Babywearing: the magazine | December-January 2015

PAVO & PAXBABY OUR GIFT GIVING GUIDE + babywearing new year’s resolutions

DECEMBER 2014/JANUARY 2015

BABYWEARINGTHEMAG.COM

table of contents

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6 in every issue 1 FROM THE PUBLISHER 2 CARRY ON Wrap carries to expand your repertoire. This issue: The Ruck 3 TRENDING Things we would love to see in the babywearing world.

This issue: Spring 2015 Fashion Trends 4 RETAIL THERAPY Items that make babywearing easier. This issue: Keep it Moving 5 UP & ABOUT Babywearing events around the globe. This issue: MommyCon

16 GIVING BACK Babywearing causes we care about. This issue: 3.21 18 HIP, HIP, HOORAY! Seasonally inspired babywearing items.

This issue: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year 28 CARRIED AWAY Wrapscapes that inspire.

This issue: Let it Snow 30 WRAP UP Chat with inspiring industry insiders. This issue: Ashley of Calico Sunshine

24 features 6 PAXBABY A Family Tradition 8 WONDER WOVEN 12 PAVO TEXTILES The original American wrap company 24 2015 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

from the publisher

s Photography Photo credit: Three Plu om y.c aph ogr hot threeplusp

publisher SARAH ZEENBERG sarah@babywearingthemag.com editor NOVIA CHANG editor@babywearingthemag.com art director SARAH ZEENBERG art@babywearingthemag.com business development DANNY ZEENBERG danny@babywearingthemag.com All information provided by Babywearing: the magazine, LLC, is intended for entertainment purposes only. Those who are new to babywearing should seek out the help of a local babywearing group or professional babywearing consultant. The publisher, editors, contributors and advertisers are not responsible in the actions or misuse of any individual on the basis of reading information contained in Babywearing: the magazine, LLC. The information contained herein is not a replacement for hands on instruction.

Babywearing: the magazine, LLC assumes no responsibility for the advertisers.

Babywearing: the magazine, LLC is not responsible for typographical or production errors or accuracy of information provided by its advertisers. Babywearing: the magazine, LLC reserves the right to refuse any advertiser.

Unauthorized use or reproduction of editorial content in any way whatsoever without the written consent of Babywearing: the magazine, LLC is strictly prohibited.

home for the

holidays

There is no place like home for the holidays, and for most of our babes that is cuddled close to mom or dad in a wrap, ring sling or SSC. There is nothing like a little one snuggling up and falling asleep where they feel safest. That is the best present of all — but if you are looking for something more substantial, check out our gift guide on pages 18-23.

We are also featuring some babywearing powerhouses this issue — Paxbaby and Pavo. Paxbaby is one of the largest babywearing retailers in the United States and Pavo produced the very first American wraps.

These women have paved the way for the babywearing industry in America and changed our nation’s natural parenting landscape in the process.

One of our favorite advantages to babywearing is going where no stroller can go — hiking, to the beach, or even bootcamp! We have included our favorite ways to stay active (pages 24-27), all while including your littlest.

We hope you enjoy the second issue. Have a very merry holiday season and a wonderful and prosperous new year!

XOXO,

Sarah on the cover

Pavo Textiles Giraffe Granite, Pavo Form Gotham Brick, Pavo Form Hopeful Hearts, and Pavo Textiles Etini Hibiscus.

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carry on

THE ruck After you are comfortable with front carries, back carries are the next level up in babywearing. Many people start with the BWCC (Back Wrap Cross Carry) or SHBC (Secure High Back Carry). Then the ruck is next in line. There are many variations to a simple ruck that can make it more comfortable for those who don’t prefer ruck straps. This is still our go-to for quick trips to the store, or just toddler-wearing in general (since it doesn’t last long).

We recommend saving back carries until an infant can sit up on their own, but this is ultimately the wearer’s decision based on wrapping skills and comfort level. While you are learning back carries always have a spotter and wrap over a bed or couch.

HERE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE RUCK TUTORIALS: HOW TO GET A BABY ON YOUR BACK:

4 WAYS TO GET BABY ON YOUR BACK FOR BABYWEARING by Baby Wearers Western Australia INC.

MAKING A SEAT:

MAKING A SEAT FOR A BACK CARRY by Woven Wrapped Ellie

INFANTS & TODDLERS: RUCKSACK IN WOVEN WRAP WITH TIPS TO GET AND MAINTAIN A GOOD SEAT by BabywearingFaith RUCKSACK CARRY (RUCK) WITH A WOVEN WRAP by Sarah Longwell-Stevens RUCK CARRY WITH LONG WRAP AND TIPS by Lindsay Hutchinson

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trending

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spring Top 10

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fashion trends (we would love to see in the babywearing world)

It’s no secret than many babywearers choose carriers based on color and pattern designs that coordinate with what’s in their closet. As such, we have taken the hottest trends from the spring 2015 runways that we think would look great in carrier design and colors. Some babywearing brands are ahead of the trend, in which case, you can wear that hot look now instead of waiting for spring.

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Color According to Pantone, spring will bring cooler, softer color choices and warm tones that follow a nature theme. The colors on trend for spring include cool, calming tones such as Aquamarine, Scuba and Classic Blue, Lucite Green (a sharp mint); and warm tones such as Marsala (a reddish, brick brown), Toasted Almond, Tangerine, Custard (soft, lemon yellow) and Strawberry Ice. Carriers in these hues will go nicely with spring wardrobes.

Cari Slings Cardiidae or Tigress River, carislings.com/chapters/ cardiidae/river-1 (lucite green) Neutrals Not a fan of color? Natural colored woven wraps have a cult following in the babywearing world. Some wearers swear that the lack of dyes makes carriers easier to break in and feel softer when worn. The neutral and ubiquitous black and white color combo is also hot this spring. Silver Lining Slings Natty Ashton, silverliningslings.com/americana/natty-ashton Yellow While yellow wasn’t predominant in Pantone’s hot colors for 2015, judging from the runways, it is THE hot color for spring. Before you say yellow isn’t for you, try to find the shade that’s right for your skin tone. From mustard to saffron, there’s a yellow in the spectrum for everyone. Tekhni Meandeos Limoncello, etsy.com/listing/200606828/meandros-limoncello-size3-32m Gingham and checkered patterns While plaid is trending for fall and winter, it’s the smaller design that will be in for spring. No longer reserved for picnic tablecloths, gingham will be everywhere this spring, why not on your carrier? Didymos Chequers, marsupial-mamas.com/collections/didymos/products/ didymos-chequers-cotton Large, bold and abstract floral designs Maybe we shouldn’t call floral patterns a trend as they have always been a popular design in the carrier world, but it may be time for the look to get even bigger and bolder. What could be more beautiful than fresh, feminine flowers for spring? Joy and Joe Maxi Roses, slingofest.com/wrapPage?modelId=6687

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Masculine influences Not into floral patterns on your carriers? No fear, traditionally masculine thin stripes and pinstripes are popular this spring as well.

