Before we talk turkey, trimmings and table settings, I thought I might indulge myself in a little R&R this week. Maybe head down to my beach house. You know the one—that cute bungalow down the street from my castle in the clouds. And in case you want to visit, there’s a light-filled guest room, decorated in lime green and white with a pretty lilac pillow I had made especially for you.
Well, one of you at least, because we’re giving it away! But this isn’t any ordinary pillow, mind you. What started as a story for the late Country Home about turning vintage dresses from the New York City Flea Market into throw pillows…
…then appeared in Lonny on our own guest bed…
…is now one of yours for the taking! Or should I say winning? But before that, a word or two more on all the thought, love and labor that went into this beaded beauty. Of all the great vintage dresses at the flea market that day, I chose this one for its color, sparkle and intricate rhinestone detailing. Pillows with that kind of work I’d seen at high-end retailers in the city for up to $400! So after a spin (or six) around the house as Cher singing Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves, I headed to Calico Home, my one stop shop for fabric and upholstery. (Mod Makeover, anyone?) Now the beading on this dress had actually been sewn onto a sheer outer layer, so for the pillow, I choose a pretty lilac silk to back it and a rectangular shape to make the most of my yardage.
Serious craftsmanship from an unsung seamstress at Calico went into this pillow, and I love the way it turned out! It's feminine and pretty and not anything like my turn as Cher. Plus it's completely one of a kind and the perfect way to add glamour to a bed or sofa.
For a chance to win, leave me a comment, and we'll pick by random. Good luck, everyone!
I buy dresses all the time at yard sales and Good Will. Now I know what I should do with them. But, I don't really sew all that well. Nice thought though.
Posted by: Dee Ann Allen | November 05, 2009 at 02:26 PM
Your ideas just kill me! I keep my old dresses and now I know what to do with them!! Thanks, Susan
Posted by: Susan | November 05, 2009 at 01:02 PM
I'm in - that pillow is so pretty!
- Danielle
Posted by: Danielle | November 05, 2009 at 11:52 AM
Hi Eddie and Jaithan,
I love your pillow! I would love to be entered...thank you!
annie
Posted by: Firefly Hill | November 05, 2009 at 11:08 AM
Ah, that's what I need to do with that dress that I'll never get into again (sigh...)
BTW, I'm having such fun imagining you as Cher!
Posted by: Sharon in Chicago | November 05, 2009 at 08:46 AM
What a beautiful giveaway!!!!
Posted by: Amy Coose | November 05, 2009 at 07:07 AM
Me Me Me! Random Random Random!
Thank you :)
Posted by: Cary | November 05, 2009 at 02:39 AM
I love sparkle and glitter. I hope the pillow comes home to me!
Posted by: Sandy LA 90034 | November 05, 2009 at 02:26 AM
how cool that you have a castle in the clouds! i loved this post, it made me laugh.
:)
Posted by: stefanie | November 04, 2009 at 11:18 PM
Loved this pillow when I saw it in Lonny! Looking forward to meeting you and Jaithan at the Bay Area flea market!
Posted by: Gina | November 04, 2009 at 10:40 PM
sooooo pretty!!!
Posted by: barb c | November 04, 2009 at 10:27 PM
I'm a total flea market junkie like yourself but way across the oceans in Japan. I'm always checking out your blog for inspiration and would absolutely love,love,love to win that pillow!
Posted by: Mary | November 04, 2009 at 10:18 PM
I will put this pillow in my beach house and you may come visit ! That would be fun !
Posted by: Linda McCormick | November 04, 2009 at 08:38 PM
Oh that pillow is beautiful. It would go great in my bedroom. Thanks!
Posted by: Amy | November 04, 2009 at 08:29 PM
Pick me! Pick me! I'd love to have something you made in my home, it is just beautiful!
Posted by: Demi | November 04, 2009 at 07:57 PM
You sure do come up with some of the best creative ideas. The pillow is just lovely! Just read the article about the lamp, that really turned out to be nice. I guess us Americans should learn to reuse items with a bit more creativity...I need to get out of my uncreative rut!!
Posted by: Nancy | November 04, 2009 at 07:21 PM
what a special pillow that anyone would be lucky to have! like everyone else i am totally smitten with this pillow!
Posted by: betsy | November 04, 2009 at 05:38 PM
I love it! Pick me!
Posted by: Nicole Bryant | November 04, 2009 at 05:36 PM
Wow, that pillow is so pretty. What a fantastic idea to use a vintage dress!
