Alicia and I came across this home tour on the New York Times website, featuring a wondrous cabin/ deep-woods lair, in Seale, Alabama. The cabin was hand-built by a man named Butch Anthony, a man who takes sustainable living to a whole new level, living mostly by the fruits of his own hand. Naturally, Alicia and I became obsessed with finding out more, and discovered that Mr. Anthony's partner, Natalie Chanin, was a well-known figure in crafty couture -- yes, there is such a thing.
Being inclined toward the shopping persuasion, we followed our online path to Alabama Chanin, Natalie's hand-made line of coveted and award-winning garments, accessories and home decor.
Then I opened my book drawer to see what new goodies I've been sent by publishers, and saw this book!! Really, not a word of a lie. A full day on the internet following a lead, and the final destination -- Natalie Chanin's new book, Alabama Studio Style -- is right here, in my book drawer!
It was meant to be, obviously. And so, today I give away this great little book, the second from sustainable lifestyle maven, Natalie Chanin, which will leave you yearning for a charmed and simple life somewhere in the southern country.
If you're like me, and enjoy fussy little tasks like hand-stitching, beading and darning, as much for the therapy as for the art of it, then this is your ticket. With a Donna Hay-like simplicity, Alabama Studio Style takes crafting and folk artistry into the 21st century (but let's face it, crafting has been with us all along.) Learn how to string-quilt, apply fabric reliefs, eyelet-embroider and stencil anything from garments, pillows and napkins to pillowcases, sofa covers, handbags and even hard-surface furniture!
Bigger projects -- no doubt influenced by partner Butch Anthony -- include the Dinner-on-the-Ground Table and Friendship Chairs (woven farm chairs.) Along with serene photography and a "milk-in-an-enamel-pail" kind of colour palette, the overall feel of Chanin's home-made manual is enhanced by recipes from Southern food expert, Angie Mosier.
And if you need a little push to get started, the book comes complete with pull-out stencils and reusable sewing patterns affixed to the inside cover!
Giveaway: I have only one -- sadly -- copy of Alabama Studio Style to give away, and if you wish to be the lucky recipient, try your luck by emailing me the correct answer to the following question: What is the name of Butch Anthony's annual art festival in Alabama? Email me at stylesheetAThgtvDOTca, with Alabama Style in the subject line. Please see Contest Rules.
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