Fabric Horse

Did you know...?

2011-02-24T14:39:00.003-05:00

We have a new website and new blog!. You can find out our latest and greatest there AND/OR you can become a fan of our on Facebook.

The Seatbelt bag has been a popular (sort of underground) bag that I have been making since the beginning (even before the utility belt and lock holster)! Our junk yards have been cracking down on what we are aloud to take out and these buckles are one of those things. We only have 13 buckles left and we are not sure if we can get more, so if you ever thought you might want one or thought that your friend would want one now is the time, my friends. Get at us if you are interested.

Philly Works Opening this Friday

2010-10-14T13:41:00.007-04:00

Our new line of bags designed by Alex from discarded yellow food delivery truck tarps is currently in a show called Philly Works. As part of Design Philadelphia, Philly Works displays all sorts of work ranging from handmade shoes to furniture, green building design to custom cycling gloves.

They did a good job rounding up many of Philadelphia's hard working/producing professionals along with some strong student work. The show is up until Oct. 17 but you can attend the reception this Friday Oct. 15 from 6-11pm at Meyerson Hall on 34th and Walnut at UPenn. You can read about the show here.

Washington DC this weekend!

2010-09-29T16:13:00.004-04:00

We will be traveling on down to DC this weekend for the Crafty Bastards craft fair. It is only one day so you will NOT want to miss out. Come find us at booth #21 at the Marie Reed Learning Center this Saturday Oct. 2 10am - 5 pm. You can also VOTE FOR US AS THE CRAFTIEST BASTARD!

Dr. Dog "Shadow People" by Ted Passon

2010-09-15T12:21:00.001-04:00

This video rules. Good job Ted!!

Hello Chicago

2010-09-05T23:15:00.003-04:00

I am bringing FH to Chicago for the first time ever! This weekend at the Renegade Craft Fair on Division St between Damen & Paulina. Booth 118. Sat & Sun, 11am - 7pm. We will be sharing a booth with Kozie Prery cycling caps so it looks like our booth might be a one stop shop, huh?

I swear I did not put him there...

2010-09-03T14:48:00.002-04:00

I walked into the living room and found Old Man exactly like this. Caught in the act! Unbelievable how amazing this guy is....

FH coming to La this weekend, SF next weekend

2010-07-21T13:25:00.004-04:00

I am about to embark on a west coast adventure. Fabric Horse will be in LA for the first time ever this weekend. You can find us at the Renegade Craft Fair at The Cornfield, located at 1245 N Spring Street. If you ever wanted to try stuff on in person or to see what size is best for you come say hello. I'll be there Sat July 24, Sun July 25 from 11am-7pm.

The following weekend you can come find us in San Francisco at the Fort Mason Center Festival Pavilion. Sat July 31, Sun Aug 1 11am-7pm.

Boom.

Best trash bin ever

2010-06-10T12:57:00.003-04:00

. . . at a pizza shop on Bedford Ave in Brooklyn. It rules.

The best example of how to start your day..

2010-06-02T18:35:00.005-04:00

Umm, I just saw this and had to share. It's amazing.

Reload's Maypril Fools Race

2010-05-13T20:26:00.001-04:00

R.E.Load Bags is at it again with their annual April Fools Race (this year it is in May, hence the name change...) Since their hiatus last year the plans have all come together. Come on out, this scavenger type ride/race (it is not really a race as much it is FUN) is so great. It typically brings about 300 people. Registration is at Penn Treaty Park at noon. $10 to enter and gets you a t-shirt. Lots of prizes to be won!

Craft Fair City!

2010-04-19T14:16:00.006-04:00

Well since we got the boot from our store front in the Piazza we are now all settled into our new space at 310 N. 11th St. 2nd Floor. Running a store is a lot of work so now that we have more time on our hands I have decided to do a craft fair tour with FH all summer. Starting with Bazaar Bizarre in San Mateo, CA on May 22 + 23rd.

sponsored in part by:

and in cahoots with The Bay Area Maker Fair

After I get back we will be almost ready for the Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn on June 5 + 6th at McCarren Park.

Giving us about a month after Brooklyn to gear up for a cross country trip where we will be hitting up LA, SF, and more up thru the Pacific Northwest if our car or bus allows...

Keep an eye out, we may be coming to a city near you....

Spat love from LA

2010-04-01T23:18:00.002-04:00

We love getting fan mail..... Missy Moore from LA sent us an email about how much love she has for her new FH spats.... and sent some photos to boot

"Fabric Horse Moves" in City Paper

2010-03-27T14:29:00.002-04:00

In case many of you are wondering about our move, why we are moving and where we are moving to.... read this article written by Felicia D'Ambrosio in this week's City Paper.

Carrie Collins, owner and designer of bicycle-centric accessories line Fabric Horse, will move her retail and production space out of NoLibs' Piazza at Schmidts at the end of the month. The move, executed just as the retail climate warms with the weather, was not her idea. "I signed a license agreement [with property developers Tower Investments] for two years," says Collins. "By the terms of the licensing agreement, either party could cancel it at any time with 30 days' notice. They said they had found an upscale boutique willing to pay three times my current rent."

Tower Investments — who did not return requests for comment — is exercising its right to relocate Fabric Horse to a retail space on the outside of the Piazza facing Germantown Avenue. "My rent would remain the same," says Collins, "but the space they want to relocate me to is half the size [600 square feet vs. 300]." Collins, who constructs her utility belts, spats and backpacks with one employee in the store, is opting instead to move in with her former employer R.E.Load (310 N. 11th St.), who handmake bicycle messenger bags. Customers may ring the outside bell to be buzzed up into the second floor of the R.E.Load/Fabric Horse showroom, or make an appointment if they wish.

"When the Piazza opened, Tower dropped the rents really low to bring in artists and small businesses," says Collins. "They wanted to create young energy. A year goes by, and they're shopping for somebody who can bring in more money. They are looking for different kinds of businesses."

(felicia.dambrosio@citypaper.net)

Moving out of the Piazza by the end of the month

2010-03-16T23:04:00.003-04:00

and in with Reload Bags at 310 N. 11th St. 2nd Floor.

Come celebrate the first day of spring!

Mummers Parade

2010-03-16T16:33:00.004-04:00

I somehow forgot to post about this in January....

Ted Passon and I were the Burger Bride and Milkshake groom (costumes made by yours truly) of the Space 1026 Vaudevillains NYD Brigade.

FYI, Ted and I did not get married, but damn what an awesome idea for a wedding huh?

FH in Keystone Edge

2010-02-11T22:47:00.002-05:00

Dan Eldridge wrote a great article on the bicycle culture of Philadelphia for KeystoneEdge.com. He talks about our growing community and the people and organizations who help it thrive. You can read it HERE.

FH Wool Cycling Jerseys

2010-02-01T17:41:00.006-05:00

Our friend John is modeling these beautiful vintage De Marchi wool cycling jerseys for us. But the catch is that we only have a few, and they are size SMALL. Please read all the details of the jerseys before purchasing to make sure it will fit you and that you are stoked. We cannot return or exchange these guys, but if you on the smaller spectrum either guy/or gal, you will not be disappointed. First come, first serve for these guys. Jorge came across the jerseys and he loves his.

You can buy them HERE.

Email us if you have any questions.

NEW Lock Holster BeltsNEW

2010-01-25T16:35:00.005-05:00

The Lock Holster Belt is our solution to those who still want a spot for their u-lock to rest but do not want to use our original Lock Holster because they don't wear belts to hold their pants up. This is also ideal for those who get annoyed having to switch out their holster from one pair of pants to the next.

The Holster Belt is meant to be worn on top of your clothes rather than strung through your pants. The u-lock holster is actually stitched to the waist belt itself so it will not move around. You can pick up a Belt Loop Key Ring and a iPhone/iPod Pouch and you will have yourself your own utility belt.

Guest speaking at Make:Philly this Sunday

2010-01-22T14:02:00.003-05:00

Make:Philly graciously invited me to come and speak during their January meeting. I will be giving a slide presentation (yes, slides...) on my thoughts of design and manufacturing. I will also tell the story of how FH was launched and how it keeps going.

Date: This Sunday, January 24
Time: 3PM sharp
Location: University of the Arts, 211 S. Broad Street, Terra Hall, 5th
Floor
ID: Bring your ID with you to sign in at the front desk
Cost: FREE

www.makephilly.com

Saturday Farmers' Market at the Piazza

2010-01-12T17:38:00.004-05:00

Starting this weekend on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010 The Piazza at Schmidt's will be hosting a local farmers' market every Saturday. We are very excited about this. Featuring some of the best local produce, meat, poultry, and dairy products with a contingent of more than 20 farmers. And—all of the farmers are one or more of the following: local, sustainably grown, ethically raised, free range, hormone free, pesticide free, organic, raw and/or grass fed. Products include winter vegetables and fruits, rabbit, veal, beef, quail, pheasant, raw milk, artisan cheeses, and heritage breed free range chicken eggs. Also featured are delicious prepared foods ready for shoppers to enjoy as they browse.

10am-2pm

So come thru this Saturday for great food, and stop in FH, throw us a high 5, say hello!

Hey San Francisco! Come see us

2009-12-17T18:45:00.002-05:00

I have brought FH with me to SF this weekend. Come visit us at the first ever Renegade Holiday Craft Fair at the Fort Mason Center Herbst Pavilion. Click here for directions.

I brought a TON of stuff, belts, bags, hats, accessories, holsters, key rings, and there is a debut of a new line called Haute Hourse. It's a jewelry line spearheaded by the one and only Emily Glaubinger.

There will be lots of options for great gift giving. Do it.

The best winter cycling cap.