Posted by: Sara | November 04, 2009 at 05:03 PM
OOOh - how fun. I'm crossing my fingers.
Posted by: Laurel | November 04, 2009 at 04:45 PM
My bed is calling for that pillow! "Please pick me, pick me, pick me!"
Posted by: Jamie | November 04, 2009 at 04:20 PM
I'm a geometric pattern girl...not really flowerey. That pillow belongs in my craftsman style house!
Posted by: Mary Beth | November 04, 2009 at 04:03 PM
Great idea, have thought of doing this with my wedding gown for years but haven't got the nerve. FYI - followed your suggestion for Halloween wreath using black boas! Great idea too!
Posted by: Susan | November 04, 2009 at 04:02 PM
Love the pillow and the story behind it! I've been following your blog from Montana, and I always look forward to your latest post. Thanks for the great work!
Posted by: David | November 04, 2009 at 03:41 PM
Love it. Love your blog. Love you.
Posted by: Jill B. | November 04, 2009 at 03:27 PM
Love your Blog!!! and this pillow!
Posted by: roxanne | November 04, 2009 at 03:27 PM
But of course! Love seeing your creativity shine!
Posted by: Phillips Phamily Mama | November 04, 2009 at 03:27 PM
Wow, I love the color! And it's just in time for my birthday tomorrow! :)
Posted by: Jamie | November 04, 2009 at 03:21 PM
Stunning!
Posted by: Irene | November 04, 2009 at 03:19 PM
LOVE the green color of it and all the pretty details. Wish I could sew like that!
Posted by: michelle | November 04, 2009 at 02:46 PM
Such a beautiful pillow! Would love to make my house its new home : )
Posted by: Brien | November 04, 2009 at 02:34 PM
Beautiful! I want it!!!
Posted by: Heather Lively | November 04, 2009 at 02:20 PM
Beautiful! I love the look and the color!
Posted by: Juice | November 04, 2009 at 02:15 PM
Whether I win the pillow or not, I have a GREAT idea for what to do with the bodice of my old prom dress with which I haven't been able to partyears.
Posted by: Juli J. | November 04, 2009 at 02:14 PM
Love this pillow! Such a smart idea.
http://sbarnscher.blogspot.com
Posted by: stephanie | November 04, 2009 at 01:15 PM
Wow - what a fantastic day to wander into your blog! What do I find?...... only the most beautiful cushion I have ever seen! I think I've just fallen in love:)
Posted by: liz | November 04, 2009 at 01:13 PM
What a gorgeous pillow! And what an amazing way of putting something to use that is too wonderful to just put in the trash!
Bedroom, definitely! Why share with others.....
Posted by: Jennifer Ray | November 04, 2009 at 01:04 PM
Saw this pillow in Lonny and it was instant love-absolutely to die for.
Crossing my fingers!
Posted by: Mary Catherine | November 04, 2009 at 12:34 PM
I love you Eddie, and your little Blog too! This could be a great project with Wedding Dresses! Mine is beautiful and sitting in a box!
Posted by: Katharine | November 04, 2009 at 12:11 PM
I just want to come and hang with you and Jaithan. Ummmmmmmmm, did you get my RSVP for the beach house? The green will go well with my Auburn hair! As always, I enjoy the read.
Posted by: Kimberly | November 04, 2009 at 11:56 AM
love the pillow.....such a fresh color...would look great in my dream room.
Posted by: Ruth T. | November 04, 2009 at 11:30 AM
Eek! I am the 375th person to leave a comment, which means my chances of winning are slim! But hey, I have as good a chance as everyone else, right?! :) Gorgeous, gorgeous pillow. I'd be thrilled to win it! I'm already envisioning it in my home...
Posted by: Amanda | November 04, 2009 at 11:27 AM
Eddie-I learned to bead years ago when I worked in retail, so I could repair dress stock. I love beaded dresses and what a beautiful way continue to enjoy one.
Posted by: Christine Olah | November 04, 2009 at 11:03 AM
Love the pillow Eddie. It would look great in my guest room. Love your blog too.
Can't wait to see your Thanksgiving ideas, I'm having 28 people at my house and I'm starting to panic already!!!
Posted by: C. Marriott | November 04, 2009 at 11:00 AM
Ooooo...Please count me in! What beautiful textiles. Thanks for the opportunity!
Posted by: Kelly | Purple Lemon Designs | November 04, 2009 at 10:47 AM
Lovely. Do you think this will help me sleep? Dreaming of lavender fields, beaded gowns and Eddie?