Combined with the neutral and minimalistic black and white trend, pinstripes will make incredibly chic carriers. Uppymama Tam, uppymama.com/customdesigned-wrap-gallery/ Denim Many babywearers seek out more casual carriers that will coordinate with jeans, but since the look for spring is head-to-toe denim, your carrier should get in on the fun too. Didymos Denim Jeans with hemp, wrappedbaby.com/index. php?_a=viewProd&productId=298 Color blocking The look has stood the test of time and will continue to do so. The bold look of contrasting colors brightens all wardrobes. Not pictured.

Hand dyes and watercolor prints Hand dying wraps and carriers isn’t new, but we think carriers being produced with this look will become more popular. We have also seen an increase in handwoven wraps being woven with hand painted warps and wefts. We expect this beautiful trend to continue.

Clementine, clementinewraps.com Fringe Spring is all about movement and fringed wraps will go beautifully with fringed looks from the runway. Girasol Double Rainbow with fringe by lily & lotus, lilyandlotusdesigns.wordpress.com/photo-album/ aadrainbow2/#main

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*Please note that many, if not all, of these wraps are no longer available from the retailer. Check your favorite swap for these or similar wraps.

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retail therapy

Keep It Moving

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS CAN BE HARD TO STICK TO. HERE ARE OUR PICKS FOR KEEPING YOU MOTIVATED.

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The Babywearing Workout™ This DVD is a short 30 minute exercise video you can do in the comfort of your own home. You will get a great little workout to help you shed those pregnancy pounds and maybe more! Your baby will most likely fall into a deep slumber by the end of the workout. $9.95, thebabywearingworkout.com

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Fitbit FLEX™ Wireless Activity and Sleep Wristband This slim, stylish device is with you all the time. During the day, it tracks steps, distance, and calories burned. At night, it tracks your sleep quality and wakes you silently in the morning. Just check out the lights to see how you stack up against your personal goal. It’s the motivation you need to get out and be more active. $99.95, fitbit.com

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Up in the Ayer Babywearing Tee Wear your heart on your sleeve, or front, with this super soft, 100% cotton tee designed and made by Up in the Ayer. The front is sweet, but the back says, “If you can read this the baby fell off.” $20, facebook.com/upintheayerdesigns

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Lifefactory 16 oz Glass Bottle with Flip Cap and Silicone Sleeve Slim and mobile, the 16 oz travels wells and looks great doing it. The silicone flip top seals when plugged but is not upside-down, bottom-of-the-bag leakproof. $22.99, lifefactory.com

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up and about

MOMMYCON

2015

CHICAGO February 21st, 2015

ATLANTA March 28th, 2015

Is continuing education one of your New Year’s resolutions? MommyCon is a great resource for all things attachment parenting.

From babywearing to breastfeeding (and bottle-feeding, too!), MommyCon is a tool for upping your parenting game. Giveaways and goodie bags abound, and there are always amazing vendors if you aren’t one of the lucky ones. Whether you need advice or recommendations on car seats, cloth diapers or child-proofing, MommyCon has you covered! mommy-con.com

MINNEAPOLIS April 18th, 2015

ORLANDO May 23rd, 2015

WASHINGTON, D.C. August 22nd, 2015

If you go, make s u r e you check o wearin ut the baby g loun severa g l differ e. Try on ent ca to see rrier wh for you ich works b s es r body type. N t all car ot rier the sa s fit me!

facebook.com/mommyconusa december/january 2015

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PAXBABY a family affair

Jillian and Aaron are the parents of seven amazing kids. When we dropped in, they were working on homeschooling and entertaining baby Cate. Jillian has built a virtual babywearing empire inspired by her brood, and we were lucky enough to get a glimpse inside her world of rainbows and ring slings.

A dream that started with six Beco buckle carriers in 2007 has grown to proportions unimagined for PAXbaby. From those humble beginnings to designing arguably one of the most popular wraps of all time — Girasol Double Rainbow (RR) — Jillian doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

Jillian was introduced to babywearing with baby #1. She was gifted a Snugli carrier that her mom used with her. Next came the “twins” (babies #2 and 3) who had matching Maya Wrap baby slings, and thus the “rings on the back” carry was born. Jillian explains that the carry was actually her husband Aaron’s invention. Imagine trying to figure out how to use a ring sling pre-YouTube. Aaron did what came intuitively, and it stuck. {Watch a demo video here} After the rings revolution, baby #4 had the Beco carrier that started it all. With baby #5, Jillian used her first Girasol — Earthy Rainbow — before Girasols were readily available in the United States. Baby #6’s exclusive design was the famous double rainbow, and now baby #7 has had multiple exclusives designed just for her.

Jillian, who is most famous for her rainbows, gets inspiration from everything she comes in contact with. She studies textiles everywhere she goes. From museums to shopping for towels, nothing is off limits.

She keeps an inspiration file on her computer of hundreds of different types of rainbows. When something speaks to her, she gets to work, and approximately nine months later, a new wrap is born. Jillian equates creating new wraps to giving birth — some births are easy, and others are painful. There may be supply issues and sometimes boxes get lost in the mail, but like all births, the results are beautiful in the end.

PAXbaby is more than just pretty fabric, they also do a lot of outreach in the local community. PAXplaydates have evolved into outings including demos, giveaways, and fluff playtime, all followed by a dinner outing.

If you are not local, you can still get one-on-one help with a PAXbaby Prescription. Send in a question and one of the PAXmommies will help you with your problem. Whether it be a carrier recommendation or help with cold weather wearing, there is a PAXmommy who specializes in that! If you still aren’t sure about what carrier will suit you best, you can always try one out through the PAXbaby rental program.

Over the past seven years, Jillian has seen many changes in the babywearing industry. Rainbows have gone in and out of fashion.

