Spring is the time we shift our wardrobes from knitwear to lighter woven fabrics. Neutral shades make the transition between seasons, but pastel colours, floral prints and cheerful patterns invigorate clothing and accessories. I’m having fun mixing and matching fabrics as I sew reversible bucket hats. Some fabric is from my treasure trove of collected …
Author Archives: tracyj
Textile Recycling
Sewing with deadstock fabric is a sustainable way to make use of leftovers from fabric mills or apparel manufacturers. Deadstock might include fabric with flaws, caused by damage in the production or dying process. Considered to be waste, these unwanted or unused textiles would normally be sent to the landfill. “Our Social Fabric” is a …
Hats in Mexico
Zihuatanejo has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico and, indeed, the world. Its sheltered bay along the Tropic of Cancer offers boaters, swimmers, and sunbathers five main stretches of beach to enjoy heat and sun. The sombrero with its broad brim and chin strap was originally designed for long days working in the …
Warm White
A hat in warm white is a tried and true accessory. Warm whites can have undertones of taupe, green, or yellow. Think of a sandy beach on Hawaii’s Big Island, an antique alabaster bust, or crisp linen curtains. The world of warm white is your oyster! Here are two hats I crocheted in warm white …
More Hats to Crochet
With 2021 craft markets done, I spend more time on photography, another favourite pastime. For me, the creative processes of hat making and photography overlap. Seeing the world through a camera lens inspires me to experiment with new colours, designs, and techniques. In winter, I’m drawn to muted hat colours in the shades of dark forest, snow-capped …
Shop Local
We learned a lot about the importance of supporting locally owned businesses during the pandemic. While sometimes it is easy and economical to shop at big online retailers, why would you choose to shop local? I like walking in my neighbourhood, browsing one-of-a-kind businesses and finding a range of interesting products and services. I enjoy …
Celebrating Community
The Point Grey Village Holiday Pop Up Shop attracted a crowd, despite the rainy weather. It was gratifying to see so many people supporting local business and creative entrepreneurial spirit. Thanks to all of you who made the first ever pop up in our neighbourhood a successful community event!
Point Grey Village Pop Up
Crochet, community, and fitness…these are a few of my favourite things. One morning at my neighbourhood gym, some of us dreamed up the idea of a holiday pop up shop. After brainstorming and planning, this special one-day event is going to happen. It will be a community celebration showcasing the work of local talent, with …
Hats for Girls and Boys
Warm, soft, and easy to care for…these are some of the qualities I consider before making children’s hats. Babies especially have sensitive skin. Merino wool is soft and itch-resistant. All the hats illustrated here are crocheted from a blend of merino wool and silk which gives the finished product an extra smooth feel. Crocheted and …
Creating a Custom Hat
Thoughtful planning and consultation is the first step in building a custom woven hat. My first inquiries are around form and function. Lately, the bucket hat has been a popular choice. The style has transcended time. Most people wear it effortlessly, whether it’s dressed up or worn casually. Where and when one envisions wearing the …
Hats by Tracy J 