No Ride with this Fabric!

Ironing didn't help!

I was all excited to prepare my new fabrics for the upcoming Winter Cycling Caps. Except this fabric had another agenda.

Pre-washing fabric is an absolute for me before I construct my caps. I know in the fashion industry it's not current practice to pre-wash fabric before making garments. For me, it's a must. When you think about it, cycling caps have to be pre-shrunk before. Imagine an unwashed cap, the rider comes back after a hot ride sweating into it. They're be surprised with a smaller cap.

I'm making cycling caps well over a year and this is the worst fabric I've come across. How about deceiving. I thought it would make a killer cap. Now, it turns out to be a wrinkly eyesore.

This is Step #4 (from a previous post) in making a cycling cap, called washing the fabric. It's not a step you cannot miss. This is a crucial step, for Galstudio, to make the best possible handmade cycling caps. Now, the challenge is finding the best usage for this 5 meter disaster. It won't be a cap, shirt or pants. Maybe it will become a cushion cover.

The first glimpse of Winter...

It's Summer but it's already time for Winter cycling caps!

It maybe August but we're already getting under way for new winter cycling caps. Todays a good day for it, rainy around 16 C and feeling like wet Vancouver. Perfect for Richard to come up with three new names for the new fabrics.

I bought the fabric a few weeks ago, washed and dried it and about to begin cutting. So exciting going to my suppliers and  hunting for fabric/colors for new caps. I have fabric from last year and plan to re-introduce two previous models. There's demand for solid colors and something may come from it.

This is just the beginning...

Let There be Dots!

Galstudio's new Polka Dots Cycling Cap!

I was determined to find red polka dots. Richard and I were exhausted visiting all the fabric shops in the Lower Mainland. Yet, we kept going and our determination paid off!

Yesterday, we came back with our beloved polka dots. The fabric is a nice & thick 100% cotton. After washing it even looks better. I actually love it better than the first series. The size of the dots make a statement. Three times larger than the first dots. If you are going to wear red polka dots this is it. Go big and bold. I'm producing these caps just in time for July's Tour de France. Now on sale on my Etsy site. Be forewarn, wearing this beautiful cycling cap may make you want to climb a mountain!

My Quest for Polka-dots

The polka-dots in action, 1978 Tour.

From: Richard's archives.

I'm in the quest for something special. Even the climbers of the Tour de France are in search for it.

Last year, I can't believe I had at least a full roll of the perfect size red polka-dots. It is so brilliant to choose a bold design for the race leader of the climbs. I can thank Richard for the idea of the polka-dot cycling cap. It sold out last year and it's time for it again. The problem is it's not so easy to find. So I'm still looking for it. And the Tour is coming up in 3 1/2 weeks.

It will return...

Galstudio's Polka Dot Cycling Cap.

My quest started after Christmas. My suppliers seem not to have it. I've waited for an order I placed and nothing. The effort's there, what I found online was too expensive and not cost effective. So I'm planning once again to go see my suppliers.

Here's an historical background to the Tour de France polka-dots that I so love. The King of the Mountains was awarded to the best climber first in 1933. The beautiful polka-dot jersey was introduced later in 1975. Those good looking red polka-dots were decided by chocolate maker Poulain to match one of their products.

The first French sponsor of the polka-dot jersey.

Bring it on Podcast!

Stage 2: Bikes, Books, & Beers from Bikes, Books & Beers on Vimeo.


I'm having fun producing the Podcast's. I love the behind the scenes detail of directing Guy & Richard. Enjoying being the camerawoman and loving the post production aspect of it. Yesterday was a cloudy and dark and we had to solve the lack of lighting in our 'studio'. Never fear we have the daylight balance lights available and thank's to our background in photography we rigged up an appropriate lighting setup. Placing the two lights apart and aiming them as high as we could close to the ceiling to evenly disperse the light. It worked well.

After using Vimeo I'm convinced and happy to use it. It took me a while to choose from all the other video providers but Vimeo is simply the best, so easy to use.

They're planning a different setup for the next podcast. I don't know if it's possible. But I do like a challenge!

Behind the Podcast.

I love everything about computers. Now, I'm not an expert but I have owned four Macs and I must say a computer is more interesting to me than fashion. Apple is in my eye.

Richard and Guy has a cool podcast on their cycling history and beer. What is it with guy's and beer? Us girl's love it too! Ok I'm starting to rant.

I knew my camera is just a basic digital one. Four years old, the Canon PowerShot ELPH is a little workhorse. I explored the video mode and discovered I could shoot for 8 minutes with a nice definition. Tested it on Richard and used available light and the sound was surprisingly good. I'm not ready to spend 1000 bucks for a better one. My Canon is good, very good for what I want to do.

The approach was simple. A low key casual podcast. Two guys with their beer and books. No tripod used, in fact, I am the camera operator. I used iMovie to insert the text and edit. It was so easy to work with. Good ole Apple, they make their products FOR people. There's talk in the air for part two. I'm so excited for them. Guy is showing enthusiasm and being part of this project, I'm happy.

