I'm Sherry, and prancingpixel is my passion project, bringing together decades of experience and a lifelong love for art and design.
I created prancingpixel out of a deep understanding of the challenges many women face when finding clothing that fits well and feels good. Throughout my life, I’ve experienced the struggle of finding clothes that fit in all the right places, no matter my size. I have doubled my weight since I got married almost 57 years ago and, over the years, went from being a young ballet dancer to a mobility-challenged old woman in an electric scooter. At age eleven, I was the second tallest girl in my class, but I stopped growing at 5’1” and have spent my adult life as one of the shortest. Even when I was thin, it wasn't easy to find clothing that truly fit.
In 1990, I started purchasing clothes from Bluefish Clothing** and discovered that my clothes could make me feel good and look good, even at my heaviest. I owe a lot to Jennifer Barclay of Bluefish Clothing for teaching me how to dress beautifully at any weight and for giving me an aesthetic that I have carried forward. I want women to feel that same sense of happiness in their own bodies that I got from my many years of wearing Bluefish Clothing.
empowering fit for all sizes: I understand the difficulty of finding clothing that fits well, whether you're petite, plus-sized, or somewhere in between. My journey from a size 5 to the plus-size range has taught me the importance of clothing that fits well in all the right places. prancingpixel offers size-inclusive designs that cater to a wide range of body types, ensuring that every woman can find something that makes her feel confident and comfortable.
feel-good fashion: When I discovered Bluefish Clothing in 1990, it transformed how I felt about dressing. My clothes made me feel good and look good, even though I was very heavy. People would stop me on the street to compliment my outfits. I want to bring that same sense of joy and confidence to you through prancingpixel. My designs are meant to make you feel proud of your body and happy with what you wear.
ethical and environmentally friendly production: I value supporting vendors and manufacturers who prioritize ethical and environmentally friendly practices. prancingpixel partners with companies that share this commitment, ensuring that each piece is produced with care for both people and the planet.
supporting pollinator preservation: I have a passion for preserving our environment, especially our pollinators. A portion of each sale at prancingpixel is donated to organizations dedicated to protecting pollinators. By purchasing from prancingpixel, you’re not just getting beautiful, unique clothing—you’re also contributing to a worthy cause.
the beginnings
In 2009, I founded prancingpixel to sell hand-carded batts of spinning fibre to hand-spinners. This initial venture was rooted in my love for creating unique, handcrafted materials for fellow artisans. The joy of sharing my creations with others was the foundation of prancingpixel.
transition to teaching
By 2014, prancingpixel had evolved. Leveraging my extensive experience with Photoshop (starting with version 1.0 in 1990), I began teaching Photoshop techniques specifically tailored for surface pattern designers. This phase allowed me to share my knowledge and skills with a community of creatives, helping them bring their own visions to life.
a lifetime of creativity
Now, at age 77, I am channeling all my skills and experiences into a new incarnation of prancingpixel. This time, it’s all about creating my own artwork and showcasing it on custom-printed garments and products. Each piece is designed to be as unique and vibrant as the woman who wears them.
my retail roots
My journey in the creative industry began long before prancingpixel. In the 1970s, I owned a retail store in Philadelphia, where I designed and sold needlepoint patterns and supplies. My partner and I also created kits for the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This early experience honed my design skills and instilled in me a deep appreciation for quality craftsmanship and unique design.
why print-on-demand?
Embracing modern technology, I use print-on-demand to produce each item only when it's ordered. This approach not only reduces waste but also ensures that each piece is crafted with care and precision. My designs are a blend of digital artistry and traditional craftsmanship, reflecting a boho/grunge collage style that’s distinctively my own.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope you find something here that speaks to you and adds a unique touch to your wardrobe or home.
** BlueFish Clothing was my favourite store ever... They closed in 2023. https://bluefishclothing.com
They were like no other clothing company in the world, and no one could ever be another Bluefish.