Dear Edna

Customize It

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 14 May 2013 18:59:00 +0000

Things may have seemed a little quiet over here, but I've actually been pretty busy behind the scenes. Even after three years of doing this, it still surprises me how much work and time it takes for a product to make it from design through to sale. Sewing is actually the easiest part, I think. Anyway, you should see lots of new listings in the coming weeks... starting today!

Today, I'm here to announce the launch of two new services: Dear Edna will now be offering custom hand-embroidery and DYOA (Design Your Own Apron)!

You may recall that last year I had a special promotion for the month of October offering free embroidery on all my products. It was intended as a testing ground to get some practice with the entire process and I'm so glad that many of you took me up on it, because I learned so much, most importantly how much I enjoy hand-embroidery! I can take it with me on trips, shows, or craft nights; I can stitch and talk at the same time; it gives me (and my back) time away from the sewing machine; and it's intensely personal and creative, which is probably the thing I love most about it. You have to admit that there is something special, traditional, and almost romantic about the process, knowing that someone drew the letters, stretched the hoop, and made every delicate stitch with a simple needle and thread. That is a kind of handmade that cannot be imitated by a machine. So even though I've actually acquired an embroidery machine recently, I'm sticking to what feels right to me, my business and my values.

I currently have two listings up, one for monograms and initials and one for names and phrases. If you want something stitched that is longer than 10 characters, like my good man Lou here, simply send me a message and we'll work it out.

While we're reminiscing, you may also recall how I ventured into the world of wholesale fabric last year and came out with a lot (some would say too much) fabric. So much, in fact, that I haven't had time yet to photograph all of the aprons I made with it! I've also had a few customers in the past request different pairings of fabrics than what I offer. So, hoping to solve both problems, I came up with the Design Your Own Apron concept. I'm basically giving you virtual access to my entire fabric stash of 20 designer fabrics to mix and match and create the reversible apron of your dreams. Haha!

These ideas have been kicked around, experimented with, discussed at length and put on and off to-do lists more times than I can count, so I'm pretty proud to see them finally for sale and I'm eager to see them action. To sweeten the deal, I've decided to offer these two services at 20% off until the end of the month with the discount code CUSTOM20. I sincerely hope you'll take advantage!

Why I Decided to Start Running Again

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 07 May 2013 18:52:00 +0000

It's true. After a 3-year hiatus from long-distance running, I made the somewhat impulsive decision to sign up for a 20k race this July. Why? This collage on the cover of one of my old running logs says it all. At least it tries to. Haha! For me, the answer is a two-parter. Jen from Jen Loves Kev expressed the first part perfectly when she said, "I run to train for races." Running hurts. I think we all learn this from a pretty young age. But so does weight lifting, and squash, and even yoga sometimes. There is no greater motivation for me to get off my butt and work out than an upcoming race. As hard as I try, exercise never takes a priority in my life unless I have committed to a race. The second part is the special wave of emotion and joy that only comes from finishing a race, crossing that line, accomplishing that goal that at one time seemed impossible. I get chocked up just thinking about finishing a marathon. And the only way to get there is to train. See how that works? It's a love/hate relationship that you may call crazy, but to me, and many others that call themselves runners, it works.

So now that running and I are back together again, I guess you're wondering how it's going. To be honest, our first date was a disaster. I set out to run only 3k and ended up stopping to walk around 2k because my knee was pinching and then I started to feel nauseous, which persisted half an hour after I got home. Not a good start. It was the week following the One of a Kind Show, so I think I may have still been a little run down. (Pardon the pun.) The good news is, every run since then has felt great! I've been progressing slowly, for fear of irritating an old knee injury, so after 4 weeks I'm just now logging 5k.

Speaking of logging, although I will miss the super cool motivational cover, gone are the days of handwritten notebook entries. I'm now using a fancy dancy app called RunKeeper. It uses the GPS on your phone to track your route, mileage, pace, and time all at once. Genius. Of course this raised new challenges, like how to carry my phone while running. How did I ever survive with a clunky, skipping Discman in my hand? Crafty girl that I am, I made a running belt for it, which is basically just a zipper pouch with a loop on the back that I slid a wide elastic through and sewed to a buckle from an old fanny pack. Problem solved.

What about you? Are you a runner? Are you training for any races this year?

Meet Your Maker: Evajuliet

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:45:00 +0000

Click on the earliest page of my favourites in Etsy and you will find a print by Evajuliet. Third one in, to be exact. That's how long I have been admiring Eva's work. I've found myself drawn to her prints again recently, as I search for art to to cover the stark white walls of our newly renovated kitchen. You can imagine my surprise when I discovered an email from Eva in my inbox one day, saying how much she admired my aprons. Oh, how much do I love the Etsy community? While I ponder which print to choose from such an amazing collection, I'm so very pleased to welcome Eva here to share a little bit about her work, her process and a very special blue letterpress named Juliet.

WHO are you?
I am Eva. I live with my boyfriend in Québec, a french province in Canada. I come from a family where making a living from what you love to do is the key to life. When I was a child, my father was a carpenter; my mother, a dressmaker. They are both very creative. Creating is something that is just in my DNA. I truly love my work each and every day.

WHERE do you work?
We are located in a beautiful century home on the countryside. The air is good, the birds are singing, the flowers are beautiful, but above all, people here take the time to live. For me it's the perfect mood to create.

WHY did you decide to start a business?
I work as a freelance graphic designer/art director and I really enjoy what I do. But sometimes, I miss making my own projects without any restrictions. That's how Evajuliet was born.

