Don't MIS It

NYFW 2012 ~ The DVF Show!

2012-03-10T13:47:00.002-05:00

Fashion Designer Ben Rey, Strolling Through Lincoln Center
Fun article about him on nymag.com

The February 2012 New York Mercedez Benz Fashion Week flew by this year. I was lucky enough to attend the DVF show with a good friend. Of course the show was incredible, classic DVF clothing, impeccably made with a touch of whimsy! Check out the wonderful collection on the DVF site. However, half the fun is the before and after - seeing wonderful New Yorkers, Fashionites and Celebrities dressed up for the festivities. NYFW has to be some of the best people watching in New York, I could have stayed there all afternoon. Keep your eyes open, as you don't want to MIS any fabulous people that pass by!

Just a glimpse at my whirlwind time at New York Fashion Week February 2012.

Enjoy,

Margo

My Good Friend Tess and me!

Love her coat!

Full on Floral!

My Favorite Man of the Day!

Great from the back too!

Couldn't take my eyes off of her jumpsuit!

We made it to the promise land!

Awaiting the Big Show!

Perfect Styling, Model and Cut
Runway Shot Taken from DVF.com

Gloved Whimsy
Runway Shot Taken from DVF.com

Rich Hue
Runway Shot Taken from DVF.com

Catwalk

The Legend Herself
Diane Von Furstenberg
Image from Online Source

And the magical evening ended with snow!

Love is in the Air!

2012-02-15T17:09:00.005-05:00

It all started with some cut hearts...

Valentines Day is one of my favorite holidays. I love the spirit of it, as it reminds you to let friends and family know how much you love them. I wanted to spread the love with an art instillation that I call "Love is in the Air." The day before Valentines Day the strings of hearts went up at the front of my school, thanks to some lovely elves! As students and teachers entered school on Valentines Day there was a wall of hearts waiting to welcome them!

Don't MIS another opportunity to bring a smile to someone's face!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Lots of cut paper hearts...

Sewn together with red thread...

Hanging!

And untangled!

Yeah, they're going up!

Hanging Hearts

Free Flying!

The LOVEly Setup...

Love is in the air...

To bring smiles to the faces of those who pass by!

Always look out!
You don't want to MIS any of the love that surrounds you!

SWEET Hearts!

2012-02-13T21:32:00.002-05:00

Spread the love this Valentines Day with some chocolate treats! Bake brownies and cut them out with heart-shaped cookie cutters for some festive goodies! I recommend cutting them when they are still hot to avoid breaking/cracking. Share them with your favorite Valentines and enjoy all the crumbs yourself!

Have a LOVEly Valentines Day!

Xox,

Margo Isadora

Pick Out Your Heart Cookie Cutters

Bake Some Brownies

Place Your Cutter

Cut Away!

Set Up More Cutters... And Cut Away!

Serve Up Some SWEET Hearts!

Lovely DIY

2012-02-11T11:46:00.001-05:00

Heart Garland

Roses are Red

Violets are Blue

I love DIY

How 'bout you?!

Valentines Day is always a perfect time to make things for your loved ones! I wanted to share some of my favorite projects from across the web, check out the link below each photo for the full tutorial.

Don't MIS the opportunity to spread your love this Valentines Day with homemade Valentines and presents. I have been busy with my own projects and can't wait to share!

Xox,
Margo Isadora

Heart Cut-Out Tee!

Giant Paint Chip Valentine!

Doily Heart Shirt

Doily Cupcake Cozy!

Needle Felted Elbow Heart

Cake in a Cup Valentine!

Candy Heart Necklace

Sweet Sugar Packet Valentine!

Kissing Clothespin Caketopper!
For those tying the knot on this day of love!

Incredible Pancake Hearts!

Marbled Polymer Clay Pens

& what a great valentine!

Egg in a Heart!
A perfect Valentines Day breakfast!

Conversation Heart Jewlery

Portrait of Me!

2012-01-21T17:56:00.001-05:00

Portrait By Ty
Photograph By Piper Martz

Ty, the young creative blogger behind Know and Tell Crafts recently illustrated a portrait of me. He is an incredibly talented digital artist. I absolutely love my portrait. He uses Sketchbook Pro on the Ipad to create his cool portraits. Ty has a great step by step tutorial on how to recreate your own DIY digital portrait! Be sure to visit his portrait gallery and doodles page to see more of his work!

Portrait of Me
Created by Ty

Captured by Piper Martz

Don't MIS his fun posts on knowandtellcrafts.blogspot.com. Ty shares wonderful projects on a regular basis, ranging from bearded crochet hats to how to make a pet rock!

Enjoy,
Margo Isadora

A Portrait of Ty himself!
By Ty

My Portfolio

2012-01-16T08:53:00.005-05:00

Pendant Light and Reflection
Acrylic Painting from Observation
Acrylic Paint, 16"x20", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

The New Year has brought my crazy rollercoaster of college applications to a close. It has been a wild ride, but I am thrilled to be headed to Parsons The New School for Design in the Fall! I wanted to share some of my portfolio with you. I cannot wait for all the new experiences that the coming year will bring!

Explore your aspirations in 2012 and enjoy the adventures that unfold.

