Everybody's Fancy

Interview with Sarah Loertscher

2010-04-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

What's the first piece of jewelry you ever purchased?

You know, I have no idea- it probably had a unicorn on it. I can tell you the first piece of jewelry I remember, though- when I was born, my grandfather came to the hospital with a necklace with my name on it- the kind of necklace that comes from a gift or truck stop- the huge rack of jewelry with all the common names on them. That was, without a doubt, was my first piece of jewelry; I wore that necklace on and off until I was 24 or so- then I lost it. I also remember a pearl heart that my aunt and uncle gave me- it had my name painted on it, with roses, and somehow smelled like cinnamon.

Do you have an art collection, or prefer to make your own?

I'm starting to amass a small collection, through trading with friends. My favorites are a mug from my dear friend Natalie Tornatore, a screenprint from Matthew Landkammer, and a mirrored class sculpture from Thor Bueno. I just got that one last Friday and I love it!! I love bartering and filling my life with handmade objects.

Favorite materials to work with?

Sterling silver, steel, gold, ebony. I feel like silver and I are old friends now- we have been working together for 8 years or so. I like gold a lot, but have much to learn to feel comfortable and confident with it. Ebony is so satisfying to carve, and I love the way that wood smells, versus metal- wood is so much softer, and you seal it with delicious-smelling oil... it's a treat to work with.

Where did you get started, and how long have you been working in steel?

Officially, I got started at Ball State University in Indiana- I had to take all these survey courses as an undecided art major, and six weeks into my metals class I declared metals as my major. Working in that shop was the first time I can remember vividly losing time; sinking so far into a project that hours would drift by unnoticed. I remember the feeling that I had found a partner- like, THIS THING was what I was going to spend my life exploring. The only other time I felt that was when I met my (now) fiancee.

Unofficially, I started when I was five or so- not necessarily making jewelry, but collecting sparkly things. I was obsessed with fools gold, and would painstakingly inch up our enormous driveway looking for the faceted gold mineral. Anything sparkly- anything- caught my attention in a ridiculously focused way. I loved watching Wheel of Fortune so I could see Vanna White in her (always) glittery dresses. My family would make fun of how much I loved her... "oh, VAN-na!" they'd say, when Wheel of Fortune came on. "oh, Sarah, VAN-na's on TV!" Anyway, the work I am making right now just makes sense with what I've always been fascinated with- facets, rocks, sparkling glints of light, which are then paired with a healthy dose of (almost OCD) precision. It gives my need for precision and order a healthy outlet, I think.

Steel: I took a steel fabrication workshop with Kim Cridler when I was a core student at Penland- sometime in 2005? Kim is an amazing instructor, and she got me really fired up to work with steel. It's cheap, accessible, and strong as hell, especially compared with silver. And, somehow, I think it smells really nice, too.

What is your design process?

I liked reading what the other girls said about this- we all work in such a similar way. I usually don't have any idea what I will be making- like Rachel has these glorious drawings of what she'll make, and then she makes it. I just make parts- building blocks- like when I'm making my structure work, I'll have two or three days of just making hexagons. And then I'll start piecing them together, piling them up, drawing with the shapes. When I'm visually happy with what I have, I'll tack all the hexagons together and then start adding supports to make it structurally sound. By this time I'm usually deciding what the pieces are- like I'll make two piles of hexagons look similar, and these will be earrings. It's a really organic process, and I rarely measure anything, which sometimes surprises people. It feels very akin to how crystalline structures are formed. or, ah, accumulate.

Resources you're willing to share with other jewelers & the public?
hmm. My absolute favorite tools are snap-on sanding mandrels for the flex shaft. My new favorite non-tool-as-a-tool is a bocci ball- it's now used as a forming stake. For inspiration, the book "Snowflakes" by Kenneth George Libbrecht is just cra-zy. High-magnification images of snowflakes... and the way they're formed- it's really amazing. Did you know that some snowflakes are hollow barrels?!

Anything to add?

If you have any interest in craft, I would highly recommend watching Craft in America- the PBS series. Sometimes being a maker can feel like a pretty solitary pursuit, and this series reinforces the lineage we're all a part of- it's really well done. Like Dixie, I can geek out pretty rapidly about anything that interests me, and I'm also glad to hear from people... you can always contact me through my website at www.sarahloertscher.com.

FRIDAY AT FANCY!!!

2010-04-05T16:58:00.000-07:00

Interview with Rachel Rader

2010-03-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

Did you always want to make jewelry?

