Get LiT

MAKE

2011-09-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

For years now, one of my favorite words, and the name of my profession- a MAKER- to MAKE is what I love, it's what others who I adore do too, and it's what will MAKE us matter long after the iPad is no longer a thing. We build with our hands, we borrow time and steal inspiration from the strangest places

to form, fabricate and forge fashion, functional objects and funny bits of fluff. It's what we do. Far away from the Makers I knew and loved so well in Seattle and Paris, for that matter NYC and NOLA, Austin TX has it's own Makers and I think I just stumbled onto two of the most magnificent.

Kristen and Eve are the owners and operators of MAKEatx, a local Austin workshop that not only exists as their own atelier, but a work room for other artists who want to join with a (take it from me, I know how expensive rent and specialty equipment is) very small fee. I was captivated by their work at a local boutique called Parts & Labour that plays the part of purveyor to what MAKEatx plays as manufacturer. What are all these bad-ass women doing? Well, in Austin TX they are MAKING hot stuff happen, and crafting and keeping intoxicating spaces to sell it in.

I can't help but wonder, what would the lovechild of LiT and MAKEatx look like? Hmmm...maybe we can MAKE that happen.

Chicken & Stitchin

2011-09-23T12:58:00.000-07:00

Darlings, I would like to introduce you to my 2 new addictions: Ms P's Fried Chicken, and Stitch Lab.

These two places have very rapidly overcome my every waking thought. If I'm not thinking of the delicious and spicy chicken sliders at Ms P's(sweet King's Hawaiian rolls topped with blue cheese coleslaw and hot buttermilk battered fried strips of fresh farm raised chicken), then I'm thinking about the

Oliver Henry, Michael Miller, and Kokka prints found at Stitch Lab. Alexander Henry's Sugar Skull collection will be at the top of my list for a new line of shades-promise to post pics here asap.

If you don't live in Austin, no fear-Stitch Lab's flicker account has a huge selection of fabrics to choose from and you can order and have them shipped directly to you. The same may not be true for the hot chicken at Ms P's, but all the more reason to hop on a plane and migrate south for some sun and the best food-truck action in the States!

In the meantime, Ms P's asked me to stitch up some new table cloths for her picnic benches...I think I know where I'll be getting the oil cloth. Looks like this new romance may be a love triangle.

Waiting for FedEx and Other Top News Stories

2011-09-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

Working for yourself means You are the one who sweeps the floor at the end of the day, You are the one who has to sit listening to 13 voicemails all over again just to get to the one at the end where you can almost hear the last digit of the telephone number you need to call back. It means a lot of busy days, but it also means a lot of waiting. Today I am waiting for the FedEx truck to deliver materials to me so I can make some fantastic shades for some Seattle, Sonoma, and Missoula, MT clients. So I wait.

While waiting I scanned the headlines of my favorite news source: "Child Wins a Grenade", "Amorous Squid Seeks Partner: Any Sex Will Do", and "Marines Hit the Ground Running In Seeking Recruits at Gay Center". No, this is not the Onion, this is the front page of the New York Times. Proof positive that real life is stranger than fiction.

I am not the most patient person, in fact I HATE the wait, but as I sit here reading the Times and eating sopa de fideo in air conditioning, I am reminded to keep perspective. Until just yesterday, Gay men and women had to hide who they love while dying for the freedom of everyone else. That in Somalia a radio station is giving a kid a fully automatic assault riffle for winning a raffle and that some people have REAL problems. That if a squid can be down with doing it with either a male or female indiscriminately, we can all wait a few more hours for that FedEx truck to come so I can finish some lampshades.

If you run your own business, you feel busy ALL the time, you never have a moment to yourself, or you just need a dose of perspective; take this time-right now-to read about Barry Lubin who at the age of 59 is still pursuing his dreams as a circus clown. Barry, you are an inspiration to us all.

AuStinID

2011-09-20T11:40:00.001-07:00

There is a meeting in every city. You can talk to people there who are going through exactly what you are. You can get council or good resources to deal with the problems you face everyday.

I'm talking about ASID, not AA.

While in Austin I thought it would be a good idea to meet the local designers and get a feel for what is going on in the Southwest. I was not disappointed. Our speaker had lots to say on Google and how to get the most out of it for your business, and marketing in general. I met lots of well dressed ladies-and some khaki wearing men. I had salad and Sweet Leaf tea.

California Closets hosted the meet up and here is where I saw the difference in design from Paris, FR to Welcome to Texas. Big. F#$%ing. Closets. They are huge! But they're not all clunky wood monstrosities, we are talking the newest of materials and the best industrial design all just for storing your things! One thing I could say is that though one CC is the size of my entire apartment in France, the french would LOVE the inventive use of space. So well organized and so thought out, a place for everything-and everything in its place. I should have CC re-design my french apartment, I would find enough room in my 10x10' cubical for a guest loft and an office...

The true mark of a good ASID meeting; networking enough to mingle together a good crew for Friday's happy hour. All in all, I'd say it was a very productive Tuesday.

It's the Season for Shades!

2011-09-07T11:26:00.000-07:00

This summer has been one for the record books. My Jay learned to swim, I learned to bake, and we both baked in record making 100deg heat streak while down here in Austin, TX. We will be staying here a bit longer, and as the September sun beats down a little less boldly, and tacos infiltrate nearly all our daily meals, it's time to start getting serious about another record I have been wanting to break:
1,000 lampshades

I count the "lamp shade year" from September to September since with the shorter days, cooler evenings spent inside, most people realize they need to look at their lighting needs. It is the busy start of my work year, and last year I made 867 shades. This year, I hope to break 1,000.

Can you imagine it!?! 1,000 happier lamps. 1,000 more lovely rooms. 1,000 more men and women who when they look at something I made, they see themselves, their inspirations, their own goals. Custom shades are not about me, or my business, or my ideas brought to light(pardon the pun). Custom means YOU. You can have whatever you want, you can seek and find the piece missing from your perfect parlor, the sultry glow you hoped for in your re-vamped bedroom, the "Welcome Home" you hope people will find when they flick the switch on in the guest bathroom.

Let's break some records, you help me with mine only by letting me help you with yours. I think that's a pretty sweet deal. To get you all as excited as I am, from Sept. 7th-30th all shade orders made online will be 15% off. Any size, any style, any $400 fabric from O&L. Any shade.

So catch me at LiT and let's start making some shades!

Looking Forward and Across the Atlantic

2011-05-26T13:23:00.000-07:00

I have been absorbed in my Parisian life (if you're curious visit www.betweenbitesofbrioche.blogspot.com), but I am soon heading back to Seattle!

For the month of July I will be in Seattle enjoying my favorite restaurants, friends and making a TON of lamp shades!

Feel free to email me if you are in any need of shades, I cannot wait to do some sweet Seattle style-lamp makeovers...and to get a REAL cup of coffee. The BEST coffee in the world...now if only I could have that with a French eclair. Having your cake and coffee too...

Touring London

2011-01-11T09:11:00.000-08:00

LiT is in London till the end of January! I am loving it here and taking in all the design that I can! Beautiful fabric shops abound and the Designers Guild showroom as well as Timorous Beasties headquarters are still on my list to go see. Truly beautiful and quaint shops with tons of amazing linens and silk prints-I spent 150 pounds on 3 meters of felt that is incredibly thick and a colors I have never seen, and 56 pounds on a meter of coral and cream Ikat on silk-money well spent-even with the exchange in their favor. Met an amazing photographer and fellow fashion obsessive-Darrel of Mode Hunter, here is his blog if you want to check out the Fall fashion shows or what London fashion has going for it: modehunter.blogspot.com- and yes-there I am, bringing a little USA to the UK.

Au Revoir et Merci! LiT, last sale...

2010-12-08T21:42:00.000-08:00

Well, 3 years it's been since this all started and though I bid a sad adieu to Seattle, I hope to learn and gain so much for my craft in Paris. Thank you to all who have come through my door and created with me and inspired me to keep making shades that I love. Hope to see you this weekend at the last shop sale, here is a look at what I have been doing lately, and what will be up for grabs...
LiT SALE!
11th and 12th of December
from 11am-5pm
1906 e. prospect st.

Love Letters

2010-12-01T19:02:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the shades I have been making lately, lots and lots of letters! Floating whimsical words and captivating consonants, vowels in all shapes and sizes...please feel free to peruse.... "Truth or Dare", a shade done for the Shigo family in cream taffeta with letter pressed words by Lynda Sherman of Bremelo Press. The set of shades featuring Vietnamese characters for a project with Piano Nobile in Ballard.

Too Much is Never Enough

2010-10-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

I just looked at the last post date, August?!? How did that happen? This is how:
1.) I am madly in love.
2.)My little shop dog had surgery and needed extra attention.
3.) It's LIGHTING SEASON!!! which means as the days grow shorter and you need more illumination, I am BUSY making lamp shades which makes it hard to find time to blog.

Here are a few of the pieces I have been working on...

For Great Jone's Home(one of the most inspiring and delightful home decor stores in the city), this beautiful Murano base is taken with this shade done in a dramatic floral print in cream, white, gold, green, turquoise, and navy by Designers Guild. Also for a client of GJH, these handsome sconce shades done in gunmetal gray taffeta with soft Sahara trim.

And then some more Des. Guild, MY ALL TIME FAVORITE STRIPE, beautiful taffeta silk in a creamy ivory with a perfect black, near grosgrain stripe woven through it. Perfection. Trimmed out in a triple ball fringe also by DG, you can BUY this one at Revival Home and Garden on 12th between Pike and Pine-you should at least drop in, there is NOTHING at this boutique but endearing and delightful finds.

Last but not least, this sweet shade in a Des. Guild linen, printed in berry and gold with bright fuchsia florals, went to a VERY lucky little girl's room. Oh how I wish it was mine!

Well, back to the shade making table, talk to you soon for BIG NEWS going on at LiT...stay tuned.

WEBSITE UPDATE!!!

2010-08-19T11:09:00.001-07:00

Beautiful new WEBSITE UPDATE!!! Check out the new pages Atelier and Hand sewn shades in the Portfolio tab. Yay! Thank you so much to my amazing and talented friend with so much taste, Onur for doing the site design/build, and to Lauren for the great photos!

Wallpaper shades-Revived

2010-08-12T10:17:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite things about my job is I get to look for new and interesting ways to use materials. Loud, heavily patterned, or gilded wallpaper is one of those "little goes a long way" finds that I think is PERFECT for shades. Just a pop of intrigue on the inside of a shade, or when you turn on the lamp-viola! a beautiful, yet subtle, silhouette glows through. These shades use Wilderness gold and cream wallpaper by Ferm and have cream silk on the exterior. Want to take a look? They are at Revival Home and Garden, 12th and Pine. Hope they drive you up the wall with wonder.

xoxo
LiT

Down the Rabbit Hole

2010-08-06T07:23:00.000-07:00

"I wonder if I've been changed in the night? Let me think. Was I the same when I got up this morning? I almost think I can remember feeling a little different. But if I'm not the same, the next question is 'Who in the world am I?' Ah, that's the great puzzle!" ~Alice

This lamp was changed in the night, when it got up this morning it was topped with a boring paper shade-off white and badly proportioned. NOW, it's feeling quite different as it is topped with this whimsical Alice and Wonderland printed fabric from Kokka. I used the dusty blue colorway on a vintage shade frame. This print is curiouser and curiouser with the Duchess, the Rabbit, the Hatter and the Catepillar clustered and countered with Alice, depicting well known scenes from Lewis Carroll's classic. You will smile like the Cheshire Cat at the coral and cream colorway as well!

You don't need to take a tumble down the rabbit hole for this one, it's here at LiT!

Little, but oh so lovely

2010-08-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

More lovely linen shades?!? Well, cotton anyway. Super hot print by Schumacher, Ziggurat, with turquoise trim- these two sconce shades of Kristin's look so very summery and bright. Enjoy.