Wish me luck
Kathy
Posted by: kathy | November 04, 2009 at 10:42 AM
That is one fabulous, design-a-room-around-me pillow.
Posted by: Kelly Martin | November 04, 2009 at 10:33 AM
If I win, I will faint!
LOVE your blog and I just adore you!
This pillow would be so fabulous in our home!
Posted by: Marta | November 04, 2009 at 10:26 AM
ooh - gorgeous! That would be such a beautiful addition to any bed!
Posted by: aimee | November 04, 2009 at 10:18 AM
Oh wow! Absolutely gorgeous! Yeah, I'm quite certain this would look great in my room. (Even though it's done in a completely different color scheme, but there are always exceptions to every rule right? :D)
Posted by: Ashley | November 04, 2009 at 10:15 AM
love the pillow! if don't win, I'll use your idea and make a similar one myself :-)
Posted by: Irina | November 04, 2009 at 10:13 AM
Just beautiful!
Posted by: Aimee | November 04, 2009 at 10:03 AM
Last night in my dream I bumped into you at a flea market! I thought maybe that was a sign I should enter to win this gorgeous pillow. Have a fab day!
Posted by: Alison | November 04, 2009 at 09:26 AM
fingers crossed
Posted by: jill swank | November 04, 2009 at 09:19 AM
I would love one of your famous pillows.
I'm also about ready for some flowers
from you again. I love when you do that.
Posted by: nancy | November 04, 2009 at 08:43 AM
You continue to amaze! Thanks for the shot at the pillow, as well as a little inspiration.
Posted by: sarah | November 04, 2009 at 07:28 AM
Love you! and the pillow of course!
Posted by: The Flying Quiche | November 04, 2009 at 01:19 AM
What an amazing pillow! I would be tickled pink (I mean, lilac) to own an EDDIE ROSS CREATION!!! :)
Posted by: Molly | November 04, 2009 at 12:46 AM
Hi Eddie,
That gem of a pillow just screams "Luv me, I know Im beautiful".
Count me in - I would love to win it
Posted by: KM Family | November 03, 2009 at 11:52 PM
I have to say, you are the most unique and creative person with the greatest ideas, and many inspirations.... Thanks for such a Beautiful Giveaway!!!!!
Michelle Torres
cingulwasme@aol.com
Posted by: Michelle Torres | November 03, 2009 at 11:32 PM
You need to come to Portland, Oregon and go to the Goodwill Surplus Outlet stores. All fabric and clothes are by the pound. 25 lbs or more is 89 cents a pound! So much fun for so cheap! Love the pillow too. I'll be looking for fancy dresses now.
Posted by: maria marks | November 03, 2009 at 11:16 PM
You inspire me! I want to make pillows like this - first things first - must learn to sew. Hmm. In the meantime, I can enjoy staring at this one!
Posted by: Annie | November 03, 2009 at 10:56 PM
thats a famous pillow!
Posted by: thomas | November 03, 2009 at 10:45 PM
Love your blog! I have been so inspired by your projects/transformations and would be thrilled to own this beautiful pillow! Just might see you in Richmond in a couple weeks!
Posted by: Anne W | November 03, 2009 at 09:57 PM
Absolutely Beautiful!!! Count me in, too - please.
Posted by: Joan | November 03, 2009 at 09:24 PM
love, lovE, loVE, lOVE, LOVE the pillow
Posted by: joy! | November 03, 2009 at 09:18 PM
All I want for Christmas is...THAT PILLOW!!! Love it!
Posted by: Shelley | November 03, 2009 at 09:18 PM
Yes, please. :-) It will sit on my bed and provide me with the inspiration needed to DO SOMETHING with the piles of vintage fabric I'm "collecting." ;-)
Posted by: laura @ the shore house | November 03, 2009 at 08:36 PM
Simple yet oh so elegant. I love it!
Posted by: Julia | November 03, 2009 at 08:30 PM
Oh I just love it!!! Gorgeous!!
Posted by: Tana@Orangeitlovely | November 03, 2009 at 08:27 PM
Fabulous!
Posted by: Karen | November 03, 2009 at 08:20 PM
Pick me, pick me!!
Posted by: Avia Thompson | November 03, 2009 at 07:23 PM
the shape is perfect complement to the bead
work!!! Lovely and what my daughter calls
'rich creativity'!!!
Posted by: missy jordan | November 03, 2009 at 07:16 PM
This is one of the most beautiful pillows I have seen! I love it! This is exactly the style I want to dress my new bedset! I am really keeping my fingers crossed on this one! Cher is my favorite singer! I went CRAZY when she sang Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves in concert! I even have my girls singing it now!
