A little late...

Here are some pics of a purse I completed awhile back...another linen, patchwork infusion!

I decided to keep this one, finally finished the straps, and am currently using it. I used rivets for the first time - lots of fun, but a little scary & tricky. I guess the idea of cutting a hole in a newly completed bag is a little nerve-wracking - it's just like those damn grommets!

And here's something a little special: a while back I received an email from Elizabeth in the Netherlands. She was requesting scrap fabric pieces to make an international quilt for her soon to be niece/nephew. Quilters from all over the world sent her pieces. In return I received this lovely little package - some pretty prints, and a lovely bookmark. I can't wait to see how her quilt turns out - isn't that such a lovely idea???

Other random tidbits:

-MishMash StashBash is in full swing!!! It's my first time organizing anything like this, and so far I'm loving it.

-I've been swapping like crazy over at Designer fabric swappy-poo

-We're going on our first portage trip of the summer in Algonquin Park...time to get my paddling arm ready.

Some completed projects

So I've realized I'm one of those bloggers that don't post anything for like a week and a half and then all of sudden I have so much to share...

Something I have been wanting to create for a long time, and I finally found a great tutorial for it (the link is a .pdf file). It's a thread catcher attached to a weighted pin cushion and a hanging pocket organizer. How cool eh. Handing to have it all beside me while I'm sewing. I used Erin McMorris' Park Slope for all the fabric and I love the fun bright feel to it. After making this I've decided I should take some time and effort into creating a pretty space for myself. Next up...ironing board cover (mines looking pretty shady right now).

Another completed project (FINALLY!) is my Bananafana bag. I started this 1 year ago...it was supposed to be my spring bag last year...so I'll finally get to use it this year. Loving the Amy Butler Nigella fabric.

And the grommet detail is fun, however, they are scary to work with sometimes. It's a little unnerving to cut a hole in a piece that you just completed...but it all worked out.

So June if fast approaching and I'm still sorting through trying to figure out what my big giveaway will be for the SEWN website launch...I'm definitely thinking handmade...

Also coming up is the May Giveaway Day organized by Sew Mama Sew. Check it out here. I don't think I'll be hosting a giveaway for that particular one, considering I've already got one in the works for June 1st. But I will be partaking in the fun!

No Name Tote

I haven't made alot of bags recently, but I did get excited working with this linen I purchased at the local fabric store (on sale too!). I just love the natural roughness to it (if that makes sense).

Just a simple tote with a pieced stripe going across the bottom to each side.

The straps are thread through grommets that I thought added a little different detail.

I love the lining. I think every purse or bag should be lined with fun, lively fabrics. It's like it's a hidden secret for you alone to enjoy, that others can only glimpse at.

No pattern was used...just sewing-on-the-fly. I like it...but enough to make more? I dunno...we'll have to see. I haven't figured out a name for this bag yet...I guess I'm waiting for divine inspiration.

My So-Called Winter Bag

Every season I plan to make a purse or bag for the upcoming season. I had started this purse project several months ago in hopes that it would become my winter bag this year...sadly I'm not quite their yet and winter is halfway over. I seem to get too distracted with fabric.

I got this awesome free pattern from the Berroco website. I have a huge stash of yarn, but was saving this very special skein for something beautiful. I got this gorgeous hand dyed yarn from dkKnits, which worked perfectly. Below is the front of the purse currently on my blocking board.


I know it's hard to see...the lighting is off a little bit...


A close-up of the flower in the center.

I have completed both front and back, now just have to complete the strap and lining. Should be ready by...oh lets say....June.