Summer Linens

2010-08-04T13:06:00.001-07:00

Ah... Summer seems to finally have arrived in Seattle. Maybe that's why the last few shades I have done have all been out of fresh, hip, prints on linen. The summer breeze drying your sheets on the line...summer dresses in yellow and pink stripped linen or red and blue piped linen skirts at a picnic.
What are these two lamps wearing this fine summer's day?
First: Leah's shade is a white linen printed with a David Hick's blue geometric zig-zag and square pattern. Bold and striking on this sweet yellow and white vintage bamboo base for her daughter's room.
Second: Christina's adorable antique brass and cut glass lamp features a lamb and a babe at it's base and she wanted to contrast the old base with a contemporary shade. She chose a natural linen printed with a charcoal gray "Sea Urchin" by Kelly Werstler. Doesn't get more summery than sea life.

Hope you enjoy the weather and if your lamp needs a summer wardrobe, I'm out back of the shop makin' shades in the sun.

Summer Sale!

2010-07-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

SALE and REWIRE EVENT!

Have you been dreaming of owning one of these shades:

LiT is offering now through Aug. 1oth 30% off all shades, pendants, lamp bases in the shop, and 25%off all custom orders! We are also offering rewires of old lamps using 3-way sockets, fabric cord, and Bakelite sockets for $40 each! Come get your old lamp safe and secured as well as a new shade! The sale is only 2 weeks long, so hurry in and get LiT this summer!!!

*lamps will be assesed before rewire-some antiques are too involved/valuable for this offer.

Golden Fences and Pink Rain Drops

2010-06-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

The following is an inspiring interview with the artist Amy Johnson on her recent installation at LiT, what makes her tick, and the all important: what is her favorite sandwich?

1. LiT: How did you get started doing art installations?
A.J.:"Toward the end of graduate school I began to experiment and compose
images with the objects I had been making. Making multiples and
arranging them in a way that formed an interesting and compelling
image became the most successful way for me to work. I enjoy making
the work and the different components of what will compose the
installation, but the actual install and figuring out how everything
is going to come together both visually and conceptually is the most
exciting part."

2. LiT: Is the tone of your art affected by the current economic state?
A.J.: "I can't say that it is. I am not sure that the economic climate has
affected me directly enough to be reflected in my work. It is always
possible I suppose."

3. LiT: Could you describe what inspired this work?
A.J.: "I have been interested in fences; how they function to create
boundaries and sense of space. I am interested in the how we as human
beings set boundaries, how much and with who. Who will we let in and
how much? How is that controlled and how does that work to both form
and diminish relationships. They, along with the other components of
this work, represent home and the sacredness of both home and
community. Ultimately I think I was inspired by the philosophy and
environment of LiT. As an artist I really feel a need to make objects
and have them be seen. At the same time, I love to work with people
and their space. Each installation is unique to not only the space
itself, but also to the people who spend their time there."

4. LiT: What are your favorite materials to work with and what inspires you most to get your hands on?
A.J.: "I love gold leaf and using it to convey something that is sacred,
seductive and desirable. For me, materials are a tool that work as
metaphors and help to build a language, so I use the material that is
best for the work. If I am not at all familiar with the material
that is best, I figure it out.
I am usually drawn to materials that I can either cast or cut up."

5. LiT:What is your favorite sandwich?
A.J.: "Open face baguette, smear of Dijon, topped with Prosciutto, Brie and Pear."

6. LiT: What else do you have in the works right now, and where can we see it?
A.J.: "Ongoing representation by the SAM Gallery.
In the works: I am in the beginning stages of an outdoor sculpture
project which is curated by Bryan Ohno and Alyson Milliman through
MadArt. The exhibit will take place at Cal Anderson Park- The exhibit
will be in the park Aug. 12 - Sept. 13
I will be in a group show at the SAM Gallery in Nov. 2010 and will
have a solo show at the Steele Gallery at Gage Academy of Art this
winter (2011)."

For more Amy Johnson, visit her site: http://amyjohnsonstudio.com/

Cup Craze

2010-06-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

LiT loves the luxurious. The limpid blue of a heavily lacquered chair. The sumptuous scrolls of a delicate pattern printed in thick, clay ink on crisp wallpaper rolls. The composition of a well layered and finely formed floral arrangement in an unexpected vessel. Well, LiT is oh-so-happy to announce the latest in gifty-goodness and all around loveliness here at the shop: ceramics by Jenny Gawronski. Based in Denver, but with a wildly growing cult following in Seattle, Jenny spins and glazes delicate desires and holders for all things precious. The cupcake craze here in the 206 is in desperate need of a little pedestal or basket in pink glaze from the 303. And who can do without a set of black tea cups and minty green saucers for their next tete e tete?

come in to LiT to fondle and caress the most beautiful of wares, made here in the US, by a girl who knows what you want.
http://www.jennygawronski.com/index.html

Summer-Inspired Shades

2010-05-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

Summer is on it's way, not that on a day like today you can believe it. Which is why you need a bright and colorful shade to get you through until your next out door bbq, day at the beach, or weekend farmer's market shopping. From me, to you, hope this brightens your mood and puts you in the spirit to do something sunny on this Memorial day weekend.
xoxo
LiT
*LiT will be closed until Tuesday at 10am so that we can do some of those Summery things.

Up-Light

2010-05-26T16:24:00.001-07:00

Here's a look at what I've been up to lately, enjoy. :)

Fleurs de la Rue

2010-05-24T15:51:00.000-07:00

For years I have been buying my flowers from one very special place. From the first time I opened the elaborate metal gate and went inside the lofty space in Pioneer Square, I knew-this is my translator.
I adore flowers. I would go so far as to boast that I love them more than most women. More than any other single thing, flowers have the ability to brighten your day in the space of a moment. Megan has such an eye for texture, color, shape and composition that turns the void of a vase into something whimsical, ethereal, darling or romantic. Sometimes all these things at once!
Now it is with great glee that I can once again walk through her door to wander amidst the flowers while she prepares my weekly bouquet-she has moved to be a block away from my shop here at LiT!
For more on her move and what else is changing and growing in the neighborhood, visit the Capital Hill Seattle Blog: http://capitolhillseattle.com/2010/05/23/two-19th-ave-specialty-shops-bloom-while-another-whithers#comments

Bonjour abat-jour!

2010-05-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

Roaming the internet today, looking for soul sisters in shade-making the world over(of which their are sad few, and the ones I could find are disturbingly Victorian and old fashioned- read:hideous burgundy silk with 4" long fringe trim. BLEH), I did find this amazing little French shop that creates and makes lovely crafts, arts and yes!...abats-jour!

The pictures on the site where inspiring and even though I do not make hat-shaped shades, I adore the fabric selections, humorous interpretations, and flawless craftsman ship of these shades!
visit their site and tell me, l'aimez-vous? www.atelier.cadrat.free.fr

LiT is Japanese for HOT lamp shades!

2010-04-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

LiT is the post on today's Jungle City newsletter! I had such a fun time talking to Riho who interviewed me for Jungle City, a Seattle based Newsletter that has been the largest Japanese website in the Northwest since 1998. for those of you who read Japanese, or if you just want a link to a really great Seattle-focused site, here is the link to Jungle City! http://www.junglecity.com/index.htm

ランプシェードを専門にデザイン・販売する『リット』。もともと建築の画像生成を手がけていたというドーン・バセットさんが、ランプシェードの製作を始めたのは3年前。引越しの際にお気に入りのランプ・・・

30% OFF Designer's Guild Custom Shade SALE!!!

2010-04-12T14:09:00.000-07:00

Lilacs are blooming, the cherry trees are gently snowing the sidewalks with sweet, pink petals. Chartreuse blades of new grass are popping up between the cracks in the pavement. It is Spring!

I can't help but want to bring some of this beauty into my shop, the flowers on my desk are bright yellow tulips, but the flowers I can't take my eyes off of? Designer's Guild!

I have two new lines of the decadent silk and linen prints by London based designer, Tricia Guild, here at the shop, and they are oh, so romantic and fresh! We also have one of the most AMAZING books of trim from the same line here as well- it is so decadent, delightful, and dear that you must come in and see for yourself.

It is this spirit of sharing some Spring that has led me to the first Spring Sale ever! From now until May Day(5/1/2010), all custom lamp shade orders using Designer's Guild fabrics or trim will be 30% off!

Love is in the air...come take a stroll through LiT and add some Spring to your step!

Extra! Extra! Read all about LiT!

2010-03-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy month here at LiT. And things are looking to get a whole lot busier with the latest press we have been getting. Here are two of my favorite articles that have popped up on the internet about LiT lately:

Seattle Metropolitan: Where, What, When Blog
"At Lit Shades on Capitol Hill, Dawn Bassett fashions lamp coverings out of rich papers and designer fabrics using old-world methods and non-toxic adhesives."
read full article here: http://www.seattlemet.com/blogs/wear-what-when/lit-shades-031610/

DailyCandy Seattle
"And then there was light. Lit The remodeled boutique’s handcrafted fixtures set contemporary shades (heavy paper or patterned fabric) atop reclaimed bases."
link to article here: http://www.dailycandy.com/seattle/article/81452/Seattle-Events-and-Diversions

Maybe it's time you came in and saw all the sweet change for yourself. Don't forget that lamp you have been glaring at...we know just what to do with it!

Latest shades...

2010-02-20T16:35:00.000-08:00

So, it's been a while since I posted a blog for LiT. That's because I've been making plenty of shades! Here are some of the recent ones...

This one's for the Ladies!

2010-01-22T13:33:00.000-08:00

For all the Ladies!
Come on over for another fantastic party here at LiT! Thursday, January 28th we will be celebrating the ludacrously lovely line of earrings by Grace Gow, now carried here at the shop.
Join us for pink champagne, pretty treats, and beautiful bling!
LiT
1906 e. prospect st.
1.28.2010
5-8pm
Bling!

Dixie Stark Home get's LiT too!

2010-01-06T14:49:00.001-08:00

If you want amazing, beautiful, soulful things for your space; if you love color, soft hues of lavender, dove, and linen; if you are tired of the same things you've seen time and again- the best remedy: Dixie Stark Home.
Dixie is a truly talented interior designer who has created out of the derelict urban stretch of shipping containers- something alluringly divine. The juxtapose of Fortuny upholstered French antique chairs housed inside the functional steel walls of what used to me shipping containers, is charmingly couture.
How refreshing to be surprised in this life. When we are so used to Restorarion Hardware's color palette and cliche window displays, it's just so good to know that there is a place where your senses will still be surprised.
Where does LiT come in? It was my great pleasure to design a hanging pendent large enough to be a bathtub for the open space at DSH. Using Designer's Guild silk, the oval pendent floats over the room- a silk modernist interpretaion of "clouds". DSH also sells the most amazing murano lamps designed by Dixie herself, and meekly adorned with a LiT shade. If you have any lingering doubts that interior designers can surprise and endear themselves to you, visit Dixie's boutique. www.dixiestark.com/blog

Watson Kennedy get's LiT

2010-01-06T12:19:00.000-08:00

There are few places I love in this city as much as my own shop. With the exception of Bremelo Press, and Dinette, Watson Kennedy is one of those few sparkling places where I could just linger for days looking and loving everything in sight.
I am, therefore, ever so proud to have a part in that loveliness. Now at Watson Kennedy's 1st and Spring store, LiT shades are delightfully on display! Stop in for some Parisian soaps or a set of couture stationary and bask in the glow from the Designer's Guild silk shade atop a vintage alabaster base. Buy the set of two for your bedroom and I guarantee you will dream only pretty dreams. Standing guard in the window is a Osbourne & Little flocked dog print that will have you "begging" for it to live in your entryway.
Go see the beauty at Watson Kennedy for yourself, I promise you won't be disapointed-though you may never want to leave.

Lamp base sale!!!