The jewelry I've been making is really an extension of my empire: the Mermaid Empire. I wanted to make pieces that people could wear that related to my sculptural glass work. I've been making jewelry for as long as I can remember creating. I love that jewelry is the one form of craft that you can make and show off on your body to the world. You can't very well do that with a ceramic teapot. Well, I guess you could but it would look very silly.

Where did you get started?

I received a Bachelors in Fine Arts at Virginia Commonwealth University in Material Studies with a focus in Metalsmithing and Glass making. Susie Ganch really opened my eyes to the possibilities in conceptual jewelry making. She's an amazing instructor! But before that, I would collect shells on the beach when visiting my Grandpa in Florida. I used to talk my Dad into drilling holes in the shells so that I could turn them into jewelry.

What is your design process?

It's a very organic process. I make all the parts I need in a monochromatic scale out of clay, glass and found objects, then I sew a little cushion. Next, I spend hours watching Hulu and covering the little cushion in all the made-parts with thread and needle. It's so satisfying covering every little nook and cranny of such a small space.

I've noticed a lot of your work has an aquatic theme, can you give us an idea of where this started?

I watched The Little Mermaid on VHS as a little girl, until the tape wore out. Since then, I've had an increasing fascination with the ocean. It's the one last place on earth that seems to enchant people with a mysteriousness found in fairy tales. A vast portion of the ocean is unexplored, and I suppose it's human nature to deem mystery synonymous with magic like the magical forests in European folklore. The magical creatures of these tales always lived in the dark mysterious woods just outside of the kingdom.

Favorite materials to work with?

Austrian crystal beads, pearls, and anything luxurious. But I really love pairing all of those precious materials with the unexpected like plastic seaweed.

Resources you're willing to share with other jewelers & the public?

If you haven't been to the Seattle Aquarium, go and pet the sea anemones!

Have you ever made a piece that embarrassed you?

I'm always making work that puts my inner feelings out into the public. So, when I go to explain why I made the object I wonder if it's a bit TMI, (too much information). I was making a lot of work before the Mermaid Jewels that focused in on my frustrations as a young woman who's Dad really wants her to find a nice Jewish husband. My attitude in reaction was that I wanted to be my own Prince Charming and that I could do it all on my own. See? TMI. I'm still aware of this theme in my work, but I work with it in a more subdued tone.

Who is your design hero?

Andreas Schlüter. He designed the Amber Room which is now in the Catherine Palace in Saint Petersburg, Russia. It's a room covered in amber. It doesn't get more decadent than that! Unless you're eating chocolate cake in the Amber Room, and washing it down with hot chocolate.

Dixie Darling

2010-03-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

Interview with Dixie Darling - one third of Fancy's upcoming show 'Accumulation'.

First, lets start with where you get started, where'd you go to school?

dd: I got my BFA, in painting, at the University of Montevallo in Alabama. After that I decided after spending two weeks at Penland that jewelry was for me, so, i moved to Chicago and attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, then transfered to the University of Oregon's jewelry program.

Did you always want to make jewelry, or was this a fallback plan when your welding career went awry?

dd: I always made or rearranged jewelry I was given as a kid, but I didn't know you could go to school and learn how to make it till I was almost finished with my BFA. Once I found that out, I packed up all of my belongings and moved cross country to learn this amazing craft

What is your design process?

dd: I usually sketch some very loose idea based off inspiration, decide on a color pallet that seems interesting, and then lay out the materials I feel will work best with my idea. My piece might look just like my drawing after I'm finished, or completely different. I'm not too particular about that.

Favorite materials to work with?

dd:I love working with brass,sterling, felt, ploymer, paint, beads, vintage bobbles, embroidery, bone, and wonderful objects given to me by friends or family.

Resources you're willing to share with other jewelers & the public?

dd: It depends. Some stuff I wanna keep to myself because I spend a ton of time in my studio tying to create unique materials to use. I'll tell you the basics, but you need to do some creative experimentation on your own. The process is a VERY important part of the whole. Anything else I'm an open book.

Have you ever made a piece that embarrassed you?

dd: Of course. Right now I have a piece that turned out lumpy after I worked about 6 months on it. So, I've covered it with a scarf to hide it from my sight for the time being.

Do you consider yourself a jeweler, an artist or a jewelry artist, or do you have another moniker?

dd: I guess I consider myself a jewelry artist. Most of what I make could be seen as small sculptures that adorn the body.

Have you worked with Rachel and Sarah in the past, or is this your first collaboration?

dd: This is our first collaboration, but we've known each other for a few years now.

Who is your design hero?

dd: Oooh, there are so many! I love Terhi Tolvanen, Helen Britton, Willemijn de Greef, Iris Bodemer, Karl Fritsh...... the list goes on

Anything to add?

dd: I love geeking out with people, so, if you have any questions that I didn't answer here please contact me through my website yourdarlingdixie.com

Free Engraving for Valentine's day!