Evajuliet is an amalgam between me and Juliet, my old tabletop letterpress. We started working together in 2009. Juliet helps me to embellish my packages and all other printing stuff a little shop needs.

Evajuliet is my little space which allows me to set my creativity free.

WHAT inspires you?
Inspiration comes from everywhere but nature is an endless source of inspiration for me. I am always amazed by all the species and treasures that nature creates. All these colours, textures and forms make me want to jump on my brushes and paint.

WHAT is your motto?
I have many different mottos to help me focus, but recently, I opted for "Keep it simple". Nowadays, everything goes so fast and we are constantly stimulated and overwhelmed by thousands of images and information. So I want to give my brain a break and try to keep everything simple. I tend to become more zen.

WHAT are your favourite materials?
I love to work with watercolor and gouache. Watercolor is more challenging; you have to find the perfect balance between control and letting go. The result is often unexpected surprises. I also love it because of the transparency and brightness of the colours. It's also easy to clean, which is not insignificant. Gouache is more versatile. It works so well on so many surfaces. And I love the matte finish and the beautiful pigment.

WHEN do you work best?
I am a morning person. I am most effective when my batteries are full after a good night. I love the energy in the morning. The light is bright, the air is fresh, the birds are up. I am ready to start the day.

Thanks so much for sharing, Eva! I definitely identify with your "Keep it Simple" motto and have found it has become a daily, calming reminder for me as well.

Eva creates many more beautiful products than I could include here, so please take a moment to peruse her website and Etsy shop, as well as her inspiring blog.

Hamilton Happenings: Etsy Me

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 19:06:00 +0000

As is the annual tradition in Hamilton, there are a kajillion events happening this weekend: Spring Sprint, Sew Hungry, Open Doors, and the AGH Art Sale, just to name a few. But I also want to get the word out about Etsy Me, because I think that it's an incredible opportunity for anyone that is thinking about starting an Etsy shop or is struggling to get a new shop off the ground. Etsy Canada and Cobalt Connects have teamed up to offer newbies all-day hands-on help, including professional photography, one-on-one marketing advice and various workshops with Etsy admin! Take it from someone that has been around the Etsy block, at $40 this is a steal. I only wish an event like this was around when I started. More information can be found here.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

One of a Kind Show Purchases

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:27:00 +0000

You didn't think I could spend five days surrounded by 450 one of a kind artists without purchasing a few gifts for myself did you? It was hard to tear myself away from my table long enough to browse, but thanks to my insistent helpers, I managed to see it all in a few stages. Here's my haul.

Edna's Pickles: I mean, how could I resist? Edna and her husband are incredibly sweet and have been doing the show for thirteen years, or something crazy like that. They were both cracking jokes the whole time I talked to them and just generally seemed to love what they do. So lovely. Her homemade chutneys also happen to be so delicious.

Maxwell Pottery: I grew up using a ceramic milk pitcher that used to belong to my Grandmother and have always wanted one for myself. My mom spotted Maxwell selling them in a variety of beautiful finishes at the show and I immediately snapped one up. How Canadian does this make me, to have such an extravagant vessel for my bag of milk? I'd say very.

Hug and Kiss Designs: It's no secret that I love stationary and greeting cards, but when I came back to my table with ten of these cards in hand, I think Mike was ready to organize an intervention. But these cards are special. No, really! Usually I hate the kind of people that chuckle out loud in card shops, but I literally could not keep my giggles in when I read through these cards. Go to their website and see for yourself!

Hen Jewelry: I challenge you to sit next to a tree full of beautiful jewelry for five days straight and not take one home. I admired this one in particular for the entire show and was delighted when Gen proposed a trade for it. A lovely side effect of craft shows that is a little easier on the profits of said shows. She calls this design "Warrior", which we both found to be a pretty fitting souvenir!

I could easily have spent a small fortune, there were so many beautiful artisans at this show. I have a few things to save for this year, so I was quite proud that I was able to restrain myself to four. But here is a sampling of some of the business cards that will surely tempt me with retail regret for years to come. Maybe next year...

One of a Kind Show Recap

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 16:50:00 +0000

Oh boy, where do I start? It's now over a week since the One of a Kind Show ended and I'm still struggling to put the whole experience in perspective and to find the words to describe it all to you. On the Sunday, Carla texted, "Last Day! Can you believe it?" Response: "Yes and no." It was incredibly exhausting, both physically and emotionally, and there were times when I would've given a kidney to get out of that building, but most of the time it was exhilarating and the most rewarding experience I could ask for for my little biz... and it was all over in a flash.

Now that I've had a little time to recuperate and step back, I realize that the most valuable takeaway wasn't actually the sales (although, I'm pleased with my profit). It's everything I learned. Customers were not shy to tell me what they liked and what they saw missing. I lost count of how many requests I got for toaster covers and french press cosies! I also discovered it's quite another experience browsing the show while wearing a vendor badge. The other sellers were so friendly and eager to share their experience and advice. As a customer, I used to be able to walk the show in about two hours. This time, it took me two hours just to go through the Etsy section!

Let's talk about the Etsy section, then. They certainly didn't exaggerate when they warned us that it would be "cosy". I mapped out the area at home beforehand, but I was still shocked by the space, or lack thereof, when I arrived. I'm not sure if you can tell in these pictures, but basically they had set up sets of four connected tables, with all four sellers sharing the space in the middle. That centre space was only one foot in width, people. For real. Being the creative types that we are, we made do and opted very early on to simply get to know each other really well. Like there was a choice. Ha!