2009-12-07T23:58:00.004-05:00

I cannot say enough about this hat. In my humble opinion, it is the best winter cap out there. Don't get me wrong. I have many many hats, and I love most of them BUT this hat is the warmest hat for cycling I have come across. If you respect Fabric Horse for the functionality of our products, you will not be disappointed with this steal of a deal. This hat was designed by Gerik Forston, master applique artist of Reload Bags about 7 years ago when we all lived in Cincinnati. He made them under the name Gerikmade but has since ceased production. I have personally owned a few of these guys, and like I have already said, I love it. Not only is it a great fit, but with the stretch of the polar fleece and the elastic running across the back from ear to ear, cold air will not reach your ears. In the cold weather this is the only hat I wear.

Gerik and I worked out a deal and now this hat is the newest Fabric Horse product. We have 4 colorways to start with. I am willing to make other colors if people are down. I will also be taking a batch of these jems with me to SF next weekend for the Renegade Holiday Craft Fair.

Black Friday + Weekend Sale

2009-11-26T20:06:00.006-05:00

Now that you all are well fed and in a food coma you can finally start thinking about presents! Let's all agree that receiving presents is not as rewarding as giving them. So if you know that someone you like or love has been eyeing up something but just does not have the money saved up, perhaps you can surprise them this year. Whether it is for you or for someone you like....Fabric Horse will be having our one time annual sale. Starting Friday Nov. 27 and ending Sunday Nov. 29 everything in our store and online will be 15-20% off. (Fabric Horse items only).

Go get 'em!

New Products!

2009-11-03T21:49:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone...
I know, you all have been wondering when Fabric Horse is going to make new stuff. Well we have been, and now some of them are online. Go check them out here!

Fright of Fancy in PW photo gallery

2009-11-02T20:56:00.006-05:00

The Philadelphia Weekly photo gallery has posted photos from Fright of Fancy. Taken by the one and only Inna Spivakova. You can see more of her photos from the night here.

Thanks for coming to Fright of Fancy

2009-11-02T20:44:00.002-05:00

It was a great time! Thanks to everyone that came out and helped out. It would not have happened without you all. YOU know who you are.... in the mean time.... go check out some photos taken from Carina Romano. There will be more photos to come... Dont ya worry now child!

Fright of Fancy: Halloween Extravaganza

2009-10-24T15:26:00.006-04:00

Last month I was thinking to myself, and out loud with Alex and Major Snakes here at the FH headquarters. . . I was pondering how every year around this time I get so excited for Halloween, being my favorite holiday, yet there rarely is anything awesome to do. In fact I got a little angry about it. Too often I find myself all dressed up with nowhere to go.... IF you can relate to this, then get ready to be excited. I decided that Fabric Horse needed to throw its first ever promotional event. Since I am strictly doing Fabric Horse full time now that our store opened this summer, I deemed it worthy of a celebration.....

Fright of Fancy: Halloween Dance Party and Costume Fashion Show
Fabric Horse and Philly art stars re-do Halloween this year!

Contact:
Carrie Collins
215-694-9034
carrie@fabrichorse.com

Fabric Horse (www.fabrichorse.com), Philadelphia’s premier creative design outlet for utility belts, bags, lock holsters, and urban costuming; will be throwing, “Fright of Fancy, a huge Halloween inspired fashion show and dance party on Saturday October 31st at the Latvian Society of Philadelphia. Fabric Horse owner, Carrie Collins, whose new retail space recently opened in the Piazza; has assembled the best and brightest of the Philadelphia art scene to make custom made costumes, games, prizes, and performances for an epic Halloween blowout.

“Fright of Fancy” will feature a runway Fashion show of Halloween costumes with designs from many local artists including: Topstitch Boutique, Kristen Phillips (Safari Anomalou), Carrie Collins and Alex Powell (Fabric Horse), Dave Laverdure (Club Lyfestile), Audra Phillips, Sara McCorriston, Tip Flannery (The Vaudevillains), and more. The fashion show will be hosted by Sweatheart front-woman and former Trading Spaces contestant, Rose Luardo.

All attendees who come wearing a costume will be competing for prizes in categories such as: Best Group Costume”, “Best Michael Jackson”, “Best Inanimate Object”, “Scariest Costume”, and “Most Creative Costume.” The winners will receive custom made trophies by NY-based sculptor and master mold maker Sabrina Lessard.

The night will also feature a “head through the hole” photo-booth painted and designed by Space 1026 artists Thom Lessner and Chris “Salty Snax” Kline.

Lots of party games will be on hand as well including a custom made “Zombie Brain Toss” by artist Gerik Forston (Black Floor Gallery and R.E.Load Bags), a “Bloodsucking” Blackjack table by Roland Burns (co-founder of R.E.Load Bags), and there will even be free food in a “Build Your Own Tostada Bar” by 2009 Pew-Fellowship winner Ben Peterson and custom pastries by Rebecca Flax

The dance party will feature multiple DJ’s including KurtLife (AKA Kurt Hunte from Plastic Little), Hoagie Jawns, and AJ Ready Right (AKA Andrew Jeffrey Wright, Space 1026) as well as video projections with a live green screen dance floor provided by local filmmaker Ted Passon.

There will also be a raffle where people can buy tickets to win fun prizes from Fabric Horse, Print Liberation, ReLoad Bags, Space 1026/Free News Projects, Jinxed, Luna Hair Salon, and many others.

The event will be held in the main party room of the historic Philadelphia Latvian Society at 531 N. 7th Street at 8:00pm on Saturday October 31st. Admission is $10.00 and the bar is open to individuals who are over 21. Drink specials include $2 Lionshead and $4 liquor. Presale tickets available at Fabric Horse.

FH on uwishunuc.om

2009-10-24T15:21:00.003-04:00

uwishunu gave us a nice little write up this week.

OBSESSED: Picks from Philly's Style Squad

2009-09-18T19:57:00.006-04:00

Donna O'Brien, owner of Beautiful Blooms posted a sweet little tidbit about her new Superhero Utility Belt (she snagged a black/red/polka dot belt) in Philadelphia Magazine. You can read about it here

I am glad more and more people are catching on that these belts can be used for so much more than cycling!

A photo from Berlin

2009-09-10T11:57:00.004-04:00

We love getting emails from customers who love their FH goods. Andrew Ferguson just sent us this photo, riding around Berlin, Germany.

Momentum Magazine features Philadelphia and Fabric Horse.

2009-09-04T17:07:00.002-04:00

You can read the full article written by Steven Rea here.

Bike Polo World Championships in Philly this weekend

2009-09-04T16:36:00.005-04:00

There are 48 teams of 3 currently registered for the first World Championship of Hardcourt Bicycle Polo this weekend. If you have never seen bike polo, or even heard of bike polo, I suggest you check it out this Saturday and Sunday.

Custom Halfbelts

2009-08-28T14:49:00.005-04:00

I recently finished these two Halfbelts for a soldier who came in. He donated a pair of his ACUs for the cause, but luckily I saved him a pair of shorts out of the deal. The one with more pink on it is for his wife.

Pretty crazy.

Epic Birthday @ Amberella

2009-08-19T12:01:00.010-04:00

Last Saturday there was a solo show by Kencredible at Amberella Gallery here in the Piazza. It was a huge birthday bash for Ken, included in that were photos he took of our cake headdress. He has been using our headdresses and taking beautiful photos with them. This was the first exhibition Ken has included Fabric Horse.

Of course we had to outfit her for the party too.

Can you tell which one is the headdress and which one is a real cake? Amber Lynn had these cakes make special for the event. They look amazing.

Are you ready to go back to school?

2009-08-19T11:25:00.004-04:00

We are about to release our bookbag....."The Classic" ..... these two purple beauts are meant for a couple of best friends.

Did you know?

2009-08-19T11:20:00.003-04:00

Both the Halfbelt and the Superhero belt are constructed with an internal belt looping system. This way when the velcro gives out from you wearing the crap out of your utility belt every dang day, you can still wear it forever and ever. It also can totally change the look of the belt. This is the Relaxed Halfbelt in olive waxed canvas. Don't be jealous.

Fabric Horse in WIRED News

2009-08-03T15:32:00.005-04:00

I just had a customer call to inform us we were featured in WIRED News online. Now I just have to go hunt down the printed copy to see if we made the cut.

Pedal Consumption + RCFIX

2009-08-01T14:38:00.001-04:00

Art Rush at CMWC Tokyo

2009-06-21T05:23:00.001-04:00

Maybe you've heard that CMWC festivities will be tearing it up in Tokyo this September? A new feature of this year's extended championship, Art Rush, requires some planning. Which is why we're telling you all about it NOW.

Art rush hopes to integrate art and messenger culture. It's a contest for art that messengers will wear while they compete. The messenger riding will become a moving piece of art.

The medium? The ever-friendly, athletic favorite: a t-shirt. Each submission much be an actual t shirt, of course, as the riders themselves will hand select one to wear while they race. The t-shirt should serve as the canvas, but beyond that the possibilities are open to all variety of media, except maybe Etch a Sketch. Stitch it, draw it, print it, paint it! You're creative! You figure it out. It's a great way for people unable to travel to Tokyo to still participate in the event.

Your submission will not be returned to you after the competition wraps, as your work will be transported across the globe, worn by a competitor even after the race is over. A way of connecting people across the world through a love of bikes and art and comraderie. Their website whispers, Your artwork will be running through streets, somewhere in the world.

Organizers plan to display artist profiles and submissions, as well as the recipient of each shirt, on their website.

Yuki has all the details, but you can also head over to Art Rush for more information. The only cost to enter is the price of shipping your shirt to Japan, and the longer you allow for that part, the cheaper it will be! All submissions must be shipped by September 7, 2009.

Do it! This is your time to shine!

Bicycle Film Fest NYC

2009-06-19T15:52:00.005-04:00

Hey New York, we will be slinging some FH goods up in the Lower East Side for the BFF block party tomorrow (if we don't get rained out that is). Come say hi. There will be all kinds of stuff going on throughout the day and weekend, which started on Wednesday I believe. Visit www.bicyclefilmfestival.com for more info and to purchase tickets.

