks.

New items arrive weekly. Come in and bring your little sweetpea, we are a kid-friendly boutique!

Fine Craft & Art Sale

Fernwood Montessori School

Saturday April 26th 10am-4pm

3239 S Pennsylvania Ave, Bayview

Come see our booth at this fair to benefit Fernwood School. The organizers did a really good job of seeking out rad local artists to participate. I know there will be some awesome stuff there! Not to mention home-made baked goods and plants, and kid's activities!

Craft Night!

Our next Craft Night will be April 16th, 6-9pm.

Don't miss our monthly craft nights! It's a great chance to meet new people, share tips and ideas, and just do some crafting in a new and comfortable environment. Everyone is welcome to bring any sort of project that they're working on. Or come with nothing at all.

This month, for those of us who want to do a project along-side others, Little Ocean designer Janelle Gramling will be leading us in making and embellishing simple tote bags (all supplies provided).

Snacks and drinks are very appreciated.

Gallery Night

Photographs by Jenny Urbanek

Opening Reception

April 18th 6-9pm

Jenny Urbanek lives in Riverwest and has been taking photographs since high-school. She has been in a number of local and Midwest gallery exhibitions and has recently won awards for her photographs. Her interest in occult photography led her to develop a stylistic technique which allows her figures to become illuminated.

Join us on Gallery Night to meet the artist, check out her latest collection, and enjoy some refreshments.

Artist's Statement

Fairy tales play a large role in our culture's collective consciousness. As a small child I was hypnotized by stories of Prince Charming, magical castles and beautiful princesses distressed and then rescued by their soulmates. Growing older, I began to realize the concept of "Happily Ever After" had always been a farce, and that fairy tales were severely traumatic events with intense pain and suffering. It is strange that our culture's definition of "living a fairy tale life" has warped to be associated with a perfect existence free from problems or difficulty. On a societal level, we have lost the original meanings and intentions of FairyTales. They have been mutated, watered down, and sugarcoated countless times to aid the process of socialization. My interest is discovering the deep-seeded roots of these disturbing tales involving such issues as incest, cannibalism, and intense cruelty and illustrating them in a photographic way. They are, after all the bricks in the basement and the skeletons in the closet of Western culture.

Classes for April and May

To sign up for a class, please call 414-747-9229.
Or mail a check for the class fee along with your name, phone#, and the class date to:
Fasten Collective
2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53207

Basic Sewing
Wednesday, April 23rd 6-9 pm
Saturday, May 17th 6-9 pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop for all those with an interest in garment making or repairing with little or no experience. Students will learn how to use their machines and with guided practice become comfortable with basic seams and hems. We will also discuss the basics of garment construction. Materials: Your machine and it’s manual. All other supplies provided.

Intermediate Sewing
April Date: Wednesday the 30th 6-9pm
May Date: Wednesday the 28th 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. A follow up for students who have taken the basic sewing class, or for those with some experience. Students bring their own machines, and should already know how to use them well. The focus in this class is garment construction. Types of fabrics, notions, and tools are discussed. Design techniques such as draping, swiping, and patern-making are also discussed. Students will complete one garment. Materials: Sewing machine, 2 yards of stretch-knit fabric.

DIY Screen-Printing
Thursday April 24th 6-9 pm
Thursday May 22 6-9pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. Learn the best tools and techniques for in-home screen-printing. Through demonstrations explore stretching screens, image prep, drawing and photo emulsion, exposing screens and the printing process. Supplies: all provided.

Novice Knitting
Wednesday April 9th 6-9 pm
Wednesday May 21st 6-9 pm
Fee: $25
A one day workshop for beginning knitters or those with some experience. Beginners will learn basic knit and pearl, those with some experience will be taught some more technical and complicated techniques. Students will choose one apparel project to design and complete Supplies: Please bring one pair of needles size 5 or larger. One skein of yarn will be provided, but students are welcome to bring their own.

Beautiful Beads
Saturday April 19th 1-3 pm
Saturday May 3rd 1-3pm
Fee: $20
One day workshop. Mix colors and shapes or add charms to express your own style. We will discuss basic techniques, as wells as beading supplies as you discover how to create stunning strung necklaces and bracelets. There will be a selection of beads provided to accent your own or swap with others. No experience or tools needed just fun. Supplies: Please bring 2-3 packages of beads (6-12 count) or 2 strands of beads. All Other supplies provided.

