Dress details from ModCloth...

I find vintage ceramics addicting, especially plates & mugs. I couldn't help but share a few patterns from Peacock Modern's flickr photostream -- ps. she also has an etsy shop.

I have a small collection of vintage plates -- does anyone else collect vintage ceramics?

I made my way to downtown Chapel Hill to practice shooting one evening last week...I was intrigued by the number of patterns I found...

I've mentioned before I can't help but thrift store shop for dishes..plates..mugs..tea pots..bowls..I don't discriminate. So when I was trying to decide what flickr group to profile this week I was instantly drawn to the one entitled "Vintage Mugs."
[images are from t-b: *verito*, lena corwin, uhoh over, leslie.keating, meetmeatmikes]

These prints by three sheets are minimal and organic. Designer Jenny Saur has this to say about her work "The inspiration comes from pattern design of the early to mid-twentieth century. Other influences include organic shapes found in nature and the skeletal structure or plant life."

Check out these lovely Lotta Jansdotter fabrics here.

Jenny Hofer Designs has a selection of cute aprons and other accessories. I have a rather drab kitchen, so anything that helps add little life to the room, is a plus in my book.

If only we could paint or even wallpaper in our little apartment! I love the prints from Walnut Wallpaper and am jealous of those of you out there who can actually brighten up your rooms with a splash of patterns. Oh well!

Below are a few of the pics from the flickr group, Pyrex Love. I'm a lover of all things pyrex and have taken up the hobby of collecting vintage patterns...so please excuse me while I compare my inventory...
[Images are from t-b: dwstucke, merebearlandon, see margaret, sqecial, quiltingmick/michelle, halloweve1977]

Check out the new Amy Butler fabric collection. Due out in April, the color palettes are so vibrant and fresh! Here is what she has to say about them on her website:
"This line is inspired by the vintage modern spirit of my lifestyle book Midwest Modern. With luscious palettes called Ohio Sky and Pink and Orange Dahlias, the colors from this group come from beautiful summer days in my Ohio garden. The mix of organic prints are perfect for fashion, quilting and home dec projects, everything you need to create Midwest Modern style!"

Echino is a medium weight fabric that is made by Japanese textile designer, Etsuko Furuya. The patterns and color combinations always make for unique projects. Below are some of my favorite styles that incorporate different types of animals. I love it because it is quarky, fun, yet stylish and interesting at the same time!
You can find these particular fabrics at reprodepot.

When I am trying to get into the creative zone on a rather dull day, sometimes I have to dig a little deeper to get a spark. I can usually grab an old-faithful book or magazine to get me started -OR- I can turn to the fabulous blog, print & pattern. This is one of my favorite blogs dedicated to surface design...oh how I love patterns! It contains image after image of prints, patterns, colors, and more...on every surface imaginable.