2010-02-03T17:13:00.001-08:00

Finally catching up

2010-01-14T10:08:00.000-08:00

On our custom orders, keep an eye out for the updated Fancy site coming to a screen near you.
In case you're planning a visit, the winter store hours are
12-5 Tuesday-Saturday.

New and modernly exciting, Joelle King

2009-12-16T14:48:00.000-08:00

Just added to the Fancy collection, and just in time for the holidays.
Come on down.

One of a Kind

2009-12-05T11:00:00.000-08:00

Trunk Show starring Sarah Loertscher

2009-11-24T15:07:00.000-08:00

Sunday the 29th from 2-5 p.m. at Fancy.
Meet Sarah and her new line, just in time for holiday shopping.
Hope to see you there!

Scrap

2009-11-09T15:24:00.000-08:00

Fancy presents Scrap, an exhibition of work by nine emerging design talents
asked to create objects that explore the use of scrap lumber. The show features work by members of JOIN: Design Seattle, including: Grain, Iacoli & McAllister, LocTrinh, Ladies & Gentlemen Studio, Laura Yeats, Trey Jones for Urbancase, Freetime Industries, Greg Bethel and Fortyfive09 & C. An opening reception will take place on Friday, November 13th from 6pm-
9pm, and remain on view through December 11th.

THIS FRIDAY!!!!!

2009-10-05T12:59:00.000-07:00

Hope to see you there.

Caitie Sellers at Fancy

2009-10-02T08:12:00.001-07:00

Pum pum pum pum!!!!
Announcing our newest Fancy designer!

New!

2009-09-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

From Seattle's very own iacoli & mcallister. Come on down.

2009-09-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

Fancy's closed for the remainder of the weekend.
See you on Tuesday!
Have a good old work free weekend.

FERNWORKS

2009-08-14T14:38:00.001-07:00

We just got a new pile of beautiful pendants from Faryn Davies of Fernworks.
get your booties in the Fancy store, make my day- make my day-
make my make my - make my day.

Tonight for the Belltown Artwalk (2nd Friday of each month)
highlights:
Ryan Berkley at Schmancy
Alissa Robot at Nancy.
Lily Moon at Halogen

SHOP LOCAL

2009-07-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

Summer in the City: July 12th-18th
SHOP SMART. SAVE BIG. SUPPORT LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS.

Go to the city stimulus, print out your card, then hit the listed boutiques, bars and restaurants.
SHOP LOCAL!
Shop for freedom!
Shop for discounts!
Shop and win free stuff!
Fancy – 10% off, including custom orders & free gift with any purchase over $200

2nd Avenue is a MESS

2009-06-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

By all means, please come down and shop- but be warned- it's best to park on first or third, or just walk from where ever you are. I must say there is a certain satisfaction to watching people stuck in traffic when it's not you, but I'd hate to wish 2nd Ave on anyone in it's current state.
Hooray for the stimulus plan! More roadwork! More busses! WTF!!!

What a Relief!

2009-06-17T13:08:00.001-07:00

Currently on display at Fancy-
Aaron Murray has collected relief process prints from eight up and coming/ world renowned printmakers.
Show runs through June, come on down.

KHV WAS AWESOME ON FRIDAY

2009-05-11T10:25:00.001-07:00

Thanks again!
Go watch their new video, so sweet you'll cry in your cereal.

yo mama yo mama yo mama

2009-04-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

Has a big day coming up soon-
(Sunday the 10th of May)
we've got awesome new wares by Flora and Fawn, the work of the ever natural Faryn Davis of Fernworks, and many other local artists. Lots of one of a kind pieces for your one of a kind mom.

tis the season

2009-04-22T09:02:00.001-07:00

Sorry we haven't updated in a bit- it's been awfully busy and bridal at Fancy.
If you've got designs on Fancy rings for your wedding or engagements this Summer-
come on down before we're exhausted with orders.

substitute Leroy

2009-03-27T12:15:00.001-07:00

Stanley is filling in for Leroy at Fancy today as the store greeter.
Come in and say hi!

PLUSH JEWELS!

2009-03-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with Schmancy's Plush YOU!
We will be hosting an invitational show at Fancy- Plush Jewels.
If you make soft jewelry, than this is the show for you. Artists from around the world have been participating in Plush You! for years now, this is the first year for the jewelry branch.

Here's the info about the toy faction- we'll be accepting entries at Fancy until May 30th.
Send the pics to fancy@fancyjewels.com with 'plush jewels entry' in the subject line.