Basic Hand Sewing and Embroidery
Tuesday April 8th 6-9pm
Tuesday May 20 th 6-9 pm
Fee: $25
One day workshop. Learn basic hand stitching and embroidery techniques. These skills can be useful for all types of sewing and projects and inspire great additions to all your sewing projects. Basics stitches, their uses, and the techniques for using them will be discussed and practiced. Students will create a small appliqué purse using their newfound embroidery knowledge.
Supplies: All supplies will be provided

Featured Collection: Papavier Pockets

Our featured collection this month is Papavier’s felt pockets. Papavier is the label under which artist and mommy Jessica Franzen sells her fun and earthy jewelry, clothing, and accessories. Raised in a crafty family, and focused on fine art throughout school, Papavier is an outlet for Jessica’s irresistible desire to create. "All the opportunities and encouragement I’ve found in Milwaukee and the places like Fasten have blossomed all this ambition and inspiration. I plan to keep doing this for a long time."

Jessica’s adorable and versatile felt pockets and cases come in many shapes and sizes perfect for carrying your glasses, cell phone, or change. Hand-stitched owls, flowers, trees, and other stylized personalities are appliquéd in bright colors. So unique, and full of character, they make the perfect gift and remind us that spring is just around the corner.

Designer Statement:

After sewing small trinket things for years and years, this particular collection began after making some simple Christmas gifts for family. I started to have a lot more ideas for appliqués and styles and we started cutting and sewing like crazy. My style usually reflects my taste for earth tones and nature but the inspiration I get everywhere has led me to branch out into bright colors and cutsie shapes. Whether it be the quality or the style, with every pouch something improves and I branch out even more. There are so many different uses for all the different styles and they’re something you don’t see everywhere. I like to think they catch your eye because they aren’t your average everyday purse and handbag.

Gallery Show

"Once, Maybe Twice"

Work from Milwaukee artist Zhana Vaynberg

Showing March 7th thru April 11th

At Fasten Designer Collective

Opening Reception March 14th, 7-9pm

Zhana Vaynberg lives in Riverwest and has been painting for about five years. She has been in a number of gallery shows, including the Charles Allis Museum Juried Show in 2006. She has also done a lot of commission work. While she started out using acrylic paint,Zhana now uses oil paint exclusively. She has also spent a year engraving realistic portraits into tombstones.

Statement:

John Cocteau has said that "artists can no more speak about their work, than plants can speak about horticulture." I strongly agree with this statement. I never really ask why I am painting something, I just do. There is an itch and it needs to get scratched. There are people who are gone that need tangible replacements. There are moments I don’t want to forget. These are the things that my art focuses on, whether or not it is even my intention or desire. This series is a collection of all the work that has made it through shows and purchase from the past couple of years, 2006 being the climax of a four year stage focusing only on realism, and 2007 finally starting to exit from that. My central interests and themes to date have mostly been to capture beauty or just certain moments in a natural way. Much like the difference between a film and a documentary, when I work, I do not use or base anything off of photographs that have been or seem posed. I only want the natural. I am interested almost entirely in the human form, human interactions, and human frailty. -ZV

Craft Magazine Issue Release Party!

Craft Magazine has asked crafty people and places to host an issue release party in 6 US cities. They asked Paper Boat Boutique and Fasten Collective to co-sponsor and host the Milwaukee party!

Join us on Sunday, March 9 from 12-3pm for a party celebrating the release of CRAFT: 06 (the "Play" issue). Fasten Designer Collective will host a free hands-on craft demonstration to make felt monsters inspired by the ones on the issue's cover. You'll also enjoy snacks and drinks, fabulous door prizes, and special subscription deals. Come have some handmade fun and check out the new issue while you're at it. Hope to see you there!

CRAFT: 06 Release Party

Sunday, March 9, 12-3pm

@ Fasten Designer Collective

2224 S Kinnickinnic Ave

Milwaukee

Phone: 414-747-9229

www.fastencollective.com

Craft Night

Our first monthly craft night was great fun. We made jewelry, purses, dolls(?), and had fun with embroidery and applique. Some people brought projects from home, others came empty-handed and left with finished pretties. And just for the record, our attendees weren't all female.

Thanks to Jessica and Jerrod who brought some delicious tomato basil thingies, and Stephanie who brought yummy candy berries....mmm....and of course no fasten event is complete without PBR.

This will definitely be a monthly event. We have plenty of donated supplies to use up, as well as great fabric and trim for sale in the boutique. Maybe next time we'll have a planned project for those people who come without anything, that one of our designers can lead us with.

The next Craft Night will be March 26th at 6pm!