Ka Ra La originals

Uphopstery & Hair

2012-02-07T18:06:00.001-05:00

My latest bag!!!!! I made a trip a couple weeks ago and found some hairy fabric that just yelled at me soooo loud begging to be taken home. I did!!!!!! Along with a piece of upholstery from the remnant bin. I knew what I wanted to do with this combination. Some of the ladies who work there figured I was going to make pillows out of this hairy fabric. Well do I have a surprise for them. It was never meant to be a pillow. It was meant to be a bag. Nothing fancy. Just outside and inside and no pockets at all. I couldn't get to carried away since this was a step out of the ordinary. These are the fabrics. A little crazy huh.

It developed as I went since I wasn't totally sure where I wanted to go with it but this is the end result. Let me know what you think.

Hugz
Kathy

DIAPER BAG

2012-01-23T18:00:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!!!! I promised pictures of the diaper bag for my niece. This is it. I also made a sheet for the bassinet. It all made for a really cute set. I did expect he to have a bit more of a tummy since she only has 2 months to go but she just has a little pooch for now. Of course I personally know that can change in a very short time as she gets closer.

The flags were just appliques on and satin stitches around and for the handles.

I put elastic on the top of the pockets and eased it in at the bottom so there is some fullness there. The pockets are divided so there are four separate areas.

This is the diaper bag and sheet (and book) in the bassinet.   I apologize for not having a better picture but I was taking them at the last minute. The bassinet has been used for the babies in the family since 1922. My grandfather was in WW1 and was injured. He had rehabilitation and part of that process was to make something. He made the bassinet. My aunt added the hood and has been used for over 30 babies in the family. It is a real special thing to all of us and now will be used for another one.

2012-01-08T22:12:00.001-05:00

Diaper Bag

I am finally working on a new project. FINALLY!!!!! It is for my niece who loves Disney. In fact she loves Disney sooooo much they were married at Disneyland. My new project is a diaper bag for her. Surprise surprise the theme in her son's (yes they are having a boy) is Cars. Gee a Disney movie. I found some really cute Cars fabric which is what I am using. Picture??? Yes I have a picture of the fabric.

This is it. I have been tossing around ideas all day on pockets. I have figured out what I want to do. But I will do it with muslin first to see if it will really work the way I want it too.

You will know soon. My iron is hot so off I go. Check back on the progress.

Hugz
Kathy

Mug Rugs

2011-12-18T19:33:00.000-05:00

Well I managed to finish a set of 4 mug rugs. This is front and back. They measure approx 8 1/2 by 5 1/2 in. I have a few others but need to put a back on them.

It seems shopping and hubby with issues that are going to require surgery have taken over. This may be my sanity stop for the next 6 or 7 months.

Short but sweet.
HUGZ
Kathy

A New Tote

2011-11-18T19:20:00.000-05:00

Well hello all. I am afraid the need to only think about bags is not really over yet. It has been a slow summer. I am still working on those scraps and have a few of these in varying stages of being done. Unfortunately I am working on the mats and forgot to line up fabric for the back. So when I get closer to the bottom of this scrap pile I will look for backing.

In the mean time so I can have a break from the scraps I have started a new denim bag for a friend. I have most of the pieces cut and am working on a couple pieces for the gusset and handles. Since I am limited in this fabric I am having to find pieces that work. My goal is to be putting it together, at least started, tomorrow.

I also made a tote in a sew along in one of the Yahoo groups I am in. I really like this pattern. It is called the "Mill House Inn Tote" at the Moda Bake Shop. here It was a good pattern for a quick tote.

I am off to the denim bag pieces. But I do think bedtime is going to come early tonight.

Hugz
Kathy

OH THE SCRAPS

2011-10-26T23:41:00.000-04:00

I think I have found my way back. I have been working on the MOJO again.

I decided that you might all have the same problem I have been having. Yup!!! No MoJo. AND way to many scraps. I have been sorting and resorting and it still doesn't feel like I have all these scraps so I can just run with it. As an explanation I must say that when I do my patchwork I use a double sided fusible web. EEEEECK!!!!! Oh misery!!!! That only means that for one I can't press these pieces unless I am pressing them to something else. Well I could but what an awful mess that would be. Yuk!!!!! Soooooo I decided these were the pieces I needed to use up first. This is what they look like tonight spread all over my kitchen table being the largest flat surface (other than my bed) in the whole house.