As easy as it was to edit, it was a challenge to launch the podcast on line. I couldn't go through youtube because the clip was too long. Youtube takes only maximum ten minutes. So, I checked out Vimeo & Viddler... Viddler was too expensive charging for product content. Vimeo was the choice. Easy to use and the best thing, it was FREE up to 500 MB a month. I can do one a week. And it looks like the guy's will go for two per month. But, you know, when it comes time for the Tour de France it begs to have more often.

I'm so proud of Richard and Guy talking about the history of cycling. Happily, I get to play with my computer and learn about cycling history and have the chance to sample a brew!



The Prologue. Bikes, Books, & Beers from Bikes, Books, & Beer on Vimeo.

Introducing two new classic cycling caps...

La Doyenne Cycling Cap by Galstudio.ca

I'm so happy to introduce two new cycling caps with a classic twist. When I went to the fabric store I had a gut feeling when I saw it. That feeling without words.  I just have them. The green is 100% Cotton Twill and the plaid is Polyester/Cotton. I quickly rushed home.

After my last stitch, I was so amazed with the results. These caps go beyond cycling and right into urban fashion.  So far, I'll be bold here, they're right up there in my top five favorite caps.

They are named, 'La Doyenne' after the oldest and most prestigious classic race  Liege-Bastogne-Liege. And, 'Ardennes' after the three classic races in Holland and Belgium. I feel they emanate a freshness and joyfulness of Spring. I love both!

Ardennes Cycling Cap by Galstudio.ca

Up for the new Classics.

This is an example of the Marinoni old script I saw...

taken from Richard's 1987 bike!

Well, the classic's have ended for the season. My two new cycling caps, in production,  reflect the Ardennes  Classics with the hint of the forthcoming Spring. The Ardennes Classic races are exciting even for a newbie cycling fan like me. I'm looking at it from the historical point of view which grabs my attention. Of course, my partner is a cycling maniac and he always has something new to say. It's one of those finer details in the microcosm of the cycling world. So diverse yet  beautiful. Like a subtle flavour in wine. The more you understand it the more you can appreciate it.

I even spotted a Marinoni bicycle as we walked down the street.  It literally jumped out at me. Many folks can spot a Ferrari sports car, it's not everyone can spot a beautiful Marinoni bicycle. Unfortunately, I forgot to bring my camera. Even Richard  passed  it without noticing. And, I guess I'm getting better my spidey bike sense was tingling. The color was metallic purple with the old Marinoni script. One thing's for sure I wouldn't have left this classic bike unattended and casually locked beside a parking meter.

20 steps to my cycling caps!

Getting ready to sew the darts.

I mentioned to Richard the other day about our cycling caps and wanted to know how many steps it takes.  Every hat maker has their own method and not to mention standards. I thought it would be fun to compile a list. Here goes…

1.              Designing the cap.

2.              Finding a name & description

3.              Buying the fabric & trim

4.              Washing all fabric & trim

5.              Cutting the fabric & interfacing

6.              Assembly of darts.

7.              Ironing

8.              Tucking in all the loose threads

9.              Assembly of all panels

10.          Finishing  the inside cap

11.          Sewing the stripe on the cap

12.          Assembly of the brim

13.          More Ironing

14.          Sewing the inner band

15.          Sewing the Galstudio logo

16.          Trying the cap for size

17.          Sewing the elastic

18.          Finishing the inner band

19.          Threading

20.          Putting on the hang tag.

 After all those years as a production manager, I still think in terms of breaking down a project into shorter tasks. It comes in handy as I now have Richard in production!

Oh, and let's not forget. The secret ingredient that is part of all the steps in making a good cycling cap...
LOVE!

Finishing the Orangeman!

And... five more!

We've been working hard since February 22nd with five more cycling caps. Introducing: (Top center clockwise) Orangeman, Tempo, Routier (French for road racer), New Pave Racer & Amore.

The New Pave Racer is back and is a slick darker color than the previous model. This crop of new caps are extra special. With a request by Hans for a good fitting cycling cap, we introduce the Orangeman our tribute to the cycling nation of Holland. All five are now for purchase on my Etsy site!

The Ventoux on the Isle of Islay!

I now have an association with thewashingmachinepost in a good way that Richard from cyclingart.ca has. Sending off my Ventoux cycling cap for a hopeful review has garnered an positive & warm reception over on the Isle of Islay. Scotch is the drink over there and I approve of it. I definitely love my Single Malt Scotch after a hardworking day. My half Scottish side supports it.

Brian sent me a response on his famous cycling review website about Galstudio's Ventoux cycling cap. Of course, it's name is from the famous volcano in the Tour de France. And yes we (the minions) are producing more Ventoux's as I speak. I've put down my scissors to write this, of course. It's a popular cycling cap, probably my third best seller.

I like the fact that Brian referred to the tweed run in London. Vancouver just had one in February. My tweed cycling cap would go very well on the heads of all riders. Brian writes well and I enjoyed his review very much. I feel honored to receive such a positive review.

Thanks again to Brian at thewashingmachinepost!