~ Margo Isadora

Mr. Murray
Blind Contour Drawing from Observation
Sharpie and Collage, 15"x24", 2009
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Popcorn Eruption
Pencil Drawing from Observation
Pencil, 18"x24", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Spain Inspired Woman
Abstraction inspired by a visit to the Picasso Museum in Spain.
Acrylic Paint, 24"x36", 2011

All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Vacuum Closet
Aerial View, Pencil Drawing from Observation
Pencil, 18"x24", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

A Colorful Space
Two Point Perspective Tempera Painting from Imagination.
Tempera Paint, 13"x17", 2009
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Crumpled Hand
My dad's fist drawn from observation.
Pencil, 18" x 24", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Bark
Abstracted bark painted with Acrylic Paint.
Acrylic Paint, 13" x 17", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Bike
Pencil drawing of the bottom of a bike seat from observation.
Pencil, 16" x 20", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Still Life
Oil pastel still life drawn from observation.
Oil Pastel, 18"x24", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Silk Halter Dress
A multicolor floral silk halter dress, with a braided neck detail.
Silk, 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Sunburst Top
A top designed from my grandmother's vintage Marimekko curtains.
Vintage Marimekko Fabric, 2009
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Tie Collage
Vibrant tie designs made with paint chips and magazine clippings.
Mixed Media Collage, 13"x17", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Tie Lamp
Oil pastel tie lamp, created and then drawn from observation.
Oil Pastel, 18"x24", 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

Tie Skirt
Photographed by Piper Martz
Skirt created with vintage ties.
Ties, 2011
All Rights Reserved By Margo Isadora

* Please do not use my work without my permission,

Thank you!

Glitter and Sparkle...

2011-12-31T15:40:00.002-05:00

We celebrate the New Year, but I believe that life is a celebration and it's important to add sparkle to our lives on a daily basis. Penelope (my dress form) certainly knows that!

Happy New Year to all, and may every day be sparkly!

Xo,

Margo Isadora

It started out with some gifted bows and tinsle...

Soon she had a spirited bustier...

and a skirt to match!

The left over bows created a box tree just for her!

(A glittery tree!)

She has her New Year's Eve dress all picked out!

And just can't wait to celebrate!
Happy 2012!

A Sugary Gingerbread House...

2011-12-24T18:00:00.001-05:00

The front of our gingerbread house!

The holidays are a time for families to get together and share in festive traditions. We always decorate a gingerbread house. I don't know what could be more fun than covering a house in vibrant sugary confections! This is the whimsical gingerbread house that we created this year! It doesn't matter what you celebrate find a festive tradition like this one and enjoy!

Hope don't MIS sharing your favorite rituals with family and friends!

Happy Everthing,

Margo Isadora

Supplies: A Gingerbread House, Candy and Frosting!

The Set-Up!

Working on the House...

Close up of my brother's sweet work!

My Snowman, created using
pfeffernusse cookies, M&Ms, and a nonpareil!

My brother's finished side

Mom's lovely back

My Heavily Decorated Side

A birds' eye view of the finished house!

Magazine Christmas Trees!

2011-12-18T19:37:00.001-05:00

DIY Christmas Trees
(Supplies: Old Magazines and A Pair of Hands!)

I love the festivities that December holidays bring. Hanukkah, Christmas, my birthday, New Years and all the fun in between makes it a month full of celebration. This year we have put up our outdoor lights and decorated a gingerbread house, but we did not get a Christmas tree. So, I decided to make a few of my own out of old magazines!

Gather some magazines or catalogues laying around your home. (You will need one magazine per tree, a few different sizes make a more interesting collection of trees.) To start pull off the front and back covers of the magazine and break the spine. Then fold each page as follows (see images below). I found Green Eyed Monster's video tutorial very helpful greeneyed.com/2011/12/diy-magazine-christmas-tree/ if you are having any trouble.
I have made a small forest already, some of which I plan to uproot and give to the deserving few!

I hope you are making wonderful things for the holidays. Create something, whether you decorate a tree, a gingerbread house, make cookies, latkes, or fun DIY gifts. It is a holiday activity not to MIS!

Enjoy,
Margo Isadora

Fold #1!

Fold #2!

Fold #3!

Continue the 3 folds for each page
and you will have a beautiful tree!

A finished magazine tree!

Many people have gotten creative with their trees this year,
check out some fun ones on Apartment Therapy!

P.S. I made this... at C. Wonder!

2011-12-12T18:57:00.001-05:00

Cute Instagram from the event that Erica posted on her twitter!

P.S. I made this... is one of my favorite DIY books, and websites. I was fortunate enough to meet Erica Domesek, the creator behind this wonderful DIY brand, at a DIY event she hosted at a C. Wonder store! Her work is a source of constant inspiration for my DIY projects. It truly made my night to chat and craft with her! We made fun gift tags and colorful coasters from her C.Wonder DIY kits! Check out 'A DIY Obession' from last year to see some of my favorite projects from her book and site.

Wanted to share some highlights from the event and some of my favorite P.S. I made this... projects!
Hope you get to DIY this holiday season,
Margo Isadora

The DIY Set-up! Prepped for coaster and gift tag crafting!

A coaster I made :)

P.S. these are some of the other coasters I made!

A great bike display in the C. Wonder store!

C. Wonder's Awesome Blue Ottoman in the Dressing Rooms...

These wonderful hats were just for display...
but they provided some excellent DIY inspiration!

Erica Domesek was lovely!
psimadethis.com

Some of my favorite projects from psimadethis.com

Love my fabric gemstone earrings , all pairs! Great DIY!

