Taking Thrift Store Finds, And Turning Them Into Vessels For My Art

Last year, I purchased t-shirt iron-on transfer printer paper with the intention of applying my artwork to the backs of button-down shirts found at thrift stores, especially plaids, and other suitable clothing.

I primarily create fine art and cards, with each piece being a unique, one-of-a-kind original. I don't produce prints or offer reproductions of my work. Everything I sell is an original piece that I create exclusively. I’ve developed a collection of 12 local fauna designs, like hummingbirds, orca and deer, each composed of abstract, repeating patterns. While I use these patterns repeatedly, I vary the combinations, ensuring that no two pieces are identical. Every creation is entirely original and exists as a single, unique work.

That all changed in 2022 when I decided to create a "Galiano Island" version of my 12 fauna designs for a local coloring book. Each fauna image I drew had the worlds “Galiano” and “Island” hidden within the patterns. I envisioned colouring expanding these images beyond the coloring book, exploring possibilities like iron-on transfers for unique clothing, print sales, and incorporating them into housewares. With this expanded product line, I'm eager to return to being a vendor at the Saturday Market, which I previously enjoyed. Unfortunately, my health hasn't fully recovered, and the demands of the market—long hours away from home—are currently overwhelming. To focus on my recovery, I'm building online sales through social media and exploring retail partnerships as a starting point.

My daughter and I have been enjoying weekly treasure hunts at our local thrift shop. Every weekend, we discover hidden gems among the racks. I've amassed a collection of plaid button-down shirts for an upcoming project, while my daughter finds materials for her unique clothing and undergarment designs. It's become a fun Saturday tradition. As a small island,the shop is only open from 10am to 2pm on Saturdays, but it consistently surprises us with its fantastic finds.

Yesterday, I pulled out the shirts I'd been collecting and printed each of the 12 Galiano Island fauna designs onto iron-on transfer paper. With my mother-in-law's help, I began transferring the images onto the shirt backs.

I am really excited about how they are turning out, and can’t wait to post the finished shirts for sale. 

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