1.by.liz began with an idea and inspiration. I was working as a classroom teacher at the time and used many recycled materials in the classroom. Children tend to see possibilities in all materials and it is this quality that inspired me most. In the winter of 2006, I had some bike parts lying around and I began to play. I never imagined it would turn into the small business it is today!

Every clock is made from used bicycle chain rings and backgrounds made from reclaimed textiles, limited edition fabric, and topographic maps. All of the materials are sourced locally and cleaned by hand in my studio. I love the process of combining the industrial metal of gears with texture and color, and since no two clocks are ever exactly the same, the design process is vibrant and ever changing.

1.by.liz is just one of my projects. In addition to designing clocks and running a small business, I teach at the university level and consult on early childhood education and classroom environment design. In many ways, my work with recycled bicycle parts is similar to my work with children. The more time I spend with both, the more I find the extraordinary within the ordinary.

Thanks for visiting!