Search Results for: heath ceramics

June 21, 2022
#RECIPES: ALABAMA CHANIN x HEATH CERAMICS AND BISCUITS
For over a decade, we’ve had the joy of collaborating with Cathy Bailey and Robin Petravic, the visionary husband-and-wife duo behind Heath Ceramics. For the newest Heath Ceramics x Alabama Chanin collection, Natalie, Cathy, and Robin set out to create two new hand-etched designs that represent each company’s heritage and work in the preservation and… Read on

August 29, 2019
HEATH CERAMICS + THE NEW YORK TIMES
Today we celebrate our friends and collaborators at Heath Ceramics for their feature in the in The New York Times Style Magazine. The article, from the One Good Meal series, which focuses on road trips, good food, and the Heath aesthetic, also features the Camellia Etched Serving Platter, shown in the photo above. This beautiful… Read on

November 13, 2018
A COLLABORATION: ALABAMA CHANIN X HEATH CERAMICS JEWELRY
Our seven-year long collaboration with Heath Ceramics began in 2011 with hand-etched dinnerware ceramics. Founded in 1948 by Edith Heath, Heath Ceramics is run by Cathy Bailey and Robin Petravic, who both have a deep background in design. While our collaboration has been ongoing, it’s been a few years since we worked deeply with Heath… Read on

March 22, 2016
HOW WE MAKE THINGS: HEATH CERAMICS
For as long as we’ve known about their existence, we have been in love with Heath Ceramics. Their philosophies, their processes, their intentions—all align closely with our own. Our collaboration with Heath is our longest collaboration, dating back to 2011. When we partnered for our first collection together, they worked diligently to interpret the work… Read on

July 15, 2015
HEATH CERAMICS: THE COMPLEXITY OF SIMPLICITY
It’s no secret that we at Alabama Chanin have long been admirers of Heath Ceramics—their work, their approach to responsible manufacturing, and their embrace of beautiful, sustainable design sets them apart from so many companies today. We have also been honored (and excited) to collaborate with them on several projects, including a line of dinnerware,… Read on

August 18, 2014
SUSTAINABLE COLLABORATION: HEATH CERAMICS
It’s no secret that we at Alabama Chanin have long been admirers of Heath Ceramics – their work, their approach to responsible manufacturing, and their embrace of beautiful, sustainable design sets them apart from so many companies today. We have also been honored (and excited) to collaborate with them on several projects, including a line… Read on

December 6, 2013
IT’S TIME: HEATH CERAMICS + ALABAMA CHANIN
Heath Ceramics is celebrating 10 years of design by showcasing interpretations of time in the form of one-of-a-kind clocks designed by friends and collaborators. I was honored to design and contribute two clocks, featuring Alabama Chanin’s etched Camellia pattern. It’s really common in my family to hang plates on the wall, and I was inspired… Read on

May 11, 2012
MAKESHIFT 2012: INTRODUCING CATHY BAILEY OF HEATH CERAMICS
Cathy Bailey of HEATH Ceramics has frequented this blog for a number of years as a friend and a colleague. After loving her work (and her) from afar, we were fortunate to collaborate with HEATH Ceramics to produce a line of table and dinner wares that were launched last fall. Cathy (her husband, Robin), and I share… Read on

November 30, 2018
ALABAMA CHANIN X HEATH JEWELRY: MATERIALS + PROCESS
On the heels of our Alabama Chanin x Heath Ceramics jewelry collaboration, we spoke with Rosalie Wild, Product Designer at Heath Ceramics, who gives us a more in-depth look at the hand-etched Alabama Chanin jewelry line, how it’s made, and how the materials are sourced. AC: Are the bars themselves produced from ceramic “scraps”? RW:… Read on

July 21, 2015
HEATH + ALABAMA CHANIN: INDIGO + BIRD’S NEST
Our first collaboration with Heath Ceramics, launched in 2011, has built a lasting, creatively symbiotic relationship. That joint development was a beautifully intensive design process that blended our techniques with theirs. Our Heath + Alabama Chanin line of dinnerware is made by hand, just like our Alabama Chanin handmade Collection. The artisans at Heath etch… Read on

December 16, 2013
ADAM SILVERMAN CERAMICS
Alabama Chanin has a long-standing relationship with Heath Ceramics and we see their artisans as constant sources of inspiration. Their Los Angeles Studio Director, Adam Silverman, has compiled a volume of his beautiful, experimental pottery, called Adam Silverman Ceramics.