Whether it meant watching someone's table so they could grab a coffee, analyzing customer behaviour, or entertaining each other when it was slow, we were in it together... and that was pretty comforting for this newbie. Heather from Needlings, Kelli from Little Big Words, Gen from Hen Jewelry, Sherie from deermayor, Michelle from Aide Bodycare, and the Etsy crew: I couldn't have survived without you. Thanks, ladies!

Despite the closeness, or maybe because of it, the whole section had a fantastic social energy that the customers seemed to feed on. I don't know how many times I overheard people commenting on the quality and originality of our work and what a refreshing addition it was for the show. Etsy was the place to be. But we all already knew that.

{Talk, laugh, fold. Repeat}

Another huge benefit for me from doing the show was all the amazing promotion that came my way. I think my guardian angel may have been doing double duty as a publicist this week! First, one of my aprons was chosen to be a part of the main display at the entrance. That means that every single person that came in those doors at least glanced at my apron. I had several people come by my table and ask to see "the apron in the front", so a big thank you to Marion Heintzman for including me in her beautiful display.

It was Marion who told me that I was featured in the Toronto Star the Saturday before. I found the online version immediately after I got home from move-in day and then had Carla rooting through the recycling for the print copy. This was another bestseller at the show and everyone that bought it was pretty tickled when I told them it was famous.

Finally, when I arrived on opening day, there was a little note on my table saying that Global TV had come by and selected one of my aprons to be on the Morning Show! Ah! Newspapers and now TV? Is this a dream? I tuned in the next morning while I got ready and low and behold, there it was! I'll admit I was a little disappointed that the hosts interrupted Valerie as she started talking about my apron, but I was still really proud to see it there and to be labelled as one of the top ten emerging artists at the show! (Here is the link to the video.)

I know this is a long one, but before I sign off, I'd like to extend an enormous thank you to everyone that came to visit me at the show and especially all of the friends and family that lent a helping hand. Whether you gave me your bed, brought me lunch, or actually sold aprons, you know who you are and I hope you know how much it means to me. But there are three people who get the gold star of service: my mom, my dad, and my Mike. They were incredibly supportive both leading up to and during the show. I can't possibly list all of the ways they helped, but to give you an example, I suddenly felt terribly ill on the Saturday morning and all three of them dropped everything to come to my side as quickly as possible. Thank you doesn't seem like enough for everything you've done and continue to do for me. I'll leave it at that before I start to cry. Gosh.

All in all, it was a truly fantastic experience that was worth every drop of blood, sweat and tears that went into the months preparing for it. If the Christmas show wasn't an insane 11 days, I might consider doing it again. For now, I'm just going to focus on adjusting to a more reasonable pace again, tackling that awfully lengthy "after the show to-do list" and thoroughly enjoying Spring!

Winning

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 18:44:00 +0000

Today Dear Edna turns three! If I hadn't told Mike a couple weeks ago that she was turning four, I would be here saying it's completely unbelievable to me. Haha! I'm going to take that memory lapse to mean that I'm finally settling in to my role as legit business lady, that Dear Edna is here for the long haul, and that my dreams are coming true. For real! The One of a Kind Show is a prime example. Whenever friends and family mentioned it, I always laughed it off with a "yeah, maybe someday" comment and the occasional eye roll, honestly thinking that it could never happen. And here I am, five days away from the doors opening on that reality. I guess you all had faith in me whenever I didn't, and for that, a million times thank you! You're the definition of support and I am incredibly grateful for that today and every day that I get to live this crazy craft dream.

Ok, enough mushy stuff. Let's celebrate! Unfortunately, those lavender cupcakes are long gone, but I did promise a giveaway. So, with no further ado, the lucky winner is.....

Congratulations, Jenn! Please email me at dearednashop [at] gmail [dot] com to claim your prize. Thanks to everyone that entered. I hope to still see you all at the show. You can buy discounted tickets here.

One week!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:30:00 +0000

Today I spent some time going through the artisan profiles on the One of a Kind Show website and I'm blown away by the talent that is going to be joining me in the Etsy section! I mean, look! I only spotted one other Hamiltonian, but I was surprised to see there are some making the trek from as far as British Columbia, Quebec and Nova Scotia. It makes me incredibly happy and excited to see these businesses given a chance this year and I'm so honoured to be among them!

Aide Bodycare; AVW Photography; bubynoa; Carococo

Clayshapes Pottery; deermayor; Handsome & Lace; Hen Jewelry

Love at First Blush; Matt Kowalski; Morico; nature's my friend

Organic Quilt Company; Smash Printing; SMITH handmade; Soap Utopia

things from secret minouette places; White Feather Designs; With Love Lingerie; Zukzuk

I also found out this week that one of my aprons has been chosen to be in the main display as soon as you walk in the entrance! If you plan on attending, be sure to check it out.

Finally, don't forget to enter my contest to win a pair of tickets to the show. I'll be drawing a winner tomorrow!

OOAK Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 19:08:00 +0000

I'm in the One of a Kind Show home stretch now, with less than two weeks to go! Basically, if I'm not sewing, I'm thinking (a.k.a. obsessing) about it. I even had a nightmare about the show last week! But, worries aside, I think things are coming along nicely — my shelves are stocked to capacity with aprons and tea cosies, and I've turned my focus now to creating some smaller items, like the cute "All Shook Up" zipper pouch you see here. Being able to play around with new fabrics and designs seems to be calming my nerves a little, so I'm going with it. Next week also marks a couple exciting milestones for me... Dear Edna's third anniversary and my last week of working full-time at my day job! Ah! I know! To celebrate, I'm giving away one of these new pouches and a pair of tickets to the show. Simply leave a comment below to enter. I'll draw the winner next Thursday, March 21st. Good luck!