2009-12-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

ALL LAMP BASES $50.00 NOW-VALENTINE'S DAY
Okay, I will say it: I'm not monogamous. At least when it comes to lamp bases. I can't help it, there are so many wonderful lamps in the world, and so many horrible shades on them, that I just can't help wanting to rescue as many as possible and rewire them and re vamp their look with a lovely LiT shade. That being said, I'm starting to feel restless and my gaze is beginning to wander...from my auction find that I spent an hour and $45.00 in parts rewiring to the lamp base I recently saw in a window of a junk shop. It wasn't much, a Hollywood Regency piece that was surprisingly small for it's time period, gold touches on the porcelain palm fronds, brass details...but to me, all I could see was a forgotten Hollywood screen star that just needed a little celluloid magic to show that she was down-but not out.
So here's where you come in: these lamp bases I have need a good home. A partner who won't leave them for some 100 year old relic she found dusty and forgotten in the back of a Bainbridge Island Goodwill. I have decided, go big or go home, so regardless of the price I paid, the $ I put in rewiring them with quality sockets and antique fabric cords, all table lamps at LiT are $50.00 Now-Valentine's Day. Why V day? Well, I figure, if they haven't gone by then, the lonely lamps and I will spend the holiday getting to know each other over a sad bottle of Champagne and chocolates. Here's to you finding each other. Call me matchmaker, because I have the perfect shade to complete you as a pair too.

Emily Lubahn's Latest at LiT

2009-12-28T11:55:00.000-08:00

The pale thin light filters through the bare branches, landing weakly on my desk. The world is muted and lacking contrast. Not cold enough for frost, but with enough chill to turn your breath to frosted fog, I have Spring fever already. I rest in the reverie of the juvenile jade leaves just opening onto the deep contrast of a sapphire sky. The ruby and garnet florets of newly budding cherry trees...
Why the spring fever so soon? Why so enamored by gemstone hues? Here's the reason; Emily Lubahn's latest line of beautifully crafted, modern re-incarnations of estate jewelry. Using necklaces, bracelets, baubles and beads found at estate sales and auctions, Lubahn creates one of a kind, wearable pieces that have the charm and class of something timeless while still appearing eclectic and fresh.
Come in and see for yourself, and don't be surprised if after buying a pair of Emily's earrings you have a little spring in your step too.

Lazy Saturday with Stephen Drucker

2009-12-12T15:18:00.000-08:00

So, it's a lazy Saturday here at the shop. Onur is working on updating the website, I'm taking pictures of what I've been up to lately shade wise, the dog is laying on the $$$velvet sofa as if he owns it. A gentleman walks in, he seems like someone I have seen before...then he introduces himself as Stephen Drucker.
Stephen Drucker. The editor in chief of House Beautiful. That Stephen Drucker.

For the next brief, heart fluttering moments I tried to describe what I do here at LiT. The shades, the design, the process. He started taking pictures of me and the dog, shades in process, the shop in general. All the while telling me what a lovely shop it is, that I am doing something truly original. One of a kind.

Well, darlings, that's what I'm all about. Couture, cultivated, custom. Moments like this, when I go from "downtime" to "Showtime!", make me realize in an instant, I LOVE what I do. And guess what, Stephen does too. :)

The 5 senses

2009-12-07T18:49:00.000-08:00

The soft feel of fine french linen. The sultry soft glow of silk. Prints, patterns, plaster panels... touch and sight are so easy to enjoy here at LiT. Now that we have a little chocolate with our coffee thanks to Charbonnel et Walker chocolatiers, taste is definitely on the menu. The sounds of LiT are the whir of the sewing machine, the clip of the scissors-the overture played alongside either Tchaikovsky or Jay-Z, depending on the day.

But smell...?

Do you want a lamp shade shop to smell like anything? Um...lets think this through...

Yes! LiT now offers intoxicatingly fresh and balanced scent of Capri Blue Volcano candles! Made in America with soy wax and enviro-friendly wicks, these candles have amazingly long burn times and come in either cobalt blue mercury glass pagodas, glass apothecary jars, or vintage pressed glass votives.

And believe me, these candles aren't some mango-pine-rosewood atrocity you find in your aunt's spare powder room, it's sensible smell chic, not sensory overload.

A love letter...

2009-12-07T18:29:00.001-08:00

A silky champagne chocolate ganache, surrounded by pink butter cream, perfectly dusted with fine powdered sugar...placed, by hand, in delicate paper cups inside a pink and white striped miniature hat box, finished with a hand tied golden bow... that, is a Charbonnel et Walker Pink Marc de Champagne Truffle.

That, is poetry.

For those of you who don't know, pink champagne and chocolate are the only two things I love as much as lamp shades. And I couldn't waste another moment keeping that kind of heaven to myself. Now, at LiT, you can get a pink box of loveliness for yourself. Just arrived from the Chocolatier in the UK, I allow myself one per week. Unless I'm having down day, then, it's only medicinal to have another. I hope you will do as I do, and slowly unwrap the ribbon, place one lovingly on a pink glass plate, pour a glass of Veuve Clicquot Rose, turn down all the lights-except the oh-so-cute table lamp you had done up with a LiTshade, and delve into one of the best eperiences life has to offer-chocolate et champagne.

with love,

LiT

the latest shades made at LiT

2009-11-21T12:00:00.001-08:00

hey out there in the wide web world, just wanted to show and tell some of my favorite shades I have made lately for customers of LiT! These little LiT lovelies were shot just before they were whisked out the door by their oh-so-happy owners. I hope these light up your day like they did mine. I looooove the pretty things!

Pre-Holiday Sale!

2009-11-21T11:53:00.000-08:00

LiT is happily helping you get ready for the holidays with brightening up the lamps in your home! Come into LiT now-Nov.25th for 30% off ALL shades in the shop! Piano Nobile home decor and gifts are also on sale now and we are just in love with their hand-felted and silk screened scarves, as well as their printed notebooks and wallets.
We hope you will have a very happy Thanksgiving and we look forward to seeing you at the sale!
LiT

Re-LIT!!!! the re-model is done!

2009-11-21T11:36:00.000-08:00

After weeks of hard work by Tina Randolph and Dawn Bassett, LiT is a whole lot of lovely! Tina Randolph is a plaster/milestone/finish specialist and a true artist with paintings that have sold to the family of Johny Cash, among others. Her work is now part of the true heart and soul of LiT, plaster panels built of many layers with intricate designs and whimsical tributes, all gold leafed by hand...need I say more?
While working on the panels for the shop, Tina also created signage with plaster and gold leaf on a mirror which sits behind the desk, like a luminous headboard it is crowned, literally with the decorative borders of the plaster panels and a regal headpiece fit for LiT.
My favorite re-model moment is the night we decided to plaster the back wall-at 9pm! We finished around 11 and though we needed some serious sleep after, it was well worth it.
Come on in to the new LiT and see all we have done, with panels by Tina Randolph, wallpaper by Osbourne and Little, new home decor by Piano Nobile and some seriously seductive LiTshades!

Fall into Color!

2009-10-19T23:23:00.000-07:00

Phase one of Fall into Color is completed! Thanks to all of you who ventured out into the rain, left Revival Home and Garden's party early, and took a "rain check" on 1st Thursday to join us as we spent a little colorful time inside with paint, fabric, and soooooo much more!

The Benjamin Moore 2010 color launch was a blast and we loved the voting booth for favorite wall paint-we decided to re-paint our back room in the winning color(you will have to come in to find out what it was). The raffle winner will enjoy a new LiTshade, Kaarskokers, a gallon of paint of their choice, design time with Designer Faith Sheridan, and a couple great books on wall paper projects and window coverings. All in all, it was a prize to be won! Not to mention all the money we raised for the local Food Bank, thank you all so much for your contributions!

Enjoy these pics, and if you couldn't make this one, the next Color event will be Oct. 29th in Bellevue so feel free to email us for all the good info! litshades@gmail.com

Designers Guild is the cure for the common cold...

2009-10-07T17:28:00.000-07:00

It's lighting season!!! The days are getting gloomier, shorter, and the grey season will soon be upon us- but LiT is excited that now is the best time to take stock of what condition your lighting situation is...

Need more over all light? Go to good will and grab a torchiere and have LiT make a shade to replace the glass dish. Or amp up what you already own with higher wattage bulbs, take those 60's to 125 watts, add a new silk shade and see if your not bathed in a warm glow!

More ambiance? Pick a couple places around the house that could use a little more magic and install wall sconces and decorate with Kaarskokers and mini-shades by LiT-or-find a nice table lamp and give it's shade a makeover in orange or persimmon taffeta.

The options are endless as always, but this is truly my favorite time of year to light up your dark corners and re-vamp your lamps for the holidays.

Come in to LiT to see the latest in Designers Guild fabrics, Schumacher linen prints and more!

Chao Get's LiT!

2009-09-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

LiTshades plus Pacific Rim comfort food at an affordable price what could be better?

Chao, at 1200 E. Pike (former home of 1200 Bistro), across from Boom Noodle hopes to be the new neighborhood friendly 12th Ave destination. Owner Tony Kang, wanted a menu with pleasure for everyone’s pallet and the affordability for all pockets. Hoping to attract all audiences from families for brunch and lunch, to couples and hipsters for dinner and happy hour, the possibilities for deliciousness will be never-ending.

Where does LiT fit into Chao? Well, the 15 pendant throughout the restaurant and bar, of mustard and burgundy linen, are LiTshades. We at LiT could not be more excited to be in such a neighborhood friendly place.

Chao’s grand opening is tomorrow, why not go enjoy the lighting and delicious food and make Chao the neighborhood hotspot it’s meant to be.

Open:

M-F 11am-2am and Sat-Sun 9am-2am

Tiny but Tall in Design

2009-09-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

The other day Dawn and I went to a garage sale in the Ravena area. Amongst the odds and ends of someone’s life Dawn found a rather tiny (about 5" tall) lamp in the shape of a rosebud or red artichoke(we aren't quite sure) with a hideous piece of plastic sticking out which I can only assume is a "candle sleeve" and a shade that was significantly too small with bell peppers not only painted on it but also the word "bellpepper" written on it. Well, Dawn being the lamp genius she is, found potential in this tiny creature and decided it was worth the three dollars, thus the adoption was made. With a coat of white paint, a new Kaarskoker candle sleeve, and Kelly Werstler shade, this drab-could be oh-so fab!

As Dawn and I were leaving I asked her, "what's the purpose of tiny lamps?" Dawn responded excitedly "people put them on vanities, fireplace mantels, in small bathrooms, on small hallway tables and in kids rooms" she then added "…(yes she actually said "dot dot dot") ambiance!" thus the idea for this post.

As I put further thought into this over the next two days, I thought about all the places I've seen tiny lamps. The swankiest of restaurants often have tiny lamps in them on tables or at the host station, and often, as Dawn pointed out, delicately placed in the ladies room. I also know people who have little dressing tables or vanities that place tiny lamps on them not only as decoration but also as lighting for, what I would only call, "nose powdering." Tiny lamps also show up, like Dawn said, in children's rooms, which I assume has something to do with children being small and thus they need tiny lamps...sound logic?

There you go! Now you know what to do with tiny lamps, go out and garage sale or Goodwill shop for a tiny lamp treasure of your own and bring it to LiT for a tiny LiTshade makeover...turns out, you can use it anywhere.

Announcing the Event of the Season; Fall into Color!!

2009-09-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

Wanting to know the newest colors in interior design for autumn? Does your house need a punch of color but you just don’t know where to start-big or small?　Come to "Fall into Color" for the latest trends in home color using paint and accessories.　

Benjamin Moore color-specialist and Seattle-based interior designer Faith Sheridan will unveil the Northwest color Palette for 2010! Accessorizing with the newest fall colors will be; couture lamp shades by LiT, one of a kind wall coverings from Hermitage and the newest look in candle sleeves from Kaarskoker.