As a side note, I really like the "BFF" costumes in this photograph. They remind me of a job I did for Ley Royal Scam, a former band my friend Teeter of 31 Corn Lane used to be in.

Can you get any cuter?

2009-06-10T13:51:00.004-04:00

I know, cats are cute right? Well, how about cute cats cuddling with your bike? Does it get any better??

2009-06-05T12:17:00.003-04:00

Call for Artists!

The 7th annual Bike Part Art Show benefiting Neighborhood Bike Works is coming August 28-September 18 at Studio 34 in West Philadelphia, with the silent auction and party on September 18. Hooray! We have a great lineup this year: Music by Kiss Kiss Kill and DJ Ross of Love, beer by Victory and Dock Street, snacks by great local caterers and bakeries, and a super audience of biking and art enthusiasts.

The only thing that could make it better is if we have some of your work for the show. Every year we're amazed by the quality and diversity of the work submitted to the show, but it just wouldn't be the same without something you've made. We'll show it off, then use proceeds from the silent auction to run our free earn-a-bike classes for Philadelphia kids. The strong momentum of cycling in Philadelphia, plus the audience and support the show has earned over the years, promises to make this year's show one of the best yet.

Top three reasons (among many) to be a Bike Part Artist
• Bike Art is awesome! We keep used bike parts out of the waste stream by putting them to use as a fun challenge and inspiration to our work. Past work has run the gamut from assemblage to paintings to jewelry to light fixtures to functional furniture to sculpture. It’s not essential that your submission incorporates actual bike parts. We love any art influenced by cycling! You can see examples of past work at www.neighborhoodbikeworks.org
• Exposure! The Bike Part Art Show has been growing every year, with widespread publicity and high attendance. If you get your work in early (see submission details below), we’ll exhibit it at preview shows around town, like the galleries at Moore's spring and summer exhibition Bicycle: people + ideas in motion, celebrating Philadelphia’s passion and commitment to the bicycle.
• Help Philadelphia kids build their own bikes at no cost to their families! Profits from the auction of the works help pay for free after school programs and scholarships for summer camps, where kids earn a bike by building one, and in the process learn practical life skills, environmental awareness, fitness and nutrition. It’s important to keep the classes free because the families of most Bike Works students couldn’t afford them, much less a bike. Though artists may not have expendable income either, the Bike Part Art Show turns your talent into a direct contribution to making the world a better place for Philadelphia kids, and by extension, for you.

How to be a Bike Part Artist
• Tell us you want in (or even that you're mildly interested). Send an e-mail to artshow@neighborhoodbikeworks.org. Please include your name, phone number, website and address.
• Think about the cool piece (or pieces) of art you want to make from bike parts or about bike culture. If you already have something in your collection, feel free to pull it out for the show.
• Get bike parts if you need them for your work. Join us for one of the “Bike Part Raids” at Neighborhood Bike Works to pick out and take home the parts that inspire you. See below for more info.
• Drop off your work to us at the times and places below.

Bike Part Raids
Need parts for your work? Join us at Neighborhood Bike Works in West Philly to root through our scrap pile and take what you like. You’ll find wheels, bearings, brake cables, frames, derailleurs, grips, spoke nipples, chain, and other sweet components. They’re not solid enough to ride, but they make great art! The next raids are:
Saturday June 13, 6:30 – 9:00 pm
Thursday June 18, 6:30 – 9:00 pm
Sunday June 21, 6:30 – 9:00 pm
All raids are at Neighborhood Bike Works located in the basement of St. Mary’s Church, 3916 Locust Walk on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania. Our headquarters can be hard to find, so visit our website for directions.

Participation deadlines and submission details

1. Email Kate at artshow@neighborhoodbikeworks.org to let us know when you’re coming, then submit your work at one of the times and places below. To make alternate arrangements, email Kate at artshow@neighborhoodbikeworks.org.

2. There are two participation deadlines. Early submissions have the opportunity to be featured in preview shows like Bicycle: people + ideas in motion, at the Galleries at Moore College of Art and Design.

Dropoff times/locations for preview shows and the Bike Part Art Show:
Tuesday July 7, 5015 Hazel Avenue in West Philly, 5 pm – 9 pm
Wednesday July 8, VOX Building at 319A N 11th Street, 4th floor, 4 pm – 8 pm.

Dropoff times/locations for the Bike Part Art Show:
Wednesday August 19, 5015 Hazel Avenue in West Philly, 5 pm – 9 pm
Thursday August 20, VOX Building at 319A N 11th Street, 4th floor, 4 pm – 8 pm

Spread the word!
Forward this email, tell all your art-loving and bike-loving friends, or join our facebook group!

Want to be more involved?
The Bike Part Art Show only gets better when more people help to plan and put it on. We would love to have you along for the ride! If you’re interested in volunteering in any capacity, before or during the show, please reply to this email and tell us a little about yourself. If you have some specific skills or assets you’d like to lend, we’re all ears!

Questions? Ask away! Email Kate at artshow@neighborhoodbikeworks.org or check our website.

Did you hear? Free shipping!

2009-06-01T11:36:00.002-04:00

Fabric Horse at Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn June 6 & 7

2009-05-30T13:42:00.005-04:00

Come find us next weekend in Brooklyn at McCarren Park June 6, 7 for the Renegade Craft Fair. There will be a lot of talented people at this place so you wont want to miss out. We here at FH will be holding down a booth with our friend Warsaw.

After opening our new store in Northern Liberties we have been busy trying to make stock and lots of things to bring with us such as these beauties. . .

Anything can happen these days

2009-05-26T19:01:00.002-04:00

Including people who have rats as pets and carry them in their Fabric Horse Halfbelt....
Thanks Matt Thompson from Richmond, VA for the photo!

Video spot from Planphilly.com

2009-05-23T19:04:00.003-04:00

This is a small brief from the opening day at The Piazza at Schmidts where the new FH digs is located. There's a small tid bit from yours truly. . .

2009-05-14T09:16:00.000-04:00

Back from Jamaica and opening a store

2009-05-11T11:54:00.011-04:00

Well, I have been back from Jamaica for a week now. It was an unbelievable experience and want to thank everyone again for your support. The women of the Johns Town Craft Coop were more than excited about the 4 types of bags, panties, and reusable panty liners I showed them how to do.

Now FH is embarking on a new endeavor. A RETAIL STORE!

>
We are in the midst of moving, cleaning, painting, building, unpacking and mopping and will be officially open for business on Saturday, May 16.

Now all you Philly people can come by and try on the things you have always been thinking about to make up your mind.

We had a big crew in helping out this weekend. I don't think I would be anywhere without my friends.

Sabrina and Gabriel donated their entire day.

And of course Annette and Snakes were in full effect. Annette is painting a mural that you won't want to miss!

More to come. . . . and I will do a proper post on Jamaica as soon as I can sit down for an hour.

FH sticker spotting

2009-05-01T15:17:00.001-04:00

Sent from our friends at 66Fixed.

I'm about to leave for Jamaica

2009-04-14T18:11:00.003-04:00

Thank you to everyone for all their support. 7:30am tomorrow morning my plane takes off for Jamaica where I will be working with The Johns Town Women's Sewing and Craft Coop. A little stressed out and very tired, but so excited! I will be sure to post photos and a story about the trip as soon as I can. If you still want to win a Basket Bag, custom Seatbelt Bag or Utility Belt you can purchase a $5 raffle ticket on the left side of this here blog.

Cheers!<

Support the Pedal Co-op Next Wednesday!

2009-04-10T14:13:00.004-04:00

A shindig to help the pedal co-op become a nonprofit, with bands, a bake sale, a second premiere of of the film Bicycle Cupid and valet bike parking. Fun! April 15 @ 8pm. The Marvelous, 204 s. 40th St. in Philadelphia.

This Could Be A Commercial

2009-04-03T02:37:00.001-04:00

I came across this little bit, written by a reader on his own blog, by following some of our stats...which is officially creepy. I know. I'm only confessing the dark path by which I came across it in order to share it with you.

It's really just a short conversation between friends, but it happens to be what you hope people are saying about you:

Anyway, if we made things like commercials, I'd get some buddy of ours to draw a cartoon version and run it on the tv.

Fabric Horse in Daily Candy

2009-04-02T14:13:00.004-04:00

Though our Candy Cherry was popped a while back, we are still excessively flattered to be featured in the Weekend Guide this week for the new Basket Bag.

Purchase a Basket Bag and Support The Johns Town Women's Sewing and Craft Cooperative in Jamaica

2009-03-22T16:20:00.022-04:00

Introducing the Basket Bag, for a Limited Time Only!

For $85 (plus tax and shipping) you will not only be supporting a good cause but you will receive a one of a kind Fabric Horse Basket Bag. All proceeds from the Basket Bag will support The Johns Town Women's Sewing and Craft Cooperative located at The Source Farm in St. Thomas, Jamaica.

The Basket Bag came to life in November of 2006 when I visited my friend, Yune Lee who was doing Peace Corps in Cameroon, Africa. I stayed with Yune in her house out in the bush, but we also did quite a bit of traveling. The trip was an eye opening experience as we traveled the country meeting people and absorbing the country’s beauty. I met several people who worked very hard to maintain a sustainable life in hopes to provide more for their children. There was one single mother I met who ran her own bar working diligently so her daughter might have the chance one day to study here in the states. It is quite humbling when you get a chance to visit such an impoverished country. I have enormous amounts of respect for those who can fight their oppression by using their skills and natural talent to live sustainable and fulfilling lives.