ELENA~ has graduated!

2009-03-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

From Fancy school!
Tomorrow is her last day- come by and shop with the sweetest and cutest, and awesomist lady on the planet for the very last time.
I was honored to have her in the shop for the past few years- and things will never be the same without her.
Best of luck at the new gig, Elena! Kick some ass! WOOOOOO!

birds birds birds

2009-03-03T12:58:00.000-08:00

Friday March 13th, Fancy presents
BIRDS BIRDS BIRDS
by Seattle's own
Shelli Markee

Free, fun, flowing, flying forms. To encounter a flock of birds airborne within is a delightful pleasure. Shelli Markee’s soaring sculpture lift the spirits and please the eye. The combination of wire and negative space give the impression of a flock and the lightness of the air that lifts them.

Reception Friday March 13th
6-9 p.m.

man oh man, I forgot to add the address to the mailer-
for those unfamiliar with Fancy we are located:
between Virginia and Stewart
1914 2nd Avenue
Seattle, 98101

FAT TUESDAY

2009-02-25T01:44:00.001-08:00

HAPPY MARDI GRAS, AND FAT TUESDAY-
FANCY HAS GIVEN UP:
LOWERCASE LETTERS
FOR LENT.
AND ALSO FOR FUN.

Ode to Gilda

2009-02-17T08:41:00.000-08:00

Let's talk dirty to the animals, the animals, the animals....
Can't really say the rest, as it's to dirty for blogger. But look it up!

Better Late Than NEVER.

2009-02-12T15:21:00.001-08:00

cute!

2009-02-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

I just discovered the jewelry of Lisa Crowder
wow.

2009-02-04T19:25:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the big day! 7-10 p.m. at Fancy

We were alone then and I was singing this song for you

starring Joey Veltkamp and Gretchen Bennet

2009-02-01T16:11:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the big day. Get your groundhog ready to rise and shine.
Go groundhogs go! No shadows! No whammies!

Anti-Valentine

2009-01-31T17:07:00.000-08:00

Green sapphires are the opposite of red.
Perfect if you're too cool for V-day.

valentine ideas

2009-01-30T16:42:00.000-08:00

This is a public service announcement-
as we lost our pants last year, I thought I'd share my vast wealth of knicker shopping links.
At least a few....
RHLS
Daniel Webster
the lake and stars
malicious design
agent provocateur (amazing!)

2009-01-27T14:53:00.000-08:00

happy new year!

THANKS!!

2008-12-30T16:29:00.000-08:00

For another wonderful year of Fancy.
And thanks for supporting your local independent boutiques. Without us,
we'd all look the same-
just like Smurfs!
Blizzard '08 was awesome for dogs, hope everyone stayed safe and warm.
Happy New Year!

OPEN EVERY DAY

2008-12-20T07:56:00.001-08:00

UNTIL Christmas.
Holiday shopping was hijacked this week by our awesome snowstorm.
There's still days left for all your Fancy friends and family.
Remember- all KEXP members and supporters get 10% off.
AND for the procrastinator's special- we'll have custom text rings and bracelets available to order until the 22nd, to be picked up on December 23rd, or even ( I know it's crazy) Christmas Eve til 3 o' clock.
You name it, hand stamped into a handmade recycled sterling band.

One Off / Show Off Necklace Show

2008-12-06T14:39:00.001-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came out last night for baby manhattans and one of a kind necklace viewing. If you missed the opening, the necklaces will be on display--and on sale--through the end of the month.

For all you online shoppers, here's a peek at the necklaces. If you're interested in a piece, please email sally@fancyjewels.com.

Exaggerated Necklace by Amy Tavern
Sterling Silver $600

Coral Necklace by Jenny Vorwaller
Vintage Paper & Ribbon $67

Pansies by Angela Muhlnickel
Fine Silver & Enamel $300

Inspired by Elisa Young
Sterling & Aquamarine - Not for Sale

Vellum Necklace by Lulu Smith
Paper & Sterling $88

Crocodile Tears by Jessi Taylor
Sterling & Ceramic & String $320
(reverse side)

Kate The Bear by Sally Brock
Sterling Silver & 22k Gold $270

Waterfall by Birna Sigurbjornsdottir
Sterling & Garnets & Pearls $1100

Through the Looking Glass by Jessi Frenkel
Sterling & Copper & Fork $275

Porcelain Gems by Emily Counts
Porcelain & 18k Gold Fill Chain & Enamel $265

Rifle Necklace by Annie Huntley
Rifle from a market in Paris, Copper Chain from antique pocket watch, Hebrew Charm near clasp meaning "alive/living" $150

Birds of the World by Julia Garrells
Brass & Sterling & Enamel $330

Wire Bird by Shelli Markee
Sterling $290

Obsidian Necklace by Lauren Soini
Sterling & Obsidian $235

Vowel Necklace by Molly Lawrence
Sterling & Iolite & Garnet $220

True Love by Kate Greiner
Embroidery & Fabric & Beads $130

new at Fancy

2008-12-02T07:41:00.001-08:00

Sarah Loertscher-
presents a new series of facet rings, earrings, pendants and pins.

