Strange and Violent

SAY WHAT?!

2009-07-01T19:22:00.001-07:00

VEGAN RAISED DONUTS YES REAL DONUTS WITH YEAST NOW YOU DON'T HAVE TO DRIVE ALL THE WAY TO LAS VEGAS OH MY GOD ARE YOU READY FOR THIS SAN FRANCISCO?!?!?!

*phew*

Okay, I had to get that out of my system, sorry about that. I am pleased, nay, thrilled, nay, over the flippin' moon to announce that folks in the San Francisco Bay Area can now purchase yeasted donuts from the Strange and Violent Etsy shop! These are lovingly handmade to order by my good friend Jordan for $20 a dozen. Pickup/dropoff is by arrangement. If you live outside the Bay Area and still want them, let one of us know and we'll try to work something out as far as shipping goes.

But enough about that, seriously, check these sweet babies out:

These rainbow-colored donuts were special editions for the San Francisco Vegan Bakesale (coinciding with SF's unparalleled Pride festival), which raised $3,000 (woo!) for animal charities. These will come with a basic glaze unless you request something else (like chocolate, yum.)

Get 'em while you can! Who knows how long this crazy deal will last?

Top o' the shop- TWO new items today!

2009-06-25T14:28:00.001-07:00

Ta-wins! These awesome envelope-and-liner style pads come equipped with contrasting plaids in retro 80s colors to make your ladyparts feel young again. OK, I can't claim the last part but these are some seriously fun pads. You can buy both at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop and mix and match! $12.00 each.

Top o' the shop

2009-06-24T11:13:00.001-07:00

Today's featured items at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop will help you get in touch with your inner animal. First up is this tiny but fierce leopard-print mini pad, only $5.00, and perfect for light days or use with a keeper or tampon.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is this heavy-duty lady for nighttime use! The pattern has been streamlined to better fit the female form while providing optimum protection for when you're sprawled out in dreamland. $12.00.

Get 'em while they're hot! Remember, each Strange and Violent style has only limited availability, so this may be your last chance!

Top o' the shop

2009-06-23T13:29:00.001-07:00

Green is the word! Todays' featured items in the Strange and Violent Etsy shop are bursting with verdant color. And of course, if you use washable cotton pads, you'll be doing more than using a little green- you'll be saving it like crazy, too. I'm not just talking about the dollars which you'll save by not buying disposable pads every month. I'm also talking about the planet! If everyone stopped using disposable pads, we'd divert tons and tons of landfill every year in North America alone.

Now those are some pretty good reasons, if you ask me.

And if green isn't your favorite color, swing on by the Strange and Violent shop anyway- there are tons of colors and patterns available. The styles pictured above are $12.00 each.

Top o' the shop- TWO new items today!

2009-06-16T11:05:00.001-07:00

Two more new items today! And once again, I broke out the shrink ray to miniaturize some of those cute little plaid pads. These two mini pads in complementing plaid patterns can be bought as a happy family jamboree with their bigger siblings, or can be bought individually, if you're into that whole solace and reflection thing. Or if you only need one pad right now.

Blue 'n' pink!

Pink 'n' yeller!

Only $5.00 each at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop. Snap one up today!

Top o' the shop- TWO new items today!

2009-06-12T15:04:00.001-07:00

New patterns are here! Including two feminine-but-burly plaid prints that will make your period a little more cheerful, if not enjoyable.

These two regular day pads have been listed at the normal price of $8.00 each. Considering they'll each last an estimated ten years, that's pretty good! These styles are available now at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop, with more styles in the same fun fabrics coming soon!

Top o' the shop

2009-06-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

Today's top item is a re-listing of this sexy vintage classic. OK, maybe 'sexy' isn't the right word to use in conjunction with having your period, but it beats the hell out of a boring white pad which you'll just throw away- ew!

Not only is this classy little number stylish and hip, it's reusable and made out of all-natural cotton flannel. That's nice to your wallet, mother earth, and your privates. That is kind of sexy. $12.00 today at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

Top o' the shop- Honey, I shrunk yesterday's featured items

2009-06-10T13:48:00.000-07:00

Everybody loves minis! Offering two mini pads that match yesterday's regular-sized pads. So cute and colorful, but totally incognito in your ladypants.

You can buy the pink buttons pattern or the blue dots pattern for $5 each at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

Top o' the shop

2009-06-09T12:14:00.001-07:00

Two items at the top of the shop to replace these very popular pads! Both are regular pads, perfect for use with a keeper or tampon, or just on their own. Four layers of fuzzy, pre-washed cotton flannel.

Pink buttons:

Blue dots:

$8.00 each at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop! I've just spent the morning cutting out dozens of new pads, including new fabrics! Hopefully they'll start to appear on the shop later this week.

Top o' the shop

2009-06-05T12:16:00.001-07:00

Hi everybody! And we're back!

Today I have listed some popular items of which I have a few spares, so be sure to snap them up before they're gone for good!

First up is this envelope-and-liner reusable pad set for $12.00

Also recently listed is this cute little minipad, only $5!

Both are available at the Strange and Violent Etsy Shop! Stay tuned for some new items, I will be making samples this weekend!

I'm back!

2009-06-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

Woo! I had a great trip to Europe, which never would have been possible without the help, hospitality, and overall awesomeness of a number of friends, family, and super vegans in both my destination countries as well as here in California. Y'all know who you are!

Anyway, I'm going to do a little catching up on my current orders and will hopefully be posting some new items to the shop later today or tomorrow at the latest!

I'm excited to say that I saw a lot of really neat things in Europe that I'm planning on making by hand here in the states. I can't tip my hand just yet, but I hope to get started on some projects by the weekend so I can at least post some teaser pics of samples! Oh, okay, one small hint- I spent a lot of time in the Netherlands being wowed by the awesome bike culture they've got. Cool bike accessories coming soon!

On Vacation!

2009-05-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry I forgot to post this on the blog (although I did remember the shop), but I am away for three weeks in Europe! I'll be back to crafting and posting updates after June 3.

Top o' the shop

2009-05-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy store is this attractive, subtle, and unique knit top, which has been hand-tied to create an energetic cluster of bubbles around the shirt and sleeve hems.

What what? Did somebody say free shipping? Well no, they didn't, but that's a coincidence because this shirt comes with free shipping! Woah! Click through to the shop to check out more views and similar items.

Top o' the shop

2009-05-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item is a re-listing of these intricately hand-dyed linen/rayon pants. Totally casual, comfortable, and cool-- perfect for the muggy summer months that are just around the corner.

If you like these pants, you might also like this linen cardigan or this cotton peasant blouse that were in the same dye bath. All are available for purchase at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-05-04T10:00:00.001-07:00

Today's new item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this all-in-one medium pad made from soft, comfortable, absorbent, and washable cotton flannel! Four layers of durable cotton flannel decorated with a colorful palette of pink and complementing 'buttons,' wraps around the undies with wings and metal snaps. Only $12!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-05-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Well, this is what happens when you leave your stock unsupervised. Things get a little frisky, relationships develop, and... well...

...you end up with a wee baby flask on your hands.

Awww, look how cute! Holds an adorable 4 ounces of booze. What a simply darling way to get your buzz on. Its tiny size means it's perfect for smaller purses and pockets, and runs dry before you get well and truly sloppy. Yes, that means it's perfect for funerals, weddings, and other family get-togethers! Pick it up today for the low price of $12. Click through to the Strange and Violent Etsy Shop!

(Seriously, though, use alcohol responsibly. I will hunt you down and make you express my dog's anal glands if you don't).