Shop Update

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 20:43:00 +0000

Mikey J was very kindly designing some promotional materials for me this past weekend and discovered a bunch of photos we had taken last year that never made it into the shop. They are two of my favourite aprons too. They must have got lost in the holiday shuffle. Anyways, the good news is there are now two beautiful new reversible aprons available for purchase! Woo!

This will probably be it for new listings until after the One of a Kind Show. Also, a word of warning, I'll be closing my Etsy shop for the duration of the show, March 27th-31st, and there are no guarantees as to what will be available afterwards, so if you have your eye on something (ahem... Mother's Day... ahem), I'd advise you to snatch it up in the next three weeks.

On that note, I'm heading back to the sewing table for the remainder of the afternoon. Tea cosies are next on the agenda... the requisite tower of batting should find its way to Instagram shortly. Haha!

Country Bread

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:21:00 +0000

I have wanted to do try my hand at homemade bread for SO long, and like most things you put off for a long time, I found there was nothing to be scared of at all. Don't believe the hype, baking bread is actually really simple and easy. At least this recipe is. There is no labourious kneading or special equipment required, just a few extra pantry items and a lot of waiting while the yeast does it's thing. I got the recipe from Carla, which I've reproduced below, but be sure to head over to Carla's blog before you start baking, as she has great pictures and notes of the entire process.

That being said, I have a few notes of my own. I should warn you that my bread didn't rise nearly as much as Carla's did. As you can see from her pictures, her bread was overflowing out of the pan and onto the counter, whereas mine had barely reached the top of the pan! After much worrying, Googling and texting, we decided that it was because my kitchen is pretty cold. I moved the bowl to a warmer spot and then went shopping. Haha! I basically let it sit for an additional 3 hours – it rose a little more, about an inch above the pan, but at this point I was tired of waiting, so threw it in the oven, and it came out beautifully. Again, no need to worry. I've since discovered a much better proofing method whereby you warm your oven up to about 200 degrees, then turn it off and insert your bread bowl with a damp tea towel covering it. Works like a charm.

This is a dense, hearty bread that goes great with any dish that needs "sopping up". We've used it to clean our bowls of clam chowder, stew and pasta, and enjoyed every last bite. We've made this bread twice and Mike had the great idea of topping one loaf with an egg and herb mixture before popping it in the oven, which added amazing flavour (see last photo). And, you know, nothing beats the smell of fresh baked bread floating through your house. We're in the home stretch of winter here, and this is the kind of comfort food we need to get us through it!

Country Bread
via Chef Michael Smith

3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup any multigrain mix (I used Red River cereal)
1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 1/4 cups warm water

In a large bowl whisk the dry ingredients together, evenly distributing the salt and yeast throughout the flour. Pour in the warm water and stir with the handle of a wooden spoon until a moist dough forms. Continue stirring until the dough incorporates all the loose flour in the bowl, 1 or 2 minutes in total. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rest in a warm place for 18 hours. The dough will double in size and bubble (don’t worry if you don’t see this happening – I didn’t notice a difference in the dough until the 18 hours were up), and long elastic gluten strands will form without laborious kneading.

Knock the dough down and toss it with a splash of vegetable oil, evenly coating the dough ball. Form it into a 9- x 5-inch (2 L) loaf pan and, without covering, rest it a second time. In 2 to 3 hours it will double in size once more.

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). When the dough is ready, bake for 45 minutes. (This will result in a crunchy crust. If you prefer your bread softer, bake at 400 for about 35-40 minutes.)

Cue Soundtrack: Ben Gibbard with Trio Ellas

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 14:54:00 +0000

I've been trying to make a conscious effort to live in the moment lately and appreciate the season I'm in. No daydreaming the winter away and then wishing for it again in August, type of thing. Which is all fine and dandy when the snow is gently falling and you're cosy in bed with a book and a cup of tea. However, freezing rain on the first day back to work after a long weekend is, quite frankly, a challenge in mental stability. I usually turn to music to pull me out of these kinds of lows, and this beautiful tune is doing the trick for me today. I hope it does the same for you!

Be Mine

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 18:55:00 +0000

(top to bottom) beautiful bouquet via Uschi & Kay; wood menu by Julie Song Ink via Style Me Pretty; tea heart photo by Oksana Nazarchuk; lavender truffles via Design Sponge; heart sleeve by love made me do it; rose cupcakes via Bakers Royale; adorable girl and her sugar cookies via Sweet Paul; embroidered skirt (no longer available from Anthropologie) via Doe C Doe; février calendar by Zü; rose photo by morning headache

Is it just me, or did the internet explode with hearts, flowers and pink glitter today? Quite frankly, I think it's gone a bit overboard. Does anyone like Valentine's Day that much? This seems like a trend for every holiday, actually. But rather than grumble and gripe about it anymore, I've decided to take the high road and pick out a few of the gems that jumped out at me amidst the love-invasion today. And rather than my usual Etsy collage, I turned to Pinterest as my source of inspiration this time. Happy Valentine's Day... I hope it brings you lots of sweetness and joy! xo

Namesakes

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:57:00 +0000

How incredible is this photo? I think I audibly gasped when it turned up in my Google search. (Yes, I was Googling my name. Don't pretend you don't do it too.) Obviously I was dying to know more about the story behind the photo and a quick email to the owner of the website was well worth it. The man in the photo is Fred Bauman and the plane is a P-51 fighter-bomber, which he flew in missions from Iwo Jima to Japan and back during WWII. He named it after his wife, Edna. Fred passed away in 2003, but Edna is still alive today, living in Rochester, and will turn 91 this March! Take what you will from the fact that Dear Edna's anniversary is in March too. I was given her mailing address and am seriously considering sending a note to let her know of her namesake. What do you think?