While there I purchased a plastic woven tote bag with a hand made wooden bottom and plastic rope for handles. Yune had an identical bag and used it every time she walked to the market. She claimed it was the best thing for carrying produce and was excited about not smashing her tomatoes. What I did not realize at the time was that the bag fit flawlessly into the basket on my single speed road bike and I began using it daily. Not only is it great for commuting around town on the bicycle, it is also handy for packing picnics for those summer trips to the beach. I found so much use for this little guy that I knew other people needed it in their lives as well.

The Fabric Horse Basket Bag is made from 90% recycled materials, vinyl donated by the Design Trust for Public Space, and seat belts from junked cars.

The wooden bottom and sturdy vinyl structure is finished with seat belt webbing and rivets.

Last fall I received an email from Brian Hawkins who worked for a fabrication company located in Brooklyn. He had been working on a project with the Design Trust for Public Space, a not-for-profit organization committed to improving New York City's parks, plazas, streets, and public buildings. The design project held an open, international ideas competition specifically for reinventing the Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn. The top 30 visionary plans were on view in a free, outdoor, public exhibit throughout the center of the Plaza. These top proposals were digitally printed on large sheets of heavy weight vinyl.

Knowing that Fabric Horse recycles and reuses materials, Brian contacted us in hopes that we would want these sheets of vinyl after the exhibit came down. Upon receiving these sheets I realized the digital printing was quite spectacular and instantly saw the possibilities of creating beautiful bags from it.

While working out the production plans for the basket bag I thought these amazing materials would be perfect for the project.

For the past year I have been in contact with Nicola Shirley-Phillips, the former owner of Philadelphia's Jamaican Jerk Hut. I met Nicola a few years back at a fabric swap held by the Philadelphia Sewing Collective. She spotted me from across the room and saw the utility belt I was wearing, she soon thereafter contacted me to customize one for herself. Nicola was selling her business and moving back to Jamaica with her husband where they were planning on doing contract work on land they had recently purchased. Little did I know at the time that she was working towards building an Ecovillage on her land with a group of other talented folks. On top of harvesting sustainable agriculture, and working on inventing the Earthbag House, she has also spearheaded The Johns Town Women's Sewing and Craft Cooperative (JTWSCC). All this is located at The Source Farm, a multi-cultural, intergenerational eco-village, located in Johns Town, in the parish of St. Thomas, Jamaica. Their "...ecological mission and vision is to respect Natural life, its systems and processes - preserving wildlife and botanical habitat, and creating a life-style that regenerates, rather than diminishes the integrity of The Source Farm environment."

The Johns Town Women's Sewing and Craft Cooperative (JTWCC) was founded in 2007 by a group of talented community women who joined together in their mission to increase their sewing skills in order to generate income for themselves and their families. Nicola contacted me hoping that I could visit their cooperative and help them build their skills as strong stitchers and creative designers. Knowing that money needed to be raised in order to fund a trip to Jamaica I decided the Basket Bag was the perfect new product launch to do so. All proceeds from the Basket Bag will go towards the trip including travel, food and expenses while in Jamaica working with JTWCC.

If you are unable to purchase a Basket Bag but still would like to support this venture you can donate anywhere from $5 and up, just scroll to the top of the blog to find the Donate button. Each $5 increment of your donation will buy you a raffle ticket to win a Basket Bag, a customized Utility Belt or Seatbelt Bag from Fabric Horse. This is your chance to help a great cause and possibly win one of your very own one-of-a-kind Fabric Horse bags.

If you have clothing, fabric, buttons, zippers, thread, etc. lying around that you would like to donate to the cooperative you can send it to our studio:
Fabric Horse
319A N. 11th St.
3rd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19107

For more information please email us at info@fabrichorse.com or call 215.694.9034.
Thank you for all your support!
Sincerely,
Carrie Collins
Owner
Fabric Horse
www.fabrichorse.com

New Halfbelts and Superheros

2009-03-21T23:04:00.000-04:00

We just uploaded several new Halfbelt and Superhero Utility Belts in our online store go check them out.

We Love Him

2009-03-19T15:26:00.005-04:00

We do! We love Seiya so much that he gets two mentions on this blog in the same week. Not only is he a good customer but he's also a great person, whose goodness is remembered by almost everyone I know who's ever met him. He's like a cycle-messiah, "Have you heard? Seiya's coming!" Er...maybe more like a cycle-saint.

In any case, he starred in an episode of Working, a series of short films by Tramnesia, documenting his shop, Depot. As told by the filmmakers:

WORKING is a series of short videos profiling the practices of small, owner-operated businesses. Inspired by Studs Terkel's landmark oral history of working people in the early 1970's, WORKING interviews individuals who have rejected the idea of working for others, instead setting up businesses in order to work for themselves. If Terkel's study triumphed the survival of the human spirit against the daily humiliation of the Job, the individuals presented here update that theme with personal examples of autonomy against the economies of scale that perpetuate the demoralized workplace.

WORKING attempts to highlight the successes of these individuals in carving out ways to live, of tailoring a "work" situation that "works" for them, offering up business models that value independence over financial and/or material preoccupations. Terkel, quoting a union leader: "Once we accept the concept of work as something meaningful -- not just as the source of a buck -- you don't have to worry about finding enough jobs."

WORKING seeks to learn about the actual practice and challenges of running a business by asking specific questions of how things are done. WORKING tries not only to look behind-the-scenes but also to consider self-assessments regarding the successes and failures of the respective business practice. Ultimately, we hope the profiles inspire you to do it yourself.

Pretty good idea, eh? We really thought so. And Seiya's shop is a perfect example. Go check out Tramnesia's written profile of Depot and then watch the movie. There will be a smile stretching across your face by the end of it. Promise.

Scholarly Vice

2009-03-18T03:53:00.000-04:00

Most of you have doubtless noticed that Vice is no longer just for R-rated fashion insights and snarky social critique. Over the last year or so, their photojournalism has significantly upped the ante, drawing attention to things wholly absent from traditional news sources. This month's Vice Magazine has a heartbreaking piece in it about the state of Detroit's public schools. Though I've often mentioned my affinity for exploring spaces of urban decay and abandoned buildings, public schools are not places that qualify as romantically desolate.

Photo by James Griffieon for Vice Magazine

James Griffieon, the author, frames his photos of decaying classrooms and abandoned art supplies within the larger narrative of Detroit's tragic modern history: white flight that has depleted the urban tax base and pervasive bureaucratic corruption and contracts that defy logic. The combination has produced a grim landscape for the city's school system, leaving half the city's residents illiterate and undermining any chance for urban renewal. Griffieon's brief introduction opens the curtain for his telling photos, the young victims of failed urbanism in Detroit and its sad stuff.

Photo by James Griffieon for Vice Magazine

Check out the article and some of the commentary. There's some real crazy racist bull being slung about who's to blame, though little of it very thoughtful. It's obviously a multifaceted issue, spun together over the last fifty years by the course of history as orchestrated by some very powerful people. Reading the book Middlesex a couple of years ago first opened my eyes about the tumultuous course of history in that very American motor city, and this article further feeds that interest. And weigh in! The commentary could use some more thoughtful, well-balanced response.

Good Old Diamond Gusset

2009-03-17T14:35:00.007-04:00

I'm happy to learn of a company that is still making their product in the United States. I'm sometimes even more impressed when that company is a large scale manufacturing operation, making things for a mass market. Because much as making things by hand and staying local is a challenge for our small model, we're not exactly competing with hundreds, or thousands of other companies making something like blue jeans. And you know, it takes all kinds, not just bright and beautiful and bicycle riding to make the case for Buy Local.

I ran across this American company, Diamond Gusset that makes heavy duty, regular old pants at their factory in Blue Ridge, Georgia. They have a commercial on their website showing how they make their pants and it showcases all these champion ladies in their fantastic fifties manning mega-industrial machines. Tough stuff.

The jeans themselves aren't much my style, though they'd be great for riding a bicycle. (They have a patented "diamond crotch" reinforcement system happening.) They also seem targeted to the rancher, farmer, heavy duty lifestyler. The point is, good for them, I say. Good for them for staying put and keeping these ladies in their jobs.

Seriously, Stupidity

2009-03-14T11:12:00.003-04:00

I will be showing some work in a big group show opening this Wednesday at a new gallery space above Kung Fu Necktie in Old Kensington. Stop by, check it out. Also, Jamie Dillon will be playing the Jamaican tunes on the first floor so bring some dancing shoes.

Shadow's Space
1248 N Front Street (above KFN)
Philadelphia, PA 19122

+++ Opening Wedensday March 18, 2009, 6-10 PM

Kung Fu Necktie, a new nightlife entertainment venue opened in Fishtown for the local arts community announces the grand opening of a new gallery for the Philadelphia art scene- Shadow’s Space. Operating in tandem with Kung Fu Necktie’s ongoing program of live music, performance and DJ events, Shadow’s Space will be an alternative venue for regional, national and contemporary art.

The premier exhibition at Shadow’s Space, Seriously Stupididity, curated by two of Philly’s most beloved aesthetic savants Adam Wallacavage and Damian Weinkrantz, features a veritable lexicon of emerging and established artists who have come to define this town as one of the great bastions of cultural production in America today.

A counterpoint of the divergent tendencies that make contemporary art simultaneously brilliant and brutal, Seriously Stupid brings together a broad range of visual provocateurs from the multivarious fields of comics, conceptualism, painting, sculpture and skate culture. By contrasting and collapsing the problematic boundaries by which we separate the intellectual and intentionally moronic tendencies inherent in picture-making today, we understand that both are legitimate responses to the complexities of our modern world, and each offers some quotient of sympathy and understanding for the dysfunction of our collapsing empire. For the super-smart and inebriate alike, this is art to get in a brawl over for no other reason than the make-up sex after will be the best you ever had.