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-29T11:33:00.000-07:00

Top of the shop today is this cute little envelope and liner pad set in a fluffy, colorful pattern I've dubbed 'pink buttons,' although they're not quite buttons. Sea urchins, maybe? Well, whatever they are, they're crazy colorful and fluffy and will be a nice, gentle experience for your ladyparts.

Only $12 today at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

Top o' the shop- TWO new items today!

2009-04-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

Today there are two items at the top of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop! Well, since I didn't post an update yesterday I suppose this counts as Monday's new item as well as Tuesday's new item. But anyway, rejoice!

These two new pad sets are made from a feisty leopard print cotton flannel. The liners come in complementing colors of either apple green or cotton candy pink. Fun stuff! Twelve dollars for each set.

Stay tuned for a bunch of new items, both in the pads category and in other categories!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this medium-sized all-in-one pad in a fun, modern, blue dot palette. Only $8, perfect for combined use with a keeper or diva cup, or just for use by itself on lighter days.

Top o' the shop- twofer today!

2009-04-23T15:12:00.000-07:00

Pads have been selling so well lately that they're disappearing from the shop faster than I can re-post them. So today I'm going to list two pads on the Strange and Violent Etsy shop. One is in the very popular 'doodlebug' design, and the other is in the equally popular 'ladybug' design. Or 'ladybird' if you're one of those weirdo Brits (fact: ladybirds are neither ladies, nor birds). Both are $5 mini-pads, affordable, effective, and reusable. Come on, five bucks? These things last at least ten years! That's 50 cents a year! Stop letting your uterus drive you to the poor house! Take to the streets! Or to the Etsy site where you can buy them: http://strangeandviolent.etsy.com.

Top o' the shop

2009-04-21T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item is a medium-sized pad with pink plaid and red ladybugs. How cute! This pad is only $8 and is perfect for combining with a keeper, a diva cup, or a similar device. It also works great on its own for lighter flow days. Made from pre-washed, soft cotton flannel, it offers full protection without detection and makes Mother Nature and Baby Jesus do a happy dance. Available at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this tubular wicked awesome tote bag with a strawberry boba tea applique! Woowoo! It's a big bag with long straps that you can wear as a tote or as a messenger bag. It's also got a little pocket on the inside for all your easily lost things, like bus tickets, keys, lip gloss, and what have you. $30 today at the Strange and Violent store.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this cotton twill tote bag featuring a boba tea applique! The tapioca part of the tea is made from hand-dyed cotton jersey shibori. Super cute, super awesome. Check it out!

Now available on Vegan Craft Samples!

2009-04-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

Guess what, everybody? The Vegan Craft Sample bags go on sale today! That's not even all the good news- Strange and Violent Creations is a contributor to this round of samples! Omigod!

I posted earlier about recycled plastic felt pins, but wait! There's more!

Each sample bag comes with a pin and one of these:

A fully-reversible snap-on wristicuff made from recycled t-shirts. One side reads 'vgn,' perfect for when you're infiltrating a vegan potluck; the other side is solid color or patterned fabric, for when you've got report back to Quantaco.

What's even more awesome is by buying this sweet bag of goodies by vegan artisans, you're contributing to an animal charity. 10% of all proceeds will be donated to an animal sanctuary, and you can vote on where you'd like your money to go! Just check out the Vegan Craft Samples blog to vote.

Are you convinced? Here's the link!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-14T13:11:00.000-07:00

Hey there! I'm exhausted from spending the last 24 hours negotiating the move of a couple of tons of industrial machinery from Hell On Earth, CA to Richmond, CA. So hopefully you'll understand that I'm just gonna repost the description from the Etsy listing of this new item on the Strange and Violent shop. I knew you'd understand. Thanks!

Do you have crazy vegetarian/vegan/VW Vanagon pride? Then say it loud and proud with this personal glass water bottle, hand-etched with the abbreviation 'vgn.'

Perfect for the drinkers and teetotallers alike, this upcycled glass bottle carries your favorite juice or water in an attractive, sleek design. Fits perfectly into bicycle frame bottle holders. This hand-etched bottle holds 16 liquid ounces and comes with a metal twist-on cap.

PLEASE NOTE: this is clear glass; the liquid inside is tinted in order to highlight the etching.

This product is vegan. Previous contents: kombucha tea.

All glassware is sterilized before shipment.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-13T10:08:00.001-07:00

Having trouble catching that certain cardinal's eye? Offer him a swig of this and you'll be sure to gain piety points!* Today's featured item is this upcycled glass bottle which not only holds 16 ounces of your favorite drink and/or devil repellant, it fits in most bikes' bottle holsters, too! Snap it up today for $20 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

*holy water sold separately.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-09T10:50:00.001-07:00

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this grape boba tea bag! Long straps are versatile enough to wear over one shoulder or across the chest. There is a small internal pocket for keys and whatnot, while the main body of the bag fits books, laptops, and lots of other cool things. Only $30 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-08T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today's brand spanking new item is this melon boba "tea bag," featuring a cute little shibori applique in the shape of a delicious cup of watermelon boba tea. Versatile and very roomy! Only $30 today at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-04-08T15:26:00.001-07:00

Yes, I took a mini-vacation due to some schemin' I'm doing with some fellow ladybros. More news on that soon, hopefully.

In the meantime, I've been filling my nights with crafts! Here are some more sneak previews of what you can expect to see on the shop this coming week.

First off, the long-awaited bubble tea bags! I'm happy to say that I got a special order before these even hit the shop- someone saw the prototype on this blog and wanted one straight away. Now everyone else can have one, too! Here you can see a good variety of 'flavors,' including grape, strawberry, melon, and apple!

All bags come with a 6" square interior pocket for keys, cell phone, lip balm, etc. You know, all the little things you can never find when you need to!

If you have a favorite flavor of boba that you like to drink, I'm more than happy to find an appropriate material to make a bag. The next round of bags will be made with a similar twill in a brown and white pattern.

Also!

I've been doing a little more glass etching. And some new designs, too! I shifted the focus away from flasks for a little bit to provide a good variety of containers for non-alcoholic drinks as well as bulk liquids. Here are just a few of the bottles you can expect to see soon on the Strange and Violent Etsy shop:

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-03T11:53:00.001-07:00

When it comes to storing your booze, nothing beats the old-fashioned charm of denoting the strength alone. Is it whiskey? Vodka? Who cares! It's got three Xs on it, and that's all you need to know!

This 7 oz. personal flask has been upcycled and hand-etched. Fits nicely in a bag or most pockets. Only $15 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-04-01T12:20:00.001-07:00

Children are a joy, a gift, and a miracle. They are also damn exhausting and will drive you to drink. So why not do it in style with this 7 oz personal glass flask that has been hand-etched to remind you that it will always be "Mommy's Little Helper?"

Assisted childrearing is only $25 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop (booze sold separately)!

Vegan pizza in San Francisco!

2009-03-31T20:14:00.000-07:00

I just returned from an awesome scheming session with Melisser, Jordan, and Jennifer. We've got some awesome plans that involve veganism, cupcakes, and San Francisco. But I've already said too much!

The point is, Amici's East Coast Pizza just started stocking Cheezly this week, and we were among the first patrons to enjoy some of the finest vegan pizza in town. Or, for that matter, some of the only vegan pizza in town. Yum! I'm sure Melisser will have more on The Urban Housewife soon, including a picture, so be sure to check it out.

In the meantime, I'm just bummed their only East Bay location is in Danville.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-31T11:41:00.000-07:00

A nice piece of glass today! Kiss my glass! I could go on all day!

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this 7 oz hand-etched upcycled glass flask featuring the message that you're drinking for two!*

Fits beautifully in a bag, garter, or most pockets, only $25.