May 1, 2013
HEATH + ALABAMA CHANIN: CAMELLIA
We’ve loved every plate, bowl and serving dish from our collaboration with Heath Ceramics that has come through the studio. But it’s this newest addition, the Camellia pattern, that is easily my favorite, and the most elegant. Each piece is hand-etched by a Heath Ceramics artisan and comes in Opaque White. The design is offered… Read on

June 19, 2012
RED, WHITE, AND BLUE CERAMICS
When I was working on our Heath Ceramics collaboration, we worked with colors rooted in the Southern vernacular and my upbringing in the 1960s and 70s in Alabama. When I look at the dishes, I see parts of my childhood in the shades of red and blue. The chosen red is appropriately called red clay,… Read on

October 31, 2011
HEATH + ALABAMA CHANIN
It’s officially launched. From the HEATH website: “The point of intersection between stitch and clay. A collaboration between Natalie Chanin and Heath Ceramics yields an anthology of carefully crafted modern heirlooms in a new and permanent dinnerware line. This collection celebrates texture and a range of layering possibilities in thoughtfully curated place settings, plates and… Read on

October 26, 2011
HEATH + ALABAMA CHANIN
So excited about our collaboration with HEATH Ceramics. Look for the entire collection to launch next week. Until then, a little sneak preview via the New York Times… xoNatalie

October 3, 2009
#RECIPES: HEATH RED
From Vogue Daily: Still under the radar, West Coast-based Heath Ceramics is a Vogue editor favorite. Imagine our delight upon discovering that their new color for fall, out today, is this divine shade of red, reminding us of the fall collections (think Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Galliano). “Even though we’re in California, the warmth of… Read on

February 27, 2023
2023 PROJECT THREADWAYS SYMPOSIUM
THE COLLECTIVE: TEXTILES AS COMMUNITY In 2019, and after 20+ years of planning and work, Natalie and the Alabama Chanin team officially formed Project Threadways as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to record, study, and interpret history, community, and power through the lens of fashion and textiles. That year also marked the inaugural Project Threadways Symposium, now an annual… Read on

June 20, 2022
STORIES WE LOVE: #6
Follow along on Instagram for more inspiration and stories we love. @alabamachanin Summer Nights: A new capsule collection from Alabama Chanin. Explore the hand-painted “Summer Nights” motif on organic lightweight cotton, new waffle essentials, and evergreen staples for all of summer’s adventures. Featured: The Summer Nights Coverup | $418Sustainability + Care: 100% Organic Lightweight Cotton… Read on

June 13, 2022
STORIES WE LOVE: #5
This week’s installment of Stories We Love highlights our latest collaboration with Heath Ceramics (@heathceramics). Watch for more inspiration and stories from the development of the Echo collection coming up on the Journal. Natalie at Home: Photographs by Rinne Allen (@rinneallen) Alabama Chanin x Heath Ceramics etched dinnerware. @heathceramicsMuir Flatware in Tumbled by Heath Ceramics…. Read on

June 6, 2022
STORIES WE LOVE: #4
Continuing our new weekly inspiration series where we share the stories, works, and musings that inspire Natalie and our team each week. Follow along on instagram @alabamachanin to see more stories that #NatalieLoves each week. Cassandra Speaks by Elizabeth Lesser: “When women are storytellers, the human story changes.” @elizlesser Learn more about Cassandra Speaks and purchase a… Read on

May 16, 2022
STORIES WE LOVE: #2
Continuing our new weekly inspiration series where we share the stories, works, and musings that inspire Natalie and our team each week. Follow along on Instagram @alabamachanin to see more stories that #NatalieLoves each week. (P.S.— Explore our inaugural Stories we Love post here.) InStyle: “Peek Inside Alabama Chanin Founder Natalie Chanin’s Gorgeously Curated Home.”… Read on

November 8, 2021
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 45/52 | 2021
“Natalie and her team lead with the heart. The passion they have for people and mother earth is palpable. It is evident in everything they do – from fabrics to food, from hospitality to home goods, from workforce development to the way they share the work of others they admire.” —Malia Mills, swimwear designer and… Read on

October 25, 2021
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 43/52 | 2021
Left: Stack of serged reclaimed down jackets, 2014, photograph by Rinne Allen; right: Grace Malloy of Poco Farm wearing Reclaimed Down Scarves for Patagonia’s Truth to Materials collection lookbook, 2014, photograph by Jeff Johnson “A big part of the beauty of this project is the prior lives of the down jackets. We will never know… Read on

October 18, 2021
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 42/52 | 2021
Left: Etched dinnerware from the Alabama Chanin and Heath Ceramics Collaboration, bowls and mug from Heath Ceramics’ Coupe line, Alabama Chanin placemats and napkins with embroidery, 2011, featured in the T Magazine piece “Table Dressing,” written by Alexandra Lange “Depth of craft and beauty coupled with purpose [is Alabama Chanin’s most enduring quality]. There’s so… Read on

August 19, 2021
AUGUST’S SWATCH OF THE MONTH: Q&A + MORE WITH MADELINETOSH
Swatch of the Month inspiration featuring August’s Swatch of the Month; Plain Cake Yarn by Madelinetosh; Dyeing yarn in Madelinetosh dye studio; Plain Cake from The Factory Café; The Wrap Top Kit in Black; Madelinetosh Yarn. We first met Laura Zander (now CEO of Madelinetosh) at one of our sewing workshops hosted at The Factory in… Read on

June 28, 2021
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 26/52 | 2021
“For the artisan, craft is an end in itself. For you, the artist, craft is the vehicle for expressing your vision. Craft is the visible edge of art.” — David Paul Bayles At Alabama Chanin, we have enlisted the craftsmanship of skilled artisans for two decades. These artisans, who are independent contractors, craft our heirloom-quality Collection garments utilizing hand-sewing skills. As we celebrate Natalie’s… Read on

