Monday, November 18, 2013

People I Know: Melora


Melora is the genius behind the tie-dye at Harvest Moon Creations. She graciously allowed me to come into her studio space and get pictures of the process and ask her a few questions. For my fellow artsy types, you get why this is a big deal--a studio space is even more personal than one's underwear drawer. It's like letting someone crawl inside your brain and poke around. 

Melora has been doing tie-dye for more than 10 years. It started when she was pregnant, and wanted some clearly identifiable onesies for her son while he was in the NICU. In the summer you can find her selling her wares at the Crete European Market in Crete, IL. Year-round, you can find her through her Facebook page





She makes onesies, toddler shirts and dresses. She does t-shirts, dresses, wrap skirts, thermal hoodies, union suits, ponchos, and scarves. I have custom ordered from her a few times, and she never ceases to amaze me with all of the work she produces. 








After we spent some time in the studio, we went to her dining room where she pulled out some finished pieces. And I may have made a bit of a mess--but I couldn't resist the pile of color and pattern!



So not only are these things gorgeous and handmade and all that jazz, but Melora uses the most eco-friendly dyes she can find. There's no weird chemical smell when she works--and as an art major I have smelled my share of weird chemical smells--she doesn't use aluminum in her dye process either. Her fabrics are cotton, rayon, and silk. An ethical business woman, and a genuinely wonderful human being. I'm happy to know her and happy to introduce her to you. 


Seriously, guys-- look at the skulls. And the hearts, and the yin-yang, and the tiny watermelon dress! It's too much, I swear.




4 comments:

Melora said...

Oh my goodness, thank you so very much for the wonderful write-up! I absolutely love your pics and it was such fun to have you in the studio with me. Peace, love and tie-dye! <3

Anonymous said...

Oh my goodness, thank you so much for the wonderful write-up! I absolutely love the pics, too. It was so much fun having you in the studio with me. Peace, love and tie-dye!

<3,
Melora :)

Unknown said...

Melora is not only talented but really a wonderful gal to know. Even though I don't get to Illinois very often she worked something out so I could still get the garment I was looking for. It was prettier than the store products and more reasonable. I look forward to doing more business with her in the future.

Unknown said...

Melora is not only talented but really a wonderful gal to know. Even though I don't get to Illinois very often she worked something out so I could still get the garment I was looking for. It was prettier than the store products and more reasonable. I look forward to doing more business with her in the future.