Posts by Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled "Embroidered Life" that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
Creative Products
May 10, 2019

10+ Stylish Bookends to Add a Creative Touch to an Ordinary Bookshelf

A bookend might sound like an unnecessary piece of decor, but have you ever tried to arrange your shelf without one? Getting a collection of books to stand upright is hard to do without one of these handy pieces of decor. Luckily, designers everywhere are making creative bookends that are both practical and add statement-making style to your home. Clever bookends go beyond their design to transform a shelf into a playful scene.

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DIY
May 4, 2019

15+ DIY Dress Patterns Offering a Creative Way to Get in Style for Spring

The changing seasons have everyone itching to switch out their wardrobe. If you’re someone who likes to refresh your outfits—but don't want to break the bank—we have a budget-friendly solution that will get your creative juices flowing. Try DIY sewing patterns! There is no shortage of stylish garments, particularly dresses, that look like high-end designer frocks for a fraction of the cost.

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History
April 30, 2019

Beautiful Tibetan Musical Notations Visualize the Rise and Falls of Buddhist Chants

Musical notations can go far beyond what is indicated on the page. For Tibetan Buddhists, these figures have religious importance that represent sacred sounds and ceremonies that have been passed along for generations. Visually beautiful, the sweeping notations help to shape their rituals by offering other forms of devotions, ways to ward off “feral spirits,” as well as summon divine figures.

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Creative Products
April 26, 2019

30 Artsy Mother’s Day Cards Offering Creatively Sweet Sentiments

The beginning of spring means that Mother’s Day is just around the corner. Whether you're looking for the perfect card to pair with Mother's Day gifts or simply want something to show how much you care, now is the time to start looking for the perfect card for the greatest woman in your life. Luckily, there's no shortage of unique Mother's Day cards from independent makers around the world.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.