Since we're on the topic of namesakes, it's only fitting that I explain where my "Dear Edna" comes from. It is probably the most common question I get asked about my business, especially since my name isn't Edna at all. In fact, I received an email from Expat Edna just a couple weeks ago, curious for that very reason. That's fair — I would want to know too. But I'm always a little trepidatious when it comes to answering this question because it has the risk of being taken offensively. You see, it was the name that two of my girlfriends gave me one evening when we were all behaving like "old crones", as we liked to call it. Before you jump to the "oh, so you think I'm old" reaction, Ednas of the world, you can't deny that it's an old-fashioned name. My friends Bea and Gert were born of that evening as well, and our new monikers stuck, as nicknames do. We ended up addressing birthday cards and emails to each other using these alteregos and short story-lines even developed. Edna hitches up her horse-drawn carriage to go to the quilting bee, for example. Haha! Silly girls.

So when it came time to name my business, for which traditional wares like aprons and tea cosies were the focus, Edna naturally came up. I bounced around a few other names for awhile, but always came back to dear ol' Edna. It just felt right and of course now I can't imagine anything else.

Ever since this photo popped up, I've been really interesting in names and their histories. I loved this article on business names by The Design Trust, for example. If there is a story behind your name or something you have named, please share. I'd love to hear your stories!

Homemade Granola Bars

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:08:00 +0000

One thing I love to eat but hate to buy is granola bars. Their size and nutritional value never seems to live up to their price. But they're such a convenient snack to grab when you're running out the door. The only solution to this very first-world problem is to make them yourself. That way you know exactly what's in them and a pan of about twelve bars costs less than five bucks.

With this in mind, when my friend Susie posted her recipe for homemade granola bars on her blog, Clean Eats Pink Treats, I immediately pinned it. That was six months ago. Susie used a Barefoot Contessa recipe for inspiration and made some healthy additions and substitutions with ingredients like flax, coconut oil and Splenda. If you're like me and don't have these ingredients already in your pantry, please don't let that hold you back for half a year. As I discovered, this recipe is incredibly flexible. I didn't have ground flax, so I increased the coconut oil. All out of almonds, so I used chopped walnuts. Brown sugar, instead of Splenda. Easy peasy. I also decided at the last minute to chuck in some chocolate chips. One thing you should remember, though, is that the mixture is warm, so you should let it cool a bit before you add chips or even just sprinkle them on top after baking. Otherwise they will melt immediately into chocolate soup. Still tasty, but messy.

Long story short (sort of), Susie's subtitle "ridiculously delicious bars" is spot on. They were a huge hit in our house and a second batch is requested for this week. I hope you'll try them too, experiment with the ingredients and let me know how they turned out in the comments below.

Homemade Granola Bars

via Clean Eats Pink Treats

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped or sliced almonds (I used walnuts instead)
1/2 cup ground flax (or 4 tbsp coconut oil)
1/3 cup honey
3 tbsp peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp Splenda brown sugar (or 4 tbsp regular brown sugar)
1 cup dried fruit (I used cranberries and dates)

Preheat oven to 350. Spread oats and almonds on a baking sheet and pop in the oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, and reduce oven heat to 300. Combine oats and almonds with ground flax in a bowl.

In a sauce pan over medium heat combine honey, peanut butter, vanilla, coconut oil, and brown sugar. Cook together until its well blended and smooth. Remove from heat and pour over oats, almonds and flax. Add in dried fruit and stir well to combine. Pour into the bottom of a 9x9 pan lined with foil or parchment. Bake for 30 minutes.

Allow the pan to cool for a few hours to bring to room temperature before cutting. If you cut them too soon, they'll be really crumbly. Store in an air tight container.

[Update: I made this again with the flax and they came out super dry and crumbly. I recommend skipping the flax and using more coconut oil.]

Poppytalk Handmade: Love Transforms

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 14:42:00 +0000

1. Inkello 2. Janis Nicolay

3. Previously 4. Fair Morning Blue

I'm loving all the pink that has flooded Poppytalk Handmade for their love-themed market. I'm sure we could all use a little more warm and fuzzy this time of year, so be sure to check it out! xo

Slow Living

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 21:08:00 +0000

Here's a little peak at what I've been up to since the holidays. In a nutshell, it's been a glorious example of slow living. When I wasn't sleeping, I was snacking, reading, and crafting to my heart's content. I wish it could last forever, but of course, all of this is about to change as I gear up for the One of a Kind Show. At least I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed it while it lasted and know that I am jumping into this new adventure fully rested and re-energized!

I bought my resident chocoholic a set of three Mast Brothers bars for Christmas and we were thrilled to discover that the chocolate was as beautiful as the packaging. They were incredibly delicious. We wanted to make them last, but who were we kidding, they were gone within the week and Mikey J is already planning another order.

Tis' the season to get out the woolies, and thus I've started to crochet yet another baby afghan. As a lover of taupe, green and cream, I was drawn to this variegated yarn in the store and didn't realize until I got home that it's basically camo. Haha! It'll suit a boy, I suppose.

A friend of mine recently commented that she didn't see me as a graphic novel type, which is funny because I love them! Mikey J came home with the second volume of Fables recently and it was immediately consumed over two evenings. So good!

I think I mentioned before that I've been trying to get into looseleaf tea and I've been enjoying experimenting with various blends from David's Tea, Ceylon Tea Bush, and Steeped. Would you like me to share my favourites when I'm done?

