Ellen Lindner: Art & Creativity

Are you a Project Runway fan?  If so, the title of this post may have you given you a little tingle of anticipation.  If not, allow me to introduce you to the ultimate fabric store.

Mood Fabrics is three floors, packed almost floor to ceiling, of more fabrics and notions than you could imagine!   On a recent trip to New York City, I HAD to visit.  And I was not disappointed.

In the photo below, you can see the huge collection of silk organza, down the aisle to the right.  Who knew this variety existed???  (Click  for a larger view.)  Just to the left of the low counter is the spot where the Project Runway contestants say “Thanks Mood,” as they exit.  The exit is further to the left:  an old elevator that must be operated by an attendant.

Although well organized, the feel of the place is sort of like a warehouse.  Definitely not fancy.  At only 5′ tall, literally 1/3 of the fabric is above my eye level.  I’d need stilts to shop here!  (Well, actually, that didn’t slow me down much.)

Although the overall look of the place is very interesting, I was especially taken with more intimate views here and there.  Like these mannequins:

(I love that they have a plus size mannequin!)

And this collection of white fabrics, pleated and/or sheer.

I loved the textures of those white fabrics, especially since there was some sort of paper wrapped around them.  Upon further study, I realized that the paper was pleated.  How cool!

Well, I WAS in New York, and I DID need some souvenirs, so I asked the very nice owner, Jack, if I could have some of the paper.  And he agreed!  Won’t that be fun to incorporate into a mixed media project?

I did actually purchase some fabric there, as well.  (And might I just say that I have very expensi good taste.)  I’ll show you my purchases and some pricey trim in a future post.

Remember that you can click on any photo for a larger view.  Enjoy!
Ellen Lindner