Celebrities have helped make babywearing more mainstream. For the upcoming year, Jillian predicts mei tais will be making a comeback, and for PAXbaby, 2015 will be “The Year of the Rainbow.” We can’t wait to see what they have in store.

paxbaby.com facebook.com/PAXbaby paxbaby

WONDER WOVEN

Tracy of Wonder Woven opened her gorgeous, light-filled studio to us. A warm and genuine soul, her creativity is expressed through the intertwining colors that balance her warps. We chatted about her “bus” (the giant Glimakra loom she drives so expertly), our mutual love of seeing visual progress on a project, and the great attachment babywearers seem to have for these amazing pieces of fabric. {BWTM} How long have you been weaving? How did you first become interested? {Ww} I started weaving just over a year ago — around the time my third child turned two. My interest in weaving began when I tried my first handwoven wrap in 2008. It was a Pamir and I waited for it for nine months (this was back when they could be ordered through Vatanai). I loved the rustic quality of the cloth and its unique wrapping properties. I spent years wanting to learn how to make such a thing myself.

I followed closely many “weave along with me” threads on TBW in complete awe of the process. But I never had the space or the time to pursue it. This changed as my youngest became more independent and we moved to a larger home. I purchased my first loom without ever having held a shuttle. I had no idea whether I would enjoy it but I was so eager to try!

Weaving turned out to be exactly what I needed. A stay-at-home mom at the time, I loved spending the day with my kids but found it at times to be exasperating — especially on the days when I felt I did little outside of childcare besides moving items around the house. My need to accomplish things was constantly frustrated. But if I was to get a little time with my loom and see some fabric building up on the cloth

beam, all was right with the world. Working at the pace of a thread may seem to an outsider as impossibly slow. But, unlike in parenting, the results are immediately tangible. The weft shot is in place and it shall stay in place. If it takes thousands more to reach the end of the warp — well, at least the journey is likely to be one of peace and meditation. {BWTM} How does being a babywearer prepare you for weaving baby wraps? {Ww} I wore my first baby out of necessity when she was a newborn.

I gravitated toward wraps because of the creativity involved in their use. I was fascinated with the idea of taking a simple piece of cloth and transforming it into a carrier. I loved that one length of cloth could function in many different ways and fill different needs by applying a set of skills – namely, different carries. Over time, I found that the wraps not only calmed my baby but made me feel better, too. I developed a deep love for woven fabric. By the time my second and third children were born, wraps were an integral part of my parenting. But they had moved beyond functional to highly aesthetic and I faced a true sadness at the thought of leaving this phase of life behind. Weaving allows me access to the tactile world of

wraps. As a long-time wrapper, I am sensitive to texture and I aim to produce a cloth that meets the criteria that I always looked for in a wrap: something soft and strong; cushy like a hug and, above all, beautiful. {BWTM} Does your background in architecture influence your design process? Does it provide inspiration? {Ww} I find that my attitudes about architectural design do influence my design process in weaving. In architecture, I’m a bit of a purist. I prefer forms that derive from material and process, instead of being arbitrary. I believe that form should be consistent with function. In weaving, I have a similar bias. I view the elements of construction of a piece of cloth – the weft and warp threads – to be fundamentally different and I like to create a cloth that renders these differences intelligible. At its most basic, floor loom weaving is the creation of a plane out of linear elements.

The plane consists of a collection of warp threads that is held together by the weft. I like a design in which the individual nature of the warp threads can be perceived while the weft provides a coherent order to this chaos. For this reason, most of my design goes into the colorful expression of the warp. I prefer both my weft and weave structure to be simple.

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{BWTM} Where are your favorite places to draw inspiration from? {Ww} My primary inspiration comes from color. Sometimes a combination of colors will strike me and I’ll feel the need to recreate it in a warp. Sea Anemone started as a blob of mixed Play-Doh colors that my son had made. I became obsessed with the way the violet looked with the light blue and turquoise. Often I go through my yarn colors in my studio looking for hidden partners, surprise combinations or simply the perfect 5 or 6 that blend nicely one into the other. {BWTM} What was your first loom? First project? {Ww} I started on a Macomber 40” eight shaft loom built in 1970. My husband and I disassembled it for the drive home from Pasadena. My first project was putting it back together! I really love the mechanical aspect of loom construction so this was incredibly fun for me. My first weaving project was a scarf in10/2 mercerized cotton. I hated it. It’s been over a year and I still haven’t wet-finished that project. My second project was a wrap in 8/2 unmercerized cotton and I fell in love! {BWTM} How long does a typical warp take, start to finish? {Ww} My warp length ranges from 3050 yards. I allow about a week to beam, thread, sley and tie on. Depending on the length of the warp and how busy I am in other aspects of my life (with my family, my freelance work and other interests) I will reach the end of the warp in approximately 3 weeks. Mending and burling, wetfinishing, cutting, serging and hemming can take another week. I like to finish a warp about once a month. Sometimes that happens. Often it takes longer. {BWTM} What is your least favorite part of weaving? Most favorite? {Ww} Weaving can feel a bit isolating.

It is nice to have solitude in my studio but I do need to make sure I schedule in some socializing or I start to feel a bit blue. It’s also a passion that’s difficult to share with others. It is so time-consuming and the start-up costs in equipment can be a barrier. However, I’ve found that fast friendships are made when one happens upon a fellow weaver. I loved the feeling of community I experienced in the weaving class that I took when I was starting out.

There were people there who had been coming to the same class for 20 years!

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They all had looms at home, too. They only came to class for the companionship. It is wonderful when one finds an opportunity to engage in this activity alongside friends.

My favorite part of weaving would have to be beaming (winding new thread onto the loom). I love to see the warp design come to life. I love a loom that is full of potential – bursting with yarn that is perfectly tensioned and ready to weave!

on a large scale. If I like the results, I’ll hold onto the yarn until the color works with my warp. If it doesn’t work out, I put it in the scrap bin to sew into pillows! {BWTM} Do you have a favorite wrap? Why is it your favorite? {Ww} Montijello is closest to my heart. It was the first wrap that I made for someone else. I had intended to keep the other half but my kids give me so few opportunities to use wraps these days.

It was too special to sit on a shelf in my house. In the end, I sent it off, as well.

{BWTM} What is your favorite type of weave structure? {Ww} Right now, I am favoring variations of twill. I have a particular fondness for pointed twill for the added texture and visual interest it provides. I am such a minimalist when it comes to weave structure. I often sample various tie-ups and treadlings to change things up a bit but find myself coming back to the simpler structure. In my work at the moment, I prefer the main design focus to be the transitions of color in the warp. I like the weave structure to provide some interest without being too distracting. As time allows I intend to investigate the properties of other weaves in a solid color warp — for personal projects such as towels or blankets – and may put these to use in my wraps if the tactile properties win me over.