*Seriously, though, if you drink while you're pregnant I will punch you in the face and steal your baby and give it to Shaolin monks so it can come back as a grownup and kick your ass all over again. The message on the bottle is a joke, never to be taken seriously, along with half the shit that comes out of my mouth!

Top o' the shop- new item today! Heck, new category today!

2009-03-30T12:21:00.001-07:00

**Trumpet fanfare**

Ladies and germs, announcing the official opening of the Glassware Category of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

The inaugural item is this personal glass flask (upcycled, naturally) with the slogan that started it all: Jerri Blank's life-affirming mantra of being a "boozer, a user, and a loser!" This flask holds 7 oz. and comes with a plastic-capped cork stopper. Because this is a more intricate design (all text and images are hand-cut), the cost is $30. Perfect for the 42 year-old high school freshman in your life. Or just for yourself!

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-03-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Holy mole! I tried a slight variation on my etching technique, with some new materials from Flax, and the result was a marked improvement- far and away the cleanest, crispest lines yet. These personal glass flasks are officially ready to hit the shop! Which they will, some time this week! Oh boy! Here are a few sneak peeks:

Depending on the bottle shape/size and the etched design, these will be priced from approximately $15-35. Woo! Non-alcoholic bottles and bulk item bottles will be coming soon!

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-03-27T12:41:00.003-07:00

I've been doing more etched glass! Here are two sneak peeks at some bottles that I did in the wee hours of last night:

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-27T12:10:00.001-07:00

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this stunning, one-of-a-kind linen cardigan that has been hand-tied and hand-dipped in a variety of dye baths to produce this striking ombre/shibori combination.

This garment is bias-cut to produce a superior fit and drape and dyed with crisp, bold colors to fade from a deep emerald green at the hem, up through turquoise and fading to a natural off-white at the neckline. Own this masterpiece for $65.

Awesome karma day- or, what to do in San Francisco if you're crafty

2009-03-25T15:13:00.000-07:00

Man, I don't know what I did right recently but everything just fell into place today. Despite getting a late start to the day (I spent 2.5 hours with the boyfriend at the medical center, confirming that he did indeed fracture his finger a month ago and that, despite his best efforts, it wasn't healing itself), I managed to accomplish a staggering amount in a few short hours in San Francisco.

My first stop was the recycling center at Duboce and Market- I was hoping to accost some people in line and pay them for nice bottles that could be etched, but I guess the center was productive that day and no one was waiting for service. So I asked an employee if I could buy used bottles, and to my great surprise, he not only gave me a number of bottles for free, he directed me towards an even larger recycling center in Golden Gate park. Folks there were even more helpful, if that was even possible, by lending me one of those extender-grabber thingies so I could sort through an enormous dumpster of glass.

I ended up with a great variety of glassware- several small flasks as well as larger bottles that can be used for bulk products or home-brews, as well as a couple of lovely glass gallon jugs, perfect for folks who buy filtered water at the grocery store. I was happy as a little... I don't know, a bee? Although it was slightly nerve-wracking to coast down the steep streets around Buena Vista Park with two bursting sacks of rustling, shifting, and sliding glass bottles.

Next I visited Flax, a large and well-stocked art supply store on Market and Valencia, to stock up on etching supplies. After that, a quick stop at Fabric Outlet at 17th and Mission to stock up on sewing supplies for pads and wristicuffs. And what luck, they just happened to be having a 40% off sale today! Fabric Outlet is also next to Thrift Town, probably one of the best thrift stores in all of San Francisco. It's got the same heady blend of the eye-poppingly ridiculous and the attractively contemporary that so many Haight St. consignment stores grasp for, but without the attitude and prices.

No time for thrifting today, though, as I went straight to Rainbow Grocery to stock up on nacho-flavored Teese and Molly's dog food. Today is coupon day, and some totally random guy stopped me in the aisle to ask if I had a coupon. When I said no, he promptly gave me an extra. Score! That's what my friend John in Hong Kong would call Pooing It Forward (it was part of a never-launched campaign to get the more careless folks in our neighborhood to clean up after their dogs, but that's a whole 'nother story).

And to top it all off, there was parking everywhere. Now that's rarer than sunshine in San Francisco. Stay tuned for some more kick-ass glassware in the next couple of days!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item in the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this linen miniskirt that screams "spring is here, bitches!" The bottom ruffle has been hand-tied with dozens of white imprints and then dyed this brilliant, first-grass-shoots-of-the-year pale green. What a better way to ring in the arrival of a new season with something cool and breezy like linen and in a color symbolizing the explosion of new life that's happening (or bound to happen soon) all over the countryside. Only $30.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-24T10:46:00.001-07:00

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this striking hand-dyed cotton muslin blouse. It's fitted and tailored in all the rights spots while the thin cotton keeps you cool during summer days. This piece has been hand-tied and immersed in several dye baths before the final black dye process, so along some of the white rings you can see hints of purple, green, and red. A beautiful, breezy piece for both office and casual wear. Only $35.

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-03-23T20:37:00.001-07:00

Some more sneak previews of stuff I've been working on! Expect to see these items up on the Strange and Violent Etsy shop in the next several days:

Coming soon to Vegan Samples!

2009-03-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to say that Strange and Violent Creations (aka, me) is contributing to the next round of Vegan Samples bags!

Vegan Samples collects items from vegan crafters and artisans and sells sample bags on their Etsy shop to raise awareness about veganism, educate people interested in going vegan, and spoiling those of us who have already made the jump! Ten percent of the proceeds will be donated to an animal sanctuary, too!

The Strange and Violent contribution will be some pins made of vegan recycled plastic felt, salvaged cloth, and buttons.

Also in the bags will be some new upcycled t-shirt wristicuffs! Pics of those coming soon. The sample bags go on sale April 14 at http://vegansamples.etsy.com.

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-03-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

Or; Girls and Their Little Bottles

I'm on the hunt for specially-shaped glass bottles that will make great flasks, bulk liquid containers, or personal water bottles. As demonstrated by my first project, I'm going to be etching words and images into them to create unique, aesthetic, environmentally-friendly vessels.

Today was not a good glass hunting day! I went to the recycling depot hoping to snag a few people outside the gates and buy some such bottles off them (I'm prepared to outbid the state's measly ten cents per pound), but alas, the buyback center is closed on Mondays, so there were no such collectors around. Tonight is garbage night in my neighborhood, though, and I'm thinking if I can find the woman who usually sifts through everyone's recycling, I'll tell her about the bounty I've put out on certain bottles and she can become a supplier of sorts.

At any rate, I took a gander at some bottles in local thrift stores for now, and in addition to the bottles I've made available through my own household's needs, I've amassed a small collection of bottles ideal for bulk liquids.

At one store, I was holding two bottles when a man came up behind me, chortling "She needs a small bottle... hey, you've got some little bottles, too! What is it with girls and their little bottles?" As if I collect wee little bottles because their pretty colors excite my equally diminutive brain and compliment the Hummel figurines on my mantle quite nicely.

"I wouldn't know," I replied. "I'm a woman, not a girl."

"Oh." He was taken a bit aback, then (as they always do) tried to backtrack. "Boy, girl, whatever." Right. Like he would have seen a male my age, my height, and with as many white hairs as I've got, and called him 'boy.'

Anyway, condescending morons aside, I've got a good collection of bottles to start with. Although one in particular concerns me. Once I got it home, I looked underneath to see if there were any clues to see what it originally held or if it had the volume capacity imprinted below. Instead, I found a grim warning: "Federal law forbids sale or re-use of this bottle." Damn the government and their determination to be environmentally unfriendly!

