The Mid-Western Ya Ya Sisters

Today the local ASG chapter hosted Mary Mulari and Rita Farro (the Mid Western Ya Ya Sisters) for a full day of fun and creativity. Mary is a frequent presenter on Sewing with Nancy and is well known for her sweatshirt transformations. Recently she did a unit on creative tote bags including a handbag created solely from a five and a half yard zipper. Rita wrote the book 'Life is Not a Dress Size' which fundamentally changed my attitude about myself when it was first published in 1996. I eagerly awaited today so I could spend some time with this dynamic duo and I was not disappointed.

The day was organized around two trunk shows, presented simultaneously to half of the attendees at the same time. I started the day in Mary's trunk show and was amazed at her creative transformations of ordinary, every day items like sweatshirts, napkins, tote bags and aprons. Her talk was structured around her published books but it never felt as if we had to buy the books to get the inspiration.

We broke for lunch and over the key lime pie, Rita and Mary entertained us like some professional Las Vegas comedy act while showing us some 20 - 30 gifts we could create. Mary and Rita have co-authored two CDs of wonderful, vintage style, embroidery designs. The one I was particularly intrigued by was of redwork style embroideries for the days of the week. For some reason, everyone knew that Monday was wash day and was transformed into Laundry by Mary and Rita. Another day was designated for cleaning and the embroidery could be adjusted to read 'Cleaning Lady'. Sunday was changed from Church to Visiting with an embroidery featuring two women, looking like Rita and Mary, having tea together. A very enjoyable break in the day.

In the afternoon I attended Rita's trunk show. She basically showed us her graphic embroideries on various ponchos and ruanas. The best part, I thought, was when she was talking about making the best of what we've got. Little tricks , while not transforming you into someone who is tall, thin, blond and rich, can make you look and feel better. Her four inch waist belt trick and vertical placement ideas were definitley worth the price of admission.

If you get a chance to see this pair in action, please take the time. They are creative, witty and energetic. By the end of the day you will be inspired to make something wonderful and you may walk away with a new attitude about the most important person in the room - YOU!

BTW - I did not get to wear the Serendipity outfit previously blogged but that story will have to wait until another day.