Now some of these pieces are getting pretty small in the bottom picture.

Well now that I think they are sorted and muslin is close by I will start tomorrow and see how much I can get done.

Wish me luck

Hugz
Kathy

Olivia Finished

2011-08-29T11:39:00.001-04:00

I love this pattern. It is by ChrisWDesigns here. She has many patterns that are awesome. Take a look around her blog. I will definitely make another one of these when the right fabric jumps out at me. Please ignore the old barn in the back.

That and adjusting to 3rd shift has been keeping me busy. I have sooooo many ideas flying around right now that I must be trying them out so I have samples. If you remember my Saga of the 25, I have been asked to do that again. I am not sure if there will be 25 but I know there will be at least 18. That means I won't be dong much extra for a while. I am trying to figure some things to do that will make them look wonderful and maybe cut down on some of the work. Wish me luck there, I may need it.

Life has been good. Granddaughter in the Air Force will be visiting soon. Maybe in time to see the fall colors appearing. That would be great. I miss her a lot.

Now I need to take a few days to plan out and try to get some samples done for next year. The more I can show in physical form the better she will be able to picture it. Other projects include trying to clean up the garage. Yuck!!!! To much stuff. But then I can sew with a clear mind.

Hugz
Kathy

Life & Sewing

2011-08-02T19:49:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone

Well it has been stupidly crazy around here lately. My DH went on 3rd shift. Now that takes some getting used to. He is not having trouble with the sleeping part as I have the room really dark thanks to a couple cheap bamboo mats over the windows. He can sleep almost anytime anyway.

The biggest problem is me trying to figure out when to do my stuff without causing issues. I am finding that if I get up when texts me to say he is out of work I can do the noisy stuff then. When he leaves for work I am not wanting to do any of that stuff. I am fixing dinner and making enough he can have it when he gets up.

Now on the positive side, I am sleeping like a log. Taking my half out of the middle. Then again so is he.

Sewing is taking a big confusing hit. I spend most of my time in the computer and sewing room. But I am kinda lost. Last month I said I was going to make some organizers. I DID!!!! Ahhhhh I made one. Now I have to enlarge it and make one the way I want. I used the Lazy Girl pattern for the Suzi Purse Insert. WAY WAY WAY TO SMALL. Here are pictures so you can see what I have done with mine.

I am in the process of cutting out pieces for a new bag called "Olivia" by ChrisWDesigns. This is a really nice looking bag. I can't wait to get it finished so I can show all of you. You can visit her site and see this pattern and others here. Check it out here.

This from the one who doesn't do patterns so ya know I was impressed.

Hugz

Kathy

One for Me, Finally

2011-06-16T11:01:00.000-04:00

Well here I am. I have 2 bags I am going to show you today. I was asked to make a bag for a giveaway for our states Vietnam Veterans Traveling Wall. Our local building supply store does this every year. Being a product of that generation, how could I refuse such a great cause. This is the bag.

Of course it's camo. Can you see the sequins?

Now, if you have read the previous post or two, you will see that I have been making a few denim bags. I decided I needed to make myself one. What is not surprising is that I keep tweaking it with every one I make. But this is my tweaked version of the Katti Lynn bag.

I am next going to make a few organizers.

Hugz
Kathy

Denim Bag--Keep getting better

2011-05-31T23:00:00.000-04:00

Well I finished the 3rd denim bag. I made a few changes along the way. But I think they only made the bag better. I changed the shape of the flap and I added pockets to the outside. When I finished this one I sent my friend Marti pictures. I will tell you in a bit her choice.

Marti and I have been friends since kindergarten. We went to school together right through till graduation. During school we both had a love for horses and we would go riding together. Actually I was on the back, behind the saddle, on her horse. What fun we had. Lots of conversations about boys, what else at 14. But we have reconnected and that is when she saw my bags. She asked if I could make her a denim bag as hers was wearing out. I told her I would give it a shot. She is also going to be taking in babies in her state.

