Blueprint, how I love thee

Blueprint magazine just keeps getting better and better, doesn't it? I wasn't so sure about it at first, but now I like it more than Martha Stewart Living. Someone handed me a copy of the July/August issue yesterday while I was wandering along the sidewalk hunting for a post office in the west village (Yeah, that kind of thing doesn't happen when I trudge to the nasty post office in my neighborhood, that's for sure), and it's crammed with page after page of great things. For example, I love these little parchment shades that transform a simple wineglass and votive candle into a cute tabletop lamp.


But you know I won't be buying the pre-made printed versions. I'll be making my own. Sorry, lovely vendor. I'm thinking little eyelet cutouts on mine.

Other things that caught my eye:

You have to see decorations in the baby shower feature. Actually, my first thought was of Sally and her fabulous aesthetic. Oh, and I've been craving a Dry Meyer-lemon soda ever since I saw the photos.

Brilliant ideas for using wall paper. Never thought I'd type that. Ever.


Denim fashion: way beyond the blue jean, moving into Bonnie Cashin territory (watch that link if you're at work--there's sound involved). I loooove Bonnie Cashin, and I'm all over this. In fact, how great would it be to make a denim (or maybe chambray?) backpack for fall? Hmmm. With cream-colored topstitching, I think. (By the way, the photo above is from Linda Loudermilk. Great line, discovered via the denim feature.)

And one other non-Blueprint things I love:

Instructions for an easy-to-make fabric ball necklace.

Have a great weekend! If the sun ever shows up, I'll be able to show you my new dress next time.