LiT/Hermitage at 1906 e. Prospect st., on Seattle’s Capitol Hill, will be the setting for this fall color event October 1st from 5-9pm, with presentation beginning at 7:00. A ten dollar fee is asked with a percentage going to the local food banks of King County. Come for the color-stay for the freebies, including a raffle worth over $500.00!

Space is limited, register early by emailing litshades@gmail.com with "fall into color" as the subject.

Hope to see you there!!
For more information please contact:
Dawn Bassett litshades@gmail.com,

Support your Neighborhood Small Business

2009-08-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

Since LiT is a small business, as are many of our friends, we thought it would be a good idea to get the word out about the 3/50 Project.

3/50 is a project that understands how important small businesses are to both the economy and local community. Their motto is "Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your local economy. " We at LiT couldn't agree more. So please check out the website. Maybe next time you decided to make a purchase online you will remember 3/50 and realize you could get that same item, probably even better just down the street in your own community backyard.

This has been a public service announcement from your "bright idea" friends at LiT.

*Remember a week from tomorow is the Where is this? event at LiT. Be there or be square.

Re-Vamped!

2009-08-17T14:03:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is- proof positive that an "ugly" lamp still has a chance, and that LiT can turn that garage sale find into your home's favorite new thing!

Here is Cherami's lamp that was re-vamped with a new antique brass finish socket(to match the finish on the lamp) and a bronze twist cord. Topped off with a pewter blue silk drum shade with a bird decal on the inside, this lamp got the full LiT makeover.

Want to see what LiT can do for your lame lighting? Bring in your old lamps, strange bases and "ugly" hand-me-downs and let LiT do the rest!

We had so much fun with this competition, we promise to do it again-so stay tuned...

Fashion Friday: Nice Bones

2009-08-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

Wow what a week….rain in Seattle after not having it for almost a month, I went to the top of the St. Louis arch and Dawn visited the set of the movie “The Details” where her LiTshades are going to be stars.

With everything going it's own way in the world, we feel it may be a good time to pull it together. Cinch things up, strap it back, lets put a little structure back in our lives...or at least show off our nice bones.

The boning of this corset by Jean Paul Gaultier really plays up the feminine shape and the "bones" of this antique frame do the same, plus they really make a show of the beautiful chartreuse cotton print, outlining the best...and hiding the rest, (the seams).

Hope you enjoyed these two amazing pieces of fine craftsmanship that bring a little structure to our crazy lives(or cotton prints). Speaking of amazing craftsmanship remember August 27th is the show Where is This? , an exhibit of imaginary cities at LiT. Put it on your calendar!

MOVIE MAGIC!

2009-08-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

It's movie magic! Hey everyone, it's Dawn, I went down and around the corner from the shop, to visit some LiTshades that were cast in the movie "The Details" which features Tobey Maguire and Laura Linney. The set designer, Jean, is so kind and generously and she took the time to show me around and explain some of that movie magic to me.

Looking into one of my LiTshades, I find what is called in the biz "black out paper" around the top of the light bulb. This is to stop light from projecting up and concentrate the glow down and out. Another fun trick; the lighting for the set was hung from metal beams that are pressured at the tops of the walls, that way a grid is formed and the can lights are movable. The entire space was empty before the film, walls were painted and wallpapered, furniture was moved in, even tooth brushes and kitch, like fridge magnets and groceries in the cupboard, were all picked and put into place.

My favorite was Laura Linney's character's house; crazy wallpaper, little porcelain figurines, cat-scratched furniture, even sun bleached pink flamingos in the yard! It was a bit like breaking and entering, but oddly fascinating as well.

So, if you want to catch some LiTshades on the big screen, go see the film "The Details", we will keep you informed on when it premiers, till then, I have to go tell my little brother that my lamp shades will be in Spider Man's house.
Britt will continue posting on Monday, till then, Get LiT!
~Dawn

And the Winner is.......

2009-08-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Cherami's metal globe lamp! Here is Cherami's submission:

"Single Round Lamp seeks light of my life... complementary shade to be my better half.

Me: Antique carved metal. Short and squat, but with great personality.
8" tall at the top of my dome, 10.5" tall. 9" in diameter; so much to love!

You: unique and lovely."

We loved your witty personal-add style of description, and your base-though slightly ugly, has amazing potential! What a wonderful, one of a kind piece.
As winner of the lamp re-vamp competition, Cherami has won a shade designed by Dawn at LiT for her lamp. *Please note; to be fair, the winner was chosen by a third party and Dawn had no part in the final decision.

We had so many great entries, and Dawn felt bad she could only help out one "ugly" lamp-sooooo...she decided to allow the 5-that's right, FIVE runners-up to partake in a discount of 20% off a custom shade, or 25% off an off-the rack shade for their lamp.

Thanks to everyone who participated and stay tuned for more great contests from LiT!

Fashion Friday: Oscar + LiT = Fabulous

2009-08-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

Usually with Fashion Friday, LiT compares colors, patterns and shape. Very rarely do we come across an outfit that looks as if it was made out of the same fabric as the shade. However in this case the similarities are so, well, similar it's crazy!

Cameron Diaz, the modern style icon that she is, wore this beautiful Oscar De La Renta dress at the Women in Film-Lucy Awards ceremony. Now look at the white and red digital burn-out pattern by Maharam, which Dawn so expertly dressed this shade in. Notice the resemblance? .

Clearly Oscar and Dawn were on the same wave length or in this case fabric length (I love puns). You too can be on the same wave length by coming into LiT and seeing what LiTshade will match your favorite outfit.

*Today is the final day to get your lamp picture in for the LiT lamp makeover. Email your picture to Dawn at lit shades@gmail.com

Kaarskoker-cute, contemporary, couture candle sleeves!

2009-08-05T08:36:00.000-07:00

Kaarskoker, in Dutch means Kaars-candle, Koker-sleeve. You don't have to be bi-lingual to understand that these light gems are the cutest couture for your chandelier since those pretty little Edison bulbs. April, the designer behind Kaarskoker, brings pattern and color to what was potentially a pretty sober sconce.
Who can resist the $12-20.00 a pair candle that instantly refresh your room? For that price, why not pick up a set for spring, a set for fall, and some just for a special occasion? I know I am looking forward to scouting out some sorry sconces to re-do with these sleeves and some saucy LiTshades. The combination is such a bright idea.

Kaarskoker candle sleeves can now be found at LiT.

Shout Out from Crave, Austin

2009-08-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

LiT loves it when we get written up, and here is a prime example from our new friends at Crave. Thanks Crave, Austin we appreciate the shout out.

Great lamps can completely invigorate an otherwise drab room, but are often impossible to find. Luckily, Dawn Bassett of LitShades is around to craftily rejuvenate, restore and transform lampshades to match your aesthetic desires. Dawn recently sat down with us to dish about her glorious work. Read her energizing interview below:

What was the inspiration behind starting your business?
Have you seen the lamp shades out there?
Not much to choose from, some one had to change that!

What was the biggest surprise you have had as a creative entrepreneur? That it’s all about attitude. That people around you get as excited as you do. That a sole proprietorship involves a whole lot of people who want you to succeed.

What is your idea of fun? If given a choice to skip work for a day, how would you spend the entire day?
Making a new lamp shade out of some fantastic Osbourne and Little fabric- skip work for a day? Me and my pint-sized Papillion puppy ride my scooter down to the beach in Madison Park where we swim and sunbathe till sundown, then on to Captain Black’s for a cold drink and some onion rings…anyone is invited to come along for the ride.

Share some ways you stay motivated, encouraged or brave.
A “small business” can have fairly daunting problems. But I like to remember that a “small business” revolves around the small things; a cup of tea with the shop owner next door, a lamp shade made out a woman’s wedding dress to be used in her little girls room, the feeling of knowing only I can fire myself.

Share something you are excited about right now.
Besides a perfect Seattle summer?! Okay, I am to-die-for excited about a show I am collaborating on with Russian born artist, Alexander Kirillov, who makes these amazing lithographs that we are going to turn into a light sculpture/lighting installation. The show is set for Aug. 13th and it will be epic.

Fashion Fridays: Beat the Heat and Feel the Breeze through Tuuli

2009-07-31T08:06:00.000-07:00

It’s a heat wave in Seattle! Since when has Seattle ever been this hot?! The only thing to do is head for air conditioning, a big icy vodka tonic or meet some one with a pool or a boat...good luck with that.

However, if you can’t find any of the above, close your eyes and try to remember back to spring when the cool breezes were blowing and the new leaves were just popping out of the buds on the trees. Do you feel the breeze? I know it’s a stretch but what might make it easier is this Marimekko Kaiku fabric from the Finnish import store Tuuli on 1st avenue. They not only carry cooling fabrics, but clothes, house wares and collectibles as well as shades by LiT, made using Marimekko prints.

Now, go put on your smallest sundress-don’t worry, people will understand in this heat-get in the car turn on the air conditioning as high and possible, and head down to Tuuli. Believe me, looking at this fabric, especially illuminated by LiT, will keep you cool.

*Remember there are only eight, yes 8 days, left until the contest ends for the lamp-revamp!

Where is This?

2009-07-29T08:06:00.000-07:00

Where is this?

LiT 1906. e. prospect st.

Seattle, W.a. 98112

When: Aug. 27th, 2009

Time: 5-8pm

Lithograph prints born into function as hanging pendants, light boxes and night lights. Alexander Kirillov and Dawn shift focus from the real and concrete of an urban scene to the ethereal and imaginary, without losing any of the grit. Where is this? creates a lens to rediscover the transient quality of what cities appear to be before you know your way around. You are a traveler, moving through alleyways, across rooftops, through windows, never knowing what will be discovered.

LiT and Hermitage host this one night show, lighting pieces will be on display through the month of September.

*Remember you need to get your lamp pictures in by August 7th, hurry time is running out!

Let the Competition Begin!!!

2009-07-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

Who doesn’t love a good competition?! Well, we at LiT have a competitive spirit for sure, and we want to share it with our readers. Here’s the deal, we want you to send LiT your photo of a lamp you found at goodwill, a garage sale, your grandmother's basement, etc. and we will pick one out of all the submissions to do a ”light make-over" on!

Just the facts Ma‘am:

1. Submit a picture (jpeg, digital image), and email with base (measurements) to: litshades@gmail.com

2. Picture must be of a lamp that you own and feel desperately needs a new shade.

3. Submissions must be received by August 7th.

*Winner of shade will be announced August 10th , winner will receive a custom made shade designed by Dawn at LiT.

Yeah, that’s right, all you have to do is bring us something ugly or in dire need of a makeover and we will do all the work. Even if the lamp needs to be rewired send it in and Dawn will work her magic. We have faith in our readers, show us some lamps, in need of makeovers! Let the competition begin.

Flickr it Up!

2009-07-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hey LiT readers, we figured since we are always taking pictures and always having events and it's hard to post all our pictures in one post we needed to have a Flickr account, so I started one.

Yeah that's right we are getting more and more technologically savvy. I know lampshades and technology, we are definitely a force not to be reckoned with.

However, just a side note. I am currently on a 6 week public relations tour for the career stimulus empowerment tour, and today I am in Brooklyn, and like the Beastie Boys said, "There's no sleep in Brooklyn," which is why the post was a bit late. This said I can't guarantee all of the posts will be right at 8:05 AM like usual. However, if you follow us on twitter too, I will tweet every time I post on Flickr and the blog. So stay tuned and watch the LiT technology blossom.

This is How We Roll

2009-07-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm aware this is late, but we had really "important things" to post last week. On Sunday, July 12th at the Georgetown Ballroom, LiT participated in the "social event of the season". The event, known as Flat Stanly, also included a steam roller, peach pie, and the amazing Georgetown Ballroom.

