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Thursday, October 11, 2007

Resource Day: Kismet


I always like to look at things that I come across, and think about other ways that I can use them, other than the way they were intended. Todays resource is one of those things. I used to go regularly to the Santa Monica Antiques Market, and there was a woman there, Anne Driver who had this spectacular stand that sold Antique sari's from India. She sold them whole and also items that were made from them, such as small bags etc. But it was the whole cloth that interested me, the attention to detail and the workmanship was inspiring, not to mention the intense colors, so it was only a matter of time till I changed from a fan to a loyal client.

Anne's company is called Kismet, and she has grown it almost single-handedly into a socially responsible company that now provides work and income for women in India, that helps to support their independence as well as honors their skills.

But back to ways that you can use this incredible resource. In the images above, you can see that I love to use them as window treatments, whether it's as drapery or shades. Anne has literally every shade of the rainbow, so is capable of doing pretty much anything. Also, if she doesn't have the shade you need, she is a master of Dying, so might be able to create the shade that you need. I have also used these for lining lampshades, pillows, and even table runners. Some of the saris are woven with precious metals, while others have beading, but they all have a breathtaking quality of workmanship, so let your mind go wild.

I hope that you find something here to capture your imagination.

7 comments:

cotedetexas said...

Mark: Yes - you MUST come! If you are familiar with Texas you would have lots of fun. Come this spring when the flowers are out, it's breathtakingly beautiful.

Thanks SO much for the comment!

Joni

/// said...

Awww, thanks so much for this introduction! Can't wait to check out Kismet!

TIG said...

It's wonderful that you're a loyal customer to someone so inspirational, and whose business is providing opportunities for women in India. Thanks for introducing us to her.

(And love how you used the saris as Roman blinds in the first photo.)

Maryam in Marrakesh said...

Yes I am crazy about the sari use in the first pic, too! Marc, I have 11 saris in my closet, waiting to be used for my project!

Anonymous said...

just lovely posting...and wonderfully creative on your part in using them in otherways then how they were intended.
best,
Robin

Anonymous said...

Just have to LOVE that orange. We talked about that hue in our Dabbieri Blog "2007/2008 Color, Style & Design Trends."

PS: Did you ever find the "perfect mauve"?

saridiva said...

Mark and his associates have always been such a pleasure to work with! As a textile fanatic and frustrated designer at heart, I am always inspired by his vision. As a design resource, I am inspired by his dedication to sharing the limelight with those of us that other top designers prefer to keep secret! Sharing ideas and resources facilitates the creativity in everyone and makes the world a more beautiful place. Thanks Mark!