I've been meaning to make some flower print cards!

Great fringe accessory for booties!

Simple, but super cute!

Love!

Erica and I

What Color Are You Today?

2011-12-04T19:13:00.000-05:00

Colored with Emotion!

I believe that color has the power to transform your mood or dispostion in an instant. Unfortunately, many people underestimate or overlook how linked our emotions are with color. (For more of my thoughts on color check out Color is Key or Color In Action!)

My creative writting teacher recently challenged us to create a children's book. I immediately knew I wanted to use coloful illustrations to attract readers, young and old alike. The idea of writing a book about color related to emotions inspired me, so I got to work!

I constructed the book by folding 5 peices of colored paper in half and sewing up the spine. Magazine letters were used to create the cover art. Inside I made colorful profiles from paint chips to show the expressive emotion of each person! One was green with envy (sticking out it's tounge), another was a purple pinnochio, and yet another was red and in love! The moral of the story was that it is natural to experience a variety of emotions, but the key is learning how to keep your emotions from controlling you!

Stay colorful, be happy and keep creating!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

The Cover

Materials Needed: Scissors, Magazine Letters

Sew up the binding!

Paint Chip Art in process for the book!

I began the book with these words...

Each morning

you wake up

with a new color inside.

Sometimes it shines

And sometimes it hides.

These are a few sample pages...

I concluded with these words...

It can change

every day

every hour

every minute.

And that’s okay.

It just depends how

You spin it.

A DIY Halloween!

2011-11-13T15:28:00.002-05:00

My Beehive! Haloween 2011

Halloween had me buzzing this year, carving my pumpkin and getting my costume ready at the last minute. I decided to be a "Beehive" this year! Martha Stewart's beehive tutorial helped me excecute it. The hairstylist's video was easy to follow and wonderful to visualize the steps. I split my hair into 7 sections, instead of 5, and braided the yarn in, instead of twisting it. I created the bees with black, yellow, and white pipecleaners then let them buzz freely about my hive!
My friends creative costumes have me already thinking of costumes for next year! See some of my favorites below.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Mochi the Witch

DIYed Sheep (she spent many hours sewing each cotton ball onto her top)

A Sparkling Christmas Tree!

Frida Kahlo, flower crown DIYed using HonestlyWTF's great tutorial

Crochet Inspiration

2011-10-27T07:05:00.003-04:00

Bus Wrapped in Vintage Blankets
By: Magda Sayeg, Mexico City 2008
Photo: by Cesar Ortega of Knitta Please

Crochet is an versitile medium, which injects a vibrant punch into anything from accessories to automobiles. Whether it's the beautiful crochet artwork of Olek or the classic granny square, I have always been inspired by its endless possibilities. Lately I'm seeing more crochet used in design.

My grandmother crocheted a sweet dream blanket for me, and lacy crocheted snowflakes during the winter, among other beautiful pieces. She recently taught me the basic stitch and I ran with it. I'm in the process of crocheting a whimsical beehive/bucket purse out of ripped tee shirt pieces (similar to the ones in the fringe necklace). (see image below.)

I look forward to being able to design more complicated crochet creations in the future. But right now I am quite inspired by the crochet work of others!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Crocheted Tee Bag in Process!

Bottom of my Crocheted Tee Bag!

Simeli Bike Jewelry

Anna Sui Vest

Retro Maxi, Pattern Available on Etsy!

Wood & Wool Stool

Great Crocheted Mini!

Chevron, Plaid, and Striped Crocheted Bike!

House of Holland AW11

Katie Probert's Beautiful 'Harvest Hoop-la Crochet Scarf'

Inviting Trailer

Crochet in Nature

Crochet... filling in the cracks in our daily lives!

Paint Chip Art

2011-09-25T21:27:00.001-04:00

Profile Paint Chip Art by yours truly!

I have always been attracted to the colorful paint chips that line the walls of paint and hardware stores. When I was little I would collect as many of the candy colored cards as I could. Recently I got a fresh stash from Home Depot and returned home ready to create. I started cutting and before I knew it they were transformed into whimsical profiles of people. It was fun to make these eye catching and inexpensive works of art. Below are some of my pieces, along with other beautiful paint chip art.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

By: MIS

More Faces... By: MIS

Patterned Tie ~ by MIS

Tie Close-up! MIS

Graphic Paint Chip Art

Paint Chip Art Dining Room Burst of Color!

Not paint chip art per say...
but just imagine if it was done in paint chips!

Fun Paint Chip Coasters!

Hope this has inspired you!
Pick up some paint chips, a glue stick and a pair of scissors... and get to work!

Missoni for Target

2011-09-12T06:40:00.001-04:00

Missoni for Target is a match made in heaven! I have been lusting after everyone of the 400 pieces in this epic collection; Target's largest designer collaboration yet. The Italian designer's line hits Target stores on Tuesday, September 13th!

I couldn't wait to see these vibrant pieces, so I ventured into the city on the first night of school, to visit...

This pop up shop looked quite promising! I arrived a half an hour in advance, but the line which began at the shop (6th Ave & 42nd St) was already down the block and around the corner on to Broadway.... We waited after almost 3 hours and still did not get inside the promised land.

The signature Missoni zig-zag prints and other colorful patterns have always inspired me. It is wonderful that Missoni has partnered up with Target, bringing their great textiles and designs to the masses! Check out some of my favorite pieces below!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

The Anxious Missoni Obsessed Waiting...