Flat Stanley, here's how it works: 3'x4' piece of linoleum and two weeks to carve. The linoleum is then hand rolled with offset ink from 1938. The inked lino-cuts were then sandwiched between plywood boards and covered with paper or canvas. At this point, master of ceremonies Alex Kirillov, took the wheel of the steam roller. Cigarette dangling on from his lips, adorned with his lucky red hat and ink stained hands, looking like a young Jackson Pollock, rolled over the linos with the steady finesse of a master printer. When finished, the ink had transferred to the paper or canvas and when the layers were peeled back, a perfect print emerged.

Unfortunately, I only have one picture now- but by Wednesday LiT will have a Flicker account. All our pictures from Flat Stanley and all other LiT pix (love the rhyme) will be on display. Want to see the prints for yourself? They will be on display during first Thursday at the Gold Rabbit Studio Go check them out, they're larger in real life.

Fashion Friday: Kiss of the Dragon

2009-07-16T22:03:00.000-07:00

Hello LiT friends, with the above normal temperatures we've had for the past two days, I thought it was only fitting to talk about one of Dawn's "above the norm" shade requests. With custom, you really can have it all, but our favorite in a long while is this beautiful gem...

This shade was commissioned out of a lovely print by Schumacher ; a dragon printed in vivid hues on a background of stylized poppies, palms, and petals. Although a little out of the norm, I personally love the pattern and how it coordinates so well with the client's own yellow lamp. Dawn was excited because this is one of her favorite fabrics by Schumacher.

Another piece slightly out of the ordinary is this limited addition Gucci Boston Bag created by Frida Giannini. Only 200 were made for the grand opening of Gucci's 28th store in China on June 6th.

Much like the Schumacher fabric, Giannini used the Chinese dragon, this is a bag with a message! The red is for a prosperous business or life, and the dragon is a sign of good luck. This one of a kind Gucci is only available at the Shanghai Gucci store, but you can "get lucky" with a dragon shade of your own by simply stopping in at LiT.

Remember, the LiT "off the rack" sale ends this Saturday at 4pm so come in soon! You have plenty of time to stop in before your flight for Shanghai....

City Stimulus

2009-07-15T09:05:00.000-07:00

Because LiT loves our customers, and the economy is still a little, well challenged, we have decided our contribution to saving you money is to join City Stimulus. What is City Stimulus? Well, it's a program encouraging Seattlites to support local and small businesses, and since we are local, and small, and a business we figured why not?

Here's the skinny;
shop, eat & drink at participating Locations July 12-18 and present your downloaded membership card to redeem offers when paying your bill.
For each $10 spent, members collect one stamp. 10 or more stamps from participating businesses gain the cardholder 10 extra raffle tickets and an opportunity to earn cool prizes at the City Stimulus Closing Party & Raffle

So check out the website and get your stimulus card. You only have 3 days left and remember our sale ends Saturday. Hope to see you soon to enjoy your savings.

SALE, SALE, SALE!!!!

2009-07-13T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hello there friends of LiT!

We are celebrating the summer by clearing out our floor samples and "off the rack" shades. Marimekko fabrics, Piano Nobile prints, Bremelo Press letterpressed shades, wallpaper shades, linen, silk, there is really so much to choose from and it is ALL 50% OFF! Why such a deal? To be perfectly frank, we have gotten in some new prints, patterns and papers and am feeling inspired to make all new shades. Come let my creative inspiration be your best deal of the summer!

LiT SUMMER SALE

50% off all floor samples from July 13th-18th

Unfashionable Friday Rant

2009-07-10T08:05:00.000-07:00

Warm weather, finally! Back to tank tops and sundresses, spaghetti straps and short shorts. Speaking of spaghetti straps let’s have a little chat shall we? On the situation I will address below, that has lead me to call this Friday- “Unfashionable Friday.”

It all started Wednesday, when I came to page 80 in last weeks Us Weekly, yes I read it and I love it, so shut up. As I was saying, page 80, is usually just made up of random ads and things no one would ever need but will fix everything from hair removal to the unwanted middle. But this week- page 80 had a special treat, see the picture, yes notice the “jewelry” connecting the straps of her tank top?

This “amazing” invention is known as the Bra Barrett, fancy name isn't it? According to the website,

Be in command of your straps & feel confident in your clothing with the most beautiful bra clip available. The Plain Bra Barrette is perfect for women of all ages to stop bra straps from slipping, keeping them in place all day, comfortably. Keep one handy for gardening, business meetings, or swimming. Made in the USA, BB's are the ultimate bra strap .

I know what your thinking, "Britt my bra straps definitely need decoration in tank tops, but the one in the picture doesn’t match all of my tank tops." Well, Bra Barrett was way ahead of you and being the “fashion forward” site (I know I had a hard time typing that because of the laughter too, it’s not just you) they are, the “BB” (acronyms too!) comes in a number of colors with a number of ridiculous charms. You could even get the “style” pack.

I am aware this post did nothing for your life but when something comes along that is so ridiculous you just have to write about it.

On the opposite side of the BB, that would be the fashionable side, LiT will be out and about this Sunday. Come join us and our friends for Flat Stanley at the George Town Ballroom between 10-4. We will see you there, and remember to wear your BB, it’s supposed to be warm and how would your tank top look without it? (Oh the laughter!!)

Kay Designs and LiT Shades

2009-07-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Warning this is a patting ourselves on the back post, but we just can't help it. Everybody likes to talk about their accomplishments, and LiT is no exception, plus Dawn and I found a great new hairdresser in the process.

Last week, Dawn finished and hung new coral, crimson, and tangerine, silk-dupioni ceiling pendants in the hair salon next door to LiT, Kay's Design. As I write this post I wish I had taken a before picture but I did not, so you will have to take my word for it. Before, the lighting in the shop was just basic but Dawn came in and worked her magic matching the color of the silk perfectly to the color of the armior.

The pendants are a great update to the shop, which has been open and operating for 15 years.
Great hair, conversation, LiT lighting and Kay- what more could you want?

Kays Designs
1908 E Prospect St
Seattle, WA 98112-3523
(206) 325-7298

GO BIG OR GO HOME

2009-07-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

Word to the wise:

GO BIG OR GO HOME

FLAT STANLEY

steam roller print initiative

Large Scale Originals By:

PianoNobile*FreshButter

LiTShades*BremeloPress

with special guest star david rauschenberg

Sunday July 12*10AMto5PM

behind the Georgetown ballroom

5623 airport way south seattle

Come check out giant 3x4' lino prints up for grabs!

Fashion Friday: Pretty in Pink

2009-07-03T08:05:00.000-07:00

Pink is the new black, and in this case pink is oh so pretty, welcome to the life through the rose colored glasses of another LiT Fashion Friday.

Although, pink is not a huge favorite of mine, being friends with Dawn has turned me onto how easy it is to be pretty in pink(even if one is usually more comfortable in gray and black).

This vintage Versace skirt in coral silk taffeta with pleating in front and rouching in the back is paired perfectly with the Indian cotton, carry-everything bag by Piano Nobile.

Just to throw a little LiT light on the picture, we bring you this amazing PINK elliptical light box also printed at Piano Nobile.

Pretty in pink? Oh I think so. Until next week....

Lucite, clearly the best.

2009-07-01T08:05:00.000-07:00

Lucite; clear, plastic, light weight, and in the past often associated with women’s shoes of unsavory character, but recently interior design has resurrected lucite into a whole new light, and LiT is not the only company that views lucite as classicly tasteful, not trendy.

Interior designers like Faith Sheridan have been using lucite for over twenty years, and has found that good design, stands the test of time. That's good for your design scheme and your wallet, as Faith says; “very often these acrylic furniture pieces will not break the bank!”

So true Faith. Lucite, a type of plastic that can be molded and cut however you like, makes a smooth transition from retro to modern. Who needs a pewter golf figurine atop their lamp, or a giant pink crystal? Yikes. The answer for the perfect way to finish off a LiTshade is a cylindrical lucite finial. Whether, the shade is patterned, brightly colored, or heavy on the detailing, the lucite finial goes with everything...similar to the diamond studs you are able to rock with both your favorite jeans on the weekend, and that little black dress you love for date night. I think it's safe to say; this design choice is clear.

I Draw Nice

2009-06-29T08:05:00.000-07:00

It’s summer, open-toed shoes, shorter skirts, patios, summer vacation for the younger generation? What this means for you is trying to find something educational but still fun for your tiny friends. But, with the economy still on the challenging side puts camp out of the question, what should you do, and what does LiT have to do with it?

Well Dawn has decided to share her amazing artistic talents with your child. I know what your thinking she makes LiTshades, how can she lead art classes? Well, what you don’t know is Dawn has studied art since her first lesson at the age of 8. Since then she has worked as a fine artist selling her paintings to collectors, rendered for architectural firms, and of course now owns her own design business, plus I might add my two-cents of a fine arts/art history minor.

Lessons will let your young artist's mind creatively and artistically focus with lessons in sketching, water and oil painting, basics of architectural rendering, theory, history, and so much more! I Draw Nice, is a chance for your child to improve concentration, coordination, and creativity, and maybe, just maybe-they will stop drawing on the walls.

The best part is the children will hold a gallery opening of their work which will take place at the LiT/Hermitage showroom in the fall.

What a fun summer, sure beats making popsicle stick bird house in your backyard with your dog and brothers. For more information email Dawn at dawnjone@hotmail.com, or visit: www.idrawnice.com. She looks forward to hearing from you, and I look forward to some posting ideas based on the young Picassos and Georgia O’Keeffes.

Fashion Friday:Tiptoe through the Tulips

2009-06-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Fashion favorites: perfectly ruched details done in taffeta, demure and refined clutches with gold and enameled closures, skirts-bell shaped, pencil, modified bubble and my present passion; the tulip. Tulip skirts are a modified version of the pencil skirt, high waisted and flared with pleats that tapers perfectly at the knee.

Since I am back, and I wore cargo pants and flip flops for the past three weeks (I don't want to talk about it)this week's Fashion Friday is a tribute to my usual more feminin wear, skirts.

Length, cut, material, lining, all so very important- and this LiTshade takes it all into consideration. Whether used as a pendant or a floor lamp shade, the cut is opposite of the traditional flare- and instead tapers in, just like a tulip skirt. The fabric is a tangerine silk dupioni and comes "fully lined" with silver and white floral wallpaper. The length covers what needs to be covered but still keeps a contemporary edge.

Wanting to update your rooms wardrobe? The perfect piece is here at LiT. You don't need a whole makeover, just a few tailored elements here and there. In closing, a quote from a skirt maker that I have always adored: "Every one was poor. I wore skirts made of flour sacks too, but at least my hem-lines were right". -Coco Chanel

Silkworm Sweatshops?

2009-06-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

As you read this, I am hanging out in Saigon awaiting a 6 hour plane ride which is followed by a 14 hour plane ride before I am, finally, home. I am, however, going to take this final opportunity to talk about Vietnam. This will be the last post about Vietnam, I promise.

As I have been posting- silk is a huge deal in Nam (I've been here so long I'm allowed to speak like a war veteran now), but do you know how silk is made and why it's such a big deal? If the answer is "no" (or even if you do), I will tell you, after all informational posts are Dawn's favorite. The most popular type of silk comes from the cocoon of the larvae of the mulberry silkworm. These little guys are normally grown in captivity where they are put to work until adulthood when they grow wings, are you picturing little worms in a little silk sweatshop like I am?
Silk gets it's "shiny" appearance because of the light refracting off the prism-like triangular structure of the fibers. There are many types of silk depending on its country of origin. It also comes either manufactured, the really "silky" (no pun intended) type you're used too, or natural which is more course and in my opinion better, it's what I brought Dawn back. So now you know, and now that I am on my way back, come see the colors I brought to LiT there is very limited stock, and it's not available until Friday, but it is so worth the wait. I'm not spinning a tale here.

Where there's wicker, there's a way. Nho Cafe Nha Trang

2009-06-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hello from Vietnam. It's been two weeks and four days without LiT, but I am almost home. However, on my visit here I found the Vietnamese are pretty crafty when it comes to lighting. With the abundant amount of bamboo in Vietnam they are able to make any number of things with it and here is just one.

