Kickstarter

Genet Quarterly is an "inspirational" -- a devotional for crafty and creative folk who love seeking out and learning about different topics that help them keep inspired while creating. Each issue focuses on a carefully selected topic and visually explores subject matter related or connected to that topic through fashion, textiles, home decor, and artisan handiwork. In addition, the topic is explored through insightful articles written by knowledgeable crafters and researchers.

Issues will be released quarterly as a free pdf magazine, mainly funded by advertising, carefully-chosen product placement, and pattern sales. In the future, -- or if this first launch exceeds its goal -- it may be possible to add a print option by special order. Each issue will also coincide with the release of exclusive patterns (knitwear and sewn garment patterns) designed by independent crafters who are paid in a 50/50 split per pattern purchase, and a subsequent fabric collection, which will be available both on Spoonflower and in the Genet Quarterly shop. Knitting patterns will be made available on Ravelry; other patterns and DIYs not included in the issue (most DIYs will be included in the issue, some sewing patterns may not be included) will be available for purchase in the Genet Quarterly shop.

The idea for this publication came about after I noticed a severe lack of fashion and trend-oriented multi-craft sources. Tired of the kitschy crafts and over the top fashion articles that didn't seem to address the crafters I knew, I decided to take matters into my own hands. Genet Quarterly is the result. The first issue's topic  is 'Geometry', and within the wide spectrum of that topic we will explore the prevalence of simple shapes in modern design and craft, the popularity (and often misrepresentation) of native-inspired design, and the application of these visual shapes to various craft media (knitting, sewing, crochet, embroidery, needlepoint, braiding, painting and more). I hope to include in this first issue articles by fine artists and mathematically oriented crafters. Garments and accessories shown in fashion articles will have patterns available for purchase or will be available online through independent stores -- the same applies to articles shown in the home decor sections of each publication.

From the selected typography to fashion photography and home decor, imagery, each issue will be graphically designed and geared so that all included material exudes the feeling and inspiration of the issue's central topic. It is my goal to make the final product bot full of interesting issues and visually beautiful, the electronic equivalent of a "coffee table" print publication.

A peek at the fabric collection:

So what's a Genet, and why did you name your magazine after one?

A Genet is a sort of wild cat, related both to our household pets and also to more wild creatures like the mongoose. I loved the look of this truly unique animal, which looks both primitive and elegant at the same time -- I felt that it almost had a foot in both doors, the past, and the present, just like a lot of folks who are interested in crafting and making things with their hands. The genet has a natural curiosity, an interest in all things, and I thought that that made a wonderful bridge to what I want to see this magazine become.

What does your money go to?

Your contribution to this Kickstarter project all goes directly into making the project happen - producing and designing the magazine, hiring photographers and models, renting garments and products to feature for the shoots, and paying for some of the work the designers and writers are contributing. It will also help fund supplies for any DIYs, garment materials, and visual details you'll see in the issue. Any money outside of the issue will be put to good use producing the next one.