{BWTM} As a weaver, what do you think the trends will be for handwoven baby wraps in 2015? {Ww} Since I started babywearing in 2007, there has been a noticeable trend toward greater sophistication in consumers’ tastes that has grown alongside an explosion of options by manufacturers. I hope to see greater experimentation with technique among handweavers, though some of this is likely to be hampered by the proposed regulations on sling carriers if they are adopted by the CPSC. We may see a narrowing of options with the adoption of these regulations.

{BWTM} Please tell us about your design process. How do you decide on color, fiber and weave structure for each piece? {Ww} My design process is a bit nebulous. I take my time working out a color scheme. It can take weeks before I have something I’m ready to warp. I work on 1” embroidery cards to test out different color mixes. Fiddling around with yarns and color schemes may be my favorite way to procrastinate. So I do it often and sometimes inspiration will strike. When I have something I like, I’ll live with it for a while – sit the cones of yarn on my desk.

They’ll either speak to me or they won’t.

If they do, I’ll sketch out an idea for how the colors can transition across the width of the warp. At no point do I create a digital image of the design. I prefer to work with the actual yarns, diagram out the proportions in each section of the warp and let it all reveal itself when I’m beaming it on the loom. This makes it difficult to communicate a design prior to its realization. It’s one of the reasons I tend to shy away from custom designs.

I am constantly researching new yarns to use. It’s the same with testing out color ideas. I do a lot of sampling – sometimes

{BWTM} Do you have any other big plans up your sleeve? {Ww} Not with my weaving. I like my scale of operation as it is. If anything, my production might tend to slow down a bit over time. My son started preschool a couple months ago and I found myself with a block of free time for the first time in years. I had thought that I would spend the time weaving but it proved unfulfilling as a full-time occupation. I realized that I enjoy weaving for brief periods — an hour or two here and there can be highly therapeutic — but as my primary activity I get extremely bored. Fortunately, an opportunity arose to do some freelance work in architecture with a friend. I currently balance my time between the two — but at some point the scales will tip in favor of architecture. I do hope to return to work in my field full-time when my children are a little older. In the meantime, I have some weaving ambitions in the form of personal projects. Some of the ideas may find their way to my wraps. And there are more explorations to be done in color work. I have wanted to weave a true color gradation. If I find some extra time, I think it would be a lot of fun to try working with hand-dyed warps.

“At its most basic, FLoor loom weaving is the creation of a plane out of linear elements. The plane consists of a collection of warp threads that is held together by the weft. I like a design in which the individual nature of the warp threads can be perceived while the weft provides a coherent order to this chaos.� facebook.com/wonderwoven

wonderwoven.com

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PAVO TEXTILES

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the original american wrap company

A few years ago, most machine woven wraps were produced by European companies. In the spring of 2013 Pavo Textiles launched and changed the industry.

Owned by two trail blazing women, Erin Arnason and Jennifer Harris transformed the woven wrap landscape by being the first baby wearing company to manufacture exclusively in the United States.

{BWTM} How did women who live on two different coasts of the US come together to start Pavo Textiles? {PT} We came together once we discovered we had a love of textiles and a shared philosophy — A belief in art, in the value of “women’s work,” and we found we asked all the same questions about supply chain and processing as consumers. We are perfectly matched, and our bi-coastal hours allow us to have an extended work day and be available for our customers outside of nontraditional business hours. {BWTM} Why is manufacturing and finishing your wraps in the US so important? {PT} Manufacturing and finishing in the United States is important to us because we can easily go on site to see our work in development, we can make quick changes which allow us to be nimble in the marketplace, we can color correct lab dips and have fast turn around for approvals, and we can teach and learn while forging lasting relationships with our partners at the mills.

We get to know everyone on the floor who is working on our product in a more intimate way than if we were working with an overseas broker or manager, and conversely, they get to know us, which is just as important. There is a certain pride in the work when we show that we care about the person behind the machine.

Additionally, shipping is faster and less

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expensive, our carbon footprint is smaller, and we can be confident our factories are following federal EPA standards and fair labor practices, which were fought for by those in the textile industry over one hundred years ago. {BWTM} The US textile industry was on the decline for years. What do you think of the health of the industry today? Do you think that Pavo and other new US woven wrap companies are contributing to the health of the textile industry? {PT} The textile industry in the United States is in danger of becoming completely obsolete — we are only one generation away from losing centuries worth of textile expertise and skill in this country. Pavo Textiles is one small piece of the puzzle for the needed survival of a community, a company, or an individual and that is a great responsibility which we take seriously; however, it is not enough.

While we are proud we have opened the doors for other wrap companies to produce in the United States, taken as a whole, woven wrap companies cannot save textiles in America. More wraps are not sold with each new company born; the pie is not becoming larger. It is simply being sliced more thinly.

Together we can save textiles by insisting on American made, by buying for quality and heritage, and by making conscious decisions as consumers to support Made in

{

USA. Perhaps we cannot all afford to leap over to Made in USA right away, but we can slowly decide to be more deliberate in our choices. We had our organic wool rug for IBC Tempe made in New England and our totes are made locally. Every decision we make we ask, “can it be made here?” If not, we do without. It is a harder transition to make with apparel and household items, but we try. Why not? If ten out of ten things in your cart are made elsewhere, swap out just one thing for Made in USA to start.

Look at your labels — you are keeping your neighbors’ jobs alive. {BWTM} Pavo had its anniversary in April. Was the first year as you expected or different than you thought it would be? {PT} We didn’t really have any expectations when we started Pavo.

Neither of us is afraid of hard work so the hours we put in, we put in with passion and intensity. Both of our families have been incredibly supportive of our endeavor.

We are still so new that surviving the first year has been a tremendous learning experience, one which continues to inform each new decision we make. {BWTM} What challenges and successes have you had along the way? {PT} Our main challenge was that we had to start from scratch weaving woven wraps in the United States. There were

“We deliberately develop and choose wraps that have the qualities we have come to appreciate in woven; we weave for the babywearers we are.”

unreturned phone calls, awkward silences, confusion, and the lack of faith that we had a viable market worthy of anyone’s time.

We are so grateful to The Oriole Mill and to our Form mills for taking a risk on us, for listening to our needs, to going above and beyond to educate themselves about baby wearing and the requirements for the product. Now they can answer a call about woven wraps and know exactly what the inquiry means whereas before Pavo, they had no concept of what constituted a woven wrap for baby.