This light had me playing the part of Asian tourist, snapping away with my digi. camera. Spotted at one of their numerous coffee house, Nho Cafe(accent over the "O" it means dream) in Nha Trang uses this resourceful lighting made of bamboo woven together over a plastic base and then lit with a basic light bulb and lamp cord. Personally I love them(although my pictured does them no justice, sorry it was dark), and I find it a great use of a common resource.

I'm back on Thursday, so happy, and can't wait to share my first Fashion Friday in weeks with all of you. Until then...

Nesting Instinct

2009-06-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

When it comes to setting up house-or redesigning the one you already have- Sara Eizen of Nest can transform that house, into a home. Nest offers interior design, home organizing, and color consultation services and Sara specializes in helping you sort through what you already own to get the look you want without starting from scratch.

Plenty of design experience, creative flow, and innovation is what sets Nest high in the branches of the design trade.

Sara will work with what you already have and add a little new in the right doses so you still feel connected- still feel your home is your own. The last thing you want is to come home and look around and not recognize anything in YOUR space! Not to mention, all the money you will save by not buying all new furniture, accessories, floor coverings, etc. The best part is, Sara helps you see what will really make a statement, what little changes can be made to give you the room you always had-but couldn't see.

This is where LiT comes in, if you can see the potential in bases you already own, new shades designed at LiT can shed some new light on your old lamps...and possibly that end table of your Great Aunt's it's sitting on.

Whether you just moved into a new house, or you just need a little help finding the potential in what you have been living with for years, Nest may be just the design advice you have been looking high and low for. With organizing tips, fresh design ideas, and an amazing range of resources, Sara offers up so many ways to build your nest.

Silky Silky

2009-06-15T09:15:00.000-07:00

Now that I have been in Vietnam for a week and a half....a LONG week and a half...I have started to get used to the heat, the stares and the cultural hurtles. What I don't think I will ever get used to is the amazing silk stores on every corner!

I knew Vietnam was renowned for it's silk, but could never have expected so many patterns, textures and so many colors. I know what you're thinking, "thanks Britt I really want a LiTshade made out of an amazing silk and from Vietnam, but I don't think I could suffer the heat to go get some of my own." Well, of course you know, with Dawn being my amazing friend I would have to bring her back something from my trip and why not bring her back some of these one-of-a-kind pieces of silk?

Now don't think you can get this silk now, I won't be back for another week and a half but until then go visit Dawn at the shop and begin to think about what shapes and sizes you want for your next LiTshade ,you might just realize you need more then just one.

Side Note: Unfortunately, I haven't had my camera when I have passed these silk stands yet, so I figured an image of Nha Trang for now would be just as good.

Fashion Friday: Four Legged Fashion!

2009-06-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Meet Gus. A golden retriever who loves the simple life. Meet Jadee, the mischievous yellow lab who knows a good thing when she smells it. These beloved dogs of two sisters, are inspiration for the classic and stylish line of dog accessories- Gus & Jadee. The goal is simple — to provide quality products that you will be proud to own, and your dog will be proud to wear.
Where does LiT come in? Well, the shop dogs here at LiT: Louie the French bulldog, Nikki the Papillion, and Thelonius the pug, are very well bred. That means they expect the highest quality when it come to what they get decked out in-PetCo=No No!
This fashion Friday we do these doggies justice by saluting two business ladies who know how to kick the kennel and bring the dog couture to the cat walk. Bow-WOW!

Ctrl Alt LiT!

2009-06-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

Want distinct and desirous plans for this Friday night? JOIN a place for designers and enthusiasts to converge is hosting a show at Ouch My Eye gallery in SODO. Furniture, sculpture, lighting will all be on display- and LiT is part of the picture! The show runs till the end of June, but to party and meet the people, come this Friday night!

June 12th

7pm-Midnight

OuchMyEye Gallery

1022 1st ave s

For more info on the show visit: www.joindesignseattle.com/ctrlAltDesign.html

Vietnam or Bust

2009-06-08T05:34:00.000-07:00

Greetings from 14 hours in the future! I am completely crazy-busy and residing in a hot-humid climate(you should see my hair), so LiT 's blog post for the next three weeks will not be as consistent. But never fear, between Dawn and myself Get LiT will continue to post a fairly regular schedule. Hey, maybe I will even post a picture or two of this strange but beautiful country. Stay tuned...

Fashion Friday: individual Style

2009-06-05T08:01:00.000-07:00

"Fashion is general. Style is individual." -Edna Woolman Chase editor in chief, Vogue 1914-1952

Edna Woolman was an intelligent women, something that we at LiT think very highly of. Another thing we think highly of is individual style. Welcome to another "individually" different Fashion Friday and as you are reading this I'm in Vietname being an "individual" -blonde, curvy, white girl, one of these things is not like the other.

It is this difference between culture and individual style Chase spoke of, that perfectly sums up what custom means. What personal style can bring. At LiT, we bring personal style to life everyday through lighting.

Fashion is so much more than trendy clothing, the perfect "little black dress", or the latest rendition of the espadrille sandal. Fashion is really style, an inspiration that has taken form in function. Style transforms the wearer from: shirt+pants=clothed, to boat neck washed out tee+high waisted navy pencil skirt=beautiful.

Here at LiT we often look to fashion to inspire us. We look for lines, patterns, shapes that we think will translate beautifully to lighting. Here is an example we ran across that made us stop and pay attention, like a white girl in Vietnam. Line and the unexpected. Layers, textures, positive and negative space- hmmmmm ideas are forming...

Stay tuned to where we go from here, from inspiration to creation and more about my trip to Vietnam.

Giving Back

2009-06-03T07:49:00.000-07:00

We at LiT understand how important giving back is and we always wish we could do more. Recently we gave back in the best way we know how, through lamp shades.

Cascade Harvest Coalition is a non-profit dedicated to re-localizing the food system of Washington State by directly connecting the consumers and the producers. I know what your thinking what does this have to do with lamp shades? Well they are having a silent action of home goodies to raise money and one of Dawn's amazing shades is part up for bid!

For more information about the auction go check out their blog -and then buy a ticket to the event! Localizing our food is a big job, but someone’s got to do it, don't you want to be that someone? Yeah, us too. :)

Osborne and Little

2009-06-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

Brightly colored patterns swept over walls, bedspreads, and of course, LiT's lamp shades. The vivid prints and amazing patterns of Osborne and Little often provide the inspiration for a number of Dawns shades, but how did such amazing patterns begin?

London in the 1960’s was a crazy, colorful time especially in Chelsea, so what better place for brothers-in-law, Peter Osborne and Antony Little to open a small showroom selling exquisitely designed hand printed wallpapers which became an instant success. Over the years the business has expanded it's product range to include fabrics, trims, furniture and accessories,while reaching a global audience but never forgetting their roots.It is their fashionable, colorful beginnings which have kept Osborne & Little's designs at the heart of interior trends for the past four decades. From their paint effect wallpapers of the 1980's and the celestial star, sun and moon motifs of the 1990's to the many contemporary patterns using metallics and flocks of today.

In order to continue their worldwide success Osborne & Little have built many working relationships with a number of other amazing artists who share the same creativity and passion; internationally renowned interior designer Nina Campbell, Michael Reeve who does amazing upholstered furniture, world-famous Liberty Furnishings and the chic Parisian design studio Lorca.

It is their never-ending creative focus and desire to maintain their reputation which keeps them at the top of the interior game. How could Osborn and Little not be one of Dawn‘s favorites? Next time you want to add a little color to your home, consider a LiTshade in a fabric or paper from Osborne and Little.

In Living Color!

2009-05-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

Today is supposed to be the hottest day so far, and I can not tell you how excited I am. Not only because I will (ideally) get a little bronze before I go to Vietnam, but I get to finally remove all of my black clothing and move into some color. Welcome to another colorful Fashion Friday, I’m so glad you could join us.

Today we are going to discuss the beautiful line of very brightly colored shades made at LiT and how those same bright colors are found in this years spring/summer collections. Yet again, I thought we should do a little fellow blog searching and look at this awesome write-up from the fashion blog: Stickers and Donuts. Every outfit screams from their Forget Neutrals post scremans "look at me!" And we do. And we like.

That sun-shiny feeling is exactly what you feel when surrounded by your bright and colorful LiTshades. Even if you have to be stuck indoors-they transport you poolside, drinky tropical alcoholic beverages. Ahhhh, lovely

So enjoy the weekend my fashion maven’s. I will be at a friend's bridal shower in Leavenworth hopefully drinking something fruity in the hot tube and working on my tan. I suggest you do the same, but first- come in and check out the bits of LiTcolor you can add to your house's summer wardrobe.

Sales and Shout Outs!

2009-05-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

Because we at LiT like to support our friends, and we know we couldn’t be a successful company without our friends this post is dedicated to some of them.

Bremelo Press the letterpress print shop which makes our beautiful letter pressed business cards and who produces stationery and other printed items for personal and business use, including: wedding and party invitations, menus, programs, announcements, business cards, business signs and more is having a sidewalk sale. The sale is this Saturday May 30th from 10am-4pm at their studio at 1426 South Jackson between 14th and 16th on the cusp of China Town and the Central District. Everything from greeting cards, tags, hand-made buttons, etc made by our friend Lynda Sherman.

With wedding season coming up and the abnormal amount of babies seeming to be born lately, beautiful homemade cards and tags would top that coffeemaker or set of baby bottles beautifully. So go check it out.

Also I would like to give a shout out to our friend Chicecologist for doing a little write-up about LiT. Thanks for the shout out Chicecologist and right back out you.

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

Due to Memorial Day, and since you have the day off, we are taking the day off too. So enjoy your B.B.Q.s, sales, picnics and sincerely remembering those who stood up for our Country. We will see you Wednesday for our usual entertaining, interesting and often educational- post. Until then, Happy Memorial Day.

-LiT

Not the Usual Fashion Friday....Sorry

2009-05-22T08:01:00.000-07:00

Instead of Fashion Friday- we delight you with the afterglow of the spectacular show we had at LiT last night! If you recall, it was the night to promote Piano Nobile's new furniture line, Semaphore.

Events are often a hit and miss. Hit: lots of people came, you run out of glasses and it runs longer then it was supposed to. Miss: not a one! All in all it was a fantastic occasion. The Piano Nobile/LiT event was amazing and went off with a bang. We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful evening, or better place to be spending it.

Did other plans keep you from attending? Well you would have been able to experience the festivities, I taped the whole event and set it to music and made a nice little video but unfortunately it does not want to load so I will work on it and see what I can do. For now enjoy the day, thanks for coming to our event, we couldn't do it without you. See you Monday.

Floor Lamps and Faith Sheridan

2009-05-20T08:01:00.000-07:00

Being in the lighting world, we are always looking for those who are as interested in lighting design as much as we are. Our friend and interior designer, Faith Sheridan is one of those interested few. Her blog post yesterday is in perfect timing with our new line of Piano Nobile floor lamps found exclusively at LiT;

“A floor lamp can, add vertical dimension to a room design and offer an interruption from the horizontal lines of the sofa, chairs and tables. They are a great way to finish a space and brighten a corner or provide a great light source for reading your novel or newspaper.”

She also wrote how floor lamps are great space savers. We couldn’t agree more. LiT has a number of custom designed or vintage floor lamp bases with a number of shade options. Or you can even bring your own base and design a shade around it.

Speaking of shades (a subject we are all too keen on), Faith agrees with Dawn that using the incredibly stylish "over-sized" drum shade will “diffuse glow in the room.”

With so many shade choices and base solutions, it only makes sense to come into LiT for you next floor lamp

Ideal Bite: Made in the Shade

2009-05-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

Our friends over at Ideal Bite did a little write up on LiT and we love them for it. We loved the post, so we figured why not share it? Enjoy, and thanks Ideal Bite!

