A few days ago I had the good fortune to receive a complementary review copy of the latest issue of Nuno Magazine, a downloadable e-magazine that emphasizes reusing, repurposing, and recycling materials in artwork and crafts. Creators Elizabeth and Rachel have outdone themselves on this latest issue, called “Painted Desert.” It features 116 pages of stunning photography and inspiring projects all inspired by the U.S. Southwest.
Since I was born in Tempe, Arizona and lived there until I was 22, this issue’s theme really struck a chord with me. The issue contains instructions for 23 complete projects that include accessories (paper beads anyone?) to cool home items (mousepad, pillow, notebook) to great toys.
{photos courtesy of Nuno Magazine}
In addition to the actual project instructions, what I found really inspiring about this issue of Nuno is that it has a ton really interesting black-and-white line drawings inspired by the Native American arts of the Southwest.
I’m just getting started with embroidery, after encountering a lot of amazing Japanese needlework in Taiwan this summer, and I can imagine so many interesting needlework and fabric printing applications for the line drawings in this magazine. You’ll be hearing more about needlework this fall as I dig into it.
In the meantime, the first project to catch my eye was a toy snake. I’ve been wanting to make some kind of a fabric bean-bag to use as a book weight (propping the pages open so I can knit…) and this little snake is even better. Mine is made with fabric scraps (about 1 fat quarter) and stuffed with lentils. He still needs eyes.
So, to recap, I found Nuno’s “Painted Desert” issue totally inspiring, and I suspect I’ll keep coming back to it for time to come. If you’re interested in checking out this issue, here’s a little preview the editors put together. Enjoy!
Love your version of the snake. Thanks for the review!