Seriously, though, what the hell was in that bottle to prompt such a stern warning? Anyone who might have a clue on this is welcome to chip in. Perhaps you spent a summer temping in the Department of Obscure Warnings? Part of me is convinced it was once a lovely little decanter for radioactive sludge, but my rational side is leaning towards the text representing an exaggerated danger and penalty. I mean, it's federal law that you have to give up most seats on the BART to the elderly and handicapped, and I see perfectly able-bodied young people (and their backpacks) lording it up on those seats during rush hour all the time! At the very least, that should be higher on the list of Things For The Feds To Tackle than a reused glass bottle, right?

Anyway, I'll wrap up this little rant with a sneak preview of the next bottle to go under the etching cream. It's a small Disaronno bottle with pebbled edges that will fit neatly inside a purse, backpack, or pocket. Pretty soon it will bear the slogan "choose your poison" and come topped with a neat little cork stopper.

Keep your eyes peeled! These will be hitting the Strange and Violent Etsy shop within the next two weeks.

Top o' the shop

2009-03-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this envelope-and-liner-style pad set in a cool and modern green and blue dot print. Only $12.

Price Correction

2009-03-22T17:20:00.001-07:00

Ooops! I accidentally listed this medium all-in-one pad as $12.00 earlier this week. The correct price is $8.00. It's fixed now!

Top o' the shop

2009-03-22T17:12:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item is this nighttime pad in a ladybug and pink plaid print! Only $12.00 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

Top o' the shop

2009-03-20T09:27:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item in the shop is a suuuuper-cute tiny dog hoodie for extra small dogs. As the guardian of a very small dog (2 lbs of pure terror), Melisser was despairing that she can hardly find any clothing to keep little Strummer warm- as it is, she has to use a ferret harness because there are no dog harnesses small enough!

So she was pretty happy to see that this XS dog hoodie fit Strummer pretty well! Small dogs of the world, unite! Of course, if you have a ferret or particularly large guinea pig that requires a hoodie, this would probably do the job just as well.

This hoodie has been hand-tied and dyed blue to give it a unique appearance. It even has a little pocket for your pup to hide his/her lighter, shiv, and lock picks. Only $25 today at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

Daily Affirmations with Jerri Blank

2009-03-19T16:13:00.000-07:00

The world uses too much plastic! In addition to owning more Siggs/Klean Kanteens than is probably normal, I use old jam jars as drinking glasses in my house and have taken to hoarding old G.T.'s Kombucha bottles. As my friend Jennifer No pointed out, they fit perfectly in a standard bicycle bottle holder. I've also held on to the few empty booze bottles that have been collecting in our bar area. And now, after much procrastination and daydreaming, I've finally started learning how to do glass etching at home!

The inspiration for my first piece came from hours spent watching Strangers With Candy on Hulu.com. It echoes Jerri Blank's life-affirming mantra, "I was a boozer, a user, and a loser!" Not only that, but it takes it one step further- by giving you MULTIPLE CHOICES. Behold!

This 7 oz. glass bottle was a mini size of Jim Beam that came shrink-wrapped to the 1.75 liter jug (it has a handle, that qualifies it as a jug, right?) of Jim Beam we bought from Costco, purveyors of everything under the sun in truly American quantities.

Using a printout of a basic MS Word document, I taped the copy paper to a section of contact paper and then taped that to a self-healing Olfa cutting board. Using a sharp Exacto blade, I cut out the design and then carefully applied it to the bottle. I had to make an effort to remember all the free-floating shapes to fill in "o"s and "e"s. Then some quality time with etching cream (which, by the way, is one of those 'locked cabinet' items at the art supply store), a little water to rinse, and voila!

I topped the whole thing off with a nice cork bottle stopper that used to belong to a bottle of olive oil. I's like to think Jerri would approve:

I will be making plenty more of these soon for the shop! I'll be saving (and scouring my local area for) small used bottles in a huge variety of shapes and sizes, and with a variety of messages. If inspiration strikes you, I'll be more than happy to provide a customized inscription! These don't have to be used as flasks, either-- they'll be great for other liquids like water or juice, or for taking to the bulk section of your grocery store to stock up on oils, soy sauce, and maple syrup. Or you could stick some beans in 'em. I don't know, go crazy!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-19T09:32:00.002-07:00

Today's featured item is a regular, medium-sized pad in the popular 'doodlebug' pattern fabric. This pad consists of four layers and wings to wrap around your underoos, good for use by itself or in combination with a keeper, diva cup, etc. Only $12.00 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-03-18T11:58:00.001-07:00

I've been yammering about this forever (or rather, dropping cryptic hints about this forever), and I'm proud to finally be able to show some concrete progress on this little project of mine. Presenting.... the Boba Tea Bag!*

*pun intended

Now, this is the very first one, and as we all know, the first few pancakes aren't the best. So this one will probably stick with me, and until I get the pattern just right, my friends may be getting some free but slightly-imperfect tote bags. But I'm currently pre-washing enough poly/cotton twill for six more bags, as well as solid colors to create such 'flavors' as grape, strawberry, and apple tea, in addition to watermelon (pictured, above)!

The straps are just the right length to wear either over the shoulder or slung over your head as well, in case you need to hop on a bike. The bag holds approximately 375 cubic inches and comes with 6" square internal pocket for keys, cell phones, and the other little things you need to find quickly. Hopefully these will be coming to the Strange and Violent store soon (as in, next week?). I expect to retail them for about $30.

Top o' the shop

2009-03-18T09:55:00.001-07:00

Today's featured item in the Strange and Violent shop is this popular cotton and stretch lace tank that has been hand-tied and dyed a beautiful kelly green. The synthetic fibers of the stretch lace took the dye a little differently and creates a subtle contrast next to the brighter chroma color of the cotton jersey.

This tank is very popular and has been featured in several treasuries! Because of its unique, one-of-a-kind sizing and appearance, however, the right buyer has yet to come forward. Could this tank be waiting just for you? $22.

Thanks to the ever-brilliant Melisser of The Urban Housewife for modeling!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-17T09:18:00.000-07:00

Today's new item at the Strange and Violent shop is an upcycled wrist cuff made from salvaged t-shirts. Cozy cotton jersey, and the turquoise side is customized with the abbreviation 'vgn' in red. Only $4 for a custom-sized, machine-washable piece of 'jewelry.' The green side can be customized with a small imprint for only $1 more.

Top o' the shop

2009-03-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

The featured item in the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today is a re-listing of a popular envelope-and-liner set. This 'doodlebug' fabric features fluorescent, layered flowers- all you need are some blacklight panties and you've got a rave in your pants. Woo woo! All that fun for only $12.00 (blacklight panties sold separately).

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-03-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, I finally took some pictures of the black dye job I keep raving about. Here's your official sneak preview of some new items coming to the shop, and new projects I've got going on!

First is this lovely cotton blouse, around a size ten, that's been hand-tied and dyed black. It went through a couple of other dyebaths first just for the heck of it, so along some of the white diamonds you can see hints of scarlet, purple, and spring green.

Here's a detail of the little back-collar trademark I do (three diamonds in a row) on all Strange and Violent tops. Plus my vintage hanger from Sweden!

And here's another little thingie which isn't quite as close to being finished as the blouse. I love the sight and texture of shibori that has been freshly untied!

Here's a hint so you can guess how it will be used:

Hopefully I'll get a chance soon to concentrate on this project, so you can see more progress and perhaps even a finished product soon!

