Inspiration - Project Runway-style

For 14 seasons, I've been a fan of the reality show Project Runway. Though I've never been a seamstress, every season I am amazed with the talented designers who take fabric, a design, and scissors, and create something magical.

It's what we do, too, as card makers, paper crafters, and creative people. We take raw materials and GO! Sometimes we have "Make it work!™" moments, sometimes our designs are winners, and sometimes we just have to say Auf Wiedersehen to a good try.

Last Thursday, episode 2 of season 14 aired, and it made my heart leap! The unconventional challenge this season was to create a look using Signature Cards from Hallmark. Yes, the cards themselves served as the medium for the runway looks. The 15 designers ransacked a card store looking for materials to create their look.

Designer Amanda Perna choosing cards to use in creating her runway look.

All Project Runway photos can be found here.

Using muslin as the base of the garment, the designers got to work creating unbelievable clothing with cards and envelopes. You can watch the full episode HERE.

Here are a few of the final looks. Keep in mind: the only fabric they used was muslin.

One of my favorite looks that didn't make the top was this one by designer Jake Wall. He layered triangles of black glitter card stock to create this gorgeous little black dress.

Another glittery get-up that garned attention from the judges was this one by designer Blake Patterson. The diamond shapes in the center of the dress have text on them. And the inside back of the skirt is lined with purple jewels.

This design from Kelly Dempsey was my favorite and also a top conender. The skirt is made of fringed and scrunched envelopes, and the top consists of paper cut into triangles to create a chic mosaic. It kind of reminds me of our Abstract Cover-Up Die-namics!

You can definitely see the card inspiration in designer Swapnil Shinde's inventive design. The top consists of circle punched pieces that he layered to create this exquisite and well-fitting top. And the floral skirt is incredible with hand cut and 3-D flowers from a variety of cards. If you get the chance, click through and take a look at the back of the top. WOWZA.

*Spoiler alert* 

The eventual winner was this stunner from designer Edmond Newton. He created the bodice with the backs of the cards and rocked a bridal look all from paper materials. Pretty magnificent, don't you agree?

I'm all about inspiration, and I made this card for my friend Holly on the occasion of her wedding. My inspiration? Her wedding invitation. It was so much fun creating something so specific just for her. I hope she loves it!

How have you been inspired lately? Where do you go when you need a shot of design ideas?

InLinkz.com

Here's to a creative and inspiring week!

Susan R. Opel
Creative Ambassador for My Favorite Things