We treated ourselves to a new TV with our Christmas money this year and many, many hours were spent obsessively configuring it to Mikey J's standards (as seen here). We watched quite a few movies in the process and have nearly seen all of the Oscar noms now.

Of course I couldn't escape from sewing completely. A few orders trickled in after the holidays, and I jumped at the chance just so I could test some of the new sewing tools I received in my stocking, like this handy dandy Nancy Zieman seam guide. Woo!

One of a Kind News

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 19:57:00 +0000

I hope everyone is having a great start to new year! Mine has certainly brought a few surprises already, the main one being my acceptance to the One of a Kind Show this Spring! A few months ago, the One of a Kind Show and Etsy announced that they were partnering up for the Spring show to give some of the smaller Etsy businesses a foot in the door of the largest consumer craft show in North America. I couldn't see how I could pass up that kind of opportunity, so I applied, not thinking at all that I would actually get in. And then I got the phone call! My body has been juggling shock, excitement and pure terror ever since, and I don't expect that situation to change until April 1st. I have no idea how to prepare for 60,000 shoppers. All I know is, I better start sewing. So much for the relaxing winter I had planned. Haha! 2013... full steam ahead!

My Workroom

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 21:28:00 +0000

I recently applied for a craft show that required me to include photos of my workroom. No problem, surely I have some somewhere. Many hours of searching later, I realized I indeed had none! Shame on me, considering how much I enjoy photos of other artists' studios. So, please excuse me for not inviting you earlier... welcome to my workroom!

Basically, my workspace takes up the entire top floor of the two-story condo apartment I share with my boyfriend. When I moved in (almost four years ago, now), we fully intended to make the space an office/library. We installed a walk-in closet, hardwood flooring, and bookshelves and even purchased a custom-sized couch to fit! Less than a year later, Dear Edna was born, and as we watched it take over our entire apartment, it became clear that our library vision had to take a backseat to make room for cutting tables, sewing machines, and fabric storage.

This is actually the top level of the building, so it opens out onto two beautiful rooftop patios, which spoils me with both natural light to work with and outdoor space in the warmer months. We spend as much time out there as we can, gardening, cooking, entertaining and relaxing. We love it so much and will miss it most of all if we ever move.

Sitting at this desk is actually where I spend most of my time, at least during the work week. I'm a full-time copy editor, remember? I like to surround myself here with things that make me happy, like this vintage poster we brought back from Paris.

Fabric storage and organization is a constant struggle, and what you see here is not even the half of it. There are at least ten bolts stored at my parents' house right now. Thanks, Mom and Dad!

Creating this space was the best thing I could've done for my business. Words can’t describe how nice it is to have my fabric on display, all my tools within arm’s reach, natural sunlight and a dedicated space to just create. I still thank my lucky stars every day that I sit down to work here!

One Great Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 16:02:00 +0000

Merry Christmas Eve, everyone! Let's be honest now... all the greeting cards, decorating, baking, caroling and general yuletide make this time of year truly special. But you'd be lying if you said you didn't love the gifts too. So it only seems fitting to end this 12 Days of Christmas with a present from me to you. It's the least I can do for all the support, encouragement, likes, tweets, hearts, high fives and howdeedos you've thrown my way this year. Shucks, guys, you're the best! So here's the deal, I'm giving each of you a chance to win a special Dear Edna holiday gift pack consisting of one reversible apron, one tea cosy and one wine tote! One winner, three gifts. Oh, I love you. Yes, I do!

To enter the contest, simply leave a comment below. Plus, if you mention Dear Edna and this giveaway on twitter or facebook, you will get another entry for each. The contest is open to everyone, in all locations. The contest ends on December 31st at midnight. If I do not hear back from the winner within 48 hours of the announcement, I will redraw.

Good luck!

**********************************************************************************************************************************
And the randomly chosen winner is....

Congratulations, Jill! Your package of Dear Edna holiday goodies is on its way!

Thank you so much to everyone that entered!

2 Christmas Crafts

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 22:26:00 +0000

The Christmas cards are in the mail, the baking is in the oven, the gifts are under the tree... sounds like you have some time to get crafty with me! How adorable is this embroidered ornament and those Christmas tree tea bags? They are both perfect either as small gift or party favour or as an extra special gift topper, but the best part is, they are super easy and quick to whip up. Gather your materials, pour a glass of wine, and let's do this!

After seeing this beautiful blog post, this tea lover couldn't resist giving these a try. And now that my sewing room is covered in tea leaves, I figured a few more detailed, and English, instructions were in order.

1. Supplies: looseleaf tea (I used Tealish's Christmas blend), tea filter bags, needle and thread, scissors, and old Christmas cards or wrapping paper for the tag.
2 & 3. Draw a Christmas tree shape on the bag. Sew around the tree, leaving the bottom open. If using a sewing machine, be gentle -- paper is lot more delicate than fabric. Cut as close as you can to the seam.
3. Fill with about a teaspoon of tea.
4. Gently shake the leaves through to the tip of the tree. Sew up the end.
6. Thread your needle and draw it through both the top of the tree and the paper tag. Tie in a knot. You're done!

My embroidery practice continues. This one turned out so cute that I had grand plans of making a bunch of them in time for the craft show. But, as usual, I overestimated my time and ended up completing just this one. Haha! I'm now planning to put one of these on every gift. I never learn.

