The Hedgehog That Imitated Art

I love my spiny little hedgehog cactus that blooms with beautiful crimson cups this time of year. The hedgehog is usually one of the first cacti to bloom, signalling spring is here in the desert.

This native of the Sonoran mountain desert is so tiny but so beautiful. I've learned that the little cups of flowers stay open at night (different than most cactus flowers) and are used by Native Americans as the main ingredient in a delicious sweet cake.

This cactus can be so small that if you didn't look closely, you might miss it while walking around the desert. And because of that, it forces you to slow down and scan for the treasures hidden within the desert pallet.

Remember, it is good to think big. But it's also important to think small...and enjoy tiny wonders, like the claret cup cactus.

Not Just Your Grandma’s Kitchen Companion

Before the happy homemaker of the 1950s was immortalized with her apron and her perfect family, aprons were a mainstay – on the ranch, in the tool shed, on the farm, in the kitchen…and even in the Book of Genesis. Growing up in Brooklyn, I knew many women who loved their aprons, mostly to keep their dresses clean, but also to carry a kitchen gadget or two. There was a time when fancy, tightly pleated aprons were in vogue, and I recall all of the women (even the young ones) smartly outfitted with holiday aprons covering their new Christmas dresses.

My grandmother always used a full apron in the kitchen, but she also had different aprons for tending the garden or doing house chores, like furniture polishing. Summertime, I remember my mom fashioning some into cool pinafore play dresses. And now that the heat is starting to brew here in Tucson, aprons are front of mind, evoking strong, sunny memories.

In my crafting I collect choice vintage aprons (I look for interesting pocket details). I’m also cutting fabric for my own summer collection. So many are taking the art of apron sewing a step higher these days, with creative finishing and designs. I smile, because fashionistas also see aprons as a style trend and younger, crafty women see them as art.

Yes, bring on the rickrack and smocking! Because beyond being a fashion statement, an apron means home, family, food, creative expression and love.

Window Dressing on Congress Street

In the nooks and crannies of Tucson, there are storefronts that give streets character and flair. Congress certainly has a colorful jewel in Preen, where window dressing is art.

The current window is so meticulously styled by the Preen ladies. I love the mannequin’s blue-laced/plaid dress, and the way “she” is framed by a display of smart pumps, a shelf of vintage linens, and an antique sewing station laden with buttons and books. Inside store displays are equally interesting. In one corner is a desk full of scarves, jewelry, cowboy shirts, bags and fiber arts. In another is a bookcase of CDs, tees, postcards and colorful swizzle sticks. There are plenty of pretty and unusual treasures at Preen – I visit it often. And while I love the merchandise, it’s fun to watch the ladies when they’re busy altering or decorating their own or a customer’s special apparel.

Here are two shop-owners who take such creative care of their displays and their product. I tip my vintage hat to the fabulous Erin and Emilie!

Return of the "Sew Day"

Some of the greatest pleasures I've had here in the desert involve my re-discovering the joys of stitchery. Sewing certainly goes beyond the Simplicity patterns of my younger days. In fact, today's creative, no-rules sewing encompasses a whole new art form.

There is the classical art of embroidery, made even more special today with use of eclectic fibers and contemporary designs. There is a new respect for the heritage and methods behind sewn folk art. There is yarn and fabric collecting, patchwork and pieced quilting. There are local weavers and spinners to visit, and exploration of colorful organic and sustainable fibers. Tied in with all this is the dramatic growth of crafter communities, rooted regionally and internationally.

Here in the desert I've found a community of innovative crafters. These women are quality, serious crafters - miles above me in the craft of sewing - but they give me friendship as well as encouragement in exploring my own style.

So -- decades after my mom, sis and I held regular sewing days -- I'm happy to return to the practice. I'm armed with my own stash of fabric swatches, yarns, threads and buttons. My new Bernina (sewing machine) stands "at the ready."

Sometimes I have flashbacks to the days of "forced duty" at the sewing machine..and my new Bernina looks too imposing. But then I remember the fun days creating beautiful things at home, and I am drawn back.

Here's to the return of Sew Day! I won't be making prom dresses with my mom and sister, but I'll be having fun.