December 31, 2020
2020: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
From top left: Luna Rae Top in White Gold Palm; The Willie Top in Blue Slate; Waffle Caftan in Natural; Lightweight Organic Cotton Face Mask in Black; Left and bottom right: Lee Dress, 2017; Top right: Chandler Jacket and Austin Skirt, 2018 by Natalie Chanin for Alabama Chanin from The Women who Revolutionized Fashion: 250… Read on

November 25, 2020
THANKSGIVING: IN THE KITCHEN + AT THE TABLE
From top left: Hable Suns Apron, Camellia Etched Dinner Plate from Alabama Chanin x Heath Ceramics, Cornbread Sticks from Alabama Studio Style, Cocktail Napkins in Natural, Stenciled Pumpkin Pie, David Mellor Pride 5-Piece Stainless Set, Sparkling Manhattan “Forever on Thanksgiving the heart will find the pathway home.” – Wilbur D. Nesbit We hope everyone is able… Read on

November 17, 2020
HABLE CONSTRUCTION COLLABORATION+
From top left: Suns Apron detail, Suns Tee, Suns Apron development, Suns Apron, and Suns Apron detail from Hable Construction x Alabama Chanin Collaboration; “Susan Hable painting in her studio”, 2017 by Rinne Allen “Through collaborating, great things are possible.” At Alabama Chanin, we thrive when collaborating with others. It brings out the best in… Read on

July 30, 2020
#YEAROFCOLOR: INSPIRATION
It’s hard to believe that we are more than halfway through 2020 and The School of Making’s Year of Color. Such a year, we could never have fathomed—and, in so many ways, still cannot. Contemplation, making, and gathering inspiration for the future have become a go-to coping mechanism for me—which has been expressed through adding… Read on

May 22, 2020
SUSTAINABLE LIVING: GARDENING
To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow – Audrey Hepburn Originally planted during World War I and World War II, victory gardens offered food security, reduced pressure of the food supply, and encouraged morale during wartimes. They have made a resurgence amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with many citizens of communities across the world going… Read on

May 15, 2020
THE CLEANING CUPBOARD
The wabi-sabi cleaning cupboard has taken on a much different meaning during the COVID-19 pandemic. As we think about the importance of being sanitary, it is a good time to also consider how to balance the need for chemicals and sustainable cleaners—approaching our methodology in a safe and environmentally friendly way. In implementing sustainable living, we are always… Read on

May 6, 2020
#RECIPES: STRAWBERRY COBBLER AND COOKING #TOGETHERAPART
Our friends at The Market at Pepper Place in Birmingham couldn’t have said it better: “In an uncertain world, our farmers ground us in what is most important: Mother Earth, our daily bread, and each other.” Pepper Place, Alabama’s biggest and most well-known farmers market, is continuing operation as a contactless drive-through market with pick-up options,… Read on

March 18, 2020
AT HOME, AT THE TABLE, #TOGETHERAPART
As we write this post our national food and beverage industry is in free-fall. Restaurants and bars, shuttered in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, have laid off an unknown number of staff and servers across the country. We feel deeply what our friend Brooks Reitz wrote yesterday, “Uncharted waters. We have been gut punched,… Read on

February 17, 2020
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 07/52 | 2020
“Alabama Chanin as a business was founded on the idea of a quilting stitch. And although it took me months to realize that I was actually quilting as I pieced together those first cut up t-shirts, the knowledge of those quilting stitches came from my most elemental childhood experiences. Growing up in the South, at… Read on

February 3, 2020
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 5/52 | 2020
“I like trains. I like their rhythm, and I like the freedom of being suspended between two places, all anxieties of purpose taken care: for this moment I know where I am going.” ― Anna Funder, Stasiland On February 5, 1883, the Southern Pacific Railroad completed its Sunset Route, a continuous rail line from New… Read on

December 30, 2019
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 52/52 | 2019
“And suddenly you know: It’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings.”― Meister Eckhart 2020 ushers in a new decade as well as the 20th anniversary of Alabama Chanin. As we prepare for the year ahead and celebrate Natalie’s two decades of commitment to sustainability, we wanted to take this opportunity… Read on

December 9, 2019
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 49/52 | 2019
“In a world where news of inhumanity bombards our sensibilities, where grasping for things goes so far beyond our needs, where time is squandered in busyness, it is a pleasure and a privilege to pause for a look at handiwork, to see beauty amidst utility, and to know that craft traditions begun so long ago… Read on

May 1, 2019
#RECIPES: A RECIPE FOR GREEN TOMATO PIE
As summer gardens get planted, many of us are looking ahead to tomato season. Collecting juicy red tomatoes fresh from the garden is many home gardeners’ pride and joy. For those who can’t wait, we reshare a recipe below from our friends at Blackberry Farm for their Green Tomato Pie with Buttermilk Crust from the… Read on

December 29, 2018
ALABAMA CHANIN: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
Every year it seems that we say what a busy year it has been for us at Alabama Chanin, and every year we mean it. We seem to keep growing as a company and as people and making opportunities that expand our horizons. Look back at the 2018 happenings for The School of Making, Bldg…. Read on