Top o' the shop

2009-03-13T10:55:00.001-07:00

Top of the Strange and Violent Etsy Shop today is this gorgeous, one-of-a-kind, intensively-dyed piece. My only regret is that this doesn't fit me, because it's a beauty. This is a thin cotton muslin blouse, intensively hand-tied and hand-dipped to give it its unique color. It fades from emerald green on the left sleeve to turquoise through the body and white on the right sleeve. The left ribcage is highlighted by a circle of small, hand-tied rings. This is out-of-control crafty. Works great as a layer or by itself, and trust me when I say this top will be so cool and breezy on a hot summer's day. $60.

If you like this top but you're more of a pants person, check out this listing for a similarly-dyed pair of linen trousers, also comfy, flattering, and perfect for a hot summer.

Thanks to the illustrious and all-powerful Jordan for modeling both! And for being a friend.

Teaser trailer and a quick plug

2009-03-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

I have to write a quick note, even without photos, because I'm just so excited. Last night I finally did a long-overdue dyebath of black, and it turned out beautifully! I switched to Jacquard's iDye shortly after starting the shop and have never looked back- not only does it have a dissolvable packet that makes machine-dyeing cleaner and easier than ever, but the hues come out reliably brilliant and colorfast. Plus, I called them to make sure their ingredients were 100% vegan and they made it a top priority, getting back to me within a couple of hours. What a bunch of great peeps! Oh, and this is a given since I'm touting them on my blog, but all iDye products are 100% vegan.

**end product placement**

So I'm very, very happy with how the black turned out, especially since it's a notoriously difficult color to capture in a non-industrial workshop. I've got a beautiful, striking blouse coming your way as well as a functional and adorable accessory that boba/bubble/tapioca tea enthusiasts are sure to love. But I've already said too much! Stay tuned in the next couple of days and I'll throw some photos up!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-12T10:46:00.001-07:00

Today's featured item is a nighttime pad in my exciting new 'doodlebug' fabric. This puppy is six layers thick and contoured to fit the female form. It's also extra long, too, so you can sleep peacefully without having to lie in some awkward position the entire night. These things rule! Every modern environmental lady should have at least two in her arsenal. Twelve dollars today at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-11T14:43:00.000-07:00

Another new item today, because I'm feelin' sassy. This is also a brand new fabric, and pretty well color-coordinated for the job. This mini pad (only $5 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop) is a brilliant red with white and black stars. Fun! So thin and soft you'll forget it's there. Perfect for combination with a keeper, diva cup, etc.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

Today's featured item on the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this cute-as-a-button minipad. This soft and fluffy flannel features a number of abstract little circles (I call them 'buttons,' but if you've read any Kurt Vonnegut you probably know the first thing that popped into my mind) in complementing shades of pink, fuchsia, and chartreuse. Perfect for the last day of your period or for combined use with a tampon or keeper. Only five bucks!

Top o' the shop- special item!

2009-03-10T10:18:00.001-07:00

Top of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today is this special order pad set! I was contacted by a customer and asked to make ten mini pads, and I managed to get a whole nine different fabric styles in there. This set is a great example of the fun and colorful prints you can find at my shop. Unfortunately this little darling is already promised to someone else, but any and all of these styles are available to you through Strange and Violent Creations.

I'll put up another featured item soon, so as not to tease you with things you can't buy!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-09T11:54:00.001-07:00

Top of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today is this envelope-and-liner day pack set of reusable menstrual pads. White cotton flannel covered with a busy pattern of fluorescent pink, green, orange, and yellow doodlebug flowers. Cute! Twelve dollars only-- that beats the price of a major national brand by five dollars and one liner!

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-03-06T13:24:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos of pads I've been working on over the past couple of days. A lot more coming, plus three new fabrics I got a few days ago and haven't gotten around to photographing yet. It's gonna be a "heavy flow" of pads coming through the Strange and Violent Etsy shop, yuk yuk yuk.

What? In bad taste? I tell you, menstrual comedy is an under-appreciated art form.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-06T10:34:00.000-08:00

Featured item in the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today is this envelope-and-liner style pad set. Cute little ladybugs (or ladybirds, if you're British or some other kind of weirdo) plotting little trails across a pink flannel background. Fluffy, soft, cute, what else could you ask for? Twelve dollars.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-05T09:51:00.001-08:00

Another item from my new collection of upcycled T-shirt wristicuffs! Like all my wristicuffs, this one is fully reversible, machine washable, and custom-sized. Brown with turquoise printing on one side, turquoise with the abbreviation 'vgn' printed in red on the other.

Only $4! Seriously! For a custom-sized, two-in-one deal. What a country! Top of the shop today at Strange and Violent Creations.

Bad news/Good news

2009-03-04T11:51:00.000-08:00

Bad News: I will no longer be featuring daily Molly pics on the Strange and Violent website.

Good News: Molly now has her own website where all the daily pics and much more will be featured! The Bug Dog Blog is intended not only to show how totally awesome Molly is, it's also meant to be a gathering spot for a bug dog community.

There's not a whole lot out there on the internet about bug (boxer + pug) dogs. It could be that there's just not that many out there. But in the interest of starting a community for the bug dogs out there, or at the very least providing a small chronicle of one bug's life (ha ha), we're launching the Bug Dog Blog! We hope that Molly lovers, bug lovers, bugs, bug 'cousins' (other boxer or pug mixes or thoroughbreds), and dog enthusiasts in general find the Bug Dog Blog an interesting and enjoyable place to visit.

Thanks for your support and comments on the Molly pics on the Strange and Violent Creations blog! Molly and I both hope to see you at our respective sites in the future.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-03-04T11:02:00.000-08:00

Ta da! Presenting the long-overdue reversible wristicuffs from Strange and Violent Creations!

The first one to go up today is a reversible green-and-leopard print wristicuff with a dual metal snap closure. The green side has the abbreviation "vgn" (for vegan or vegetarian) printed in purple fabric paint. The wristicuff is fully reversible, so it's like having two accessories in one! I will place the second set of snaps according to the buyer's measurements-- that's right, a custom-fitted item for only $4. Now that's champagne living on a Natty Ice budget. Available now at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop, with many, many more to come.

Above, a demonstration on how to wear the wristicuffs while simultaneously cuddling an ornery bug dog.

Stay tuned to the Strange and Violent Etsy shop for more wristicuff styles and features coming soon, including customized imprints in a variety of colors!

Did I link to the store enough? Here's another, just for good measure.

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-03-04T10:32:00.001-08:00

Evidently, Molly did not find Purple Death From Outer Space as compelling a movie as the rest of us.

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-03-03T21:18:00.001-08:00

Top o' the shop

2009-03-03T10:16:00.000-08:00

Top o' the shop today is this regular day pad in a cafe print flannel. Perfect for use with a keeper or for light flow days. Only $8.00 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

Cute Molly pic of yesterday

2009-03-03T10:07:00.001-08:00

I totally forgot to post a Molly pic yesterday! Here you go, I like to call this one "Sir Edmund Hillary."

Top o' the shop- reduced price!

2009-03-02T11:45:00.001-08:00

Top of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today is this resist-dyed flounce-hem skirt. I painstakingly hand-tied hundreds of little white diamonds on the lower ruffle of the them, and then dyed the skirt indigo blue in a nod to the Japanese shibori that inspires so much of my dyed work.

There are some very light tears on the ruffle, hence the discounted price of $55.00. Considering how much time this took to make, that's a huge bargain!

FAQ: Reusable Pads: How to Clean and Store Reusable Pads

2009-03-02T11:19:00.000-08:00

This is Part Three in a three-part FAQ about Reusable Pads.

