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Textile Fetish

Made from various fabrics and prints, these crochet hook cases by Textile Fetish house about a dozen slots with a fold-over flap to hold hooks in their places. Each measures about 10x10".

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Q&A with Textile Fetish by Jennicakes

Jennifer Ramos started her home-based business, Textile Fetish, in the winter of 2001. Textile Fetish sells one-of-a-kind, handmade items, made mostly from reclaimed and recycled materials. She set out on this venture with two goals. Her initial intent was to put leftover fabric from past projects (not only hers, but that of other generous fabric hoarders) to use. The second goal involves her long-held belief that the expression of creativity leads to a more sane and balanced person. Sewing and creating original designs makes for the perfect therapy. Therefore, her second goal was, without question, to maintain some semblance of sanity.

Do you have a fetish for any particular textile, or do you love working with them all?

Neither! Over the years, as I've collected cast-off fabrics from friends and fabric hoarders who've had to de-clutter, I've become familiar with all manner of textiles. I can say for sure that I do not like working with them all! I do, however, have an appreciation for variety. Plus, I'm passionate about understanding textile properties, conservation, and waste reduction.

Do you always craft in a cute work apron?

Oh goodness. I'm flattered. Actually, I work, not so much craft, in my work apron. My little studio has a system. I've got the tiny scissors by the sewing machine and the big ones on the cutting table. I've got two pin cushions. So no apron is necessary. I do use my apron for everything from helping out at school (ketchup, salad dressing, sporks) to mowing the lawn (keys, phone, water bottle), though.

Do you have a favorite crafty project to do with your kids?

I keep a box of plastic items that city recycling in our area won't accept. We use those, plus found objects, to make robots. This is something we do over the summer, when the kids are home with me all day. It makes for a great all-day project, since we build them in stages. We have to wait for glue and paint to dry. I have a neat art piece hanging on my wall that we created together.

My favorite keepsake project involves having the kids draw a picture on fabric with a pen. I embroider the over the drawing and frame it or turn it into a pillow.

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