ONE :OF: A KIND

2008-11-30T15:28:00.000-08:00

2008-11-30T09:30:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU to The Stranger-
for the awesome write up in your gift guide.
Woo hoo!!!

Not this one, but this one is old and really really funny.
Fancy is in the new issue out currently.
We didn't even open until 2002.

JIVE TURKEYS!

2008-11-26T21:49:00.000-08:00

Time's running out for custom Fancy-
get your holiday requests in soon.
Please order by December 5th-
so I can get everything made in time for holiday delivery.
Photo rings!
Photo pendants!
Photo cufflinks!
Text rings! you pick a word or two and I stamp it into metal for all eternity.
And much much more. Watch out- our One Off Show Off show is coming up December 5th!
One of a kind pieces by all your favorite Fancy designers.

One off show of show off necklaces

2008-11-26T09:05:00.000-08:00

One of a kind necklaces from all your favorite Fancy designers and artists.
Show opens Friday December 5th- just in time for that one of a kind gift shopping.

new and gifty!

2008-11-23T16:50:00.000-08:00

Badge of Honor by Alissia MT only $20 to say "you're my hero!"

Amy Redmond opens tomorrow!

2008-11-13T14:34:00.000-08:00

Also...

2008-11-08T14:02:00.001-08:00

Steel Toe Studios re-stocked Fancy with great new belts and buckles. She hand-dyes and hand-forges all the parts, and you can mix and match as you see fit. This lucky clover with tan leather is my favorite:

We have her new line of recycled inner-tube belts in the shop as well, part of a collaboration with Alchemy Goods.

Natural Historie

2008-11-08T13:39:00.000-08:00

These geode necklaces are made by a new Fancy artist Natural Historie. They make me want to go to the beach.

Spooky Jewels

2008-10-25T14:46:00.001-07:00

Just in time for Halloween, ghost necklaces are haunting Fancy again. These are enamel with sterling chains; handmade by local lady Metal Wing.

PSA from Fancy

2008-10-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

For all you planners (or procrastinators) out there.
The Holiday season will soon be upon us. If you're thinking of custom pieces by Fancy-
by all means get them started soon! Keep us sane and give us plenty of time to make your gifts look good.
Thanks!

thank you!

2008-10-15T15:19:00.000-07:00

Plush You 4 was great!
Thanks so much to all the artists who participated-
and thanks for all the attendees.
And those cupcakes were as delicious as they were cute.
Thank you Trophy Cupcakes for blowing our minds.

Also Elena loves the turtle sent by Gleeful Things- thank you!

tomorrow!!! tomorrow!!! Plush YOU is TOMORROW!

2008-10-09T10:12:00.000-07:00

It's ONLY A DAY --A--WAY!!!!!!!

We'll see you at 6 p.m. at Fancy, Schmancy & Nancy!
Come see the show and help us celebrate Schmancy's fourth anniversary!
It's the fourth annual Plush YOU curated again by Schmancy's owner, the lovely and
talented, Kristen Rask.
See the Plush You! blog for more details.

Vote Fancy for FREEDOM!

2008-10-04T07:27:00.000-07:00

It's that Fall election time of year. Please make sure you're registered in the BIG election!
Today's the last day for online but you've got til the 20th to register in person.

It's also time for another very important voting opportunity- The Best of Western Washington!
Fancy's up for the Designer Jewelry category- and Schmancy's up for Gift Shop.
Please go over and help a brother out! Vote like crazy! Thanks!

Big Unit Hangs 10

2008-10-03T13:48:00.000-07:00

by Kate Murray-
see more of her work at Joe Bar this month along with The Capitol Hill Watercolor Society.

Awwww Duuuuude, sweeeeeet.

2008-10-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

This coming week is your last chance to see the 'Aw Dude, Sweet' art at Fancy.

Kristen's third annual Plush You show will kick off at all three shops on October 10th!

2008-09-29T17:02:00.000-07:00

New dog announcement!