<< Part One << Part Two

I've had a few people contact me on Etsy to ask about how one goes about using and cleaning the cotton flannel menstrual pads I sell. Some of them are a bit incredulous, and seem simultaneously horrified and intrigued that there is an entire subculture out there of women reusing their pads! I understand that in our society it can be scary or gross to talk about your period, and that our euphemistically-titled "feminine hygiene products" are designed to minimize contact with, and thoughts about, the less-savory aspects of owning a female reproductive system.

Be scared no more! I'm creating this simple guide for both my customers' reference and also to provide a very general web resource. So grab your surfboard and hang ten on the crimson tide!

Part Three: How to Clean and Store Reusable Pads

When you're ready to change your pad, you'll need to soak the used pad in cold water (to prevent staining), preferably with a splash of plain vinegar (to eliminate odor and bacteria). You can keep the sink free by using a small container, such as a bowl, a small bucket, or a small Tupperware, that fits under the sink.

Let the pad soak up to 12 hours but at least one to two-- this shouldn't be too hard to schedule, since you'll probably want to repeat the process once you need to change pads again. Take the pad out of the liquid and squeeze lightly. You shouldn't reuse the water-- you can pour it down the drain or use it to water your indoor or outdoor plants (which love the iron). Rinse the pad quickly under the tap to get all the blood out, then you'll want to squeeze out as much water as you can. I like to roll each piece up like a tight little cigar and then twist either way, but hey, if you've got a method that works for you, rock it! Actually, one of those old-timey laundry wringers would be great. You know, if you happen to have one of those lying around. Once you've squeezed as much as you can out, hang the pad up somewhere to air-dry until laundry day. It's important that you keep them ventilated until they are dry or until you're ready to machine wash them, to prevent mildew.

When you do your next load of laundry, throw the pre-rinsed pads in there. Wash them on any setting or with any other like colors, and toss them in the dryer at any temperature, but keep in mind that colder water will reduce staining. All my pads come pre-washed so there's no risk of them shrinking. Just be sure they don't get stuck to any of your clothes with static cling! You may want to use a lingerie bag just to keep them all together during the washing and drying process.

That's it! Once they're dry, they're ready for re-use.

Store your pads any way you like- just remember to keep them together because they can get lost pretty easily! I really like to use a simple cloth drawstring bag and just throw it in the cabinet under the sink.

I hope this helps with any questions you may have had about using reusable pads! Please feel free to email or leave comments if you have additional questions or need clarification on anything. Thanks for reading!

<< Part One <<Part Two

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-03-01T22:26:00.001-08:00

The awesome thing about having a bug is that occasionally she'll do something that's purely and adorably pug. Like the Patented Pug Head Tilt (also known as the "Arooo?" Face).

My Greatest Wish (well, for the next couple of hours, at least) is that I could somehow make every single "404 File Not Found" page on the interwebz change into this photo:

At the very least, I'd like to see this on a few major corporations' tech support pages.

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-28T12:12:00.000-08:00

HAND MONSTER!!!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-02-28T11:51:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to announce I've added a new hue to the variety of Tetris-themed shibori bandanas.

Red for Mother Russia! This is the first bandana colored with a new dye (which is now my regular dye). You can see the color is beautifully vibrant! Only $15 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-02-27T09:04:00.001-08:00

Another new item at the top of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today! What an exciting time for the shop.

This mini pad is perfect for the end of your period when you need the most minimal of coverage. So soft and thin you'll forget it's there! And look how cute! I love this fabric. Only $5 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop! Whatta bargain!

Top o' the shop- new item today!

2009-02-27T08:31:00.000-08:00

Featured item in the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today is this hand-dyed, sherbet-colored scarf. This cotton gauze scarf has been hand-tied with dozens of small white diamonds to create a tableau of a Tetris game in mid-play. Only $15!

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-26T19:20:00.001-08:00

Top o' the shop

2009-02-26T13:42:00.000-08:00

Another item at the top of the shop today, an envelope-and-liner set. Look how cute! Pink flannel printed with hundreds of yummy vegan cupcakes. Well, they're not specified vegan, but I'm going to go ahead and say they are because I just don't think I want to imagine that many cupcakes that I can't eat.

This is the last one available! No more will be listed after this set. $12.00 at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop.

Top o' the shop

2009-02-26T09:53:00.001-08:00

Top o' the shop today is this gorgeous, hand-tied and hand-dyed shibori scarf. I initially had a different plan for these scarves, but a dye job that seemingly went south ended up creating this beautiful mottled, pinkish-orangey sherbet color. I've hand-tied dozens of little diamonds forming a large starburst effect on one end of the scarf.

This one is amazingly versatile- scarf for warmth or decoration, headband, belt, etc. Go nuts! And this color is brilliant with anything- neutrals or other bright colors (it's out of the park paired with a kelly green!). 100% cotton, made by me from raw materials. Only $15 today at the Strange and Violent etsy shop!

Coming soon to the shop!

2009-02-25T17:45:00.000-08:00

New flannel has arrived at the Strange and Violent workshop!

You can soon expect to see leopard, ladybug, crazy doodles, or floral pads at the Strange and Violent shop soon!

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-25T17:23:00.001-08:00

"What do you mean, I'm adopted?!"

Top o' the shop

2009-02-25T14:08:00.000-08:00

Today's featured item on the Strange and Violent Etsy shop is this plush, fluffy nighttime pad. Made with six layers of baby blue cotton flannel with a white scribble pattern and finished with a four-thread serge stitch. Only $12 and a high five!

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-24T18:56:00.000-08:00

My boyfriend's mom, who lives in Hong Kong, recently sent us a care package with a bunch of little trinkets from one of the local night markets. One of them has really captivated Molly! It's a plastic top shaped sort of like a Transformer head. You stick the top onto an orange handle, wind it a couple of times, and then press the button to release it. Not only does it spin, but it lights up and it plays 'Axel F.' That's right, the song from _________________.*

Molly freaks when we let the top loose. I've got a great couple of videos I took which I hope to put up well. As soon as I learn iMovie. Which may be never. Anyway, the pictures may not be great, but enjoy! I can assure you it's a hilarious sight.

*insert your own answer. Here are your choices:

If born before 1985: Beverly Hills Cop
If born in 1985 or after: all those Crazy Frog commercials

Top o' the shop- reduced price!

2009-02-24T10:41:00.001-08:00

Take a little trip with me, back to the 80s, before the internet, before iPhones, when all you needed to be cutting edge and the envy of your neighborhood was a $106.00 Nintendo console and a Tetris game cassette. Oh, that maddening Russian music. I know pretty much everyone in my generation played Tetris enough at one point in their lives to actually have dreams about those little shapes falling through space.

Inspired by the shapes and colors (and maddening fun) of Tetris, I made these handkerchiefs! Top of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today, and with a reduced price, Nasdroyev, comrades! Each shape consists of four hand-tied white halos and forms a tableau of a game in mid-play. These things are awesomely versatile: use them as scarves, bandanas, headbands, ninja masks, blindfolds, bandages, garottes (ok, not really), or even raw materials for your own crafty project. Fifteen bucks today- that's a 25% discount, wowweeee!

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-23T13:07:00.001-08:00

I've had my Macbook since August, but only used Photobooth for the first time last night.

We're tongue twins.

FAQ: Reusable Pads: How to Use Reusable Pads

2009-02-22T13:16:00.000-08:00

This is Part Two in a three-part FAQ about Reusable Pads. << Part One Part Three>>

I've had a few people contact me on Etsy to ask about how one goes about using and cleaning the cotton flannel menstrual pads I sell. Some of them are a bit incredulous, and seem simultaneously horrified and intrigued that there is an entire subculture out there of women reusing their pads! I understand that in our society it can be scary or gross to talk about your period, and that our euphemistically-titled "feminine hygiene products" are designed to minimize contact with, and thoughts about, the less-savory aspects of owning a female reproductive system.