December 12, 2018
RED TRUCK BAKERY COOKBOOK
Former art director of several national magazines, including Smithsonian, House & Garden, and The Washington Post, Brian Noyes knows his way around a publishing house. He also knows his way around a kitchen. After purchasing a small farm just outside of Washington, D.C., Noyes started selling jars of jam at his farm and at local… Read on

November 5, 2018
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN | 45/52 | 2018
“The attractions of ceramics lie partly in its contradictions. It is both difficult and easy, with an element beyond our control. It is both extremely fragile and durable.” ― Isamu Noguchi Founded in 1948 by Edith Heath and her husband Brian, San Francisco-based Heath Ceramics have long been creators of functional and beautiful tableware and… Read on

December 30, 2017
ALABAMA CHANIN: THE YEAR IN INSTAGRAM
Going into 2017, we knew there would be a lot in store. We launched a new website, several new collections, and brand new programming (like the Alabama Chanin Core Club). Our Bldg. 14 team really brought it this year, completing production for Alabama Chanin while having other special manufacturing projects under their belts for Patagonia,… Read on

June 20, 2017
ASHLEY CHRISTENSEN COLLABORATION
As part of the creative process, inspiration comes from sources both expected and unexpected. We have found that surrounding ourselves with creative and generous artists and individuals naturally motivates us to do better work. We have been lucky to build relationships with truly like-minded people with whom collaboration is easy—just natural extensions of our relationships…. Read on

June 8, 2017
#INDIGO: ONE-OF-A-KIND INSPIRATION
Since our Indigo Dye Kit launched, we’ve loved seeing dye projects pop up on social media. The kit comes with enough materials to dye 6 yards of our 100% Organic Medium-weight Cotton Jersey, but you can also use it to give rarely worn garments a new life or to overdye a DIY project. Dyeing yards… Read on

April 12, 2017
A SALAD OF CUCUMBER + RADISH @ THE FACTORY
The day is nearing. Saturday, Scott Peacock will be in house, hosting his Friends of the Café Dinner. We’ve shared Scott‘s varied talents with you on the Journal over the years. Scott is (currently) an experimenting indigo farmer and dyer, an avid influencer of Southern food culture, and inspiring writer and oral historian. Who wouldn’t… Read on

March 30, 2017
#INDIGO: DYE KIT
We have a long history of loving and working with indigo at The School of Making and Alabama Chanin. We’ve used it in previous collections, worked with and learned from Artisan Natural Dyeworks in Nashville, and even had a special indigo-focused exhibition at Heath Ceramics showcasing upcycled antique quilts and one-of-a-kind indigo garments. For the… Read on

March 22, 2017
WAFFLES FOR SATURDAY BRUNCH (+ A HISTORY)
It’s hard to imagine that something as commonplace as the waffle didn’t make it big in the United States until the 1960s—especially when its origin dates back to ancient Greece. The earliest waffles were called “obelios” and were cooked between two hot metal plates. Sometime during the 13th century, Europeans started stamping the cakes with… Read on

December 31, 2016
2016: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
Some years fly by and others seem to drag on forever; 2016 kept us at a steady pace at Alabama Chanin. We have been able to focus on refining our methods and more deeply developing our different avenues of work—from the design team to workshops to collections and collaborations. It is possible that 2017 could… Read on

November 15, 2016
DECORATE YOUR TABLE TOP
Our Cook + Dine textiles help you set a beautiful table year-round. Mix and match our solid, colorblock, and hand-painted designs with varied materials and textures in your kitchen, like our Heath Ceramics dinnerware, Etched Glasses, and Shelter Collection glassware—or your own pieces that have been gathered, passed down, and collected over the years. Made… Read on

October 12, 2016
SETTING THE HOLIDAY TABLE
There is sometimes no greater pleasure than planning for holiday get-togethers and the excitement that goes along with them. Many of us have traditions we look forward to all year, and family or friends that we only see on special occasions. There is meaning to be found in the —smallest things, from preparing a dish… Read on

September 8, 2016
LIMITED-EDITION PRINTED COTTON JERSEY
Anyone who is familiar with our company knows that Alabama Chanin is built on the beliefs of collaboration and the open exchange of information. Our connections and relationships with fellow designers, makers, customers, and suppliers run deep, and we appreciate every opportunity to learn from, be inspired by, and to teach and work with others…. Read on

June 28, 2016
MORE: ARTISAN DESIGNED AND MADE
We’re always on the lookout for companies and businesses that align with our values and principles—and we can’t emphasize enough how important it is to purchase domestically produced goods made with ethical, sustainable practices. Our collaborations with Patagonia and Heath Ceramics are perfect examples. This year, in support of other small businesses, we’re celebrating Independence… Read on

January 1, 2016
THE YEAR IN REVIEW
Looking back on 2015, it’s clear that this was the year of collaboration for Alabama Chanin. We expanded upon work that we have been creating with others for many years, added major new initiatives with new partners, and built upon our partnerships across all parts of our business. Partnership has always meant growth for Alabama… Read on

October 28, 2015
CREATIVE PROCESS: RINNE ALLEN
Longtime collaborator Rinne Allen is a skillful storyteller in that she sets the stage, creates a visual narrative, and allows you to see through her same lens – without being heavy-handed. It is her light touch that allows Rinne to present her subjects in the best, most straight-forward, and appropriate manner but allows those subjects,… Read on