The Promise Land!

One Lucky Lady!

We all cheered for her as she passed by!

Peaking in... unfortunately I didn't get any further than this!

The classic Missoni Zig!

HOT Bike!

Ahhhh...

Need!

Just ADORABLE!

Lets have people over for coffee & tea every day?!?!

Next summer's suit?!

Back to School ~ Pom Pom DIY

2011-09-01T17:41:00.002-04:00

Heading back to school after a fun summer can be a challenge. I knew in order to survive my post summer blues I would need a hot backpack for school. I decided to transform my grey backpack into a bag that I would look forward to using each day! As you know, I believe that one can add pizazz to any outfit/accessory with the addition of fringe or pom poms. M&J Trimmings has an incredible selection of trim, and the perfect pink poms for my bag. I hand stitched the trim to the flaps of my bag. To speed up the process you can use a sewing machine if you like. Check out the DIY tutorial below!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Supplies~ Backpack, Trim, Needle and Thread!

Pin your trim!

Pin your trim all around the areas you want to adorn.
(cut to size and repeat as necessary)

Whip stitch all around your pinned trim!
The thimble helped as the leather was tough to hand sew.

Pom Pomed and Ready for Action!

City Gems

2011-08-28T14:38:00.003-04:00

Accessorized Skunk and Pink Gorilla Preforming in the Subway!

I have enjoyed the last month of summer working in NYC. Everywhere you look there is vibrant public art, interesting people, and colorful displays; I made sure not to MIS any of it. Here are some moments that made me smile and that I don't want you to MIS. Keep your eyes peeled and stay inspired by what surrounds you!

Margo Isadora

Printed Desigual Midtown Store

Vibrant Bike

Shindo Ribbon People... great ribbon vendor

Inside Shindo

The Chef's Figurines @ Cafe Gitane, Soho NYC!

Cafe Gitane's Yellow Vintage Cash Register

Cafe Gitane's Post Card and Notepad!

Skunk and Pink Gorilla Rockin'

Sliver of Blue!

60's Striped Van!

Great Graphic Soho Escape

A Soothing Stream Atop the High Line

The Lush High Line

I SPY a Crochet Covered Trike!

Bye!

Captivating Crochet ~ OLEK

2011-08-14T21:38:00.003-04:00

The Exhibit Started with A LIVE Model on the Street!

I have always admired the whimsical crochet work of OLEK, a polish Crochet Artist; who has been featured in Style Like U, CBS News and NY Magazine. When I read of her upcoming exhibit in the Wall Street Journal I knew that it was one not to MIS. Olek: The Bad Artists Imitate, The Great Artists Steal, the exhibit, began on the street in front of the Jonathan Levine Gallery in Chelsea, NYC. I smiled when I saw the crocheted covered person hanging out in a crocheted covered shopping cart, and as I ventured further down the block I found a gigantic scissor lift covered in Olek's signature, vibrant camouflage crochet! The outdoor piece of the exhibit blew me away and her exhibit inside the gallery did not disappoint. It was filled with her incredible creations ~ everything covered in crochet; from people in the gallery, to an entire living room! Olek was a vision in a wild crochet dress and was lovely to meet. I visited with my mom and we both left with a desire to create!

Hope you can check it out before it closes on August 27th.
Enjoy,
Margo Isadora

p.s. After the exhibit be sure to walk up to the beautiful new piece of the High Line above. It is a wonderful space~ a calm oasis in the busy city!

And another live model and me alongside a HUGE crocheted sculpture!

Crochet Person Walking Down the Street!

The Fabulous Exhibit

Live Crochet Person on a Crocheted Exercise Bike!

Olek & me! (O wearing an incredible handmade crocheted dress!)

Crocheted Living Room! (with a suspended (fake) person chandelier)

Crocheted Beauty Seat- with a POP of color!

'Well Behaved Women Rarely Make History'-~~Marlyn Monroe~~ -Olek

Up, Up and Away!

Women Modeling Olek's Work!

Change of pose on my way out...
Awesome Real People Crocheted ~ Head to Toe!

Straws & Shoelaces!

2011-08-07T20:31:00.002-04:00

Straw and Shoelace Statement Necklace!

DIY projects are always cool because they transform everyday objects into wearable works of art. This straw and shoelace necklace project is not one to MIS, as it never ceases to make folks smile. Below is my tutorial (DIY adapted from I Spy DIY). Go pick up a pair of shoelaces and a bag of straws from the supermarket, or grab a handful of great colored straws at your local coffee shop. Have fun creating these eye catching necklaces with friends!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Supplies:
Straws, Shoelaces & Scissors!

Cut straws to desired lengths
11 Pieces in Total
My longest is 1.75" and shortest is .75"

Straws Cut & Shoelaces Ready!

Thread both shoelaces into the longest straw...

Pull straw to center of laces

Continue to add on straws on each side
by threading the laces in opposite directions.

Pull laces through, leaving a little more lace
at the 'bottom' of the necklace; for a flower effect.

Continue to string straws on...

My Great Aunt Sylvia
Looking Regal in Her Straw and Shoelace Necklace!

Summer Dress!

