Today I am so thrilled to feature Debbie Serdy, the artist behind My Aunt Debbie! I am quite a fan, and I know you will be, too!
Debbie encapsulates exactly what it means to be a “Green Artist.” All of her clothing and accessories are upcycled pieces that had a previous life. Her designs are delightful and you have that extra added benefit of being earth conscious!
dyed your hair fuchsia, and took you to your first rock concert?
My Clothes are like that."
Possibly the best earrings I have EVER seen!
This skirt is sold, but it is so gorgeous, I had to share it! Created with an upcycled skirt, vintage lingerie, and springs.
Snapple Cap Brooch
Here is what Debbie had to say about her business, My Aunt Debbie:
My business name and handcrafted creations are inspired in part by my 3 nephews; Michael, Daniel and Johnny. They constantly remind me to think outside of the box, believe in magic, and embrace each moment with wild imagination. I strive to weave these principles into my designs. Each piece of clothing or jewelry I create is upcycled and reconstructed using vintage garments, rescued second hand items, and forgotten artifacts.
I use recycled goods in my designs because it is good for the environment and good for people. By embracing this “slow fashion” movement, you too can make a conscious choice to reduce waste and chain store consumerism.
When you purchase a My Aunt Debbie product you are getting a unique item that has been lovingly handmade for you. It makes me happy to make you happy!
When I was about 10 or 11 years old I would go set up with my Nana at the firehouse craft shows. She made doll clothes etc.. I had my own card table and made strange little animals out of burrs and nuts and clothes pins; and I painted little pictures. I was just delighted that people bought them! I was hooked after my first sale.
What specifically do you do that is “green” in your business?
I create all of my clothing and accessories out of items that have already “had a life” so to speak. I love finding an interesting, forgotten object and giving it a second chance at usefulness.
Why have you decided to use these green practices or make these products?
Being 46 I consider myself an “old school” crafter. When I started forming my business back in the late 1980’s creating with green materials began as a necessity rather than a conscious decision. Being a self employed artist I often had to figure out how to make something out of nothing with a very limited budget! Reusing old jewelry and vintage clothing, and finding supplies at thrift shops became a mainstay of my business. I was green before it was cool!
Do you have one tip for people to incorporate being green into their everyday life?
One of the simplest things to do is not to use paper napkins. Cloth napkins are much prettier. They are a great simple sewing project, or you can always find them at your local thrift shop. You save $ and trees.
Where do you draw your inspiration?
My inspiration usually comes from the objects themselves. I look at some quirky trinket or odd piece of vintage clothing and brainstorm on what I can do with it.
(Audrey Hepburn is my favorite!)The exclusive My Aunt Debbie boutique is located inside Mommalicious and Smilin' Gal at 310 North Queen St. Lancaster PA 17603. Our phone number is 717-299-0827, open 7 days a week!
4 comments:
Thank you sooooo much Kim for featuring me. Your blog is a pleasure. Everybody check out B. B. Belleza's creations; they will put pep in your step!!!
xxxooo, Aunt Debbie
Woe fab blog post, I am loving the kiss t-shirt just shown my hubby!! He ask what site so he may but it me! yay
Cool blog entry! Good job.
Be well,
Maggie C. Mowery
www.happysilence.etsy.com
I was backed up to Debbie at Art on the Farm and so could look over the wall at her work during the whole show last Fall. I love her sweater sleeve coffee cup snuggly things. (obviously I don't know the real name of them :^) I thought that that was such a cool idea!
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