September 30, 2015
BON APPETIT
Bon Appétit’s October issue hit the stands this past week and featured a big Alabama party—complete with a campfire, Lodge Castiron, and whiskey. Read the full story of our ‘Alabama Getaway’ and find the recipes online here. A HUGE thank you is in order to all the chefs, makers, artists, and friends who drove (and… Read on

September 11, 2015
ALABAMA STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS FELLOWSHIP
The source of creativity can be confounding. Artists have been famously driven by mystical or divine inspiration, obsessive love, depression, or self-exploration. Some artists are prolific; Picasso supposedly produced over 13,000 paintings and 100,000 prints. Others struggle openly, like author Fran Lebowitz whose writer’s block was so famously long that she called it “writer’s blockade.”… Read on

August 25, 2015
NEWSLETTER #32
Newsletter #32 includes updates on our Alabama on Alabama show at Heath Ceramics’ Boiler Room (extended until September 13th). Other announcements include a sneak peek of our upcoming Collection—and beer and wine service beginning this Friday at The Factory Café . The Café will feature a limited menu and close at 1:00pm this Thursday as we prepare… Read on

August 14, 2015
POSTCARDS FROM AMERICA
Dear Sissi, You might not know this, but Maggie and I recently took a transcontinental (well, almost) train trip to my “Alabama on Alabama” show at Heath Ceramics in San Francisco. We stopped for a night in Chicago (which was wonderful) and when we boarded the California Zephyr, took our seats and started to move… Read on

July 30, 2015
AUGUST + SWATCH OF THE MONTH
The months of June and July were wonderful and hectic in lots of beautiful and fun ways. There was plenty of travel, including our trip to Blackberry Farm and the cross-country train trip that Maggie and I took to San Francisco. With August comes a welcome bit of calm, just before our house gets back… Read on

July 28, 2015
MAKESHIFT @ SAN FRANCISCO
Makeshift is a series of events, talks, workshops, and gatherings that invite a dynamic group of participants to explore the ways in which the fashion, art, and design worlds are inextricably linked to the world of craft and DIY, and how each of these worlds elevates the others. In its fourth year, Makeshift conversations create an intersection where we can… Read on

July 23, 2015
ALABAMA ON ALABAMA
The Alabama Chanin, Heath Ceramics, and Boiler Room teams have been working together over the past few months in preparation for our show in San Francisco, which opens tomorrow evening. Needless to say, we are very excited. The show, Alabama on Alabama, is the fourth ever exhibition in Heath Ceramics’ new event space, the Boiler Room. Heath… Read on

July 17, 2015
TRAINS: ALABAMA TO SAN FRANCISCO
Two years ago, Cathy Bailey and her son Jasper came to visit Maggie and me in The Shoals via train. It was Jasper’s spring break and they boarded the California Zephyr to Birmingham by way of Washington D.C., and traversed the entire country to spend time in North Alabama. Needless to say, Jasper and Maggie… Read on

July 16, 2015
#THOSEWHOINSPIRE: CATHY BAILEY
Over the last five years, our work with Cathy Bailey and Robin Petravic has been some of the most productive, exciting, and meaningful work that we’ve had the opportunity to do. Robin and Cathy are husband and wife, parents to Jasper, writers of the new book, Tile Makes the Room, and the owners and operators… Read on

July 7, 2015
POSTCARDS FROM AFAR
When I was a little girl, I started a postcard collection. Postcards were then—and are now—a low cost memento of a trip (and a low stakes investment for a parent to make on a souvenir). I don’t remember how old I was when I started accumulating these paper treasures, nor can I identify the first… Read on

July 2, 2015
JULY + SWATCH OF THE MONTH
Summer is now officially in full swing. As adults, we rarely get to indulge in a full-scale month of vacation—as our children often do. But, in July I like to take a few extra days to enjoy summer with my family and friends. Maggie absolutely loves July (and July 4th festivities are some of her… Read on

May 26, 2015
NATIONAL DESIGN AWARDS
This year, friends and fellow designers were honored in two separate categories of the Cooper Hewitt National Design Awards (see more about the awards below):
March 3, 2015
NATALIE’S PICKS (CLICK TO EXPLORE)

February 16, 2015
INSPIRATION: COMMUNE DESIGN
Roman Alonso, Steven Johanknecht, Pamela Shamshiri, and Ramin Shamshiri are Commune—an inter-disciplinary collective of artists that work in the design realm. Commune is a design firm, but they are also much more than that; they invent moods and spaces for residential clients and for public space, design graphics and branding concepts, and create products that… Read on

February 2, 2015
ON DESIGN: THE SCHOOL OF BAUHAUS + CREATIVE PROCESS
In October of 2014, and as an extension of our Makeshift initiative, we began a new series of events and conversations called On Design. This series explores art, design, makers, relationships, and how those who create can elevate craft in general. Natalie hosted our inaugural event, which was an exploration of the school of Bauhaus… Read on