2011-07-24T21:10:00.002-04:00

Every closet has a garment that has 'potential', but for some reason never gets worn. The print or fabric can be beautiful, but if it does not make you feel good it simply won't and shouldn't come out of the closet. I bought a beautiful silk maxi skirt at the Calypso outlet in Soho a few years ago for $10. I purchased it knowing that the fabric alone was worth it, even if the style didn't quite suit me. I haven't worn it since and decided it was time to transform the maxi skirt into a wearable summer dress! I used the fabric to create a cute halter top. The twisted neck, open back and flowy skirt come together to make a dress I love!

Dig into your closet and find a piece to redesign, recreate and give a new life!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

$10 Calypso Maxi Skirt Before

After: Fun Summer Dress!

Back

Don't MIS It Tumblr!

2011-07-22T11:07:00.001-04:00

Don't MIS It is now on Tumblr! I hope to share the images that inspire me daily on this new photo blog. A picture says a thousand words~ so I am going to let them to the taking.

Be sure to check it out @ dontmisit.tumblr.com, and see some of my favorites below.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Don't MIS It has turned 1!

2011-07-20T15:13:00.000-04:00

Don't MIS It is 1 year old and it's time to celebrate! Thank you so much to all my readers for following me and sharing your wonderful comments.

In honor of this occasion here is a great DIY that can be used for any celebration. I am always on the lookout for festive party decorations and am rarely able to find any unique ones that stay within my budget. So when I came across this tutorial on MADE I was thrilled! RUFFLED STREAMERS are the perfect way to jazz up any celebration. Follow the tutorial at www.dana-made-it.com, and sew up a few. They are whimsical because they add a layer of texture to the classic streamer and pack a colorful punch! They are also versatile and can be used for all occasions and events. Even if you don't have festivities in your future, make some Ruffled Streamers and send them to a friend on their birthday; they will make anyone's day!

Enjoy,
Margo Isadora

Set your machine to the longest stitch possible and strongest tension.
Photo Cred: Made

Do a quick forward then reverse stitch and sew down the middle.
(So that you sew both layers together)
The streamers will magically ruffle up!
Photo Cred: Made

I lightly held my thread the entire time (to increase the tension)- was Perfect!
Photo Cred: Made

Finished and Neatly Wound!

Mother's Day!

Summer BBQ!

A Close-up of the beautiful ruffles!

ECU (Extreme Close Up)

60th B-day Spirit!

'My Paper Crane's' rainbow ruffles!
www.mypapercrane.com/blog/?p=1286

Soho Summer

2011-07-15T20:42:00.007-04:00

There is nothing quite like sharing a warm day in Soho with a good friend. Today I wandered the streets of Soho and tried not to MIS any of the inspiring moments along my path. We visited a beautiful gallery called the 'Storefront for Art and Architecture' to see the 'Painting Urbanism:Learning from Rio' exhibit. I have always admired Favela Painting, and love the way that they are able to transform a rundown area into a colorful oasis. The exhibit was beyond my expectation! The space of the Storefront was painted in their bright hues and perfectly fit with the welcoming spirit of their work. I loved the indoor/outdoor colorful strip of gallery and hope to visit again soon! The current exhibit with Favela's work is one not to MIS and will be up through July 30th, 2011. If you are nearby be sure to pop in. Below are some pictures of their wonderful gallery and of my lovely time in Soho!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

The Storefront for Art and Architecture

'Painting Urbanism: Learning from Rio' Exhibit

Rundown Slum

Turned Colorful Oasis!

A Spirited Costume Designer (she made her great pants!)

An Excellent Rice Pudding Place on Spring St

Unexpected Tar Drip Art on the Sidewalks of Soho

A Welcoming Gal

A Beautiful Woman
(Wearing a gorgeous outfit from her home in Senegal)

Fringe Fun!

2011-07-14T15:06:00.003-04:00

Mom Wearing Her Fashionable Fringe!

I believe that you can never go wrong with fringe. It simply adds fun to any outfit and has never gone out of style. This season fringe is everywhere; adorning everything from maxi skirts to bikinis. I decided to add a little fringe to my summer wardrobe, by creating these fun fringe necklaces. This is a easy DIY that everyone can do! So dig into your tee shirt drawer and create your own fantastic fringe accessory. (See tutorial below.) Please share your creations with me!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

-All you need is an old soft cotton t-shirt and a pair of scissors.

-Cut the front of your tee away from the back.

-Then snip one inch into your tee, a 1-2 inch thick piece, horizontally across the tee. Then rip the rest of the strip and it will magically curl in to itself. Continue to tear your shirt into strands.

-When you have finished choose the longest one for the base string (to hang around your neck), and then begin to fold the other strands in half and tie on (as shown below)!

-Tie on as mush fringe as you like.

-Then secure the necklace around your neck and trim the ends to create a V shape.

1 Old Soft Cotton T-shirt and Scissors!

Snip and tear your t-shirt into long strands!

Finished Fringe!
See below for detailed instructions.

Tear! Don't be afraid to rip it,
cotton tears easily along the grain.
And it does not have to be prefect.

Fold string in half
and lay on top of your base string.

Loop through behind your base string.

Pull tight!

Continue tying fringe on as desired. To finish tie it around your neck and trim the ends into a neat V, or any other shape that you like!

Fabulous Finished Fringe Necklaces!

Happy 4th to All!