Amy Queen, Realtor (one of Fancy's favorite customers)
Royal Name, Royal Results

now the proud mother of
Henry the pomeranian!

too busy to blog

2008-09-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

My apologies- with the move, and all the many custom ring orders, I'm letting the dog blog slide.
I'll get back to my internet gazing soon enough-for now here's one of Fancy's recent custom orders.

see you Friday?

2008-09-10T22:41:00.000-07:00

6-9 at Fancy.

ok forget that now

2008-09-04T22:15:00.000-07:00

hope we didn't miss anyone.

double swooping swallows

2008-09-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

Flora and Fawn is rad.
And available at Fancy.

back to school

2008-09-02T13:07:00.001-07:00

Margo Ray

2008-08-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

Last chance to see Margo Ray's tarot themed prints!
Show comes down next week in preparation for Aww Dude, Sweet.
See you this weekend.

FANCY!!!

2008-08-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

with a capitol Fancy!
and customer's repurposed diamonds.

2008-08-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

Finally!!!! We've got Bittersweets NY back in stock.
Kim if you're out there- come on down- I can't find your phone number and we've got a beating heart on hold for you!
Ok. Thanks!

art for Obama!

2008-08-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

Fancy is donating to the upcoming Art for Change Auction.
You otter go check it out, you can help out the democrats, and get some awesome artwork all in one fell swoop.

too stinkin' hot

2008-08-16T18:30:00.001-07:00

for jewelry shopping at Fancy- we'll be closed due to lack of air conditioning on Sunday August 17th.
Our usual hours will be in effect rain or sun next Sunday.
In the meantime- please shop on some of our designer's sites from the comfort of some air conditioning, or maybe poolside:
Flora and Fawn
Jessi Taylor
Vesper Jewelry by Jessi Frankel

2008-08-12T17:16:00.000-07:00

Hey YO!
I'm a bad bad blogger. Also busy busy ring maker- here's a recent custom ring.
Sterling with 22k dots!
Woo hoo!!

2008-08-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

There's a new Monkey World book!
Bluebottle Art Gallery, 415 East Pine Street, Seattle, WA, 98122
http://bluebottleart.com/

go get your copy today, and maybe meet the artist in person.
Sorry I didn't send the warning sooner- they had delicious cupcakes on Saturday for the Monkey party.

go to Western Bridge

2008-08-01T13:08:00.000-07:00

INFLATABLE SKY SPACE BOUNCE HOUSE
closes Saturday August 2nd, last chance to bounce.

Western Bridge is at 3412 Fourth Avenue South in Seattle's Duwamish Industrial District. Hours are Thursday through Saturday, noon to six. More information, including directions, is available at www.westernbridge.org and at 206-838-7444.

THE QUEEN OF CUPS

2008-07-25T17:41:00.000-07:00

Tarot paintings by Margo Ray from Hawaii!
Archival prints- beautifully framed and ready for Action!
Woo!

Friday August 8th from 6-9 p.m.
at Fancy
1914 2nd next to the Nitelite,
and Shmancy and Nancy, of course.

the party

2008-07-18T04:26:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe it's the same store. Thanks to all who made it to the shop, and thanks to Erich and Aaron for making the bar and the delicious snacks. Also thanks to Garek for bringing the awesome artwork.

reminder!

2008-07-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

In case you're one of those 'blogs should be updated every day' types.
I'm putting the opening poster up again.
Get ready!
Erich's making awesome food and champagne cocktails.
Betsey's making beautiful cupcakes!
The store is looking great, and very nearly put back together!

2008-07-03T10:28:00.000-07:00

OPEN and Fancy as all get out

2008-07-01T13:51:00.000-07:00

You aren't gonna recognize this Fancy. It is so so Fancy.
Watch out- our grand re-opening party is scheduled - FINALLY!!- for July the 10th.
6-9 see you there- and please dress Fancy!

2008-06-09T13:02:00.000-07:00

We're almost done!
And Erich Ginder- the mastermind of the Fancy re-model just finished an awesome public art piece.
Congratulations! This tree/lamp/info center is now permanently planted next to the new Hiawatha Artist Lofts right off Rainer and Dearborn.
Keep an eye out for pics of the new *improved *much fancier Fancy!
We're open for business again, but still putting on the finishing touches.

OMG

2008-06-03T22:08:00.001-07:00

It was way too much work, but it's gonna be worth it. I hope I hope I hope.
I cannot wait to get back to work.
We'll be open enough this weekend, and in full glorious remodel by next week.
Hope to see you soon!
Thanks for your patience during our awkward remodel days.
And THANKS A MILLION! to all the friends who pitched in.
I woulda been a super double crazy without you.
What better way to say thank you, then posting pictures of you all messy in your 'work clothes' on the internet? Ok- maybe it's not the best way,
but it's my way.

still re-modeling

2008-05-28T11:21:00.000-07:00

we'll keep you posted-
hope to be up and running for the weekend
Please call or e-mail if you'd like to make a design appointment during the interim.
206.956.2945

Fancy!!!!