May 13, 2014
MAKESHIFT + ART RUBY
Olga Rei and Valentine Uhovski are stepsiblings and creators of Art Ruby, a daily art bulletin that presents art of all disciplines to readers around the world in an approachable, open format. Art Ruby is a hub for relevant news, exhibits, designers, and innovations in and around the art world. Olga and Valentine created the… Read on

March 26, 2014
THE SOUTHERN BAKERY + SUGARBAKERS’ WEDDING CAKE
My love for cake, from traditional layer cakes to simple pound cakes, has been well documented over the years. While I delight in the homemade sweets of the South, one of my favorite cakes comes from a local bakery here in the Shoals called Sugarbakers. The family owned-and-operated bakery opened over twenty years ago in… Read on

February 19, 2014
#RECIPES: CHICKEN STEW
As a Southerner and a cook, I often find myself included in lively debates about regional cuisine, long-winded discussions of the dozens of types of barbecue preparations, cornbread recipe swaps, or conversations on the perfect biscuit dough. Those of us who love food treasure the dishes we were raised eating and love to swap recipes… Read on

December 31, 2013
2013: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
Looking back at what we have accomplished this year at Alabama Chanin, I feel nothing short of overwhelmed. With the help of many friends, Alabama Chanin has grown in ways I only imagined. Our company is the best it has ever been, and will only get better. Over the summer, and on the heels of… Read on

December 18, 2013
POTATO CANDY
The winter holidays seem to evoke the strongest food memories from many of us. Certainly there are family Thanksgiving dinner traditions, and the plethora of other delights that come with the rest of the season – pumpkin pie, homemade eggnog, savory soups, and gingerbread cookies. When I was a child, potato candy was one of… Read on

December 11, 2013
ALABAMA BISCUIT MIX + NATALIE’S APPLE CRISP
The Alabama Biscuit Company is changing the way people perceive (and eat) biscuits. Jonathan Burch of Birmingham, Alabama, has developed a delicious and healthy recipe for biscuits using organic sprouted spelt flour, aluminum-free baking powder, and organic Celtic sea salt. The biscuit mix is now a favorite of the Alabama Chanin team. We made biscuits… Read on

July 24, 2013
#RECIPES: A CHATTANOOGA WHISKEY COCKTAIL
In anticipation of tomorrow evening’s opening exhibit of our BBQ’ed Dresses Collection at Warehouse Row in Chattanooga, Tennessee, we mixed up a celebratory cocktail. Our friend Brooks Reitz of the Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. sent us a few more bottles of his Small Batch Tonic for the event, and the Chattanooga Whiskey Co. is providing… Read on

June 25, 2013
A. CHANIN
At Alabama Chanin, we practice Slow Design, which focuses on producing goods in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. The intent is to design clothing and home goods that are made from sustainable raw materials using environmentally sound methods, resulting in beautiful, healthy, and long-lasting products. We want to create connections with our customers and… Read on

June 7, 2013
MAKESHIFT 2013 TUMBLR IMAGE QUILT
This year, with MAKESHIFT 2013, we expand ideas that were born from MAKESHIFT 2012 to create a global conversation among artists, designers, and makers. The first part of the MAKESHIFT 2013 SERIES took place at the Standard, East Village where panelists and conversation guides Cathy Bailey – Heath Ceramics, Rosanne Cash – Singer/Songwriter, Natalie Chanin… Read on

June 4, 2013
NEUTRA NUMBERS
The practice of numbering houses supposedly began in Paris in the 1500’s. Having a house number is something we don’t give a second thought to these days, but they have not always been used and they certainly have not always been popular. Some countries have numbered zones, requirements for the number of digits, double sets… Read on

May 21, 2013
MAKESHIFT 2013 @ THE STANDARD
“Craft” might seem like it’s for the amateurs, and “fashion” for the auteurs. Yet we live in an age where creativity and innovation are increasingly found in collaborations between makers and users, crafters and designers, designers and manufacturers, and in the loosening of the boundaries between them. – MAKESHIFT 2012 The MAKESHIFT conversation began last… Read on

March 20, 2013
#RECIPES: GREEK LOVE
We try to share a staff lunch once a week here in the studio. It gives everyone a chance to sit down together, laugh, and share ideas. We are, after all, a family of sorts. This week we had hoped to entertain and enjoy time with our friend and collaborator Anna Maria Horner, to whom… Read on

February 13, 2013
PINK DEVILED EGGS
I get lost in the thousands and thousands of captivating images and creations shared daily on Pinterest. One thing leads to another and before I know it I’m fifteen tabs deep in my web browser… While pinning to our boards recently, I came across a beautiful food blog. On said food blog, there is a… Read on

February 6, 2013
JACK RUDY PINK GIN + BAR TOWEL
This post published last Wednesday in the midst of technical difficulties that lasted more than a week. We are deeply proud of this collaboration, adore all things Jack Rudy, and want to be sure that everyone gets a chance to meet Brooks up-close (or at least closer). Here we re-publish the story, giving the Pink… Read on

January 2, 2013
#RECIPES: THE YEAR IN EATS AND SORBET)
This year saw our Journal take a more structured tone and we devoted particular days to particular topics. Wednesday’s became Recipe Wednesday and we worked to get ourselves organized and cook. EVERY WEEK. It was quite a feat of organization since we also run the production office, online store, design, pay bills, and as I… Read on