2011-07-04T00:01:00.003-04:00

My Annual Flag Toes :)

Have a relaxing, fun, and spirited fourth of July!
Enjoy,
Margo Isadora

Incredible Sneakers

2011-07-01T08:57:00.002-04:00

Superb Sharpie Skills!

Who ever thought a sharpie could create such intricate, dynamic artwork! I highlighted Emma's Breathtaking Backpack earlier this year,and now again she has simply amazed me with her stunning work. For her newest piece she customized white Van sneakers with her signature graphic sharpie artwork. The whimsical shoes were a labor of love - the finished product is gallery ready. The colors work in perfect harmony and the elaborate details illustrate the recipient perfectly. I have seen other DIYed Vans, however they do not hold a candle to Emma's beautiful and unique creation.

Find a piece that leaves you speechless - one that inspires you to create!

- Margo Isadora

Vans DIYed with Personality!

Incredible!

Personalized Perfection!

The Lucky Recipient :)

McQueen Magic

2011-06-26T11:25:00.004-04:00

The late Alexander McQueen's career spanned from 1992 till his death in 2010, and in that time he changed the way many individuals perceive fashion. The current exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC, 'Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty', celebrates one of the greatest designers, artists and visionaries of our time. He challenged the current definition of beauty and design. His avant garde silhouettes and iconic pieces are on display at the Met. The show's instillation is incredible - I think McQueen would be very pleased. My visit left me in awe and truly inspired by his work and thought process. McQueen was a creative spirit. He chose to express himself through fashion design and did it with such ease. His contribution to the world of fashion is immeasurable and, simply put, incredible. This is an exhibit not to MIS, it will be open till August 7th.

http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/

Enjoy your visit,

Margo Isadora

One of my all time favorites- simply exquisite.

An Inventive Process
Click link below to view the catwalk spray paint!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reK0A1XIjKA

Floral Fashion- Gorgeous

Flowing Fabric Perfection

Dark Feather Goddess

Gold Leaf Feather Jacket

Beautiful Roof View @ the Met
Thrilled from the beautiful exhibit!

The Origami Crane Tree

2011-06-15T21:06:00.003-04:00

Cranes waiting for their big debut!

Recently my friend Piper approached me about helping her with a project. Piper's idea was to surprise our high school with a temporary art instillation of a Crane Tree. All of our friends and some dedicated classmates got busy folding; in the end we made 341 origami cranes! We strung them on Saturday and hung the cranes on a tree near the entrance of our school on Sunday. As students and teachers arrived on Monday they were surprised by the colorful fluttering folds floating in the tree. These cranes were created to bring students and teachers good luck during finals week, and to bring a smile to the faces of those who pass by. Piper's idea inspired us... What a peaceful way to end the school year. Thank you to Caroline Aaron for capturing the beautiful images of the crane creation! Looking forward to doing more public art installations next year! Keep your eyes open and don't MIS the public art that surrounds us.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Ready to go!

The Art of Hanging

Creative Climbing Technique

Peaceful Hanging

Mini Crane Necklace I made to Celebrate!

A Serene Tree!

Crane Girls

Our Excellent Photographer and Crane Hanger!

Good luck with whatever challenges your week may present!

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DIY Fabric Covered Book!

2011-06-01T21:54:00.003-04:00

My Finished Fabric Covered Notebook!

I am always inspired by the work of other bloggers; and today I fell in love with Willow Rose's awesome fabric covered books. I was impressed with her results and wanted to to try it myself! So I took out an old journal, fabric, scissors, and glue and got to work. It was a quick project and I was able to instantly personalize my journal. The fabric cover is perfect for sketchbooks, journals, and books; and make excellent gifts for close friends!

Check out my finished fabric covered notebook below, this is a great, simple DIY not to MIS.

There is a full tutorial on http://blog.freepeople.com/2011/06/diy-fabric-covered-notebook/ that I found easy to follow.

Be sure to visit Willow Rose's blog at willowroseboutique.blogspot.com

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Color in Action

2011-05-26T07:10:00.007-04:00

Color has always moved me and inspired me, both in my art work and in my life. These are some moments and images that encapsulate why I am so drawn to vibrant colors. When I look at these images it is clear that color has the power to transform even the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Enjoy,
Margo Isadora

Sequins of Spirit

An Expressive Woman
Painted in Acrylic By Margo Isadora

A Fun Floral Machine- would keep me very inspired :)

A Dyed Fishtail
http://blog.freepeople.com/2010/09/the-rainbow-braid/

A Colorful Keyboard

Drab and Dull...

Turned up a notch with bright Hue!
www.favelapainting.com/

Beautiful Balls of Colour on the Streets of San Fran
(see video below)

Color Set Free in San Fran!

Layered Color Drip Sculpture/Paint

A Splash of Color

Descending Spools of Color!

The Orchid Show

2011-05-16T21:56:00.001-04:00

A Beautiful Reflection

One dreadfully grey, damp, typical New York afternoon I visited 'The Orchid Show: On Broadway' at the New York Botanical Gardens. The dreary day seemed to melt away as I stepped into the warm and humid greenhouse; I felt as if I had been transported to the tropics! The impressive orchid displays echoed elements from some of Broadway's most iconic theaters. Each of the 300 different types of orchids were stunning. This is definitely an exhibit not to MIS. I visit annually and it never disappoints.

Take a minute to notice the gorgeous blooms outside and appreciate the bursts of color they add to our lives!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

A Path of Hearts!