2008-05-12T08:00:00.001-07:00

We've started the remodel. The pants website is down, and the Fancy neon sign is up!
More updates to come, we'll keep you posted on our snail progress.

2008-05-06T14:28:00.000-07:00

14k gold ring with a sweet little peridot. For those who owe their mamas something extra special.

2008-05-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

More mama suggestions-
Fernworks pendants by Seattle/Portland artist Faryn Davis

Alisha Louise for your mama

2008-05-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

We just received a new batch from Alisha Louise- her new Spring collection!
Just in time for Mothers Day on May 11th. Free gift wrap! Check out the amazing mama cards up the block at Nancy.
Come on down, we're open until May 12th.
Then down with the pants, and the walls!

I WORE PANTS TODAY!

2008-05-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

I forgot, it's National No Pants day. But Leroy came to work completely naked to make up for it.
Looks like it's in full swing in NY, of course.

Remodel is underway, but the shop will remain open til after Mother's day.

NO PANTS DAY

2008-05-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

National No Pants Day is tomorrow- May the 2nd. Unfortunately we're behind on the remodel, so we'll still have limited pants, and the shop will be open til after Mother's day. But soon, soon we'll have a new Fancy that will knock your pants off.
The Mcleod Residence is having a No Pants dance party. Don't miss it, and DON'T WEAR PANTS!

as we are almost pants- less

2008-04-02T15:08:00.000-07:00

I wanted to give our loyal pants customers a heads up on where to find the local designers we're graduating from the shop.
Sam Trout, Kombat Glamour, Glam Garb by Gunlis, and Pillowfight- can often be found at I HEART RUMMAGE-
now hosted by Chop Suey, there's one coming up this weekend!
4/6/08 - April IHR
CHOP SUEY!!!
1325 E. Madison
Seattle, WA 98122
visit their websites to find out about retail outlets and events
sam trout glam garb
and Kombat Glamourpus has a trunk show at Pretty Parlor in May.

Fancy loses her pants!

2008-03-12T15:21:00.000-07:00

Starting this Friday, Fancy is officially losing her Pants! All the underwear and clothing in the shop will be half off! That means ridiculously cheap Mary Green, Honeydew, Frank Dandy and more. We'll be sad to not have all the cute underpants, but we're excited to focus on what we do best - handmade jewelry and local accessories.

All of that is on sale, and then some.

April will bring a remodeled Fancy! We'll have new cases, collections and maybe even a mopped floor. How exciting!

We'll keep you up to date on all those plans, but for now - come stock up on cheap underwear and clothes, while we still have them. The sale will run March 15th through the 31st.

20x200

2008-02-28T16:25:00.000-08:00

Panda by Charlie Crane

One of my favorite, neighborhood ladies Laura was telling me about this today, and I thought it was worth passing along. The site makes two new pieces of art available a week (one photo and one work on paper). They sell three different sizes of the image; the smallest one is an edition of 200 and goes for twenty dollars!

Jessi Frankel

2008-02-27T16:30:00.000-08:00

Make sure to check out Fancy artist Jessi Frankel in the March issue of Seattle Metropolitan magazine. They feature a pair of her awesome bird earrings (oxidized sterling with carnelian eyes) on page 40! She has a lot of other great pieces in the shop, including a few collaborations with local artist (and boyfriend) Jason Sho Green. You can check out more of her jewels in the shop and at her website.

My personal favorite is the BFF owls necklace set...

Trash to Treasure

2008-02-23T16:12:00.001-08:00

Anna Johansson is making amazing, recycled earrings. The earrings are domed with sterling silver findings. They're made from found cans and tins, so most of the designs are one of a kind. I think she's got a great eye for colors and patterns. She seems to pick the cutest part of every can and knows just how the pieces should go together. Here are two of my favorites at Fancy -

How cute are those??? I love how subtle the original design is. The pattern is familiar without being obvious.

I looked up her website to link in this post and was browsing around the other sections. Her sculptures are really neat! I stole the below image from her site...

Click here to look at more of her work!

the beholder- online art gallery

2008-02-21T11:13:00.001-08:00

Just wanted to spread the Fancy word- if you haven't heard about this one.
It's hours and hours of great art browsing- they even let you check the work out at home before you buy.
I learned about the greatness of Jennifer Davis from them.
You otter visit.
the beholder

Burger Buddy and French Fry Friend

2008-02-16T11:55:00.001-08:00

Here's a sampling of new tees from local lady Pillow Fight. They're hand-printed on super soft cotton.

