Jaguar R Academy

Learning how to tame Jaguar's most ferocious cats

Now in its third year, the Jaguar R Performance Academy is a one-day driving school designed to train owners of Jaguar’s “R” vehicles how to get the most from their powerful cars. We were invited to attend the inaugural launch of the Academy at the Monticello Motor Club in Monticello, N.Y. to experience the program and the supercharged cars firsthand. Our first exercise was piloting …

Thread Wizard

Tiny ink-inspired tapestries from a needlepoint ace

Passing her needle through cloth instead of skin, Ontario-based artist Ursula Thompson creates tiny sewn canvases inspired by classic tattoo designs. The self-taught Canadian “Thread Wizard” hand embroiders bright red roses, ships, anchors and skulls, creating beautifully shaded needlepoint tattoos sure to make even Sailor Jerry proud. Thompson sells the needlepoint tattoos online through her Etsy shop. Just like tattoos, prices vary depending on complexity, …

Schwinn Vestige

Semi-translucent flax fiber bike hits stores just in time for summer riding

Presented at Eurobike 2010 (where it took home a Gold Award for innovation), the Schwinn Vestige is finally hitting the mainstream market, selling in stores across the U.S. toward the end of July 2011. The biodegradable bike is made from recyclable flax fiber and coated with water soluble paint, taking the already environmentally-friendly act of cycling a step further. Utilizing flax’s naturally clear composition, Schwinn …