Be scared no more! I'm creating this simple guide for both my customers' reference and also to provide a very general web resource. So grab your surfboard and hang ten on the crimson tide!

Part Two: How to Use Reusable Pads
This part may seem pretty self-explanatory, and indeed it is. There are still a few tips I'd like to share to help people get the most out of using flannel pads, though, and I think a better understanding of the techniques will help novices adjust to reusable pads and stick with them.

One of the great advantages of reusable pads is their versatility. I especially like the 'day pack,' or the envelope-and-liners, design for this reason. Depending on your flow that day, or on whether you're using a tampon or a keeper as well, you can adjust the thickness of what you use.

For minimal coverage: use either a one-piece minipad or the envelope of the day pack alone.
For medium/average coverage: use either a one-piece pad or the envelope plus one or both of the liners from the day pack.
For heavy or nighttime coverage: use either a one-piece nighttime pad, or the envelope with up to three liners from one or more day packs (once you own several packs, you can mix and match the pieces).

You will need to change these pads as often as you normally would with disposables, depending on your flow and any other products you may be using.

Wearing the pads: The first thing you want to do is make sure your pad is clean and ready to use. All Strange and Violent pads are shipped pre-washed and ready to wear. The nap on the flannel should be fluffy enough to provide physical comfort to you as well as to provide maximum absorption.

Place the pad in your underwear in the position that is best for you. This may change depending on what you're wearing or how active you plan on being. If you're using a day pack with at least one liner, place the liner in the envelope before lining it up on your underwear, ensuring that the liners are smoothly and evenly placed in the middle of the envelope before proceeding.

Now, reusable pads don't come with velcro or sticky material to keep them in place, which is why a lot of women I know prefer to pin them in place before dressing to keep the pad from 'migrating.' While the pad is lined up on your underwear, insert a medium-sized safety pin through the outside crotch of the underwear, catch the bottom layers of the pad, and then back out, fastening and securing it. It's important only to catch one or two of the bottom layers of flannel instead of jabbing the safety pin through to the top of the pad- this will make it easier for blood to leak through the puncture holes and onto your underwear, in addition to putting more stress on the safety pin. You just want to gently tether the pad, not chain it up. I know the thought of putting a safety pin so close to your delicates can be scary, but in ten years I've never had a close call. To be extra safe, buy diaper pins, which are designed to withstand all sorts of prying and stress without harming delicate skin.

Once the pad is pinned in place, snap the wings together around the outside of the underwear, covering the safety pin. Then put your pants (or whatever) on and you're ready to go!

Certainly switching abruptly to reusable pads can be a different sensation altogether. I always advise new users to buy one pad or daypack and just try it in between disposables during the next few cycles. Use it at home, or in another familiar setting, so that you can get used to the feelings of wearing reusable pads, understanding when it's time to change them, and the processes of putting them on and cleaning them without the distractions of a public space or the uncertainty of traveling far from your bathroom or laundry room! Once you feel sufficiently comfortable with wearing reusable pads, you can start expanding your collection and slowly make the switch to using them full-time and in all sorts of settings.

I hope this is helpful! In the final installment of this FAQ I'll be advising you on how to clean and store your reusable pads.

<< Part One Part Three>>

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-22T13:11:00.000-08:00

This pretty much sums up our plans for the day.

Top o' the shop

2009-02-22T13:07:00.001-08:00

Top of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today is this cutey-cute little picnic print pad set, the last one I've got left! A red gingham tablecloth print is covered with cute little tiny ants. Get some ants in your pants today for $12, and pick up some matching blue picnic prints while you're at it!

Craft project- ten dollar spice racks!

2009-02-22T11:13:00.000-08:00

I have kind of a seething hatred of my kitchen. I often fantasize about becoming fabulously wealthy, ripping everything down to the bare foundations (well, after I buy the house), and building a dream kitchen from scratch. It's a bit like that episode of Arrested Development where Lucille Austero returns home from a trip and finds everything in her kitchen askew because her neighbor Lucille Bluth has covertly renovated and expanded her bathroom in the former's absence. The cabinet doors don't shut over my completely average-sized plates. The shelves are a maddening half-inch too short to fit the standard cereal box, and the drawers are so shallow as to get stuck if you don't put the roll of aluminum foil in with the flap on the bottom.

Subsequently, our once-considerable counter space is cluttered with things that should be in the drawers or in the cabinets, but won't fit. Seeing the big empty space on one of the kitchen walls, I decided there's no better space for a spice rack.

Our spices and oils normally occupy a large rattan tray next to the stove. No more!

First, I went to Urban Ore in Berkeley and asked for the 'orphaned drawer section.' I found these two very different drawers and paid $8 total for them.

Note that the drawer face (the part normally visible when the drawer is closed in the original piece of furniture) on both of these does not extend beyond the bottom of the drawer- this means they will hang evenly on the wall. If you want to replicate this project at home, make sure you use drawers with an even, flat bottom surface, or cut the face even with the drawer bottom using a saw.

After removing the tracks with a screwdriver, I gave the drawer bottoms a quick wipe clean and, where necessary, scored the wood surface (you can use a screwdriver or sandpaper) in order to give the glue better traction.

Next, I cut out pieces of oilcloth precisely the size of the inside bottom of the drawer.

Using crafting glue, I pasted the oilcloth to the drawer bottom, using a ruler to smooth from one end to the other to get rid of air bubbles, wrinkles, and also to distribute the glue evenly and form a strong seal. I wiped up excess glue from the corners with a rag.

After letting the glue dry, I attached swiveled mirror hangers (about $.79 each at the hardware store) on the backs of the drawers. I set up the drawers so that the resting surface would run lengthwise, to store as many bottles as possible.

Then, it's simply a matter of hanging them evenly and correctly.

And there you have your space-saving, recycled $10 spice racks! Now I have more room to buy crazy spices and extracts...

Cute Molly picture of the day: epic photoessay

2009-02-21T11:45:00.001-08:00

When we adopted Molly last year, she came with some pretty funky dental hygiene. I was told by a professional doggie dental hygienist that I would need to take her to a vet for a full-on, knock-out, general-anesthesia teeth cleaning and possible extraction. She ended up having nine bad teeth removed and in order to keep the ones she's got left, we have to brush her teeth regularly. I've been requested to provide photos and/or video by at least one friend, so here you go! Doggie teeth brushing. FYI, we usually do this right before dinner so she associates good hygiene with a reward, and also so she's more likely to sit still and patiently endure the brushing.

Top o' the shop

2009-02-21T11:36:00.000-08:00

Top of the Strange and Violent Etsy shop today is this companion to yesterday's featured item: a green camo menstrual pad set, because we all know what it's like waging war with your uterus. People talk about 'Nam, man... don't make me laugh. It only costs twelve dollars to kit up your vulva in covert woodlands disguise. Because you never know when your vulva needs to sneak up on someone in the woods.

Rilakkuma store opens in Japan!

2009-02-20T18:04:00.000-08:00

Normally I have a notorious reputation as a pretty strict utilitarian. While I love design, I hate knick-knacks and really can only do clutter if there is a method to the madness and if the clutter helps me create things or store things. I know, I know, you wouldn't think it by looking at the inside of my home, but I really hate buying things unless they serve some sort of function.