Serene Beauty at the NY Botanical Gardens

Enchanting Arches

Pretty in Purple

Enjoying with Grandma and Sam!

An Incredible Chandelier

Reminds me of Fishtail Braids!

A Colorful Coat! LOVE :)

Gorgeous Spotted Orchids

DIY Towel Dress!

2011-05-08T20:10:00.010-04:00

As soon as I saw the 'Beach Towel Dress' tutorial on MADE I knew exactly which towel I would be using to create my own towel dress! I purchased some elastic thread (it took 2 full spools), threaded my bobbin and got started sewing rows. I used a colorful, thin towel from Old Navy. Pick a towel you love and create the perfect cover-up-dress for summer. Check out the full tutorial at http://www.dana-made-it.com/2010/06/beach-towel-dress.html Don't forget to share your creations with me!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

The DIY Towel Dress- Now I'm ready for summer :)

the back

A fun and easy DIY summer dress!

Easter Spirit!

2011-04-24T15:18:00.017-04:00

Every year I eagerly await the arrival of Easter. Its a holiday that welcomes spring and all of its glorious colors. Not only are the flowers beginning to bloom, but people are shedding their black wardrobes and starting to infuse color into their attire.

Each year we go to the Easter Parade on 5th Ave in NYC. The streets are filled with people milling about in their easter bonnets. Many New Yorkers go all out and make homemade bonnets. People of all ages wander through the streets and enjoy the whimsical creations. This year I didn't get to the parade, but I have been looking through my favorite pictures from years past, and wanted to share some of the past highlights. I'm already dreaming up a hat to make for next year! If your ever in NY on Easter make sure you stop by the parade, believe me, this is one not to MIS.

I hope everyone is having a very spirited day. Remember to keep your eyes open, because your don't want to MIS one bit of it!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Above image: Me and my Crew (+ Mom's chicken purse- Anastasia!)

Carrot Men!

In Drag!

In Full Plume!

Wow!

A Gorgeous Arrangement

Peeps!

A Great Couple :)

In Full Bloom

A Bright Mother Daughter Team

Pussy Willows :)

Paper Blooms

Beautiful Butterflies

Tie Skirt- Recycle, Reuse, Recreate!

2011-04-23T16:46:00.019-04:00

Many years ago my Aunt Jill gave me an awesome purse, made out of men's ties. I use it all the time and am often asked if I made it. It inspired me to start collecting old ties in hopes of creating a skirt with them. My tie collection has grown over the years, with donations from friends and family, as well as ones I've purchased. After acquiring enough ties I created a wrap tie skirt. I sewed the ties together, and because they are so heavy I didn't even have to line it! I used a button and tie for the closure. It was easy and fun to create, I look forward to making a purse or another skirt in the future :)

Start gathering something, anything, that interests you and give it a new life! Please share your ideas and creations with me.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

The Back!

Inspiring Artists

2011-04-11T20:13:00.016-04:00

I am constantly inspired by the work of my Advanced Illustration class. I feel very fortunate to be surrounded by people who push me to do my best work. I wanted to share some images I took of our class in action! The photos of individual work are from our 'Super Surface' acrylic rendering paintings.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

A wall of my Advanced Illustration Class' Super Surface Acrylic Paintings!

My Super Surface Acrylic Painting- birds eye view of a water fountain

(Currently is in 'Juxtapositions' a K-12 art show at my High School, opening tomorrow night!)

Ugg, By Rachel Cipriano

Doorknob, By Breanden Carroll

Lollipop Lips, By Elvina Kocan

Jeans, By Jessica Leissl

Trash Bag, By Gracie Goodman

Boxer, By Donovan Zagal

Hard at work!

Mr. Keene and Karla discussing her gorgeous rose!

Whimsical Wall created by Mr. Murray's 9th grade Foundation Students!

DIY Bleach Tie Dye

2011-04-04T14:32:00.016-04:00

I recently was cleaning out my closet and was ready to throw out a few old tees that I no longer wear. Fortunately I decided not to get rid of them and instead to give them a new life. I was inspired by a recent post on 'Honestly WTF', one of my favorite blogs, to Bleach Dye these pieces. I made a mixture of 4 cups bleach to 1 cup water and used rubber bands to tie up my shirts. After a little trial and error I realize that blacks tops work the best. It is key not to leave the shirts in the solution too long, or else they will turn into rust/bleached-black colored tops. Check out the easy tutorial on 'Honestly WTF' @ honestlywtf.com/diy/diy-bleach-tie-dye

Revive your old faded dark tops with this great inexpensive DIY project. Share your creations with me!

- Margo Isadora

Old Black Hoodie Bleach Dyed to Perfection

The Bleach Dip

A good project to do outside!

Bleach Dyed Navy Tee

Pretty Paper Dress!

2011-03-26T17:34:00.014-04:00

Last weekend I was reminded of the endless possibilities of paper when Piper, Matilda and I designed a newspaper dress for Penelope, my mannequin. We folded, scrunched, and rolled up the WWD newspapers to create her fabulous dress. The collaboration was excellent; we giggled all the way through.

Paper is an incredible medium, we worked with its versatility to create the tightly wound rosettes, the soft tutu and graphic shoulder pieces. This is certainly a project not to MIS. It is my second time working with the WWDs to create a dress; but like with any material there are always new ways to work with it. Think outside of the box and share your creations with me!

-Margo Isadora

Newspaper Fun!