Supplies: 4" embroidery hoop, two 5x5 pieces of fabric for front and back, embroidery thread, needle, fabric glue, foam core board or thick cardboard.
1. Click here to download the Joy image. Trace it onto fabric. There are lots of ways to do this, but I like to use a combination of carbon paper and a vanishing fabric marker. Add the snowflake and border freehand with your fabric marker and embroider away using your preferred stitch! I used a split stitch here.
2. To finish off the back, sew around the edges in a circle and pull tight, like a drawstring.
3. On a piece of foam core or thick cardboard, trace around the inside of another 4" hoop and cut out. Place this onto the other piece of fabric and cut approximately 1" beyond the edge of the board.
4. Line the edge of the board with fabric glue and press the edges of the fabric into place.
5. Add more glue on the back of the disc and press into the back of the hoop. String some ribbon or string through the top and you're done!

3 Sweet Treats

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 19:21:00 +0000

I've been thinking about this year's Christmas baking ever since we started planning our kitchen renovations and the experience was everything I dreamed it would be. Counter space, a convection oven and a dishwasher really do change the whole game. So with my new kitchen backing me up, I decided to try a few new recipes, and they all turned about great! No crumbly caramel disasters this year. I suspect it's going to be hard to keep these around for another week!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
via Poppytalk

I can't technically call these cups, since I decided to save myself the trouble and just cut them into squares. But they are just as delicious as the cups we all know and love, just upside down. If I had to choose a favourite of the three new recipes, this would be my pick!

1 cup melted, unsalted butter
2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 1/2 cups icing sugar
1 cup smooth natural peanut butter
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups semisweet chocolate (or your choice of chocolate)

1. In a saucepan on the stovetop, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter.
2. In a stand mixer on low setting, or mixing by hand with a wooden spoon in a medium bowl, mix together melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, icing sugar, peanut butter and vanilla extract until combined.
3. Pour into the baking pan and spread evenly along bottom of pan.
4. In a double boiler (or using a ceramic or metal bowl over top of a saucepan of low boiling water), melt the chocolate.
5. Pour melted chocolate on top of graham cracker layer and spread evenly.
6. Place in refrigerator to set, about 30 minutes.
7. Using a circular cookie cutter, punch out circle shaped peanut butter cups! Or just cut out into squares (or some sort of shape) with a knife.

Mexican Chocolate Bars
via Food and Drink Magazine 2012 Holiday Issue

Imagine that nanaimo bars joined a biker gang... this is what they would look like. These bad boys are seriously rich, triple rich to be exact: a chocolate crust; a soft, spicy chocolate centre; and a hard chocolate top. But don't let their decadence intimidate you, just make sure you cut your squares small and pour a glass of milk before you dig in!

CRUST
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp grated orange grind
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

FILLING
1 1/2 cups whipping cream
1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
1/2 tsp allspice berries
1/2 tsp whole cloves
1/4 tsp chili flakes
8 oz (1 cup) bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
1 large egg, beaten

TOPPING
2 oz (1/4 cup) bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 tbsp unsalted butter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, walnuts, cocoa powder, sugar, salt and orange rind in a bowl. Add egg and melted butter and stir until well combined. Scrape mixture into prepared pan and use your fingertips to press it down into an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes or until crust looks matte and is dry to the touch. Set aside.
3. Pour whipping cream into a small heavy pot. Use a mortar and pestle to crush cinnamon stick, allspice and cloves into coarse pieces (this will be strained out later, so you don't have to go crazy). Add crushed spices and chili flakes to cream. Bring cream just to a boil over medium heat. Remove and let stand 20 minutes to steep.
4. Heat oven to 325°F.
5. Place chocolate in bowl. Return cream to medium heat and bring just to a boil again. Immediately pour through a strainer onto chocolate. Let chocolate stand 30 seconds, then stir until melted and smooth. Stir in egg until just combined. Pour chocolate mixture onto prepared crust and bake in the oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until just set with a slight wiggle in the centre. Cool and chill for 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Melt butter and remaining chocolate in double boiler or heavy-bottomed sauce pan and spread evenly over top layer. Chill for another 30 minutes or until firm. Cut into squares.

Super Soft Snickerdoodle Cookies

via theKitchn

A nice break from all the chocolate, these are kind of like a cinnamon roll in cookie form. If they weren't so sweet already, I'd be tempted to ice them. They didn't turn out as flat as shown in the original recipe, but they are still light and fluffy, as promised, and difficult to eat just one. I burned a batch (still getting used to that new oven), and the commentators seem to insist that cream of tartar is necessary, so maybe I'll give it another go with a more traditional recipe.

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
3 cups flour
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 eggs
1 teaspon vanilla extract

For the cinnamon sugar:
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Heat the oven to 425°F. Gently melt the butter in a saucepan or in the microwave and let it cool while you mix the dry ingredients. Stir together the sugars, flour, spices, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the eggs into the cooled butter and add the vanilla. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until it comes together.

In a soup plate or shallow bowl, mix together the white sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Form small 1 1/2-inch balls of dough and roll them in the cinnamon sugar. Place them on an unlined, ungreased baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake for 7 minutes then remove and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Remove to a wire rack.

The dough can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, well-wrapped. It can also be frozen in logs.

4 Favourite Ornaments

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 18:45:00 +0000

O tannenbaum! Decorating the Christmas tree is such a lovely tradition, isn't it? Each ornament seems to have a story all its own and I really loved reading about some of Carla's favourites last year. I believe she got the idea from her friend Joanne the year before. So this year, I think I'll take up the tradition and share some of the trinkets on my tree!

Next to my Baby's First Christmas ball, this is the second oldest ornament on my tree and one of my very first sewing projects. Not bad needlework for a four-year-old! I wonder if I should track down my kindergarten teacher and thank her for that?

