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.

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.

New Bag in the Works

I've been working on this new design - It's a simple hobo with quilted patchwork stripe on either side, appliqued onto linen (this is my first time working with linen, and I'm loving it).

I love the way it hangs!

Using some scrap pieces, I completed two different patchwork stripes on either side of the bag.

Lined with Amy Butler's Midwest Modern line, and a square interior pocket.

So now I need a name for this purse. In the past I have used my nieces names for my other purses/clutches. I'm thinking the "Sammy" (after my nephew...but Sammy can be a girl's name too) - to me it echoes spring and summer, fun and easy. This one will be a gift for my sister for her birthday.

I will definitely be making more of these, and be sure to check out my shop for new designs!

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.