Participating Artists Include:
Shelley Spector
Charles Burns
Drew Leshko
David Dunn
Danny Perez
Spencer Wunder
Mary Deevy
Manuel Dominguez, Jr.
Jessica Roberts
Gloria Joan Haag
Brieann Robyn Tracey
Carrie Collins
Jason Goldberg
Issac Lin
Kelly Turso
Adam Crawford
Aryon Hoselton
Andrew Jefferey Wright
Ken Sigafoos
Ben Woodward
Judith Schaechter
Amber Lynn Thompson
Crystal Stokowski
Matt Leines
Jim Houser
Jayson Musson
Andrew Clark
Plankton art co.
Erich Weiss
Dan Tag
Dave Fox
Nick Paparone

What a Wingnut

2009-03-13T07:26:00.002-04:00

In some FH unrelated research I've been conducting, I came across this funny guy in Texas who's building houses a la Habitat for Humanity out of recycled everythings. They're a little kooky and he's a little kooky, but the idea is decent.

On the one hand, I'm not sure low-income people should be living in aesthetically seperate, some-might-call-crazy-looking houses and on the other I think it's a very personal and empowering way to usher in homeownership...one of those things that stupid sociology majors will tell you is crucial to narrowing the wealth gap and pulling families out of poverty. And then too, who says normal looking houses are any good anyway? What do you think?

Handmade Nation Hits Theaters

2009-03-12T12:00:00.004-04:00

Wednesday night I saw the SF premiere of Faythe Levine's long anticipated craft documentary Handmade Nation: The Rise of DIY Art, Craft & Design, courtesy of SF360Film+Club. And I wasn't the only one. That place was PACKED.

This film has been looong in the making, it seems, and it came out just under an hour, but nicely organized, with a catchy soundtrack and great opening/closing credit animation.

It opens with a great sequence of heavy-hitters in the craft world, the stars of Handmade Nation, talking about the cult of craft; they define, describe and depict their own relationships to making, and in doing explain why craft has come to be so important to the community of people doing it right now. This is the stuff that always gets me, the composite definitions people come up with for this seemingly innocuous pastime that are compelling and powerful reactions to modernity. As one such craft-lebrity, Sabrina Gschwandtner puts it, "Being a crafter is a way to slow down."

The film was fun to watch, looking for faces and spaces that you recognize, hearing familiar accounts of craft fair culture and learning more about companies you've seen on the circuit. It's a proud film, in a good way, because it takes it back to the more emotional roots of craft's new wave and effectively separates out the business of it all. It reminded me of the time back in college when my bestie Mary Wegmann and I fawned over issues of craft zines that we had to order in the mail and craft was so romantic and subversive and GOOD.

And now we all know craft is a little different, more money-making and less rough around the edges, but Handmade Nation really transports you back to that time when it was relatively new. Lots of the crafters show how they make their work, without much proprietary concern about other people copying them--craft in the beginning was after all, about sharing resources and getting as many people interested as possible in making things.

It's a celebration of a film, for sure, and poses great questions about the future of a movement that has reached critical mass in many ways. The same real, hard bound book deals, pattern and fabric lines for craft chain stores and craft fairs that trump malls for holiday shopping destinations, while signs of the movements success are also challenges to the very anti-corporate, d.i.y. roots of it all. Keeping with tradition, there were crafters set up vending things before and after the film itself:

Faythe Levine wasn't there for the screening (which I thought was a real tragedy!) and so she wasn't available to discuss the questions she poses at the end of the film surrounding all these issues of cultural negotiation and the future. Many people see craft as a direct challenge to mass production and too, a challenge to capital itself. But when craft gets HUGE, crafters are faced with the same decisions as capitalists. And the collective decision the community makes in the next five years about whether to go big or go home, will be an important one. The movement has gotten big enough now that there are many conflicting ideas about what the future of craft will look like, and this film doesn't show that conflict as much as I would have expected. That's probably my only criticism. Though there was a fine panel after the screening, the panelists' discussion wasn't about the film specifically, but more about their experiences in the d.i.y. community.

As a document of an historic movement, the film hit its mark. Sorry for the long post! But really, my heart just swelled watching it.

Biggest Wholesale Order To Date

2009-03-11T06:38:00.000-04:00

For those of you lovers who live Japan-side of the Pacific, we're shipping out our largest order yet to Depot Cycle Recycle. Thanks Seiya! It's always nice when a buddy with an awesome shop can help buffer the recession with a large order. See?

Of course, Seiya's store stocks the best of the best in fun bicycle related things and we are only too honored to be among them. If you live in Japan, April might be the time to plan a special trip...hint...hint...

Oh Geode!

2009-03-09T14:33:00.006-04:00

Eliza Fernand's show billow/ripple opened last weekend in Oakland's Fort gallery among sizable crowds and music. I happened to stumble in, having heard little about its substance beforehand, and immediately noted their similarity to Carrie's costumes and gallery pieces. In a good way. Both ladies' creations could happily live in a village together and subscribe to the same set of neighborhood association's member guidelines. What I mean is, their art shares the same wild palette and fantastical tactility. Eliza makes crocheted neon stalactites to Carrie's french fry bouquet.

A little crazy, sure. But fun! The gallery blurb describes Eliza's work: "craft infused abstractions...These installations are crafted with familiar materials and familiar forms, but the scenes are fantasy...each room in the gallery sets a mottled scene of contradictions—composed and organic, material and immaterial, intimate and encompassing."

I love sewn gallery pieces: no matter how sterile the vacuum environment, the art begs to be touched. Mostly, I enjoyed Eliza's large scale, landscaped objects that reference a family quilt, puppetry, geodes and caves at the same time. And I was impressed with the many different mediums incorporated into her pieces; any one person who can equally sew, crochet, knit AND use a hammer is a talented lady in my book.

**more pictures (and arguably BETTER pictures) of eliza's show here.

Warsaw Made

2009-03-07T06:36:00.001-05:00

A new label out of Philadelphia by our friend Elsa, formerly a Black Floor lady, who set out on her own as of February of this year to make a line of things inspired bywell-made goods of the past.
She's called it Warsaw Made.

With a decidedly antique look and feel, her bags could easily transport their wearer to another time and place. And they're all handmade in town, by one visionary lady with an eye for romance. Don't be fooled; though beautiful, each piece is tough as nails and made by hand to endure the ages. There are even quilt references, if you're paying attention. She certainly has her bases covered.

See for yourself.

Congrat-U-Ma-Lations

2009-03-06T14:40:00.005-05:00

To Bilenky Cycleworks, our hometown framebuilding outfit! They won best tandem last weekend at the NAHBS in Indianapolis. If there were ONE prize worth winning, best tandem is probably it. In my mind, the gold medal of gold medals. Those bicycles built-for-two are just the most fun.

And such a lovely shade of red...

Gerik Is Our Buddy and He Likes To Draw

2009-03-05T20:25:00.004-05:00

Gerik does all kinds of drawings, usually good ones, and he just started a smart little blog to keep track. It's more functional than your everyday, ordinary blog because it's called Caption Please. The comments are the captions, get it?

We like them, untitled or titled.

Social Design

2009-03-04T13:32:00.004-05:00

Social21 is a social design network, whose mission is to inspire social activism through design. We connect people who want to explore ways design can positively impact our many worlds, and who want to create change here, now.

We heard of them through a piece on Treehugger which discussed one of the products to come out of a competition they held in 2008 called Power to the Pedal, which asked for designs that could enhance the biking experience. The brief reads:

Promoting bicycle use also means enabling it; local governments are being
tasked to improve infrastructure to create more convenient and safer routes as
well as incentives for biking... This competition calls for a biking accessory or add-on for existing bikes that would improve the bicycling experience and encourage more people to make biking their primary means of transport – more convenient, more enjoyable, safer and more integrated into daily lifestyles – whether it's for commuting, working, shopping, transporting, leisure or all of the above.

They received TONS of submissions over the duration of the competition, which closed last May. Finalists & winners were chosen through public voting through the Social21 website and a jury process, and three awards were given. The top prize went to a power cell that runs from riding a bicycle, but submissions ranged from handmade helmet covers to trailers to folding handlebars to a concept that blows bubbles through your rotating wheel, which in turn scatters seeds throughout the city, like Johnny Appleseed. Or this, which turns your bike into a wind instrument:

I still can't believe that this whole business eluded the FH radar screen...obviously we might have had something to say about it. But I'd say go check out what designers dreamed up for those of us on two wheels, there's some crazy stuff. I mean...we like crazy.

Rainy Day Brigade: Bike Kitchen on the Move

2009-03-01T01:10:00.006-05:00

I would like to rally some cheers and admiration for the Bike Kitchen and their heroic move last weekend, all by BICYCLE and in the rain. It's not an easy thing to stand firm on your principles in inclement weather, for crying out loud, and cheers to their admirable determination! Hoorah!

All photos borrowed gratefully from Dustin Jensen, locally talented photographer and blogger, under a Creative Commons license.

The Bike Kitchen is a community bicycle project in San Francisco, of course, that aims to facilitate greater sharing of knowledge and access to the freedom inherent in traveling by bicycle. With a staff of volunteer mechanics on hand to answer questions and lend a hand, it's a great resource to expert and novice cyclists alike. They're still settling in, but plan to reopen March 3 at their fancy new, old 650H Florida Street Address. Happy Housewarming you all.

Small Change

2009-02-26T06:33:00.001-05:00

If you happen to live in the esteemed Southern portion of the east coast, our friends at Small Change are on the road and coming quickly! to a town near you. These friends are of the cinemotographic persuasion and host a series of experimental videos and music videos by Philly based filmmakers. For your viewing pleasure, they're toting...

Fantastical deteriorating video narratives, metaphysical workout videos, music videos, and experimental animations and documentaries from Philadelphia. Curated by the members of the Small Change film screening series you can expect the full range of emotions from sensory overloading trance-party-inducing visuals, deeply personal life-affirming introspection, Wu-Tang dance parties, and TGIF television nostalgia.