Now that we have photobooth in the shop, our blog photography will probably be more amateur (lazy???) than ever before. But there will probably be lots more to look at too!

Oh my!

2008-02-14T12:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Pop-Out Jewelry

2008-02-09T14:40:00.000-08:00

New at Fancy!! Melissa Borrell Designs!

We recently started carrying earrings and necklaces from Melissa's Pop-Out line. They come in a little square, and you pop them out yourself. They're stainless steel, so the jewelry is surprisingly light, and the prices are good! My favorite is the gold plated tree lace necklace. If you're not a gold person, we have a few of her pieces in red.

Duck Mirror & Friends.

2008-02-07T15:15:00.001-08:00

Will someone please buy Duck Mirror for their Valentine? The more I think about it, the more I know I'll be pretty disappointed if not a single valentine lucks out with a duck mirror. It's so charming! Not only does it have feet, but the mirror itself swivels up and down. Put out by Kikkerland and designed by David Dear.

Metal Wing

2008-02-07T14:59:00.000-08:00

Just in time for Valentine's, Aorta Necklaces by Metal Wing! Julia Garrels is the local lady behind these enamel-coated hearts. She brought us new earrings as well. Here's an example, but there are plenty more colors to choose from.

GAREK DRUSS

2008-02-06T12:05:00.000-08:00

Garek Druss will have his new series "AMPLIFIER WORSHIP(ER)"
on display at Fancy through February. Come on down for the reception Friday, Feb. 8th.
AND do your valentiney shopping at the same time. Nothing like seeing some Garek Druss, and killing two birds.
See you there- I'll help Fancy up your derriere.
GAREK DRUSS website
http://garekdruss.com/
http://fancyjewels.com/gallery.php

A public tribute to our plant.

2008-01-31T18:15:00.001-08:00

We can't remember the last time we watered this plant, but it still managed to grow yellow flowers. Sally noticed them the other day. Needless to say, we are very impressed. Way to go, plant.

New wallets from Chikabird

2008-01-28T10:36:00.000-08:00

Here's a peek at new wallets by local duo Chika and Jean. They always carry the same styles, but their fabrics and embroidery are constantly changing.

The O.G.

Wingman

The fabrics on these are some of my favorites so far. Corduroy apples and bunnies!

Bunny Detail

Triple Wide

Plenty of pockets

To learn more about Chikabird, you can go here.

v-day is coming

2008-01-21T14:59:00.000-08:00

And we're having a sale!!!!!
Come on down for 20% off on all Glam Garb by Gunlis sexy slips and bloomers!
The cutest handmade tunics by Combat Glamourpus!
And 30% off on Togs of Vancouver!
While supplies last, or til Feb 5th!
WE LIKE YOU!

Mom Factory

2008-01-11T17:42:00.000-08:00

This winter, we started carrying Sock Monkey hats hand-knit by Sally's awesome Mom.

Yesterday, she mailed us a beehive hat, and it is equally amazing!

She just started an etsy account, so be sure to check out Patty's hats - here!

A belated holiday thanks.

2008-01-05T15:49:00.000-08:00

We had a great holiday season at Fancy Pants (as you can probably tell by the sudden halt in posts). We love keeping busy, so thanks to everyone who stopped in or ordered online. We have the best customers around!

Exciting ideas are in the works, new goods are on the way, and I'll be keeping everyone up to date.

Hope everyone had a great holiday and a happy new year.

I have a good feeling about 2008.

Leroy

2007-12-10T10:42:00.000-08:00

Fancy loves Fran Goldberg.

2007-12-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

The first time I met Fran was in the old Fancy space. She came into the shop with her husband to bring more things for Sally. When I asked her how long she'd been knitting, they both laughed and fanned a hand at me.

"Since before you were born!"

That's one of many reasons I think Fran Goldberg is the coolest. Her knitting is fantastic; she always has a new project, and she knows a ton about yarn.

Here's a small selection of her work at Fancy...

A purple knit cardigan with heart buttons and a friendly, knit elephant.
The cardigan is 100% wool and meant for age two.

Friendly elephant profile!

Fran also makes these beautiful hand warmers. The pair above is 100% cashmere and incredibly soft.
The pearl & opal necklace/earring set decorating our trees is made by local lady "Yes! Veronica."

Cozy phone carriers! Because phones get cold too?? I love the colors.

Here's my phone making its grand modeling debut.