We have had dye house challenges, finishing challenges, and ecommerce challenges as well. We started our shop while our platform was still in beta and as a result they have tailored much of the changes around our needs, we are thankful to have a responsive and geeky ecomm team. {BWTM} What are some of your favorite moments from the past year? {PT} Some favorite moments have been seeing the reviews and pictures pour in from those who support Pavo and buy our wraps, listening to Bethanne talk about heirloom textiles and why woven wraps are the perfect expression of her work, learning that the crew at the mill hears your voice and appreciates your feedback, and the creation of the Pavo Customer Appreciation group where we able to connect with other baby wearers and learn where we are failing and succeeding. Attending the International Babywearing Conference in Tempe this past summer was amazing. We were able to meet so many wonderful people who love baby wearing as much as we do. {BWTM} Pavo West operates out of California with the Form line of wraps and Pavo East of Massachusetts with the Guild line.

What is the difference between the two lines and why are they separate? {PT} The Guild line is woven in collaboration with The Oriole Mill and all designs are executed by Bethanne Knudson, curated by Pavo Textiles, and sewn by Libby O’Bryan at Sew Co. Wraps woven at The Oriole Mill are of heirloom quality and are the best in the world. Guild takes advantage of Bethanne’s extensive knowledge of weave structures in order to constantly push the envelope on what a woven wrap can be and what innovative properties it can offer. These are wraps woven for weavers.

The Form line is woven at several different mills throughout the United States with whom we have forged strong

relationships. We work with on site designers, as well as submit our original designs for development. The Form line is at a lower price point and offers a more accessible product for those new to baby wearing. Form is playful and varied, while also being simple and expressive.

We ship from separate coasts to avoid overwhelming either one of us with shipping responsibilities. {BWTM} Pavo wraps are known to have a signature drape and memory while being very moldable and comfortable, even when wearing heavy toddlers. Were these attributes deliberately developed?

Typically, how long does it take for a wrap to go from prototype to production, and then to release? {PT} Yes. We have each been wrapping for several years and have combined experience as well as strong preferences as to what we like to see in woven wraps.

We deliberately develop and choose wraps that have the qualities we have come to appreciate in woven; we weave for the babywearers we are. We have taken the humble cotton fiber and have applied it such that it is mighty and varied in its properties.

A wrap can take as long as 18 months or as quickly as six weeks to go into production. In the beginning, things were much slower because we were still adding and subtracting from our recipe. The more complex the weave, the longer it takes to hit production; the more simple and typical the weave, the more accelerated the process. We don’t intend to stop fussing though, as that wouldn’t satisfy our need for geekery. {BWTM} With the exception of Etini Flax, all wraps have been in the Form and Guild lines have been cotton. Do you have plans for more linen or other fabric blends? {PT} We will be introducing wool this winter, and with hope, alpaca and silk alpaca. We enjoy pushing the boundaries of cotton and we will always be an all natural cotton company at our core.

{BWTM} There are artistic and historical influences in your designs.

Who are your favorite artists and where do you draw inspiration from? {PT} Nothing is safe from being inspiration — from the frost on the windows, to the steam from the kettle, to old wallpaper, to handmade textiles, to the stars in the sky. We share a similar aesthetic and send each other reference or half sketched ideas to ponder. Some ideas percolate for a year, some are born right away. The most important things are that it be authentic and that it happen together. {BWTM} Please tell us more about the 2014 holiday collection. {PT} We have a very simple pairing of two color ways of a new pattern by Oriole’s own Bethanne Knudson. The trefoil motif in these frosty wintery colors bring to mind snowflakes, without being too literal or overt (we are doing hand-cut kid-style snowflakes as well!). We know people are overwhelmed this time of year and they are focused on family, which is why we have chosen to offer only two new wraps, but also an assortment of other fun, giftable accoutrements.

In the new year we will continue with our jewel collection and debut Andalusian, a peacock design featuring unicorns taken from an historic textile from the 14th century.

We have a beautiful new color way of Quark and the partner to Duet Hibiscus coming up this winter as well. {BWTM} In addition to woven wraps, what other products will have available for the holidays? {PT} We will offer baby blankets from The Oriole Mill in our classic Penumbra design in a lovely natural colorway, stockings made from Guild and Form fabric, doll wraps, and peacock keepsakes, all made by Libby O’Bryan at Sew Co. on the grounds of The Oriole Mill. Libby has been sewing since she was a child and is passionate about fabric and craft as taught to her by her mother and grandmother. We are so lucky to have her developing product with us.

pavotextiles.com & pavoform.com

{BWTM} Can you give us hints as to what your next wrap designs will be? {PT} Of course! We always have several different concepts going, I tend to work on multiple designs at once to take advantage of my tendency to procrastinate, if I am distracted from one thing, there is always another file to open, another drawing to rough out. The one that is most likely to be ready first, ahead of the highly anticipated Strawberry Fields, is a paper doll babywearing family garland design. It is so kitschy and sweet and we cannot wait for the sample! De la Sol (Papel Picado) lead to the paper dolls and the paper dolls are leading us on a path of exploring paper art and craft used as expressions across the world. Meanwhile, Bethanne is working on a few Otomi ideas for Guild, rounding out the Form interpretation with a more intellectual approach using her unparalleled grasp of complex weave structures to reference and honor the hand embroidery seen in traditional Mexican textiles. {BWTM} A prototype of a Pavo soft structured carrier was pictured on Instagram. Any hints on when this new product will be released? {PT} We are in our fourth round of prototypes from the ever talented and patient Libby. We anticipate we will be ready to launch our soft structured carriers in about six months to a year. In the meantime, we are working on the very beginnings of our Mei Tai design which will take advantage of sturdier fabric from The Oriole Mill , which is not often employed in babywearing. {BWTM} What does Pavo have in store for 2015 and beyond? {PT} We hope to have our ring slings, SSCs, and Mei Tais all launch in 2015. We have a hand printed linen wrap debuting in this summer which will provide a lightweight and therefore cooler experience for warm weather wearing. The fabric is woven in North Carolina and hand silkscreened in the last surviving print mill in the United States. We could not be more proud of the outcome.

pavotextiles

facebook.com/pavotextiles & facebook.com/pavoform

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3.21 A CAUSE CLOSE TO THE HEART {BWTM} Who is behind 3.21 Carry? {3.21} Drea and Josh were babywearing parents long before they were parents to a special needs child. By the time their second child was born with Down syndrome, neither of them could imagine life without a carrier.

Our board members are: • Jamie Messier is a California Certified Paralegal who has been in the legal field for over 10 years. She started wearing her first son when he was born in 2010, has spent considerable time in the babywearing community since that time, and is expecting her second child in the Fall of 2014.