An event dubbed the Action News Tour, is one not to be missed! Besides, this could be your only chance to see those fancy nurses costumes in action on the dr. biggles screen.

The films in question are from the talented brains and braun of Ted Passon, Dave Dunn, Chris Ward, Andrew Jeffrey Wright, Ryan Trecartin, Sarah J. Christman, Michael Robinson and Clare E. Rojas. The pictures in question are of course, therefore:

2/21: Roanoke Marginal Arts Festival Jefferson Center 541 Luck Avenue, Roanoke, VA * 12:30pm

2/22: NIGHTLIGHT Bar & Club 405 1/2 W. Rosemary St. Chapel Hill, NC * 9:30pm * $5.00

2/23: The Sentient Bean 13 E Park Ave. Savannah, GA * 7:30pm * $5.00

2/25: FLEX (Florida Experimental Film Festival) Hippodrome State Theatre 25 SE 2nd Place, Gainesville, FL * 9:00pm * $5.00

2/26: New College of Florida 5800 Bay Shore Road Sarasota, FL * 8:00pm * FREE SHOW * Outside screening @The Z-Quad

2/28: The Eyedrum 290 MLK Jr. Dr. SE (suite #8) Atlanta, GA * 9:00pm w/ Oicho Kabu

3/01: Green Cup Books Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. South Birmingham, AL

3/03: Church Of Crystal Light 309 N. Adams St. Richmond, VA * 8:00pm w/Cars Will Burn!!

Since there's nothing like a good new-fashioned movie, show these good ones some Southern hospitality please.

Derby Meetin Up

2009-02-25T11:49:00.004-05:00

You may remember last year that we hung at the Trenton Avenue Arts Festival, a.k.a. the festivus around the Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby. Now, if you're just the spectating type, you have three more months of winter until the actual event.

BUT if you are interested in being part of the derby this year, this Saturday is the Meet N Greet for potential entries to the 2009 Rendition. From 2-4 this Saturday at Philadelphia Brewing Company, folks are meeting up to talk kinetics, probably over some of that fine brew. I imagine the ideas will be flowing like the beer and if you're a derby hopeful, you should try to go! I mean, you probably need a project in your life, right? A new hobby? Maybe bicycle scultpure is it.

Any thoughts?

2009-02-24T13:32:00.003-05:00

Our buddies got all wrapped up in some controversy over at boingboing the other day over this new shirt. They've sold quite a few now, but I NEVER would have predicted that people's interpretation of the print would be so ugly. Do YOU happen to get a "cruel irony of the cost of the two wars" sort of a vibe? I mean I suppose that truly dark people might go there, but not really.

Thoughts?

FH LH Cameo

2009-02-19T06:20:00.004-05:00

I just found this video, It's Your Ride, directed by Daniel Leeb and commissioned by Hutchinson tires, and I'm sharing it. Not because it's well done as urban cycling videos go, or because the soundtrack is pretty nice, or because it smartly features equally a pretty girl on a cruiser and a handsome boy riding fixed. Not even because it has bicycles in it. All of that, and I was still on the fence. There's something else.

It's Your Ride from Cinecycle on Vimeo.

Did you catch it? At 2:24, if you're paying attention, our little lock holster makes a cameo. It turns out that it's pretty darn exciting to find yourself watching a commercial on the internet when you notice that you made the thing worn by the guy in the commercial on the internet. Or rather, it was exciting until I wrote it here and now re-reading it makes it seem like pretty small potatoes. It's a commercial! For tires! See? Exciting.

Either way, you probably shouldn't blink because you might miss it.

Duly Noted

2009-02-18T07:39:00.000-05:00

You know how the greeting card industry is so crazy, and they're always coming up with holidays and occassions for which you need to send cards? Well you might also know that I am sort of a fan of such craziness, I love inventing excuses for mail in general and sending cards in particular, whether it be internationally or just across the street.

For the second time this week, I'm passing something I ran across and thought you might also like. I can imagine keeping a stack of these in my belt just in case.

As a person who has once received such a nice note left in the basket of my bike, I advocate them wholeheartedly and every single day of the year. These particular ones are adorable and fairly affordable and if you are a planner-aheader then totally you should order some from this nice lady. They are letter-pressed and include a handy loop for attaching them more assuredly to one of the many tubes that come standard on the modern bicycle. I'd also say, however and in contrast, don't let any aesthetically inferior correspondence stop you from leaving a similarly sentimental note on a scrap of a PW with a blue crayon, if that's what you happen to have.

If I had my way, we'd start leaving notes for each other over the most ordinary, mundane possible things because it seems like we could use some good old fashioned cheering up these days, no?

Speaking of Fleather-Brained

2009-02-17T07:19:00.001-05:00

I mentioned yesterday the fourth contributor to the MISS giveaway, Fleathers, but realized that you may not be familiar. You haven't been formally introduced to yet another Philly label that continues to inspire the work around our studio. Fleathers and Rabid Fox (two branches from the same tree) are jewelry lines by Linda Smyth, a Philadelphia based store-keeper and designer that have long adorned the lobes and fingers of Miss Carrie Collins.

Fleathers is Linda's leather-based line, usually earrings that are large and colorful and you guessed it, crafted to mimic the fluttery fringe of a feather. Rabid Fox on the other hand, which is co-created with Rebecca Pulver, is all metal, forged in the shape of little animals. The pieces are designed so the animals perch in the unlikeliest location--a knuckle or two--making for quite the visual impact.

Both lines are at home at TopStitch boutique, where wouldn't you know it, FH also happens to sell our wares. Carrie was kind enough to buy me a Rabidfox ring as a moving-out-west present, and boy it is swell. I'll bet you can guess which member of the animal kingdom we favor in jewelry format...

MISS Winners

2009-02-16T18:09:00.003-05:00

We put some loot into a Philly Love Contest over at M.I.S.S. back in December. To play, hopefuls had to answer some basic Philly trivia. Anyone could enter, few could win.

The decision was so tough that the ladies ultimately turned over the responsibility of deciding a winner over to Magick Outlaw's infinite wisdom and jurisprudence, based on a very tricky Bonus Challenge:

In the interest of helping us write a song about Philadelphia, write down what you think of when you think about Philadelphia. The only requirements are that it has to be two lines, and the two lines have to rhyme.

The winners were Vida Vazquez with this entry:

I never seen so many neon colored weaves,
Philly’s under-rated you best believe

And Kim C.:

Feel like i’m running towards the sky as if i was rocky, Amanda Blanks nails claw ya out if anyones try’s to stop me
Mannequins around me because no one does anything, but Philly’s hood won’t get better unless we do something

Each winner takes home some assortment of goods from Fabric Horse, R.E.Load, Magick Outlaw and Fleathers.

Sprawled Out

2009-02-12T08:00:00.003-05:00

Since the inauguration, I imagine our new President feels a bit like a rag doll, the way everyone's been tugging him this way or that way, trying to fit so many visions for our future into the stimulus package. If what passed yesterday in both houses really is the New New Deal, the programs enacted as part of it will be historic and exemplary, a real blueprint for what our new economy, and by extension our culture, will be. The things we throw money at as part of our economic recovery are the pillars we hope can hoist us out of this big, sagging mess of a recession.

And so, it was with swelling heart that I read the following excerpt from an interview the President gave in Florida recently:

Not only do we need to rebuild our roads, our bridges, our ports, our levies, our dams, but we also have to plan for the future. This is the same example of turning crisis into opportunity…Now, look, this is America. We always had the best infrastructure. We were always willing to invest in the future. Governor Crist mentioned Abraham Lincoln. In the middle of the Civil War, in the midst of all this danger and peril, what did he do? He helped move the intercontinental railroad. He helped start land grant colleges. He understood that even when you’re in the middle of crisis, you’ve got to keep your eye on the future. So transportation is not just fixing our old transportation systems but its also imaging new transportation systems.

That’s why I’d like to see high speed rail where it can be constructed. That’s why I would like to invest in mass transit because potentially that’s energy efficient and I think people are a lot more open now to thinking regionally in terms of how we plan our transportation infrastructure. The days where we’re just building sprawl forever, those days are over. I think that Republicans, Democrats, everybody recognizes that that’s not a smart way to build communities. So we should be using this money to help spur this kind of innovative thinking when it comes to transportation. That will make a big difference.

I for one, really believe that condensing our cities and making them more livable will bring about the right kind of development and can strengthen our social structures. And this will be huge in configuring the next economic era. It's just nice to hear someone more powerful than little old me agree.

Chalk Bicycles

2009-02-11T15:02:00.006-05:00

You know how I have a soft spot for quick drawings of bicycles and for that matter, slow drawings of bicycles. I ran across these today at the blog of photographer Sharon Montrose. She is a pet photographer, by the way, which is mind blowingly adorable. And her apparently charming husband drew the following illustrations on a chalkboard in their house. Those white, dusty lines are so satisfying; I can't believe they're only temporary.

Those white, dusty lines are so satisfying; I can't believe they're only temporary. Makes me need a chalkboard, I think.

I'm all for handmade but...

2009-02-10T15:00:00.002-05:00

You know when somebody seems so ironical that you're like, "hold the phone.." because they seem to be making fun of something but you are having quite the time putting your finger on it?

Well Friday evening I ran across something like that. These two boys, hip as could be, were showing their wares in a tiny, teeny space moonlighting as a gallery at the monthly art murmur here in Oaktown. One of them bent over a big four harness loom and the other over an industrial Singer, they were displaying blue jeans they'd made from start to finish. And the price? In the neighborhood of several thousand dollars as I recall. They claimed the process took nearly 4 months to complete.