NOW for her choice. She really liked the patchwork and I told her I thought it would work for a diaper bag or a purse. So she chose----are you ready--- drum roll please. She chose the patchwork and the last one (pictures below).

Which one would you have picked?

Hugz
Kathy

Denim here & there & everywhere

2011-05-14T20:54:00.000-04:00

Well here I am again. About time you say? I agree!!!

I have finished this last week 2, yes 2, denim bags. One of my old high school friends asked me if I would make her a denim bag since hers is starting to wear out. I decided to give her choices.

The first was a Bootie Bag. I couldn't quite get things to line up to suit me. It doesn't look bad but seems like it is tweaked a bit. There are pockets on the inside and a magnetic closure. Here it is.

The 2nd one is a patchwork. The lining on this one is actually sewn to the squares of denim. I thought this would make is easier. I did have a few issues with putting the pockets on but I finally finished it.

These were fun but now I have another idea for one more. I will definitely post that one when I get it done.

Hugz
Kathy

In The Making

2011-04-20T22:03:00.000-04:00

I haven't been doing much sewing of late. I have done a booty bag, which I am not sure I like. I also have pieces cut out to do a raggy denim bag. That is all they are cut out. I also have a yard of just denim to do one from one of my own ideas. Maybe using the Katti Lynn with a few changes. Who knows--but I need to get at it.

I am in the mode of throwing stuff away and boy do I have the stuff. Not fabric unless it is very small pieces but I even have some ideas for those. Did ya ever have so many ideas that they just ran into each other and you had trouble sorting them all out. That is kinda the way I have been lately. Back to the old focus thing I guess.

My focus has been on getting rid of and downsizing stuff. No I am not moving or anything like that. I just need to get rid of stuff that has been hanging around way to long. This has been in the way of sewing.

On a better note---I am taking time each day to focus on something to do with my sewing. This seems to prod me along. Maybe by the middle of May I will have a couple things to show you.

Hugz
Kathy

Yaaaahooooo!!!!

2011-03-25T21:56:00.000-04:00

Well here are pictures of the 2nd tote. I finished it a couple days ago and finally have a chance to show you all. This one is a bit different.

Kathy

Another Tote

2011-03-21T08:42:00.001-04:00

I finally finished this tote. I started before the end of the year and just couldn't keep at it long enough to finish it. But I should also have another one done this week. I started both of them at the same time. This one is a gift for my niece. I sure hope she likes it.

Hugz

Get Ready, Get Set, Sew Again

2011-03-13T21:33:00.000-04:00

It is now March. I should be growing green things all over. I don't know why this happens but here are some of my problems and solutions.

I think I have mentioned moving my sewing stuff into the computer room. I have figured out that is not working. I don't have enough room for now. I can't sort anything out to organize it and then I can I can't find it later. It is a real good thing I have a good pair of scissors stashed because I haven't been able to find the ones I usually use.

The other thing I figured out is that it is not only way to cramped but the natural lighting is all covered up by shelves. I need more light and be able to look out the window. Guess what I did???? I moved the machine BACK to the dining room table and I have been sewing some for the last 2 days. I have lining ready for pockets and stabilizer. I put the embroidery on the linings for 2 totes today. Somehow I had lost my logo that was on the embroidery stick, so that needed to be redone twice till I had the right size. THAT is done now. Yeah!!!!!!

I have started figuring out which fabric will look best for the pockets. Sometimes that (like now) is a challenge in itself. The straps are cut for one but not the other as I don't have a piece long enough and I don't want to piece them.

This week I should have pictures for you.

Then it will be on to the denim a friend wants.

So for now big HUGZ

Kathy

Get Ready, Get Set, SEW

2011-02-14T11:53:00.000-05:00

This is the day. I have finished 1 1/2 outsides to the 2 totes I am making. It seems like such a long process right now. It just seems like I can't focus on them. I am making sure I spend part of each day auditioning pieces in places. Today I should finish the 1/2. Then on to the linings and all that goes on there. You know...pockets, closures, handles, just all that stuff.