• Erin Arnason is co-owner of Pavo Textiles, a small company specializing in American made woven baby wraps. She is interested in increasing philanthropic efforts through babywearing with her business partner Jennifer Money. Erin has two children, one husband, and a fluctuating number of chickens. She earned a BFA in Textiles from the Rhode Island School of Design in 1997.

• Jacquelyn Jennings graduated from University of Louisville with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and spent time in the social work field before having children. She now stays home with Lola (4) and Holden (1). She is a Volunteer Babywearing Educator and board treasurer of BWI of North Central Illinois.

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{3.21} One night we were out to dinner, when our son, whose physical disability would not allow him to sit in a highchair, refused to sit in his car seat. I wrapped him up and we enjoyed a peaceful dinner and started talking about all the ways babywearing made their lives easier, especially as Copley’s physical disability outpaced his cognitive development. With our typical son, a carrier was a life saver, with Cop, it was an absolute necessity. The simple idea for 3.21 Carry was born — get a carrier into the hands of every parent of a special needs child who needs one. {BWTM} How has 3.21 Carry grown since you first started? {3.21} We’ve received an amazing response from the community.

We’ve surpassed our first year fundraising goal, and we’ve been able to donate over 20 carriers this year. We are just getting started! {BWTM} How many families have you helped? {3.21} Today we’ve provided carriers for 25 families, have carriers on the way for a half dozen more, and still have over 50 families on the waiting list. We need donation, monetary and carriers, new or used, to pass along to these families.

{BWTM} What inspired the name 3.21 Carry? {3.21} Our son has Down syndrome, or Trisomy 21, a third copy of the 21st chromosome. 3…2…1… also implies a countdown, ready set go! Get wearing!

{BWTM} Tell us about the families that you have helped. {3.21} We provide carriers to families of children with all kinds of special needs, but the majority of our applicants have children with Down syndrome. I think because to families of children with Down syndrome, the name 3.21 Carry is recognizable as an organization with ties to Ds.

{BWTM} Was there a defining moment that sparked the beginning of 3.21 Carry?

{BWTM} Do you have a favorite client story? {3.21} One of my favorite stories is one of our first applicants, a

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giving back stay at home dad whose little boy has Down syndrome. His story reminds me so much of my husband, whose is a work at home dad, having a carrier is a life saver. This particular applicant was a little tough, because he is a large man who needed a larger carrier, and wasn’t comfortable learning to wrap, he needed an SSC. One of our very generous donors, and a good friend and local babywearing educator learned we were looking for something specific and donated one of her husband’s carriers, which was a perfect fit. {BWTM} What do you tell someone who wants be a part of your mission? {3.21} You really do change a life with your donation. It’s a small thing, we are a small scale non-profit, but we have a big impact on the families we are able to serve. {BWTM} Where exactly do our donations go? {3.21} Carrier donations are either turned around and matched with a caregiver and child, or sold if they are unsuitable for our applicants and the proceeds are used to fund other more suitable carriers. Monetary donations go toward new carriers, shipping, and administrative fees. None of the board members takes a salary or any kind of reimbursement for their time. {BWTM} What kinds of carriers do you provide? {3.21} We provide all kinds of ergonomically correct carriers (soft structured carriers, wraps, ring slings, pouches, and Mei Tais), and try to match caregivers up with the right carrier for their needs. Right now we have a dearth of toddler and preschool sized carriers. Because our applicants are caregivers of children with special needs, many of the children have mobility delays and may outgrow standard sized carriers before they outgrow their need for a carrier. Larger sized SSCs are harder to find and more expensive than standard sized carriers so we are always in need of donations. {BWTM} Do you have any fundraisers or events coming up? {3.21} We just received our 501(c)(3) approval, and are fundraising in earnest.

Our waiting list is much longer than our resources can provide right now.

Caregivers in need of a carrier who qualify for our program can find the application on our website: 321carry.com/apply/ Monetary donations can be made on our website: 321carry.com/donate/ Used and new carrier donations are very welcome, please email us at hello@321carry.com for details.

“Thank you for the awesome ring sling! We love it! Your organization is GREAT! I have shared it with others and made a small donation myself.” -Trista

hip, hip, hooray!

wonderful THE MOST

TIME OF THE YEAR

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING. SO DECK THOSE HALLS WITH BABYWEARING SWEETNESS AND WRAP UP THESE BABYWEARING INSPIRED GIFTS FOR THOSE YOU LOVE THE MOST.

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Clockwise from top right: Wrap scrap babywearing logo ornament

by CLEVER ROSE. $16, etsy.com/shop/CleverRose Customized Babywearing Ornament

by CARRY ME CLOSE. Starting at $22, facebook.com/CarryMeClose Wrap scrap baby’s first Christmas

by CLEVER ROSE. $20, etsy.com/shop/CleverRose Rainbow Babywearing Ornament

by FAMILY TREE GLASS. $40, familytreeglass.com

kiddy stuff

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1. Un-paper dolls by CLEVER ROSE. $5-10 each piece, facebook.com/thecleverrose 2. Cuddle Me Doll Carrier by ELVEE CREATIONS. Starting at $30, facebook.com/ElveeCreations 3. Children’s appliqué shirts by LITTLE BUG FELT. $25, facebook.com/littlebugfelt 4. Wrap scrap shoes by SEW CRUNCHY. $25, sewcrunchy.com 5. Flower Hair Clips by LITTLE BUG FELT. $15-20, facebook.com/littlebugfelt 6. Wrap scrap cloth diaper by SEW CRUNCHY. Starting at $28, sewcrunchy.com 7. Customized t-shirt by CLEVER ROSE. $28, facebook.com/thecleverrose 8. Wrap conversion swing by FLYING FEATHERS. Starting at $105, facebook.com/FlyingFeathersSwings 9. 50’s Headband by WRAP & SCRAP’S DESIGNS. $12 plus scrap cost, facebook.com/WrapandScraps 10. Bonnet by HAUTE HATTERS. Starting at $40, facebook.com/HauteHatters 11. Bloomers by PAVO TEXTILES. $40, pavotextiles.com 12. Bow tie and suspenders set by SUGAR & DREAMS. $50, facebook.com/sugaranddreams 13. Dragon hatchling by THE HATCHERY. Starting at $85, facebook.com/hannahshatchery 14. Teething Giraffe by STARBRIGHT BABY. Starting at $17, etsy.com/shop/StarbrightBaby 15. Babywearing seahorse by LILY & GUS. Starting at $65, facebook.com/lilyandgus 16. Wrap Scrap Pony by THE WRAP SCRAP PONY. Starting at $70, facebook.com/TheWrapScrapPony