The Bite:
Living in the lap of luxury? Maybe not, but your lamp shade can at least look the part. LiT (maker of couture lamp shades with paper backing - not plastic - and reclaimed fabric) has a tip for brightening up lackluster lamps you already own (rather than buying new): DIY silhouette shades. Just flip the switch and...voilà: grown-up shadow puppets. Success.

Make It Text:
Silhouette Lamp Shade15-20 minutesWhat You Need:• Simple stencils (leaves, flowers, abstract patterns, etc.); or you can draw your own• Pencil • Black card stock• Scissors• Nontoxic white glue• Solid-colored lamp shadeDirections:1. Stencil or draw your own shapes on black paper.2. Cut out the shapes.3. Dab a little glue on the outer points of your shape.4. Lightly press the shape to the inside of your shade and allow to dry before attaching it to the base.If you give this one a try, send pics of your shade to makeit@idealbite.com.

Great idea right? If you wanna try it, just stop on by-you know where we are.

Dior did it again!

2009-05-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Finally the rain has cleared, the sun is out for an amazing 70 degree weekend, and so much is going on. Did someone say strapless dresses and peep-toe sandals?

Speaking of strapless dresses and sunlight, lets discuss this amazing multi-tiered strapless Dior in a lovely, layered gray. By playing with the way light hits the different folds and cascades of material, a certain volume and depth is created.

This same technique was used in developing this ceiling pendant by LiT. With a gray linen exterior and a silver Koi fish interior, light refracts off the inside and then disperses through the subtle acrylic diffuser below. The house of Dior would be oh-so proud.

While wandering your choice of parks enjoying the sun, or garage saleing in one of Seattle's best neighborhoods, we hope you will stumble into LiT. After all, it's always sunny here.

Feel the Power of the Flower

2009-05-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

April showers bring May flowers; true, but those flowers are wet! This May is a rainy one. Still, Spring is upon us which means flowers are in full bloom. This years spring explosion can not only be found in the garden but is prevalent in both fashion and interior design. Floral patterns are found on everything from dresses, to wallpaper, to sofas, to you guessed it- lamp shades. The problem often faced with this in-house flower power explosion is that not everyone knows how to effectively design with florals.

Lead designer with Surface in Portland Kara Bertolucci suggests using florals sparingly, “you never want a huge amount of floral patterns in a room like on a chair or a sofa, instead touches of bright floral patterns work best. Use your lamp shades as a way to marry the multiple points in a room, by the color and patterns."

Kara also uses florals as a way to bring the outside in-even if you live in an apartment in the city and have no yard, “it just gives you a sense of peace and happiness to see flowers in your home.”
LiT carries a number of premade floral print shades in a number of sizes and colors, and if you can’t find just the floral you want, the fabric and wallpaper books by some of the best designers in the biz offer everything from big, bold and bright to tiny, subtle and sweet.

Get in touch with your inner flower child and add that touch of flower power this spring to your décor with a floral print LiTshade. Listen to Kara, she’s a professional.

Party Reminder!!

2009-05-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

I told you I would remind you, I wrote in my calendar to remind you and now it is ten days until the event and I am reminding you.

May 21st LiT and Piano Nobile are having an event to launch their newest collaboration. Sangria and goodies will be served, insightful conversation will be had, furniture will he admired and LiTshades will be purchased.

May 21st, it’s a Thursday, say it with me, “LiT Thursday May 21st:”, write it on your hand and enter it in your phone. Fun and sangria start at five.

Look forward to one more reminder, because we are that excited, and look forward to seeing you there.

Fashion Friday: Ahoy Mateys!

2009-05-08T11:04:00.000-07:00

Ahoy Mateys! This week launched the opening of boating season with, what else, a very wet week. Neither Dawn or I know anyone who owns a boat, a sad predicament for our summer plans, but great company we would make if invited out on your sailing vessel!

The opening of boating season seems to segue nicely into this week's Get LiT posts. All week I have been posting about semaphores and their use in furniture and lighting, so why not finish off the week with a nautically inspired Fashion Friday?

D&G were swept up in waves of inspiration, when they designed their seafaring Spring line, which debuted at Milan's Fashion Week. From the striped bathing suits, sailor cut jeans, seaworthy sunglasses and you guessed it, semaphore scarves, the runway decks were in bristol fashion.

Our friends at Piano Nobile, always style relevant, have designed an entire line of lamps to go along with their nautical themed furniture. The lamp base is a welded steel pipe which is then powder-coated white, with custom options available. In collaboration with LiT, shades for these fine vessels are done in gray linen with a silk-screened white grid pattern.
Sure to look winning on your yacht, or if you're like us and don't own even a dinghy, don't feel bad, even moored in your living room, these lamps are still a ketch.

Come Join Us at Hop Scotch!!

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

I’m aware it’s Thursday….not a posting day. But I have an announcement, concerning your Friday night plans. Tomorrow night, Dawn and I are going to an event in support of SIFF. Not only will it be fun, but it will be a nice change from your usual bar hoping or staying in watching America’s Next Top Model reruns. Also, it's a great opportunity to come meet and mingle with us LiT ladies!

Hopscotch, is a Spring beer and scotch festival with a few fancy wines and tequilas for us non beer drinkers (gluten free, that's me!). The best part is that with all of the delightful weather we've been having, the event will be held indoors and $20 will get you eight-yes you heard me right, eight-drinks of choice, in addition to a little food and alcohol education.

So start thinking about what your going to wear, figure out what awesome opening line you will have for us, we can promise to do the same, and come join us at Hop Scotch (we'll be there around 6:30) for a little alcohol, food, education and fun. Get there early- or else Dawn may bogart all the whiskey, see you tomorrow!

Dancing Bears and LiTshades?

2009-05-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

When I was ten my mother changed careers and became an interior designer. The year was 1990 and her first “design job” was in a wallpaper store. The 90’s, or really anytime before, was a hard time aesthetically for wallpaper. The featured wallpaper at the time was bears dancing in a rather strange manner while having a picnic, I wonder how that idea even came about...?

Wallpaper has changed a lot since the 90’s. Dancing bears are a thing of the past, and wallpaper just isn’t for walls any more.

Per usual, Dawn has taken something originally designed for one purpose, and shed a whole new light on it. (Pardon the pun). Her wallpaper LiTshades feature paper in amazing patterns on either the inside or the outside of the shade, or even, (dare I say it), both inside and outside! No more dancing bears or basic stripes. Working with proprietress, friend and shop sharer-wallpaper connoisseur, Jennifer June of Hermitage, wallpaper now come in a selection of everything from metallic silver, bright prints to vintage inspired patterns. These are the looks hitting runway walls from LiT to London! Traditional patterns from Farrow and Ball, contemporary designs from Ferm or Kreme and even intricately designed art prints from Louise Body or Deborah Bowness are all options, and let's not forget the amazing papers from Dawn's favorite, Osbourne and Little. You name it LiT and Hermitage can get it.

It’s the new century- throw your idea of dancing bears, harlequins and paisley out the window and think of what wallpaper can be; on your new LiTshade

YOU'RE INVITED!!!

2009-05-04T09:49:00.000-07:00

Bringing you information about lighting, you never knew you needed, is what we at Get LiT do best. Ordinarily this post would be no exception, but when the information is about a party at LiT announcing new design, attention must be paid.

As I have posted before, semaphores are the triangular signal flags used to convey messages between ships. With this in mind, our friends at Piano Nobile have designed an entire line of furniture using pennant shapes and balanced flat planes to convey a message of high design and original build, seen exclusively at, you guessed it, LiT.

This spring, the signals are pointing to a party! A party where sangria is the drink of choice, wood grain-modern metal designs are the talk of the evening and everywhere you look there is a printed LiTshade, how could the evening be any better?

When: Thursday May 21st from 5-until were out of Sangria
Where: LiT, 1906 East Prospect. Street. Seattle WA 98112

And since we know there is a lot happening between now and May 21st stay tuned for more details and a few friendly reminders.

Fashion Friday: Good Health and Design

2009-05-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Happy May Day (May 1st)! For all of you who enjoy happy hour, this day is for you. It is due to the 1872 Labor Movement which makes your 8 hour work day possible and the ability to still enjoy a happy hour or two. In addition to May Day, welcome to another Flu free Fashion Friday.

This week, we are all about simple-good-design. There are just too many other complications is the world right now, so lets appreciate fashion and form made with attention to proportion, balance and beauty.

The first, this vintage lamp frame, sans couture it is still a perfect example of good design. While only a series of metal wires, the lines themselves compose a delicate lotus. The petals are refrenced only in the negative shapes and have a semetry in it's pattern that gives volume to the overall shape. The pendant's "accessories" are a glass socket and a frosted vanity bulb so as not to detract from the simple design of the frame. And what hanging pendent is complete without antique twist cord used to suspend it from the ceiling? It's the belt that ties the shoes in with the rest of the outfit...

Wile not a pendant, this Marc Jacobs Fan Charm Logo necklace can be suspended around your neck to bring a little simple design to your attire. Check it out at Madberries and enjoy it's deconstructed look of simple blue letters and gold chain that produce something so prominent, playful and pretty!

There you go- fashion, design and history all in one post. Now go out and enjoy such a nice Friday happy hour, you’ve earned it. Just one LiT health note: until this flu is out like last season's lipstick, make sure you cover your mouth, wash your hands and unless they are cute enough to risk it-please don’t kiss any strangers.

Black Shades and NYC Housewives

2009-04-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

I have a confession, actually an addiction is more like it. No not the shoe one that’s obvious, besides that’s more of an obsession. What I’m talking about is my addiction to bad television. By bad television I mean shows like Real Housewives of New York City on Bravo (no Bravo did not ask me to write this, although…).

Last night, I was partaking in this indulgence, as I was also trying to figure out what to post for today. Face it a blog about lamp shades is not easy. This episode was about a house party in the midst of a major renovation. Not going to bore you with show details, frankly it's just so much drama, the point however (yes I have one) is the lamp shade shown in the episode got me thinking about black shades; their pros, their cons and all the points in between.

Unfortunately, Bravo will not let me take the picture I want of their site so here is the link and then you must click through to slide 15 in order to see what I am talking about, I know a lot of trouble but aren’t you intrigued? See the lamp in the far left with the all black shade, perfect example of use in a home. Here it adds just enough light, but in a more alluring-less obtrusive way. The black also tends to give a masculine feel to the crystal base.

It is a common misconception that black shades will not allow much light, but that is not the case. Black fabric is just a dye choice, and the material itself is what hinders more light coming through a shade. A heavy linen will let less light through whether the shade is white, black or chartreuse. The wattage of the bulb useed in the lamp is also a key to how much light will be given off.

When Dawn makes an all black LiTshades she often lines the inside with a metallic paper or fabric providing more light and an increased amount of sparkle and drama.

Look inspiration is everywhere. If Bravo decides to put up pictures I can copy, I will fix this but until then check out the link and don’t be scared of black lamp shades, for most of us, it's as much "drama" as we need in a house.

What's New at LiT?!

2009-04-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Extra! Extra! Read all about it!

LiT now offers custom cut frosted acrylic diffusers for all your ceiling pendant needs! What's a diffuser you ask? Well, depending on the shallowness of the shade and the height at which it is hanging from your ceiling, it is sometimes neccessary to cover up that bare bulb with thin acrylic disc. You've seen it done, I'm sure.

Why is this such great news? Well, it's like loving a specific shoe designer and finding out they are coming out with a line of handbags. The world is your oyster! I can't wait to get some made and see how lovely they can be!

Well, that's the latest from LiT. Shine on Seattle.

Fashion Friday: Closet Redux

2009-04-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hello, Fashion Friday fans. I have a head cold, which is probably the worst thing you can have on an amazingly sunny day like today. What's worse is when I tried to get dressed this morning, none of my clothes looked at all desirable which then made me not only wish my cold would go away, but that I had a entirely new wardrobe. Neither one seems to be in the stars for today. A cure for the common cold has yet to be discovered, but a cure for the common wardrobe, is easy with a few simple tips.