December 19, 2012
#RECIPES: ROSEMARY VODKA
Everything from roasted potatoes to strawberries and Prosecco (sometimes in the same meal) have been flavored by my rosemary plants; I have been known to make flower arrangements (and wreaths) from the fragrant leaves and drink rosemary infused tea at the same time. And while I use rosemary year-round, this evergreen bush is readily available… Read on

August 15, 2012
TOMATO + TOMATO PIZZA
During a recent photoshoot, my son Zach took time from his busy day of new fatherhood and running his growing catering company to make us lunch: a simple, delicious pizza piled with tomatoes. This summer has been hard on my garden. Many of my herbs have simply withered away, and my tomatoes have been scorched in… Read on

June 13, 2012
#RECIPES: ROASTED PORK LOIN AND NEW POTATOES
A traditional southern barbecue will almost always have the option of pork, whether in the form of pulled pork sandwiches, slow-cooked ribs, or smoked pork butt. Our July 4th pork dish may be a little more formal than those options, but it is actually very easy to prepare. Our pork loin was sourced locally and… Read on

May 29, 2012
MAKESHIFT 2012 HIGHLIGHTS
After taking time to reflect on our recent week in New York for MAKESHIFT, I’m already thinking about MAKESHIFT 2013. Here are some highlights from the conversation at The Standard Talks. We reported the MAKESHIFT events here on the blog throughout the week, and had great press coverage from the New York Times, Style.com, Page… Read on

May 19, 2012
MAKESHIFT 2012: CRAFTING FASHION @ BILLY REID
Crafting Fashion, a pop-up shop curated by Alabama Chanin and Billy Reid, featured designers- Alabama Chanin, Susan Cianciolo, HEATH Ceramics, George Esquivel, Hugo & Marie, Imogene + Willie, Pamela Love, Leigh Magar, Maria Moyer, Billy Reid, Albertus Quartus Swanepoel, Tucker, and Kenlynn Wilson. Thanks to everyone for the great turn out. And a bigger thank you… Read on

May 18, 2012
MAKESHIFT 2012: JESSAMYN HATCHER
Among the most meaningful things I’ve ever found in a thrift store was a pair of dresses I unearthed at the Goodwill in Durham, North Carolina. One was a white summer dress with a fitted bodice and a full skirt dotted with embroidered flowers. The other was a pink sequined number straight out of an… Read on

May 17, 2012
MORE MAKESHIFT 2012
We had the best intentions of posting lots of pictures and stories from our Makeshift event yesterday and the day just got away from us. There IS so much more to come and to write about, but for the meantime, here some great pictures of the making process at The Standard East Village on Tuesday… Read on

May 9, 2012
SEED BOMB UPDATE
A few weeks ago, we took to the streets of Florence to spread wildflower seeds guerrilla-style. We tossed our homemade seed “bombs”, seed encapsulated clay balls, into alleys and onto vacant areas – hoping to add more color and beauty to our community. With the amount of rain that we have been receiving lately, every… Read on

April 23, 2012
MAKE, DO, CHANGE
Spending the past couple of days in the San Francisco Bay Area, I’ve seen firsthand the “making” spirit that defines the unique culture and character of life here. Alabama Chanin feels very connected to–and inspired by the creativity, craftsmanship, quality, and local manufacturing in this community. Watch Monocle’s video which highlights some of the craftsmen… Read on

March 14, 2012
#RECIPES: MOLASSES AND COOKIES
As a child, I ate molasses these ways: drizzled over my biscuits at my grandmother’s table, in Shoofly Pie, barbeque sauce, and baked in fresh gingerbread. As an adult, I’m beginning to notice plenty of restaurants adding this sugar cane syrup to their dishes in glazes and sauces, salad dressings, and many delicious cocktails. I… Read on

March 7, 2012
#RECIPES: GRILLED VEGETABLE AND WHITE CHEDDAR QUICHE
For our weekly Studio Lunch, my son Zach prepared a savory Grilled Vegetable + White Cheddar Quiche with cherry tomatoes. In a move that delighted me, he delivered it to the studio and included a heaping salad of fresh greens- Butterhead lettuce, Red Oakleaf, and arugula- all from Jack-o-Lantern Farms, one of our local farmers’… Read on

February 15, 2012
#RECIPES: THE SFA COMMUNITY COOKBOOK AND STUDIO LUNCH
Since the beginning of time, food has been an essential part of family life and, on a larger scale, the community. As the kitchen is often described as the heart of the house- the recipes and food made within move outward- connecting people to their neighborhood and even their region. A community cookbook exemplifies that… Read on

February 8, 2012
#RECIPES: A SOUTHERLY COURSE
Martha Hall Foose’s A Southerly Course: Recipes and Stories from Close to Home, has landed on our bookshelf in the studio- then made its way into the kitchen (and our hearts and minds). In her book, Martha’s recipes are accompanied by fascinating stories of life and times in the Mississippi Delta. It makes me want… Read on

January 31, 2012
DESIGN PROCESS + MANUFACTURING
On the 18th of November last year, Natalie held a Facebook Chat about Design Process + Manufacturing as part of her EcoSalon Post titled: From Field to Fashion. Here is a synopsis of the conversation that unfolded. Keep the conversation going in the comments section of this post and come back each week to read… Read on

