In the store: Hand Printed Summer Sleepwear

 

clockwise from top left: turquoise square night shirt - $53 / organic cotton blue flower night shirt - $88 / neem pj set (pants not pictured) - $60 / organic cotton night shirt with collar detail - $88 / gray and burgundy block night shirt - $53 / organic cotton blue flower robe - $93

Summer is in full swing, and there's really nothing more we could ask for on warm nights than these hand block printed nighties and PJs. Sheer and cool, with the gorgeous detail of artisan printing. 

Various techniques are used in the hand block printing process. One method, shown below of our Blithe Neem pajamas, involves carving a teak block and printing repeatedly over cotton or silk fabric. Each color is meticulously printed in a multitude of steps - the result is an exquisite, detailed intricacy of pattern.

images of neem PJS being printed courtesy of Blithe © 2011

images of neem PJS being printed courtesy of Blithe © 2011

images of neem PJS being printed courtesy of Blithe ©2011

images of neem PJS being printed courtesy of Blithe © 2011

Textile designer John Robshaw says of another hand block printing process, "It's so simple and natural. You touch a woodblock to wet clay and then to the fabric. After the clay dries, you dip the cloth into the indigo vat and the clay stays on. One dip gives the fabric a sky-blue color, two dips and it deepens to cobalt, three dips and its a saturated midnight blue. Then the fabric is laid out to dry in the sun and later the clay is washed off. The dyer says the indigo vats are like a mistress because they need constant attention. I was completely fascinated by the dyeing and printing processes, as well as how the finished product is used. Textiles become intimate companions in daily life, whether as a pillow, bedcover or sarong." 

The result is a florid, human creation. As opposed to a mechanical mass printing, hand block printing requires artisans to have a deep knowledge and perfection of the craft. We love that this sleepwear supports artisans that have been printing textiles for generations.

For more information on supporting artisans around the world, check out Aid to Artisans. 

Looks We Love: Plants for the Bath

via knowhowshedoesit

These days, it's tough to keep up with outdoor potted plants - Austin's sweltering heat and dry climate isn't exactly a plant's paradise. That's why we love the idea of bringing plants inside, especially to the less expected space of the bath.

via remodelista

A humid climate is perfect for a lot of flora, and depending on the availability of light, there are a wide range of options for creating your own green oasis. Not only do plants offer a visual sense of calm, studies show that they have the ability to improve our physical and psychological health.

via apartment therapy

via design sponge

For more green inspiration, stop by our store and explore our floral collection.

Welcome, Summer

In Austin, summertime means a few things: morning famer's market excursions, afternoon swims at Barton Springs, long nights on patios in the company of friends, and dining al fresco once the day's heat has subsided.

 To celebrate summer's start, create a private cocktail party with our unique collection of glassware and outdoor accoutrements.

 

clockwise from top left: metal twig fork & spoon set - $80 / wood plates - $22 - $26 / small succulent - $35 / large succulent - $30 / printed glass cups - $18 / striped picnic blanket - $100 / glass liter bottle - $40 / linen napkins - $24 / striped glass tumblers - $8 /

We're lucky enough in Austin to have any number of outdoor offerings; this week, pack your picnic and catch a movie out on the lawn at Cinema East or stop by Blues on the Green at Zilker Park.

Trending: summer stripes

 via miss moss

One trend that seems to always be in is a classic stripe - in the wardrobe and the home. In bold colors or casual neutrals, stripes add a look of timelessness and comfort to any room. This summer, pair natural stripes with fresh whites or bright solids. 

  

an Austin, TX home via apartment therapy

 bold and classic black & white striped floor via apartment therapy

In the store:

 vintage ticking bedding

 fireside throw

linen stripe print pillow and grain sack stripe pillow

organic cotton gauze towels 

more stripes on sale at Wildflower -- perfect to mix and match.

New Bedding from Peacock Alley !

Christmas in July! We just received a HUGE shipment of brand new bedding from Peacock Alley! Some special guests are dropping by tomorrow to help us unpack and merchandise all these beautiful new things. Join us from 3-6pm this Tuesday for special savings and a sneak peek of these fresh, timeless pieces.

Exciting Summer Products!

Come Check out some of our fun summer products to help you celebrate this Forth of July Holiday!

Come see our new bright and beautiful tunics!

Add some color to your day with these lovely beach bags and rugs in vivid colors!

And don't forget to relax and enjoy your holiday with these fun patio chairs!

Happy First Day of Summer!

It's time for new summer bedding. Come in to get ideas and check out our summer selection.

April Showers Bring May Flowers... and Succulents!

Morgan has been hard at work on tons of new planters for the store. Beautiful and unique, these one of a kind creations are sure to bring vibrant color and joy to any room in your home. Pictures don't do these things justice... come see for yourself!

Love the weather

its time to be outside.
find yourself the perfect chair.

slatted teak chair 20% off when you mention the blog

Let's Go.

This spring heat has me daydreaming of summer roadtrips and basking on the beach. Whether it's a cross-country adventure or a day-trip to Barton Springs, we've got everything you need to hit the road in style. Here's a look at some of our new favorite things to throw in your suitcase:

John Robshaw duffle bags are perfect for a weekend getaway

Beautiful lightweight scarves

Flowy white tunics, tops, and dresses

Colorful towels for beach or bath

Adorable cosmetic bags in tons of different colors and sizes

These lightweight throws can be used for lots of different things. We think they would be great to spread out at the beach or for a picnic at the park. Love the fringe!

Beach tote!

Beautiful embroidered tunic. Looks awesome paired with the red tassel beaded necklace.

Don't forget to accessorize: tons of new jewelry from local designers!

Happy trails!