Mike bought me this ornament for our first Christmas together in Hamilton. If you love Christmas as much as I do, you will understand how much this means to me. I can't help but wonder if our grandchildren will be hanging it on their tree one day and sharing this story. Sorry for the sap, but if there's a place for sap, it's on the Christmas tree! Har har!

I bought this at the Maker's Market last year from a local stained-glass artist (I feel horrible that I can't remember the gentleman's name). This ornament is beautiful on its own, but what makes it extra special is that the glass was actually taken from an old home right here in Hamilton. I obviously fell in love with this idea and bought four or five more to give as gifts.

My mom dropped off a bunch of my ornaments this year that were gifted to me as a child and I was quite surprised to find this one included. It was a gift from my godparents and it's always been a favourite of my entire family. It was a bit of a tradition to find the perfect spot on the tree for this beauty and everyone knew the rules — in front of a light and with lots of space to hang. Haha!

I could go on and on, there are so many that I love, but alas it's Day 4, so I'm cut off. Maybe I'll share some more next year. What are some of your favourite ornaments and family decorating traditions?

{Guest Post} 5 Vintage Vignettes

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 20:52:00 +0000

Season’s Greetings, Dear Edna readers! It’s Carla from DeFacto Redhead here, giving a helping hand to Erin for Day 5 of her 12 Days of Christmas posts. Last year I wrote on her blog for Day 6, and I discussed my obsession with Pyrex and the resulting fascination with all things vintage kitchen. This whole dishes thing is an interest I share with my mom (Jill, from A Little Bit of Everything), and this year we are still on the vintage track, but have veered way over into vintage Christmas. We are also pushing our “door shelves” on anybody who will listen. My mom discovered this hot-ticket item on…Pinterest (surprise!), and my dad, being the handyman that he is (and also being completely worn down by our repeated requests to “build us that shelf”), finally acquiesced to our pleas (i.e. demands). The result is pictured below, and I have decorated it for the first time with vintage Christmas finds I have picked up throughout the years, with special items that used to belong members of my family, and with knick-knacks that mean something to me and my “beau,” Darcy. It’s no secret that I am a sentimental person, and as Edna herself would likely say, this five-shelf display is a perfect reflection of my personality. “Dear” reader, consider us acquainted.

Here is the door shelf, in all its glory! I do believe I hear In Excelsis Gloria every time I look at it.

Technically, nothing on this shelf is vintage (the Charlie Brown book is from 2008), but my dad did make the wooden snowman for my great-grandmother in 1994 (there is an inscription on the back), and come on, let’s get real — it’s A Charlie Brown Christmas, people!

The Christmas Dictionary on the left is from Christmas 1963, and was given to Mark Minor from Mrs. Wellwood. I have always imagined this was a gift from a teacher to a student. Perhaps Mark was curious about Christmas terminology? (Also, don’t miss the red Pyrex fridgie filled with vintage bulbs!)

The Christmas Favorites book on the right has a 1951 copyright date, and I find the Christmas with the Chippers record interesting because it was made in Canada, specifically “Scarboro,” Ontario. How long ago was the Scarborough we know today spelled without the “u-g-h” on the end?

Everyone must remember their Little Golden Books from when they were kids – I know I certainly do! I don’t recall having the book on the left, but this copy of The Animals’ Christmas Eve must have made somebody happy around the copyright date of 1977.

This Little Golden Book — Frosty the Snowman —is inscribed “Best Wishes for Jay J. in 1973, Grandma H.” I remember having this book, too, and I’m sure I loved it. After all, if it’s Christmas related, I’m pretty much sold.

Happy holidays, everyone!

6 Holiday Hamilton Happenings

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Image via Hamilton Postcards

Art Crawl / Dec. 14 / James St. North / A great opportunity to pick up some unique gifts and support some amazing small businesses. Make sure to stop in to Needlework for the special Handmade Holiday Market presented by Mint Textile Studio.

Kitestring Christmas Spectacular / Dec. 14 / Hamilton Conservatory for the Arts / This fourth annual bash will feature live music, dancing, "mountains of snacks", and sweet alcoholic treats. All profits benefit Culture for Kids in the Arts.

Toronto All-Star Big Band / Dec. 15 / 2 pm / Hamilton Place / I had the opportunity to see this big band play last year and was blown away. These kids can really belt out the oldies. I've been wanting to see their holiday show ever since, unfortunately, something always seems to come up. This year is no exception, so I'm counting on you to attend and report back, OK?

Sonic Unyon Christmas Party / Dec. 15 / Now in it's 21st year, I think it's safe to call this event a Hamilton tradition. I remember attending as a teenager, so, yeah, it's like, pretty old. Ha! This year's lineup includes Terra Lightfoot, New Hands, Kestrels vs Electroluminescent, and Cardboard Nationals.

Vinyl Cafe Christmas Tour / Dec. 19 / 7 pm / Hamilton Place / Stuart McLean is bringing a special holiday edition of his popular radio series, The Vinyl Cafe, to the stage and is making a stop in Hamilton. I don't follow the show, but if you do, you may like to know that the concert will include two brand new Dave and Morley stories and Christmas music performed by “The Vinylettes” and Vancouver singer-songwriter Reid Jamieson.

Dundurn Castle / until Dec. 23 / There are some wonderful events planned for Dundurn Castle this entire holiday season, from baking and craft workshops, to caroling and, of course, seeing the castle all decked out for Christmas. If you want a sneak peak, the Beaux Mondes ladies wrote about their recent visit here.