My first thought was, "are you-all crazy? it wouldn't take anybody four months to do that!" Not that I'm some kind of raging capitalist, but that just doesn't make any sense to me, someone with a basic knowledge of how things work and what things are reasonable. (And someone with a working knowledge of handmade time frames.) Hand weaving, sure. Hand stitching, sure. But these boys had tools and seem to be skilled. But four months! Jesus.

So as these boys cooed, "see, we're wearing them," and "of course it's profitable!" and "would you like some sake?" I just sat there trying to figure out who exactly was having who in that little room. Were they poking fun at handmade? At luxury items? At money itself? Or at the people who don't know how much work goes into a pair of blue jeans? I still can't figure it out.

Bless me Roy and Travis, for I am confused. I suppose that as such a provocative exercise, it may have succeeded in that vaccuum of the gallery space, but as for any larger, broader context, I'm afraid not.

Business Trip

2009-02-09T15:24:00.002-05:00

We were in meetings all weekend, folks. HARD AT WORK, I assure you.

Winter Got You Down?

2009-02-05T22:22:00.005-05:00

You so snow crazy? Well you know what they say...necessity's the Mother of Invention.

Photo by Patrick Barber

However you manage to do it, stay classy out there you all because a little hog told me there's 6 more weeks of winter in store.

So keep your chin up.

xoxo,
FH

If You're in San Francisco on Feb 28th

2009-02-03T14:43:00.003-05:00

Hellos! Emily Glaubinger here. This is my first official blog post on this here FH blog and although I post for selfish reasons (shameless self promotion as some dear friends would say), I would like to start out by saying that without Fabric Horse, I would not be the person I am in today. The ladies at FH have more talent and smarts in their pinky fingers then the combined amount of energy in the whole universe and to have touched that pinky finger, well, it got me in this digital design tournament.

I was chosen (!!!) to along with 7 other designers from SF to compete on February 28th, 2009 to win a shit (please forgive this) ton of prizes. Obviously, it would be amazing if I could have some friends up in there to cheer me on. Here is what they about the SF challenge:

Sunshiney San Francisco wakes up to memories of gold-rushing crazes, rainbow-striped protests, and summers of love.

In its long history as a leading city on the Pacific, this old town’s been knocked down more than once—earthquakes and fires, bursting dot-com bubbles—and always gotten back on its feet. Today, the City by the Bay stands tall as a bastion of liberal attitudes, free spirits, and open arms. Hills nestled against lapping waves and streets bustling with geek savants, bon vivants, cosmopolites, and one of the largest creative communities in the world, San Francisco brings its fair share of aesthetic genius to the tournament.

San Francisco will host competitions in 2D, 3D, and Motion Graphics for Digital Design Tournament 2009.

To purchase tickets you can go here and look left for all the info and the link to buy the tickets. You can also email me to try to get the group rate and I can pair you up with some friends that will definitely be going.

If you are not familiar with my work ( I've had the wonderful opportunities to work on design projects with the likes of Fabric Horse (duh), R.E.Load Bags, Depot Japan, Bilenky Cycle Works, Tomoni and some other fabulous fun bike related companies) you can check out what i've been up to here: DRAWING IS AWESOME

watch this video and get an idea of what it will be like:

Cut&Paste Digital Design Tournament 2007 from Cut&Paste on Vimeo.

For He's a Jolly Good Fellow

2009-02-03T14:11:00.006-05:00

Old FH buddy and dear dear friend of mine, Ralph over at Via Bicycle has started updating the blog over there more regularly and I thought it deserved an announcement. He's been posting images of some of the rarer clutter in the second floor Museum at Via and talking about some of his own restorative projects, recent acquisitions and just generally, the life and times of a vintage bicycle aficionado. Plus, he's a really nice guy. A veritable fountain of know-how, you've probably seen Joel at a swap anywhere from Michigan to Virginia and didn't even know it. (Hint: he's the one with all the loot.)

Go ahead, give a little peek.

Hey, do you live in the UK?

2009-01-28T16:45:00.005-05:00

Then you should march on over to Urban Hunter and grab yourself a Fabric Horse Lock Holster. Urban Hunter will being carrying stock in these. Please contact Richard if you are interested in buying one or carrying these in your UK retail shop.

Intense

2009-01-26T22:19:00.011-05:00

Let me take a deep breath here. WHEW. Remember recently how I was talking about inventions? The gist was that when someone designs something really well, she should get to call herself an inventor. Well, kids, I'm just not sure this is one of those special times. Behold:

What's hilarious is that I KNEW this was destined for a Don't as soon as I read about it. I could almost read the Snob copy before it was written. It's just, I'm also a sympathetic sort of a person. And I don't like to be snotty, much.

But like I said, let me take a deep breath. For starters, pretty much anyone could make these with their bare hands, though this is only one of the reasons why I don't count this as any sort of invention. Take a dime-store house key, heat it over a flame, force it through one of those ugly plastic bar ends and you will have these ridiculous accessories, christened Biker's Revenge. The original pitch:

These modified handlebar plugs speak to the disgruntled urban cyclist. By retro-fitting stock parts with up-cycled keys, bikers can now find satisfaction with close encounters. This concept puts an new twist on the timeless tradition of car-keying revenge. by Matt Braun and Jared Delorenzo

Upcycling?! In mere moments, you are now able to turn once lovely handlebars into scary, hideous weapons which could just as easily catch you in the thigh (or worse, the groin) in an otherwise gentle tumble over. The proof left out of this pudding is that bar plugs are meant mostly for drop bars...Which means you'd have keys pointed toward you on your bike. They'd still prevent core-sampling, but may take out both your knees instead.

The real problem comes when you consider their alleged use. Have you ever tried to exert force out the end of your handlebars? From the standpoint of common sense physics, you may as well throw yourself under a bus. Only people particularly learned in the art of counterbalancing will emerge from such an encounter unscathed. A beloved friend of mine once kicked the mirror of a parked SUV only to F his bicycle so terribly he had to replace his wheelset. Yes, Oscar's was involved, but this friend was no freshman to the brew and no rookie on two wheels. I'm just glad that said friend had not employed the use of these death hooks. SCARY.

In sum, this is the most terrible thing I've ever heard of. I'm not even against it from a "destruction of property is no way to get cyclists an equal share of the road" perspective. And I'm not going to touch the dopey mountain bike featured in their relaxed-fit action shot. It's just the most ill-advised solution to any possibly scary situation. It demonstrates little to no comprehension of an urban cyclist's true experience riding in the city and perhaps most embarrassingly, they lack any aesthetic considerations. I know many fine products of Philly's UArts, but I'm sorry Jared and Matt, I'm afraid you should head back to the drawing board. Not just that, but sell that Giant and buy a bus pass. Your Wallabees would be a lot comfier and we'd all feel quite a bit safer.

Damn, Girl

2009-01-25T20:10:00.002-05:00

Ellen Page looking pretty unstoppable.

Via Copenhagen Cycle Chic

Go Go Gadget Lane

2009-01-21T16:08:00.004-05:00

Since it's not like any of us have money to burn right now, here is a thing that is not really available for purchase but is so ingenious that its lighting up the blogosphere, literally. It's a little funny to be singing the praises of a thing that doesn't actually seem to yet exist, much like lauding the concept of a teleporter. But I'm not the only one. It's such a good idea that it seems to elevate the designers who came up with it to the more esteemed distinction of Inventor.

So what is it? Drumroll please...a bike light that creates a Bike Lane all around you as you ride. So say you're living under the iron curtain of a certain injunction? Take matters into your own hands! Have trouble with pesky vehicles crowding your god-given right to the road? Show them, with lights, who's boss. And since the lane travels with you, no more bike lanes that mysteriously merge into automobile traffic or disappear altogether.

Dubbed the Light Lane, the laser-lane guarantee hints at very great possibilities in advocating cycle commuting. It's a little guerrilla, a little techie and a little imagination. Magnifique!

New Streetsblog SF launch this week

2009-01-16T16:31:00.003-05:00

For the latest in policy debate, shifts in traffic patterns and urban planning, the Livable Streets Network is a great web resource. Their more well known ventures, Streetsblog together with the sister site, Streetfilms, has been improving the quality of urban living for years now by circulating valuable information about the plight of urban cycling and transportation issues. Their influence now gets them interviews with the likes of NYC's DOT Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan and their films have proven influential in proving to policymakers that changes to car-centric urban planning must happen SOON. They've just launched the most recent locality for the blogging network in San Francisco. Hopefully Streetsblog SF up to code so that the actual climate for cycling in the city can support the avid community of cyclists already in place. Coincidentally, there is a Streetfilms screening tonight in Philadelphia at the Academy of Natural Sciences: an hour of films showcasing bike-sharing programs with all three Streetfilms master documentarians in attendance and available for a Q&A following the screening. Starts at 6:30.

Just called to say

2009-01-13T15:40:00.003-05:00

Spotted: on a bike rack in front of a Favorite Hardware Store.

Unknown Artists

2009-01-12T11:14:00.003-05:00

Stumbled across this piece by filmmaker Matt McCormick and narrated by the now famous Miranda July from 2001. It seems to straddle the distinction between ironic and critical documentary film, as I find myself both amused and interested at the same time. The short film entitled "The Subconscious Art of Graffiti Removal" contends that graffiti removers are artists themselves, creating public works sometimes unknowingly that accomplish much the complexity and well, simplicity of many of the Abstract Expressionists. The film seems to have earned both praise and criticism, both flung widely across demographics including graffiti artists themselves and bystanders alike.

the subconscious art of graffiti removal (excerpt) from matt mccormick on Vimeo.

It won all kinds of awards back in 01, though despite my appreciation of Miranda July and her kindreds, I've never seen this. Have you? Any thoughts about whether this is genius or rubbish? It poses some interesting questions about the urban medium which is so prone to attracting contradictions; in fact, the film does a superb job of mirroring the nature of graffiti itself. I'm not sold on the idea of graffiti removal equalling the original artists' work in aesthetics or historical relevance, but it is an interesting spin on the issue. It suggests there may be some value in those mundane, neutral splotches increasingly clouding the surfaces of our cities, which is a rather optimistic scenario. I am one for optimism...but...still...