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stocking stuffers

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unicorns

Photo credit: www.zoq.nl

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17. Stocking by PAVO TEXTILES. $48, pavotextiles.com 18. Bubbling heart necklace and heart bracelet by LULLABY LINKS. $145 & $80, facebook.com/LullabyLinks 19. Lanyards by LITTLE BUG FELT. $22-25, facebook.com/littlebugfelt 20. Semi precious stone rainbow bracelet by RAINBOW RADISH. $125, etsy.com/shop/RainbowRadish 21. Doll Wrap by PAVO TEXTILES. $58, pavotextiles.com 22. Babywearing decal by UP IN THE AYER DESIGNS. Starting at $5.75, facebook.com/upintheayerdesigns 23. Mini backpack by SMILING OCTOPUS. Starting at $130 plus wrap cost, facebook.com/SmilingOctopus 24. Stocking by RAINBOW RADISH. Starting at $38, etsy.com/shop/RainbowRadish 25. Chapstick Fobs by LITTLE BUG FELT. $15, facebook.com/littlebugfelt 26. Puffy Pouch by PAVO TEXTILES. $40, pavotextiles.com 27. Steering Wheel Cover by WRAP & SCRAP’S DESIGNS. $14 plus scrap cost, facebook.com/WrapandScraps 28. Wallet by WRAP & SCRAP’S DESIGNS. $39 plus scrap cost, facebook.com/WrapandScraps 29. Custom Original Painting by KATIE M BERGEN. Starting at $185, Shop.KmBerggren.com 30. Zip Your Style bag by CIN BY CINDY JEURISSEN. €185, etsy.com/shop/CindyJeurissen 31. ArtiCape by ARTIPOPPE. Starting at €699, facebook.com/Artipoppe 32. Mixed Metal Architectural Links by LULLABY LINKS. To be auctioned, facebook.com/LullabyLinks

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2015

NEW YEAR’S

Resolutions

What are your New Year’s Resolutions for 2015? Eat better, spend more quality time with your little one, get healthy?

Here are just a couple of the many options to keep you on track and help you bond with your baby. These low-impact classes get moms sweating and put babes fast asleep. If these classes aren’t near you, check in with your local babywearing group for something similar.

{BWTM} What is Babywearing Bootcamp? {BB} Babywearing Bootcamp is a dance and fitness class for caregiver and baby to enjoy together! The 45 minute class incorporates cardio, strengthening and toning exercises, dance, and stretching. {BWTM} Who is behind Babywearing Bootcamp? {BB} Babywearing Bootcamp was created by Dari Metivier and is taught by her and her 21 month old daughter, Mila. {BWTM} How was Babywearing Bootcamp born? {BB} Babywearing Bootcamp is a product of combining two of my greatest passions: babywearing and dance. I have been babywearing and dancing separately since childhood, when my own daughter was born it only felt natural to combine the two so I could share my love of dance with her.

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{BWTM} What are the benefits of Babywearing Bootcamp? {BB} Babywearing Bootcamp is a great way for caregivers to get

out of the house and get moving, all while bonding with their baby. It’s a great option for those who want to workout but can’t or don’t want to leave their baby with a sitter.

Babies love the music and movement! It’s a great way to make new friends, as well. {BWTM} Is it available throughout the US? {BB} As of now, Babywearing Bootcamp is only available in Southern California. {BWTM} Do participants need to have previous dance experience to participate? {BB} No dance experience is required, the class is very relaxed and all movements can be modified to the comfort level of mom and baby. {BWTM} What’s next for Babywearing Bootcamp? {BB} Babywearing Bootcamp just did a huge flash mob to celebrate International Babywearing Week — I would love to have another one in the new year! {BWTM} What steps can moms and caregivers take to get healthier in the new year? {BB} Babywearing is a great way to stay healthy and active. I love wearing Mila on walks, hikes, and while dancing. {BWTM} What are your fitness resolutions for 2015? {BB} My fitness resolution in 2015 is to just keep having fun while moving with my daughter!

{BWTM} What is Babywearing Ballet? {BB} Babywearing Ballet is a 45 minute post-natal class for mom and baby to spend together dancing, toning, bonding and meeting other new moms. In this class, you begin by warming up at the ballet barre with plies, tendus and dégagés, then move to center floor work including upper body port de bras, positions and choreography all while wearing your little one. No sitter needed! You enjoy a low impact-toning workout while your baby gets to experience all of your movements, rocking motions, soothing classical music and time close to you. The conclusion of class is spent on the floor on mats with baby out of the carrier. Here you will focus on the core, stretch and get to know other moms and babies.

Babywearing Ballet is a very easy going class for babies of all ages. Newborn (once you are released for activity by your doctor) up to any babywearing age. The instructors understand and expect new little ones will need to be nursed, fed and changed and want moms to feel free to stop and do this at any time. The older babies who are already toddling on their own may not want to be worn for the full 45 minutes, so they are free to dance and explore. {BWTM} Who is behind Babywearing Ballet? {BB} Morgan Castner runs the license and certification program for the West Coast and is working on international expansion. She also teaches at Uplift Studio in Tustin, CA. Jenna Nichols runs the East Coast and Midwest license and certification courses and teaches at Performance Studios in Riverton, NJ. We currently have affiliate locations in Los Angeles, Studio City, Brea, Huntington Beach and San Diego, California and have recently started classes in NYC. All of the instructors at these locations are lovely mamas and members of our Babywearing Ballet team. {BWTM} How was Babywearing Ballet born? {BB} Babywearing Ballet was born from new moms wanting some time outside the house, the chance to meet other moms and get in some light toning. This can sometimes seem impossible with a new baby but with Babywearing Ballet, moms are able to enjoy the relaxing and fun atmosphere of sthe class. {BWTM} What are the benefits of Babywearing Ballet? {BB} Mom is able to get in a light toning, 45 minute class, enjoy the company of other

new moms and not have to worry about the hassle or stress of finding and leaving baby with a sitter. Baby gets to take in the classical and contemporary music and the soothing rocking motion and movements of mom. Both mom and baby receive all the incredible benefits of babywearing itself. {BWTM} Are classes available throughout the US? {BB} Babywearing Ballet is currently offered at several locations. Visit babywearingballet.com to see if there is a class near you. {BWTM} Do participants need to have previous dance experience to participate? {BB} Babywearing Ballet is perfect for all fitness levels — no experience required. Expecting moms are welcome. {BWTM} What’s next for Babywearing Ballet? {BB} We plan to continue to add more locations and affiliates all over the U.S. so more moms and little ones may enjoy this class. Our plan for 2015 is also to take Babywearing Ballet international. {BWTM} What steps can moms and caregivers take to get healthier in the new year? {BB} Taking care of yourself first and foremost is necessary.

