WELCOME CREATIVES!
Welcome to PRETTY BLUE RAGS, a haven for creative spirits. Whether you're a maker, collector, or lovely flower child, you’ll find something that celebrates imagination.
Here, pre-loved textiles and handmade papers become works of art — vintage treasures find new purpose. My one-of-a-kind wearable art and home adornment pieces are for those who fill their lives and spaces with artistic expression.
Elegance is discovered in the imperfect.
Imperfection is sacred in the studio. Raw edged denim is a magical canvas, glistening messy paint splatters whisper wildly; thrifted finds hold hidden power of unknown stories.
Hi! I’m Nell
I am a mixed-media textile collage artist.
My journey to handcrafting began in the Bronx, New York when I was a little girl. Grandma Rowena raised me. She was a gifted seamstress. I miss her. Grandma introduced me to sewing. Her beautiful black and gold antique Singer sewing machine fascinated me. She patiently taught me how to measure, cut and sew using all kinds of “material” as Grandma used to say. Often, she would take me to a charming fabric shop down the street from where we lived. My first finished garment was a light blue and white dotted swiss dress for the first school day of the year. My heart gravitated to denim and textured cloth.
Grandma not only instilled within my young psyche an adoration for making things, she also made sure I realized the importance of sharing my gifts and being a good person.
Over the years, I have been on a challenging yet amazing self-taught journey. I have studied the intricate aspects of mixed-media collage, textile art and graphic design. The elegant chaos of collage makes my soul happy.
SUSTAINABILITY-SHARING-CARING
I am dedicated to achieving a kinship between producing art and maintaining a dedication to sustainability. I use a mix of vintage, thrifted and new supplies. All vintage and thrifted finds are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Some are even sun-dried. Eco-friendly supplies are a staple. Most shipping materials are reusable/recyclable. Note: 5% of all company profits will be split going to rainforesttrust.org and doctorswithoutborders.org. They are causes that I feel are worthy of recognition, appreciation and aid.
Enjoy your experience here and come back often because you never what wonders you might find. My smoke free home studio is located on the beautiful South Shore of Long Island in the state of New York.
I believe true happiness is derived from loving who you are, helping others and spreading love.