This week's fashion inspiration comes not from the great fashion houses in Milan and Paris, but from our blog peers at We Wear Things. Here, a simple grey tunic was placed over a white cotton skirt, to increase length, and coupled with a pair of super cute grey platforms, voila! the dress went from drab to fab in a matter of minutes.

This same redux was done to this Hollywood Regency lamp. With the simple addition of the grey linen LiTshade with a gun-metal grey interior and finished off with the slight sparkle of a gold finial you give a tired lamp, whole new "shade" appeal.

There you have it, now spend the weekend revamping your wardrobe and your house. I will be in Portland, ideally getting over a cold and doing a little tax free shopping. Does it get better than that…tax free shopping? Until next week

Yay Earth Day, Thanks Gaylord Nelson!!

2009-04-22T10:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day Get LiT readers! Ok, maybe you’re not quite that excited since it's raining out, so why not stay in and enjoy a little bit about how Earth Day came to be from your friends at LiT.

Earth day was designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth and the environment. It started in; you guessed it, Seattle, in 1970 by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin at a Senatorial meet up in Seattle. Over 20 million people participated that year, and now April 22 is celebrated by more the 500 million people and governments in 175 countries. You go Gaylord Nelson!

But why April 22 (this is my favorite part?) Nelson chooses the date as a way to maximize college student participation, but not too much that they may cause problems. He figured the week of April 19-25 was a great time for Earth Day because there were no exams, religious holidays or spring breaks. Plus he figured Wednesday would be best because it’s the middle of the week, meaning more students would be in class making less competition with other Earth day friendly events. Nelson was such a good planner. He also planned Earth Day in late April because he thought the weather is best then, (obviously his trip to Seattle was a nice one that year).

Whether a conscious choice or not, April 22 is not only Earth's special day but Lenin and Saint Francis of Assisi's birthdays, one out of two isn’t bad.

Now you know a little history about Earth Day go do some good “earth friendly things”: plant a tree, buy a used lamp from Goodwill instead of new, change your light bulbs to energy efficient and pick out your earth friendly LiT shade.

Happy Earth Day!!

Let's talk about Ceiling Pendants

2009-04-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Get LiT readers,

We at LiT understand the economy is challenging, and that $2,000 ceiling pendant you love for above your table just isn’t in your budget, with the new spring shoe lines in the stores and all, what is a girl to do? We at LiT are here to help.

Why not have a reasonably priced LiT ceiling pendant made for above your table? Dawn uses the same skill and concepts as seen in her LiTshades but instead these amazing pieces hang from the ceiling. With the use of basic white cord or antique bronze twist cord and glass sockets (for light bulb discreetness), your new LiT pendant will become the focal point of any room and the talk of the neighborhood.

Who said a lamp shade maker should only stay on the ground? Why not reach for the stars or in this case the ceiling and look to LiT for you next pendant piece.
Thanks for being loyal readers,
XOXO
LiT

Fashion Friday: Do you smell Lanvin in the Air?

2009-04-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

I told myself I was not going to be late picking Dawn up this morning to take her to the airport. So when I sent her a text message at two minutes to 6 this morning I expected her to be standing outside her front door. Well she wasn’t. She actually didn’t need to be picked up until 6:30am for her weekend vacation to San Diego. All of this made me late for “my real job” which made this post late. So I guess what I am trying to say is welcome to another Fashion Friday and so sorry it’s late. I know you were waiting with baited breath.

However, Dawn’s rather surprise San Diego trip and my posting late is a great introduction for this weeks Fashion Friday, because. I couldn’t figure out what to wear, I ended up with my black strappy, so three years ago Lanvin platforms and Dawn is on her way to So Cal, where it is warm, sunny, and the air is fragranced with the fruity smell of flowers and citrus. Ok maybe a slight stretch but I really am wearing the shoes.

Lanvin has recently launched their new perfume campaign for their latest scent, named forfamed French designer, Jeanne Lanvin. The new fragrance for women is the brain child of Anne Flipo and was introduced in 2008. Top notes are blackberries, citrus and pears, but don’t stop there. It also has peonys and freesias with just a slight hint of raspberries and sandalwood, just so you still smell sophisticated enough to make those boys drool.

Not sure is this is the perfect scent for you? Take a scent quiz. Dawn and I did and (no surprise) are both Miss Dior Cherie. This meaning “we are simply and totally sophisticated. Our style and class mesmerize everyone we meet. Underneath it all we are delicate and refreshing. We are different enough to make an impression.” I think that sums us up pretty well.

The shade that we feel not only goes best with our “scent definition”, but also with the Lanvin perfume look, is the tiny and delicate Jeanne Lanvin purple LiTshade. So tiny and cute but yet classy and statement making. With the addition of the crystal finial and base the final result is, as Dawn would say, magic.

Seattle’s supposed to be nice this weekend, and San Diego always is, which is great for new scents and strappy sandals. Enjoy the weather, try something new, and stay fashionable.

LiT Makes Gift Giving a Breeze!

2009-04-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung, birds are chirping and love is in the air. What does this mean for you? Wedding season!

With wedding season comes the dilema of figuring out whether or not you should splurge and get the “oh so happy couple” a toaster or the crystal punch bowl they registered for, (the one you know they will never use).

We at LiT we vote you take a different approach to gift giving, and give the new pair something they can use- like a custom designed LiTshade. Since we know the economy is a little unsteady and you have a lot of weddings to attend, LiT is offering our shade kit at 25% off the original price, what a steal!

Here’s how it works;
You (the gift giver), purchases the kit, which includes samples and direction cards, a nice little congratulatory note from you, and the knowledge of the final product being shipped directly to the newlyweds house.
They (Newlyweds), choose from three papers, 21 silks and three different application techniques for their LiTshade. They then will return their choice card in the self addressed stamped envelope with their selections.
We (LiT), receives the order, creates their custom LiTshade and sends it directly to the happy couple within three weeks.
To order visit our website and click “here.”

It’s just our way of trying to ease the burden of gift giving in your busy life. The LiTshade gift kit would also be a great way to let your mother knows how much you care, after all Mothers Day is May 10th. Plus the LiTshade kit sure beats making a birdhouse out of Popsicle sticks, I’m just saying.

How Green are We, Part II

2009-04-13T08:12:00.000-07:00

As we've mentioned before if you don't like saving the world you will not have any friends. And we at LiT understand having friends is important, I mean if Dawn stopped saving the world through her LiTshades I don't know if I could be her friend anymore, which would greatly decrease my wardrobe. This is why late morning last Friday, when Dawn was trying to order supplies our friendship was put in jeopardy.

Friday started like any day, Dawn was at the shop taking stock of materials, figuring out what LIT was low on. She realized she had a half roll of the dulcote (paper backing material used for making hardback lampshades, another time). She realized it was a bit premature, but decided to call her source to order another roll, due to it sometimes taking a while to track down.

This is how Kyle came into the picture. Kyle is Dawn's vendor, and when she called to order more paper from Kyle he told her they don't make her paper anymore. So where did this leave Dawn, well in her words, "a shade maker, left in the dark." (We're so witty sometimes).

Before panicking Dawn called a few more sources, but alas she basically encountered different forms of Kyle telling her the same thing. Now what,? Are you on the edge of your seat yet, because here is where it gets good? The other "Kyles" told her she could always use styrene. The same styrene I told you she does not use in our "Light the Way" post, the same styrene (plastic backing) she refuses to use because it is a petro-based material, non renewable and off-gases toxic fumes.

Dawn felt that there must be another solution. The only way around her earth-endangering dilemma was to now use non-laminated dulcote and do the laminating herself (yeah, she's that good.) Yes, it is another rather time consuming step, but Dawn knows it's a step in the right direction.

Needless to say our friendship and the world was saved, and all you who love the earth can still have a clear conscious when buying your next LiTshade. From now on just call Dawn Captain Planet of the lamp shade world.

Fashion Friday: Take it all off!

2009-04-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought that a company famous for covering it all up- thank you Burberry trench that gets me from the car to my lover's door without anyone suspecting there is nothing but naughty lingerie underneath-could be so fabulous at pairing it all down. Down to a couple of scraps of lining which when mixed with some ties and Kate Moss are down right adorable! I'm not usually one for Burberry, too traditional, that is unless it's paired with mustard yellow crocodile Prada pumps. However, in this picture I think they got it right. Scandalous? No. Sweet? Yes.

The LiTshade that fits this style study is the VERY minimalist approach of taking a great vintage shade frame, adding a mercury bulb (stay tuned) and that's it, Period. The lamp seen here is in the Piano Nobile Home collection and shows just enough "leg" to pull off at a topless beach.

Spring has sprung. Time to ditch that Burberry trench and go bikini kill.

Let's go Marimekko!

2009-04-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a fabric move you? You know you see it and just know all of your clothes and everything in your house must be made out of it immediately? Ok probably not, but if you saw the Marimekko fabric line used to make a number of the shades at LiT, your fabric world would be rocked.

The Marimekko Corporation was established in 1951 and since then has become the leading Finnish textile and clothing design world wide. Marimekko actually started off as Printex, a company which produced oilcloth and printed fabrics but was purchased by Viljo and Armi Ratia, in 1949. The always innovative Armi decided to commission young artists to design fabric prints for the company, which resulted in entirely new, boldly colored and patterned fabrics. People admired them, but did not really know what use they could have (duh lamp shades). So it was decided to make a small collection of clothing to demonstrate the uses of the fabrics. A separate company was established called Marimekko Oy to make the clothing. The first Marimekko collection was designed by Riitta Immonen and was presented to the Finnish public in a fashion show at the Kalastajatorppa restaurant in Helsinki in May 1951, a year later the first Marimekko retail shop opened.

In a 1960 trip to Europe, Jacqueline Kennedy bought seven Marimekko cotton frocks on a single occasion making Marimekko fabric suddenly know world wide. Jacqueline Kennedy did for Marimekko what Michelle Obama has done with the colorful ensembles of Maria Pinto. With such a heated election, Jacqueline Kennedy’s fashion sense made headlines, thus pushing Marimekko to the front of the pack for U.S. fashion. During the election, Marimekko patterns and styles appeared on the pages of some 400 newspapers and magazines.

Marimekko has continued to be one of the forerunners in fabric and textile manufacturing today and now has retail stores throughout the U.S. They also organize the "Design: meet the user," a design competition which aims to find fresh ideas for Marimekko's interior decor line, very similar to how Armi Ratia established the company in the first place, so many years ago.
So where can you find Marimekko now? Well, the clothing and home accessories can also be found down at Tuuli on First Ave. near the Pike Place market. If you want to see what Marimekko looks like illuminated- come into LiT and see one of the shades made out of the Vanita's print (Dawn's favorite) design your own shade using one of the many classic and contemporary Marimekko prints carried in the store. You know I will.

Lamp base shopping on a budget!

2009-04-06T10:22:00.000-07:00

Let's face it the economy sucks, but your house still needs to look good. You've found LiTshades to be within a budget you can handle but you can't find the perfect base for your new perfect shade, what do you do?

Well, do what we do and head down to your local Goodwill. Our personal favorite is right off Dearborn and Rainer, but really any second hand store will work. The best part of second hand lamp base shopping is you find some great items at great prices, support a good cause and help your community.

Second hand lamp shopping (what we at LiT call "lamping"), is also great if you are looking for original brass, art deco, turn keys (answer next time), marble bases, statue bases (yes even panthers) or the unique and unusual.

Now you have found the perfect base (usually under $11.95), but it doesn't work and is lime green, don't get discouraged. Dawn can rewire bases and with a great shade, that lime green base will look oh-so-chic instead of ugh-so-freak. High-low fashion isn't just for your wardrobe. Remember, a savvy house is a stylish house.