What To Do

2009-01-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

With that dusty old tree that's now starting to drop needles like a clumsy junkie? Good thing you asked. Seems that the Philadelphia Pedal Co-Op has you covered. For One Measly Dollar per foot of height, your beloved tannenbaum can be carried with dignity to the local composting receptacle instead of the trash heap. Apparently the City of Philadelphia will landfill all those poor trees left by the roadside, which leaves you with only two alternatives: email Woody from the coop [pedalcoop@gmail.com] or take the tree yourself to the Streets Department Sanitation Convenience Center.

If you skipped the tree this year in the interest of environmentalism or say, Hannukah, you could also rally up some of those curb-ridden trees and do some recycling of your own. For one, you could make a forest installation in your living room like some people. See, it's really up to you.

Publications

2009-01-06T23:26:00.006-05:00

These are a little tardy, but hey, maybe you're just now picking up the September 2008 issue of XLR8R magazine and saying "Hey! Isn't that....?!" And we're just here to pat your hand, reassure you by saying, "Why, yes. Yes, it is." So don't strain your eyes to read that fine print, you were right.

Heads Up

2009-01-02T13:28:00.004-05:00

You're probably pooped out from celebrating, but our pals at Magick Outlaw have a show of their incredible and I'll say it, zany, screen prints going up at the Art In The Age space in Old City tonight. This is the very same Magick Outlaw that's behind those fancy 59ers you've been drooling over. The show will probably be brighter, crazier and better than any other opening you've ever been to, so it would be worth crawling out of your post-holiday cave for. Mr. Pete Whitney writes, "Me and Joel and possibly even Don Vincent Ortega are gonna stop by there this Friday night the 2nd if you, like, want an autograph or something." So, there you have it.

Other exciting things out of Outlaw this holiday season include some sweet cycle relevant prints by print assistant Don Vincent Ortega, dear Philadelphia collectibles and a new shirt design that may remind you of someone you know.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T21:19:00.001-05:00

Mummers 2009 featuring Carrie Collins you all.

That Year Time

2008-12-31T11:52:00.004-05:00

I must apologize for the slowness of posting during these days in this very latest part of 2008. About now each year, FH shuts down shop until the new year passes so that the ladies can put their feet up and enjoy the holidays in a work-free fashion. I happen to be less one digital camera (at my house we have to share and so when the both go in separate directions, well, the camera can't very well be split in two) and I'd like to blame my absent posting on my coinciding inability to capture images.

I trust you are all making New Year's resolutions and preparing excitedly for the Eve tonight, spiking the punch, hanging a disco ball perhaps and timing your playlists. I'm always down for an inspirational tale at times like these. I promise this one will be quick.

On Sunday night, I was talking to my friends from home about what its like biking year round in Wisconsin. They live in Madison and my friend Matt had just got a really sweet new winter time, cycle-friendly jacket and this inspired a general discussion of Wisconsin Winters. Since arriving here two weeks ago, I've pretty much avoided driving at all costs because by now I'm so ill accustomed to slippery roadways that I was sure I'd wreck my little brother's car sooner than I could back out of the driveway. So when we then started discussing biking around on such roads, with banks mounded four feet high from the snow plows and black ice lurking beneath ever-freshened dusts of snow, I decided I'd be similarly terrified to bike in this sort of weather even if I had my own equipment on hand and proper attire. For all I may boast of bravely facing Philadelphia winters, riding in the winter in suburban sprawl is unimaginable to me. Then you'll guess at my astonishment when Matt then mentioned that a friend of his plans to start a messenger company here in Appleton, WI to operate year round serving the city. Remember, today the high temperature should reach 10 degrees Fahrenheit and there's 3 feet of snow on the ground! Very quickly what I thought unimaginable not only occurs in the imagination, but is now intended! I am surprised and shocked by the proposition of cycle messengering in Appleton, WI. In a good way; this tale makes me realize I should open my eyes more, be optimistic and stop patting myself on the back for unconditionally riding through the rain.

As you don your gay apparel, take to heart this story of some people in extreme climates getting out and riding even against what might be called better judgment. If this kid in fact accomplishes a successful company in this, the most unwelcome climate, the rest of us better start aiming higher. Calibrate your goals to a grander scale, call for extremes and make no excuses!

So then, are you ready to tackle 2009? We thought so. Happy new year.

love,
Fabric Horse

By The End of Today

2008-12-24T00:44:00.006-05:00

I love projects like this one. Not only because it's Christmas Eve and I'm feeling sentimental, but notice how that fancy camera makes everyone on film so good looking! Even the guy who wishes for more sex. It's like a commercial for humanity or something.

via Oh Joy!

Blinky Bilenky

2008-12-19T17:30:00.003-05:00

Yes, yes, its that time of year again. Better get working on some of that homemade egg nog, whiskey and all, because you'll want to be good and ready to sit out in that cold junkyard up in Olney come Sunday to watch a good clean race around some pretty dirty roughage. What could be better to mentally prepare you for all the mild manners of the holidays? Nothing, really. So grab your favorite long johns, some festive brunchtime beverages and head thee to the Bethlehem of Philadelphia, cycle speaking, to catch some action that Santa probably wouldn't attempt in that billowy old sleigh. Sure to be holly jolly sort of holiday.

No More Holiday Orders!

2008-12-17T15:51:00.003-05:00

Sorry guys but we have to do it. We officially cannot accept any more orders that need to be delivered in time for the holidays. All orders here on out will be scheduled for production and shipment after the holidays. For Lock Holster orders we apologize for a delay in shipping but we need a vacation. I will be in Ohio for a bit, but will try to ship out some holsters here and there. Keep in mind we will be out of the studio and on relaxation time from next week until the new year. See you in 2009!

One More Reason Japan Is Probably Cooler Than Here.

2008-12-16T06:25:00.017-05:00

Seriously, this isn't a future-speculating, robot dominated, science fiction movie with Kristen Bell and Jude Law. This is a WASHINGTON POST NEWS STORY about something that exists in real time and space, right now on the other side of the planet. Meanwhile, we westerners are still locking our bikes to traffic posts and parking meters most of the times. Just another day in the relatively primitive United States of America...

***This is especially apparent after trying for an hour to get the washingtonpost.com player to actually fit into the template of this blog...Sorry! I'm officially giving up.

Issue #2 of Fixed Magazine

2008-12-14T23:21:00.008-05:00

If you're into this sort of thing, the second issue of the baby (age-wise, not audience-wise) track culture publication Fixed Magazine hit virtual newsstands...er, work stands on Friday. Somewhere between those pages, you'll find a nice interview with our pal Dustin Klein over at Cadence, newly a Philadelphia-based company. The interview goes further to show that Cadence isn't just the pretty-faced fashion cornerstone of track culture, it's headed by one deliberate and thoughtful boy, who really honors the sub-culture of bicycles with his carefully detailed projects. In the interview, he says:

Since 1999 I have made the conscious decision to live car-free and relish the political and individual effects of this. Once the motor vehicle is out of the equation, you start tobase your life around the bicycle. To me this is beautiful and I love how it affects everything from where you choose to live, to the types of food you eat. To me, bicycles are a physical representation of freedom, and I live my life by it.

The other thing that impressed me was their profile of Freeman Transport, a new operation out of Missoula, MT. Full Disclosure: I want to retire in Missoula someday; Retirement-wise, I think Western Montana is where it's at. But Freeman is doing something really nice, which is make bicycles that are meant for traveling. Around this time of year, and really any traveling time, the thought of visiting a city without a bicycle sounds downright painful. But with airlines now charging even for the regular sized checked baggage, bringing along a regular bike can be just too damn expensive. So anyway, Freeman's whole deal caught my attention because not only is it a really good idea--making folding bikes and fancy bags to carry them in--but their whole image and website is very high end, very quality goods crafted with that age-old romantic, the Traveler in mind. Doesn't it make you just sigh with pleasure? Ah.

Other features in the new Fixed include photo coverage of the 2008 CMWC's in Toronto, a bunch of little kids in London who are winning trick competitions and a huge spread about the making of the recently released Macaframa movie. The magazine is only printed twice a year right now, out of the UK and from the looks of things, on its way. The magazine manages to pack in tons of quality content and mostly, you already patronize and respect the companies doing the advertising, which makes every page enjoyable to read.

I'd say the only misstep is that fixedgearlondon.com ad on page 34-35 that has ONLY ONE LADY pictured next to 19 boys. Not only a Don't, but also statistically sort of busted. On the other hand, bonus points for profiling a girl who rides in Brooklyn.

We canNOT guarantee international shipping for the Holidays

2008-12-12T10:31:00.002-05:00

We are officially not accepting anymore International Holiday orders. There is just not enough time to allow for shipping. If you want to purchase a lock holster and you are in the UK, or close to the Uk, please see our list of shops that carry our stuff. You can also contact Richard at Urban Hunter for more info. He has FH stock and will be distributing for us in the Uk.

For all lock holster orders shipping domestically. PLEASE get your order in by Tuesday December 16 if you want the holster by December 24. We ship First Class Mail via USPS and that takes 3-5 days. For all other products, if you need them by Dec 24, we will need your order soon. A rush fee of $10-25 will be asked of you so I can tip our stitchers to stay late filling your order. Our last day of shipping will be Friday December 19. All products other than Lock Holsters will ship out via USPS Priority Mail which takes 2-3 days.

If you are in Philly and want something, just give us a call and we can work it out over the phone. 215.694.9034.

If you are not worried about getting your things before xmas we will be happy to schedule your order for production in January. We take vacation for the time between xmas and new years.

Thanks!