Posted by: April Romero | November 03, 2009 at 07:14 PM
I know this beautiful pillow is coming to my bed!
Posted by: Elaine | November 03, 2009 at 06:56 PM
such a fabulous way to give something with old soul a new heart. something old, and something new...
Posted by: Noelle | November 03, 2009 at 06:49 PM
I love it!
Posted by: Kathleen | November 03, 2009 at 06:37 PM
I love it!
Posted by: Sara | November 03, 2009 at 06:26 PM
So clever, love it! Love your blog!
Posted by: betsy | November 03, 2009 at 06:25 PM
Glamorama!!
Posted by: Tizzy | November 03, 2009 at 06:21 PM
So very lovely! Both the pillow and the picture of you singing! The workmanship in the old vintage dresses are worth preserving. Thanks for the delicious giveaway.
Posted by: Carla Wilson | November 03, 2009 at 05:55 PM
Fabulous! It would look lovely in my bedroom....
Posted by: sherry | November 03, 2009 at 05:50 PM
I love the pillow! How fabulous!
Posted by: Beth | November 03, 2009 at 05:43 PM
Classic with a little bit of flair - love it.
Posted by: Kara | November 03, 2009 at 05:05 PM
Lovely giveaway, love your blog.
Posted by: Carey | November 03, 2009 at 05:00 PM
LOVE it!!! Such good taste!
Posted by: Julie Gregory | November 03, 2009 at 04:52 PM
It's absolutely stunning and a scathingly brilliant concept on making a pillow.
Posted by: Aggie | November 03, 2009 at 04:43 PM
What a wonderful way to recycle those vintage clothes! I, too, in the past have used vintage fabrics to make pillows. It's a wonderful way to perk up a room!
Your's is beautiful beyond anything I crudely created! I even used Bounty towels as a pillow form to make bolsters!
Posted by: Maureen aka Mao | November 03, 2009 at 04:28 PM
Hey Eddie, I met you and Jaithan last Christmas in Bergdorf and you so kindly posed for a picture with me. I sent it to all my buddies and they said, "Who is Eddie Ross?" They wouldn't say it this year; you are so popular!
Thanks for your kindness and I love the pillow!
Posted by: Robin | November 03, 2009 at 04:24 PM
What a great idea! You never cease to amaze me with your creativeness- keep the inspiration coming!
Posted by: Colleen | November 03, 2009 at 04:09 PM
Eddie, I'm so glad to find your blog and to see you popping up on HGTV. I loved you on Top Design and I do adore this pillow!
Posted by: Rene | November 03, 2009 at 04:02 PM
What a very nice looking pillow and it would look great on my newly painted room and what a great idea too! Now I know what to do with vintage textile scraps and old drapery fabrics that I come across yard sales.
Posted by: Margarette | November 03, 2009 at 04:00 PM
Oh I love it! I did a few pageants back in the day and I have a few little numbers I am half tempted to cut up and create some fabulous pillows. Thanks for the idea and I hope I win!
Posted by: Courtney Smith | November 03, 2009 at 03:40 PM
Continually genius!!
Posted by: Gina | November 03, 2009 at 02:53 PM
I was home visiting my parents over the weekend, my mother turned 60 this year and has decided she wants to re-do her living room (which has been exactly the same since they bought the house 23 years ago). She started out by buying a new couch - and now is slowly making other changes. This pillow would not only fit in perfectly with the room, but would be a wonderful source of encouragement for her. I know she would be suprised and honored to have this showcased on her new couch.
Posted by: ash | November 03, 2009 at 02:51 PM
This pillow would look great on our bed! It would provide the perfect splash of color to my bedroom! I hope this pillow will come home with me!
Posted by: Gloria | November 03, 2009 at 02:43 PM
oh la la. she's a beauty!
Posted by: Katie | November 03, 2009 at 02:40 PM
oh, this would be so beautiful in my home!!
Posted by: sara | November 03, 2009 at 02:31 PM
Simply divine, I think this would make the best Christmas gift, to get or give.
XOXOXO
Posted by: Shandell's | November 03, 2009 at 02:27 PM
That pillow belongs in my house like a tiara on a pageant girl.
That pillow belongs in my house like caviar goes with toast points.
That pillow belongs in my house like sugar goes in sweet tea.
Did I mention that pillow belongs in my house? ;0
Posted by: Sandy | November 03, 2009 at 02:24 PM