Except when it comes to Japanese stationery and the character worlds which are created to sell some of the most ridiculously useless and adorably cute shit ever. As mentioned in a previous entry, Rilakkuma is the reigning king of San-X characters in our home, with Nyanko kitties coming in a close second. And holy shit, my head just exploded, because Rilakkuma just got his own store in Tokyo. I want to be there, right now.

Here are some more AMAZING photos of the new store courtesy of flickr. There's so much amazing useless crap I want right now! A Rilakkuma toilet seat cozy? Bring it on!!!

FAQ: Reusable Pads: Why Reusable?

2009-02-20T17:31:00.000-08:00

This is Part One in a three part FAQ series on reusable menstrual pads. Part 2 >> Part 3>>

I've had a few people contact me on Etsy to ask about how one goes about using and cleaning the cotton flannel menstrual pads I sell. Some of them are a bit incredulous, and seem simultaneously horrified and intrigued that there is an entire subculture out there of women reusing their pads! I understand that in our society it can be scary or gross to talk about your period, and that our euphemistically-titled "feminine hygiene products" are designed to minimize contact with, and thoughts about, the less-savory aspects of owning a female reproductive system.

Be scared no more! I'm creating this simple guide for both my customers' reference and also to provide a very general web resource. So grab your surfboard and hang ten on the crimson tide!

Part One: Why Reusable?

For some people, the concept of a reusable menstrual pad, like a reusable diaper, is unusual and kind of dirty-sounding. These products, like bandages or toilet paper, seem to deal with our most unsavory of bodily functions, and in the interest of sanitation, shouldn't they be disposable for a good reason?

The answer to this is part of a larger discussion on our modern lifestyles. Before plastics and cheap, mechanized production flourished in the last century, all these 'drugstore disposables' which we now take for granted were, in fact, made from either reusable or renewable resources. Although disposable pads may sound like progress, there are three ways in which reusables trump disposables:

Saving The Planet: Ok, this is the biggie and it's probably the most obvious. Disposable pads are just that- disposable, one-time-use products. Somewhere in the neighborhood of 80 billion pads and tampons are dumped in the landfills of North America each year. Disposables advertised as 'biodegradable' or 'all-natural,' while used out of good intentions, take up just as much space as conventional disposables: compacted into a mulch of plastics, metals, rubber, and organic material and deprived of oxygen, sunlight, or condensation, these products are unable to biodegrade as quickly as promised. Disposables contribute to many forms of pollution during creation, as well. Dioxin used to bleach pads and tampons, for example, or petrochemicals to create thin sheets of plastic.
Saving Yourself: All that stuff that's so nasty for the earth is also nasty to you. The average disposable pad is a swarm of chemicals and irritants: perfumes, dyes, bleach, plastic, something that feels like a hospital gown... something else that feels like fiberglass insulation... why on earth is this invited into your pants for a week each month? Neither the FDA nor the EPA regulates or supervises what materials go into disposable pads, or disposable diapers for that matter. A friend once told me of the moment when she switched over to reusable diapers for her babies: seeing a strange fleck inside a disposable diaper, she tore it open and found bits of a shredded rubber tire.
Saving Your Wallet: I read while doing some research the other day that the average woman spends an accumulative eight years menstruating. I know what you're thinking --ye gods, why?!-- but aside from that, think about how much money you would have forked over for disposable pads by the end of that time. Enough to buy a lot of other really cool stuff that you actually like better than pads. Like antique pinball machines, or a day at the spa with your Nana.

Now reusable cotton flannel pads, on the other hand, are made from renewable plant resources and will last five to ten years or more. My reusables are soft and get softer with wear; made with 100% cotton flannel, they are exceptionally gentle, comfortable, and breathable. And they pay for themselves many, many times over.

Certainly, I know some people find the idea of reusable pads, at best, a strange idea. And certainly it might take some getting used to. If you've never used reusable pads before and would like to start, you can start slowly by using a reusable pad once instead of a disposable during your next cycle, and just see how it feels (best to do this at home). The more you learn about using and cleaning the reusable pads, the more at ease you will feel with it.

I hope this helps answer some questions! The FAQ continues with Part 2 on how to use reusable pads.

Top o' the shop

2009-02-20T15:13:00.000-08:00

Today's top item is this awesome and tough pad set. Warfare is nothing compared to braving your period every month- that's why this set is in snow camo! For when your period takes the form of an indomitable yeti. Green camo also available (for when your period is a naughty wood elf). Twelve buckaroos (will last you at least five but probably ten years) at the Strange and Violent Etsy shop!

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-20T10:55:00.001-08:00

I hope to be a bit more motivated and productive today, so more posts on that later! In the meantime, here's your cute Molly of the day:

This is Point Isabel dog park, where we'll be in approximately 15 minutes. It's the biggest (and arguably the best) dog park in the country, with gorgeous views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate.

Tackling the dreaded serger

2009-02-19T21:17:00.001-08:00

Was kind of a worthless layabout today, to be perfectly honest. I picked up the car and dropped off $500, and on top of all that my stereo is officially kaput as well. It's another $400 if I want to change that. It's okay, I think it's safe and legal to listen to my iPod while driving if I only have one earbud in. I mean, that's the impression I got from that one episode of CHiPS where Heather Locklear guest-starred. And that's exactly what I'll say in court.

I did finally gather the motivation to tackle my serger (overlock) machine tonight. A lot of sewers/tailors/fashionistas are terrified of sergers, and for good reason. For many people, threading a single needle and a simple bobbin can be frustrating and mysterious enough. Throw three more needles, two blades, and four tension springs into the mix and it's a bit more complicated, to say the least.

I, however, have learned to love the serger. It's taken me literally years of constant use and practice, but I can change the threads without an ounce of dread now. Lately, my financial situation has pressed me to exploring my machine more by removing covers and peeking around at moving parts and settings to try and troubleshoot at home rather than drop it off with a pro. Tonight I managed to remove both blades, sharpened them with the little stone that came with my Gingher fabric shears, and reattached them, and it made all the difference! I was finally able to serge the sleeve and side seams for a Mandarin blouse that's been sitting around pinned to a hanger for months on end.

Uh... sorry this post is kind of boring. I haven't been up to much else today! Sharpening my serger blades was a huge accomplishment in comparison. You know how it is...

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-19T21:14:00.001-08:00

Molly is a vicious opponent when it comes to Grecian wrestling. She always cheats, too.

Cute Molly picture of the day

2009-02-18T16:07:00.003-08:00

"We meet at last, Batman. They call me Two-Face."

Strange and Violent reusable pads- Now available at Berkeley Biofuel Oasis!

2009-02-18T12:16:00.000-08:00

It's official! I just dropped off my first consignment of reusable/eco-friendly/recycleable menstrual pads at the Berkeley Biofuel Oasis store. In addition to my pads, there is a great variety of healthy snacks, biofuel bling (like T-shirts, bumper stickers, and car decals), and most importantly, a huge selection of hand-made crafts from local craftsters like myself!

Even if you don't drive a biofuel car, please swing by to check out the local crafts available and also to learn more about the future of fuel! Biofuel Oasis is a women- and worker-owned cooperative dedicated to making lower-polluting and renewable auto fuel from local, recycled, post-consumer vegetable oil.

Biofuel Oasis is located a short drive from the University Ave. exit of I-80/I-580 at the corner of 4th and Dwight in South Berkeley. Also in the neighborhood is the inimitable Vik's Chaat (get the aloo tikki cholle), as well as clean, sex-positive, women-friendly and awesomely-staffed Good Vibrations.

Later this spring Biofuel Oasis will be moving to a larger, higher-traffic location at Sacramento and Ashby, so be sure to check their website for details on hours and location before visiting. Thanks so much! And here's a toast to a more sustainable future.