Q&A with Warped

1). So, please tell us how you came up with the name of your business, “Warped.”

The short answer is, of course, that I'm crazy as all get out. But, actually, the name comes from the act of weaving itself. On the loom you have a warp and a weft. You weave with the weft onto the warp. It would be a lot clearer if I had diagrams, boring lectures, and some sheep milling about. Suffice it to say, I wanted a one-word name for the business that described a little about me (nuts) and a little about what you would find when you got there (weaving). And there you have it: Warped.

2). Even though it was difficult to decide, I picked a favorite bag! I really like Silver Dahlia. Do you have a favorite bag style—something you enjoy making the most?

That one is one of my new favorites. I'm itching to take it out for a spin. The only thing between me and that bag is the perfect pair of silver shoes …

My favorite style to make is the clutch, I think for its absolute simplicity. When there are no handles to worry about (and I spend A LOT of time worrying over the perfect handles) there is such freedom of expression in the details of the bag. I can take my time working on the embellishments that I truly enjoy, like leather ruffles, deconstructed ties, handmade flowers, or vintage button detailing. Just this minute I am imagining pleats and insets for some new fabric that came off the loom today. Things I think are only possible with the simple lines of a clutch.

3). If I saw someone on the street with one of your bags, I would say, “Hey, that’s gotta be a Warped bag!” What inspired your distinct style? Or, if too difficult to express, what inspires you?

I would say that in the beginning there were two things that inspired me: a) my need for a navy and cream bag for a wedding I was attending and b) the need to create something on the loom that was NOT a place mat, scarf or shawl. Now that I have been doing this for a few years, there are a lot of things that inspire me, and I think some are not what you would necessarily expect. The more obvious sources are fashion magazines and the less obvious are modern art exhibits and books. I am usually inspired by a set of colors and shapes, or a mood, or a place more than I am by a specific style or trend. And, I have a wall in my workroom where I have taped up designs, magazine clippings, vintage photos, fabric bits and so on, for further inspiration. I will, however, admit to being overly enamored of ruffles and flowers right now. A bit trendy, but I am having way too much fun to stop.

4). What three words would you use to describe your craft?

It holds stuff.

5). Where can we find your craft outside the Ballston Arts & Crafts Market?

In my basement. Family joke. Currently it resides also at: www.morewarped.etsy.com.

Bonus question: Quick! What’s in your pockets right now?

A lucky penny I found in a puddle outside the Target today. Usually, I have empty pockets and a full bag.

Thanks, Jen! Visit Warped at the Market in May & July!