P Posing with P

What Beautiful Rosettes!

Admiring Her Tutu!

Penelope in her HOT New Paper Dress :)

The Magnificent Marimekko

2011-03-13T19:34:00.026-04:00

Marimekko has always inspired me with their expressive timeless textiles. I have quite an affinity for their company and I think that their site perfectly encapsulates why I love this iconic brand. http://www.marimekko.com/

Recently this innovative brand collaborated with Converse to create an awesome line of sneakers in the classic converse style and a vibrant Marimekko textile. I am dying for a pair myself :) See the video on their collaboration here.

Love how they each come in their own printed sack!

Also be sure to check out the link below of their flower filled Spring/Summer 2011 Runway show. It is certainly one not to MIS, Spring/Summer 2011 Marimekko Fashion Show!

H&M did a spring tribute collection for Marimekko in 2008, they made some great pieces!

I happen to own the cute pink and orange parachute dress (lower left)- I found it at a thrift store last year :)

My Beautiful Twirling Friend in the great Marimekko-H&M dress!

Spanish Street Art

2011-02-28T21:04:00.015-05:00

I just spent an incredible week in Spain and left feeling very inspired. From the moment I stepped into the Madrid airport I knew that it was going to be a special trip. The immense attention paid to public ascetic details was evident from every street corner. Here are some of my favorite street images, there will be more to come :) Remember, keep your eyes peeled because you don't want to MIS it!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Welcoming Rainbow in the Madrid Airport

(7am Spain time after a long day of traveling and a full day ahead!)

Vibrant Street Art

Political Graffiti

Beautiful Painted Store Front

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T07:23:00.005-05:00

Have a lovely day!

Margo Isadora

acrylic hearts :) MIS

Love is in the Air!

2011-02-12T12:52:00.017-05:00

Every year as Valentines Day approaches I get the urge to make cards and fun gifts for my valentines. This year I decided to give my old, broken, neglected crayons a new life. I peeled their wrappers off, melted them in the microwave in ceramic ramekins and poured the melted crayons into plastic heart and penguin shaped ice cube trays. After 30 mins in the freezer they were transformed into cool new crayons. Can't wait to share these with friends and family this Valentines Day :) Have a lovely one!

Margo Isadora

Old Crayons

Lovely Crayon Hearts!

Crayon Penguins and Hearts

I recently made some cool fabric valentines. Use up your favorite printed fabric scraps by sewing them onto cards. Have fun making valentines- share your favorite creations with me!

Fabric Cards

Winding Messages

Innovative Creatures!

2011-02-05T17:26:00.012-05:00

You never know what you will discover when you are surfing the Web. Today I found this paper owl who is made by a company called '3 Eyed Bear'. Their site is dedicated to creating and supplying individuals with free and imaginative paper creatures! You can simply download all of the paperkits by clicking on their pictures. Then it is as simple as print, cut, fold and glue in order to create a little masterpiece! I put together this awesome Owl. It was fun and easy. I gave it to a little birthday girl today and she loved it. :) Don't MIS this wonderful site and the opportunity to create your own creature!

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Awesome Paper Owl designed by '3 Eyed Bear'

http://www.3eyedbear.com/

Easy template for this great paper bird! http://www.3eyedbear.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Owl.pdf

Owl Link- http://www.3eyedbear.com/2011/01/14/owl/

A Whimsical Snowy Day!

2011-01-27T20:52:00.022-05:00

Snow, Snow and more snow! This winter NY has been wrapped in a blanket of snow. As we get older we often forget the magic of a snow day- focusing only on the problems that the 'snow' creates. Today I was reminded of the importance of taking the time to get out and enjoy the snow. With the help of some friends a gorgeous Snow Maiden emerged, we aptly named her Dolly Parton. She made many passersby smile!

The Hardworking Team!

Posing with our beautiful snow woman

Dolly's Profile

Snow Fun!

Strawberry Eyes and Mouth, A Carrot Nose, and a Candy Cane/M&M Necklace!

Young Artists on the Rise!

2011-01-17T15:32:00.003-05:00

The opening of the 'Young Artists on the Rise' show last week was wonderful! I was left inspired by the work of high school students from New Rochelle HS, the French-American school as well as Mamaroneck HS. Just wanted to remind you all that the show is up through this Friday January 21st @ the Mamaroneck Artists' Guild in Larchmont, NY. The work of my peers just blew me away, it is certainly an exhibit not to MIS.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

http://dontmisit.blogspot.com/2010/12/painted-hero.html

A Breathtaking Backpack...

2011-01-07T22:37:00.002-05:00

I am always searching for the perfect printed laptop cover, colorful phone case, and most importantly a fun but functional backpack. So when I was sitting in my English class, I was fixated on the beautiful backpack sitting beneath, a friend's desk. It was just stunning and upon taking a closer look I realized that it was all hand drawn! Emma took a large, white JanSport backpack and penciled in tons of intricate illustrations. Emma finished off her masterpiece with thin sharpies. I was blown away by her incredible artwork and was left inspired to labor over my own one day! Just wanted to share with you her gorgeous creation. This is certainly not one to MIS.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

Brilliant Front

A Splendid Side

Dazzling Directions!

Fantastic Detail

LOVE

- Great Gnome

-the S.Pellegrino bottle was incredibly realistic

Stylized Chaos!

Impressive Illustrations!