I am ready for spring!!!!! But for now I am just THINKING spring. I have a few quick projects in mind. Purse inserts for one. I really want to get craft show items done. Which means right now smaller items. Well I think I can do that.

The biggest hold up seems to be moving the craft room and finding room for everything. Bottom line....I can't find a darn thing when I need it.

Well, on with the day to get some of ^^^^^ accomplished.

HUGZ

KATHY

SNOW BOUND IN SEWING HEAVEN

2011-02-02T10:53:00.000-05:00

Yes, here I am in snowbound Michigan. Big dog went out this morning and looking at where the snow was on him we probably have about 15". Little dog went out, turned around and look at me like "Mom you are crazy if you think I am going any farther than this." The bad part of this is that it is still coming down and the wind will be picking back up. Oh well.

What that really means IS this should be a good day for sewing. NO INTERRUPTIONS!!!!!!! Hubby is on his own and I have a bag to finish piecing and another one to finish. I am thinking this could be a really good day. Sewing day that is.

Sew on with the day. Shove the dogs out of the way. Make a pot of coffee and let the creative juices start flowing.

Have a wonderful day wherever you are.

Hugz

Kathy

2010-12-27T23:21:00.000-05:00

Here I am!!!! I was playing hide and seek. No, I wasn't. I think I was overwhelmed with so many things going on. Bob's knee was getting really bad. He had, yes had a torn meniscus, and it was only getting worse. He had that operated on Dec. 1. Now I truly believe it is time for him to go back to work. But honestly he isn't ready yet. He definitely needs more strength although it is improving. It looks like it might be the middle of January at least before he gets back to work. So I guess you know what has happened with all my plans. PFATTTTTT right out the window. I just keep saying only a few more weeks. Hang in there girl. I'm hangin', I'm hangin!!!!!!

More news!!! I entered a contest with one of my bags. It was for the best use of their product in the bag. I didn't win. I have talked to the receptionist a couple times waiting for my bag to be returned. If they sent it out last week I should be getting it soon. But here is a picture.

I also have fabric picked out for 2 bags but I just can't seem to get very far in the process. For all my technique loving friends out there I found a new little gem. Well it may not be new but it is to me. I was in Joann's last week looking at books and ran across this one.
Creative Sewing
Techiniques by Machine
edited by Nancy Fielder
Published by AQS Publishing

Starting out I thought this book was just a simple instruction book until I got into it. Oh My, Techniques, patterns, wonderful info. A few I had used on other projects. But some I had not. This will be so much fun to try some of these. If you can look this one up all you Technique people.

Time for me to get on out of here. Great sewing to you all.

Hugz, Kathy

Ruffles Galore

2010-10-28T21:54:00.000-04:00

Hello all my blog friends. I have been lax. My focus has been disturbed. Bob would say it was me that was disturbed. Not true!!!! I will defend my uniqueness as just that. NOT disturbed.

I have been working on a pattern, no not one to share with you (I wish), but one I bought. First to give credit to the pattern maker. It was the Serged Satchel by Indygo Junction. It is very cute with lots and lots of ruffles. I was so intrigued by ruffles. I still am. I just don't know what there is about ruffles. Let's see---they are cheerful--happy--carefree----they just make you want to giggle. Well that is this purse. Now you will say it is really cute AND it is. I am just really glad you can't pick it up and check it over. I kept finding things in this pattern that made little sense to me. Now 7 years of 4-H and I should be able to read a pattern. But I am telling you I was confused. But what I just didn't get I faked. So next time I will use my ruffler on my machine. I didn't use my serger. I was able to do it on my machine. It turned out ok but will probably go in the bin of no return unless some little girl wants it. Now so you don't think I am being really mean to the writer of this pattern, in all honesty my main reason for buying and using a pattern is for a technique. AND from this pattern I learned a few things that I can use in the future. Maybe I should just buy a really good sewing book and learn or relearn some of this stuff.

I do think I should do another patchwork tote. I have a couple I would like to make for gifts. My sister and my niece would like to have one. I know they should have already had one and now that I have told you I just will have to get them done.