Under my cycling cap.

Galstudio's Paris-Roubaix Cycling Cap.

Today marks the first anniversary of selling my very first cycling cap. With the Belgian Classics starting it's appropriate that it was called Paris-Roubaix cycling cap.

Upon reflection, I started to sell my knitting goods on Etsy and that was my plan. Until, Richard came up with a request for a good cycling cap. Richard was searching for one and he was stuck with store bought ones that was ok but lacking in style and quality. I looked at his existing cap and I knew that I could make one much better. I took measurements and made a paper pattern and made my first one. My first cap was made from a cheap cotton that's used as a model to make sure it fits perfectly before cutting into the good fabric.

Surprisingly, the first cap was the ugliest but between the actually pattern & sewing something had happen. The brim was too wide, not deep enough and just too big. No problem, I made another pattern thinking it should work. It didn't. I had to calculate what a really cap should fit like. The challenge is how a flat form can fit on an egg shape. Not every fabric can do your bidding. I knew somewhere in the back of my mind that I could do it. I do have a diploma in fashion design from Quebec. It's been a long time but it's like riding a bike. Eventually it will all come back to you!

Measurements are crucial and to get a good fit is important unless you don't mind to have a diaper on your head! Overall it took me ten trials and trying different fits with three, four and seven panels. I finally came back with the four panel with darts, it fitted the best. Why? It fits deep, feels snug not tight, the brim is nice and soft and will bend without damage. The fabric is pre-washed so no unsightly color bleeding. And you can re-wash it without shrinking. Of course, Richard loves the sportiness and urban look.

When Richard saw the final project, he went nuts and said that you gotta sell this. I'm happy to say he still wears the Paris-Roubaix as well as a dozen more. Galstudio has grown since the very first cycling cap. I've added all sorts of accessories ranging from recycled inner tube pouches for Macbook Laptops, keys/ID/coins & the latest for the iPhone. Soon I will start selling a coffee cozy made from inner tubes. Just after this cup of coffee!

A new series of cycling caps.

I'm presenting my new crop of cycling caps. Top right corner and going clockwise: Hammer, Gruppetto, Chronometro, Cima Coppi & Passista. I'm very excited and I know folks will like them. I've now reinvented the Cima Coppi because the previous fabric is no longer available. The new fabric pattern is very classic Italian!

Enjoying my new studio.

New fabric of linen/cotton has graced my work table. I found some beautiful colors and working on a Dutch cap for Hans. Richard is busy naming the new caps and I can tell you they will be fun. There will be 10 new cycling cap designs over the next few weeks. I'm really enjoying my new work area. Now, with Richard on board there's more space to work in.

A major story with Major Tom.

Steve with his Major Tom!

One of the wonderful things selling my cycling caps is that I sometimes come across interesting stories. I received a very nice image from Steve over in Whitney UK. That's Steve above in the top image sporting the Major Tom cycling cap. He's standing under the Bridge of Sighs and looking very cool. I want to thank Steve for sharing his story and letting me use his image.

Steve wrote me that his mother was a track cyclist and knew the famous Tom Simpson. Talk about a fabulous connection with the two Major Tom's!

"The Major Tom Simpson"

The February Blowout Sale!

I'm making room for the introduction of newer caps. So, with the January sale on it's way out, now it's time for my February Etsy Blowout Sale.

It will be on selected cycling caps & knitted wear. Up to 50% off!

"Make my day..."

"The Badger"

You know when something makes your day? Well, today was the day...

I love what I do and take pride in my work. When I make another sale I add another pin to my world map and imagine my cap's being worn somewhere in the world.

Please read the review and the comments from the Badger about this Winter Cycling Cap. This is definitely the gift that keeps on giving...

The Gentleman Winter Cycling Cap.

Winter Cycling Caps

Here is the complete collection of winter cycling caps for 2009 /2010. Seven caps in all, plaid is a must this winter at galstudio with lots of houndstooth. My customer favorite so far is "Winter with Bobet cycling Cap" but I have a feeling that they might all be really popular.

See me on Etsy's Treasury!

Check it out!

My "Winter with The Gentleman Cycling Cap" is posted on Etsy's Treasury list under the Playful Plaid.

I am so happy to see my cap fitting in just right amongst all that plaid.

You gotta love Plaid!

On the road with Galstudio cycling caps: tested & approved!

My friends, Pam and Toby just came back from a month bike adventure through the Oregon Coast, up into the High Cascades and down Northern California. I am so happy to share these picture's of their fun odyssey putting my cycling caps through a great test.

The result: The Galstudio cycling caps both past what Mother Nature could throw at them with flying colors!

Toby has the Capello del Nero cycling cap. Custom fitted for his big melon. And Pam has the Pyrenees cycling cap.

Still life...

Capello del Nero cycling cap, vino & courgette!

Toby & his trusted Galstudio cycling cap at Crater Lake.

Pam with her Galstudio Pyrenees cycling cap at the top of drizzly summit.

Thank you to Pam & Toby for the test.

Chapeau!