January 25, 2012
#RECIPES: SOUTHERN BISCUITS AND GINGER ALE
Biscuits are a popular topic of conversation here at Alabama Chanin. We’ve enjoyed their flaky goodness in friends’ company at Blackberry Farm, pondered the great question of butter or lard (butter trumps here), and—of course—given you our favorite recipe in Alabama Stitch Book. Just when we think we know all there is to know about biscuits, Nathalie Dupree and… Read on

January 11, 2012
THE STITCHED CAKE
Our local bakery—called Sugarbakers—makes the most beautiful cakes. I personally think of them as “old-timey,” because they remind me of my childhood birthday cakes with white buttercream frosting and plenty of scallops and swags. Here is a beautiful cake they recently made for me for a special occasion using a “stitched” Anna’s Garden pattern on… Read on

December 27, 2011
#RECIPES: THE YEAR IN EATS AND APPLE CHUTNEY
In the spirit of “The Best Of” week as we move towards New Year’s Eve, I had to recap some of the best meals of my year – and they were plenty (despite my detox). 2011 started with a trip to Blackberry Farm’s Taste of the South with an amazing array of chefs and artisans. … Read on

November 10, 2011
#RECIPES: THE HANDMADE
Made (and Grown) in the USA: Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. Small Batch Tonic Tito’s Handmade Vodka Lemon Verbena – from my garden (and thanks to Angie Mosier) My friend John T. Edge – the man who understands everything culinary and loves “liquor and its accompaniments” – wrote yesterday of Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. Small Batch… Read on

November 4, 2011
SLOWING DOWN
Thanks to all the HEATH Ceramics team for this lovely piece on Alabama Chanin in their November Newsletter: Slowing Down (and Sitting Down) with Alabama Chanin Stitch and clay intersect to create modern heirlooms in our newest collection Slow down. This may feel like an impossible pursuit, particularly in this season, but when Heath Ceramics… Read on

October 4, 2009
SETTING THE TABLE
Partners & Spade, Manhattan “Setting the Table,” from Maria @ Bureau of Friends: Have you ever noticed that most of the real action at conferences takes place in the lounges and walkways outside of the Main Halls and presentation rooms? There is absolutely a place and time for sit-and-listen audiences and there’s nothing like a… Read on

January 22, 2020
SELF CARE (+ COFFEE)
Warm beverages are often associated with comfort and relaxation: chamomile tea, homemade chicken soup, hot toddies, mulled cider. Because of its caffeine content, coffee isn’t always thought of as relaxing, but for many people it can be – and it can also be an essential part of a daily self-care routine. Natalie has always been an… Read on

November 4, 2019
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 44/52 | 2019
“That’s the secret of entertaining. You make your guests feel welcome and at home. If you do that honestly, the rest takes care of itself.” ― Barbara Hall Holidays are just around the corner and now is the perfect time to prepare for the family and friends sure to gather around your table in the… Read on

August 12, 2019
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 33/52 | 2019
“The heart of hospitality is about creating space for someone to feel seen and heard and loved. It’s about declaring your table a safe zone, a place of warmth and nourishment.” ― Shauna Niequist, Bread and Wine: A Love Letter to Life Around the Table Summer is a great time for entertaining. Longer days and warm… Read on

June 10, 2019
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN 24/52 | 2019
“It’s only when you grow up and step back from him—or leave him for your own home—it’s only then that you can measure his greatness and fully appreciate it.” ― Margaret Truman This coming Sunday, June 16th, is Father’s Day. In honor of the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures in our lives, this week we… Read on

August 13, 2018
THE FACTORY + ALABAMA CHANIN | 33/52 | 2018
“Alabama Chanin has evolved into a community… a company of farmers, fabric makers, artisans and our customers who support what we do.” — Natalie Chanin from the archives: W Magazine, 2011 With the excitement of a new Collection at the forefront of our minds, this week we take a few moments to reflect on all… Read on

July 10, 2012
REPORT FROM PENLAND: TUESDAY 7/10/12
Even when I land in one of the most beautiful (peaceful) places on Earth, it takes me time to settle in, to relax, and to feel like I belong. Regardless, there is already a sort of “hum” in the studio, as my friend Cathy Bailey might say. You can “hear” thoughts coming together, the whisper… Read on

June 1, 2012
MAKESHIFT 2012 + ONE LAST THOUGHT
Today we share our final MAKESHIFT post (for this year) of observations and thoughts from participants. Many have already written, photographed, or posted about their experiences during the week. Compiled below are reflections and lingering thoughts to help continue our MAKESHIFT conversation into next year. Keep in mind (and close to heart) what is valuable… Read on

May 30, 2012
MAKESHIFT 2012: CRAFTING DESIGN + A BLOODY MARY
We finished our week of MAKESHIFT with Crafting Design, a chair workshop hosted at Partners & Spade in New York City. From the New York Times piece “Pull Up a Chair, Then Fix It” by Andrew Wagner: “Last Saturday, as part of a conference called MakeShift, Natalie Chanin, the founder of the fashion label Alabama… Read on