So for now I guess I should go.
Catch ya later
Kathy

The Fun is Back

2010-09-25T21:48:00.000-04:00

I started a new bag last week. I just wasn't sure the fun was back. I thought maybe I would have to work really hard to get this bag done. But I started the process. Pick out the fabric. Sometimes that is a bigger job than putting the bag together. Now understand---with my crazy patch bags I need at least 4 and preferably 5 different fabrics that will play well together. So I went to my Resource Center and pulled the yardage out. Sorted pieces that would work together and I ended up with my kitchen table piled 3/4 full and at least 5" high with possibilities. I narrowed that down to 4 piles and called my friend Vanessa who helped with the final decision of which pile to use.

The job began. To my surprise I started getting excited about the way it was all coming together. It was back!!! The Mojo!!!!!!! The fun!!!!!! All of it!!! It took parts of 3 days to get the piecing done. And 3 more days to finish the whole bag. Only a couple hours a day (didn't want to push too hard). So I entered this tote in a contest. The friend who helped with the pile choice wants it when it is returned. Are ya curious now. Pictures might be nice about now huh. Ok!!!! Here it is. Tell me what you think.

Whoot Whoot

2010-09-17T20:43:00.001-04:00

I have reason to celebrate!!!!!! I feel like the Mojo is back. I mean really back. FINALLY!!!!!! I started 2 days ago picking out fabric. Oh what a job!!!!! The Resource Center is in about 11 different places. But I knew where the yardage was. That way I skipped over the remnants. I WILL have to tackle those soon. I spent one night (about 3 hrs) pulling it all out and sorting into color groups ones that hadn't been already. I narrowed it down to 4 groups of 5 different pieces. Then last night I made the decision--no backing out now. The other 3 are sitting on the sidelines wondering when their turn will be.

So tonight I am getting things started. I am actually excited. Spring was the last time I felt like that. If things work out well, I could make a lot of progress. We shall see. If I can not hit to many creative walls it might be done by next weekend. It's not the putting it together, it's everything I have to do BEFORE I can put it together. Can't wait to show it to you.

Later
Kathy

I think I found where my Mojo went

2010-08-31T20:53:00.001-04:00

This is to all my friends whose Mojo has left. I was thinking last night and trying to figure out where this Mojo thing went. I decided that it is still here it is just waiting for me to get my stuff together before it comes back.

What I discovered was that I have strayed from the basics.
Now all of our basics are different. What I mean by that is the bags you enjoyed making the most that is the basics. Pull out that much loved pattern. One that you have really enjoyed making. Pick some fabric that you have in your resource center that you bought because you just couldn't be with out it. Put the 2 together. That might be where the Mojo is hiding. I think mine is peeking out from behind that piece of fabric shouting "Is it my turn NOW!!!!!!" Well I am thinking it might be.
Just a thought. Katti Lynn might appear again.

Hope you who have been struggling with that necessary element that YOU need to get back in the groove is hiding somewhere you haven't looked for a while.

I am going to go check again!!!!!

Getting My Mojo Back

2010-08-14T09:24:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!!!!!!! It is pouring in Michigan. Heaven knows we need it. The GRASS is CRUNCHING!!!!!!!!! It is a wonder it doesn't start burning just by stepping on it. Such as it is in the summer.

But on to the fun stuff. I am so working on that MOJO thing everyone talks about. Somewhere this year mine has been misplaced but I am hot on the trail and the big fix. I had been working (yes I said had) part-time for about 1 1/2 yrs. I QUIT!!! Got tired of all the politics. Yea in a store with 6 employees there was politics. Mostly by age. I QUIT!!! But the sewing had not been happening until the last posting with the bag. It has been a slow process and is not done yet. I have been picking out small pieces of leftovers. I am working on getting something done with them. I just know I can't throw them out--I must do something with them. Now mind you some of these are maybe 1" x 4". Now come on! This is ridiculous. But I just know I can do something with them.

I do have enough of those strips left from the Bali Pop pack to make another bag. I need to find coordinating pieces to go with them. I have also been playing with some new tools. Working them into something I think I can use. So I think going at it slowly I will have the MOJO back before to long. My sister and niece are wanting bags AND my sister know someone else who might be wanting some for a craft shop. I can't think that big right this minute though until that elusive MOJO gets back.

