Bewitched by Shiny Things? September 16, 2011

This gorgeous witch's hat was handmade by Erin

I’m so distracted! School has just started and the leaves are starting to show brilliant shades of golds and reds. We are fortunate to live in western Washington where the fall color reveals itself against a backdrop of evergreen. Grey skys give way to sun breaks throughout the day. The daytime temps are perfect, hovering between 60 and 70 degrees. I can walk outdoors in the fresh air to fetch an espresso on the corner in the middle of the day and then snuggle up in a cozy blanket, a poodle and a good read in the evening (or the DVR).

And, Halloween is lurking around the corner. But that’s not what bewitches me this time of year. I must confess, I’m completely lured by shiny things. Shiny things like handmade baubles – with semi precious stones, vintage objects, crystals and dichroic fused glass. I’m equally enchanted by sparkles on clothing and bedazzled by the sheen of newly created silk and wool textiles – designed into wearable art. And then there is the glow and warmth of aromatic candles, decor and handmade soaps.

Okay, I must compose myself. I know I can get retail therapy year-round, but shiny things are somehow more bewitching in the fall. I hope you can come to Collage and see all the alure of our shiny things for yourself! – Michelle (one of the coop artists)

The apple didn’t fall far from the tree! June 4, 2011

Andria Senini is a multi-talented local artist specializing in Handmade Textiles and lives right here in Kirkland!  Her amazing original designs are ready to wear (quite literally off the runway a.k.a…the Kirkland, WA Carillon Point walkway). Her skills have been honed from a very successful career in the textile industry. Andria knits, felts, sews, dyes, stamps, fuses, blends and the list goes way beyond textiles. She makes gorgeous soap wrapped in felted wool, perfume, jewelry and even spice rubs. There is always something new to discover and enjoy in her unique designer collections at Collage.

Andria’s mom visited our shop and we learned that she is an interior designer. Now we know that the apple didn’t fall far from the tree! Stop by to see the latest designs and you might find yourself wearing something new!

The spring air at Collage is ambrosial! March 26, 2011

We can’t say enough about our new local artisan Rebecca Wood’s Contry Meadow Soaps! Rebecca’s luxury spa spring collection of handmade soap is made with all natural ingredients, featuring ultra-rich moisturizers and fragrant delights.

While Rebecca is new to Collage, she brings several years of experience making luxury spa products that are both decadent and eco-friendly.

These locally handmade soaps smell so good you will be tempted to use them as sachets! Rebecca’s scents are delicious and divine. They are also beautifully packaged, making terrific gifts that you won’t find anywhere else.

These heavenly spring scents include: Melissa Pear, Blue Lotus, Asiatic Lily & Cantaloupe, Anjou Pear Blossum, Honeydew Pear and Ume Blossom. These soaps are made from the finest ingredients including: Saponified oils of soybean, coconut, shea butter, rice bran oil, castor oil, tussah noil silk, fragrance and mica.