Whether its something simple like going out for a walk, taking a group class like Babywearing Ballet or even just playing in the backyard with your kids, be sure to take some time to be active. Along with fitness, proper nutrition is recommended. I find I am a much happier person and better mommy when I am able to take as little as 30 minutes to do something either by myself or with my two little ones in tow.

BABYW

EARIN

Ballet

{BWTM} What are your fitness resolutions for 2015? {BB} My personal fitness resolution: I would like to improve my family’s eating habits and would love to compete in my first CrossFit completion.

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#bwthemag jennedyj

stay motivated Babywearing doesn’t have to slow you down.

There are endless ways to incorporate wearing into your exercise regimen.

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follow us on instagram {BWTHEMAG} and tag your photos with #bwthemag for a chance to be featured in the next issue!

december/january 2015

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carried away

let it snow

warm and cozy by the fire, who cares if it’s cold outside?

Scene created with: Storchenwiege Leo Marine (sky), Pavo Gotham Marble (moon), Ellevill Zara Chocco (tree), Girasol Amitola (background hill), Tekhni Ceres Absinthe (foreground hill), Natibaby Notes and Pavo Gotham Slate (house), Natibaby Tulips and Kangaroos and Didymos Indio Sun (pumpkins). See more amazing wrapscapes at facebook.com/carriedawaybaby

wrap up

a chat with the Queen of Happy

Ashley OF CALICO SUNSHINE

{BWTM} What is the story behind the name Calico Sunshine? {CS} When I was a little girl, my mama and I would frequently go to fabric shops.

My favorite section of the store was the wall of calico cottons. It was a happy sight to see, a hodgepodge of prints and colors all lined up in rainbow color order. For me, sunshine represents happiness, with its bright shining rays reaching out scattering a bit of warmth, light and renewed hope all around. I created my business with the hope that I could bring a bit of happiness to others, and that through my work and my attitude on life, that I could brighten someone else’s day. With my idea and goal in mind, Calico Sunshine basically named itself. Much like the colorful wall of calico from my childhood, life is a hodgepodge of beautiful moments and a rainbow of little things that make the soul sing. If we stop and take a moment in the hustle and bustle of our crazy lives, we can find a little beauty and happiness, even on the most trying of days. {BWTM} Prior to starting Calico Sunshine, did you have experience creating

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baby goods? {CS} Before Calico Sunshine, I sewed for myself and sewed for my babies. I made crib sheets, quilts, bumper pads, vintage style layettes, overalls, stuffed animals, and blankets, oh so many blankets. I loved sewing for my babies. Before I had children I sewed dance costumes and retro dresses for myself. As a teenager, I sewed artisan mohair teddy bears and began traveling to teddy bear shows when I was 14-yearsold. I have always loved creating. {BWTM} How did you get started? {CS} Shortly after my fourth son was born, a dear friend came over with a bag of pre-folds, a couple pocket diapers, two pairs of woolies, and a ring sling. This was all new to me as my first three sons were diapered in disposables. I owned an inexpensive mei tai that I did not know how to use properly and a ring sling I made from a vintage sheet. My friend taught me all about lanolizing my wool, how to fold flats, and that you could use long lengths of fabric to wrap your baby to your body.

This was mesmerizing to me and I became obsessed! My mom would buy me “fluff”

online (at this time I was still pretty clueless to just how big and amazing the world of “fluff” was).

Each little package that arrived was a little piece of happiness for me, and a welcome distraction from the worries and struggles in my life. My life was not filled with sunshine at the time. There was not a lot in my life that was very positive and our future lacked hope, but the wraps I would borrow and the “fluff” mail gave me moments of happiness and a bit of hope.

One day it just came to me in a wave of emotion, there were so many other mamas out there just like me who needed a little bit of happiness, and I could help! I could sew and create things that made others happy and also provide for my four sons. I sat in a McDonald’s parking lot with my mama and rambled for hours about my idea. Within a week or two, she had provided me with a serger and repaired my sewing machine.

She invested in fabric and snaps, and as my mama always has done, she believed in me. Less than two years later, my mama is still my biggest fan and always reminds me to never ever give up. {BWTM} What products do you

offer in your shop? {CS} Calico Sunshine offers cloth diapers, undies and trainers, children’s clothing, blankets, stuffed animals, and exclusive woven wraps. Calico Sunshine also offers babywearing accessories and wrap conversion items, as well as a line of exclusive items made for the members of the Sunshine in a Box program. {BWTM} Tell us about your partnership with Girasol to create your exclusive rainbow wraps? {CS} Working with Girasol has been truly one of the most exciting experiences thus far in my creative journey. I am tremendously grateful for the opportunity I have to dream up a design, and to have talented, hard working weavers turn that idea into a tangible, beautiful piece of wearable art.

It is an indescribable feeling to receive a giant box from Girasol and open it up and see my designs brought to life.

There is much screaming and happy dancing when new designs arrive! I am excited to continue designing and revealing new wrap designs that I am working on with Girasol. {BWTM} Where do you get the inspiration for your designs from?

{CS} Inspiration is all around me!

Moments, experiences, feelings — they are a big influence on my work. My newest wrap that has yet to be released, “Color me Happy,” was designed this summer during my road trip back home to California. My happiness to be home was expressed in the palette of this wrap. It is one very happy rainbow!

Rebel Rainbow was inspired by the quote I carried with me since I was a little girl: “be yourself, everyone else is taken.”

Each wrap has a unique story that is all its own. {BWTM} What significance does the rainbow hold for you? {CS} The rainbow is a beautiful thing, it holds meaning for so many people in so very many different ways. The rainbow is a symbol of hope, acceptance, pride and beauty. For me, it is a colorful and beautiful reminder to look for the good in each day, to find hope and hang on to it, to never give up. {BWTM} What would be your ideal day? {CS} An ideal day for me would be a day spent with my boys, visiting places we love, seeking new adventures, surrounding ourselves with people we love, and creating new memories. Oh yes, and of course, an ice cold Diet Coke.

facebook.com/CalicoSunshine

calico_sunshine hyenacart.com/stores/ CalicoSunshine