Maybe when I get some of all these little ideas (and pieces) put together I can do more than think and draw I can do. I WILL let you all know.

It is raining and with little interruption I plan on confining some of that sewing energy today to make some progress.

Later Kathy

It's Finished

2010-07-26T20:23:00.000-04:00

Yes I finished it. What fun!!!! What aggravation!!!!! I am not someone who likes a lot of choices. Give me 1 or 2 and that's fine. I HAD TO PICK FROM 42. It took me 3 weeks!!!!!! But here is the finished product. It is the " Purse-onality Plus" bag by "The Teachers Pet" Or vice-versa. I can never remember which one. But it is very easy to follow if you think you might want to try this one. You know me and patterns---I don't usually use one--but this one caught my eye. So here it is. Lots of pockets--inside and out.

Jelly Rolls & Bali Packs

2010-07-08T23:27:00.000-04:00

Where does time go. It is July already. I didn't really mean to put you all off and I really don't know what came over me. But here I am.

Here is what I have to say and I am sticking to it. My machines (2) were in the shop getting a good cleaning and tune up. I think maybe I was feeling sorry for myself because I couldn't sew. But I have one back and will pick up the other one tomorrow. I have been drawing pictures. Pictures of bags I want to make. Ideas, ideas and more ideas. I used to have horses and I was thinking back on those days and kinda missing that whole experience. Ya know, you can tell all your secrets to those critters and they never tell a soul. They just look at you and wink as if to say "Your secret is safe with me. Now give me another flake of hay please." Anyway I have one idea from those days. Shhhhh I can't tell. It's still a secret.

Presently I am working on a "Teachers Pet". I can't wait to get it done. I needed the guidance to put in a drawstring so that it looked good. This is the pattern I chose to do it. I never realized it consisted of so many choices. A jelly roll and in all my out of whack wisdom I chose a Bali Pack (Cotton Candy) instead. Now at least in a Jelly Roll you have doubles. BUT in a Bali Pack EVERY one is different and there were 42 choices. I hate making those kinds of choices. Give me 2 or 3 maybe but 42 and all I could pick were 19 and I changed that to about 10. Oh my I didn't think I was ever going to figure out which ones I wanted to use. But on the upside. I now have enough left to make another bag my way since I will know how to do the drawstring. And I have ideas already how I want to do it.

Like I said I should have it done in a day or two and I can't wait to show it to you!!!!!

OOOPS

2010-06-03T12:09:00.000-04:00

Yeah, that's an oops. I promised to post this picture of the diaper bag my friend gave as a gift. She supplied this fabric. It is really cute. Suzy Zoo!!!!! I decided to use the black to pop the little eyes. I really wanted to fuzz up some yarn and put over the dandelions on a couple in the print. She had no sense of humor with that one and said "No no no" so I didn't. It still ended up good and she was happy.

Oh I SEW WANT To

2010-06-02T12:10:00.001-04:00

Well I was hoping to post before now. I am still not sewing. I want to make a new purse. I have the pattern picked out. I have fabric strips laying all over my table and I can't do anything with them. My machine is getting some TLC.

My room in the making is STILL being worked on. Hubby's new job is kicking him good right now. 4:30 comes mighty early when you aren't used to it. All that means is he is worn out when he gets home. AND every time he plans on working on it something goes crazy. Over time is one thing. Good for the pocket---bad for getting things done. No power is another. That was yesterday. Found the problem and have a temporary fix which will be totally fixed today. We are such a spoiled society. Who would dream of not having running water. And you can't have an outhouse where I live anymore.

Well enough of that. I have fabric laying all over my table. Just waiting for the machine to come home. Of course I have to make choices and I have 42 to choose from. Somehow I have to whittle that down to about 19. Oh this is so hard. These are gorgeous Bali strips. No 2 alike. "Cotton Candy" I absolutely love them. The pattern (yes I did say pattern) I have picked out is "The Teachers Pet" by "Purse-onality Plus!" I need to know how to do drawstrings for future designs and I will learn that from this pattern. Hehehe and I liked it well enough to buy it.

I promise (hope that works out) to not wait so long before I post to my blog again.

Mindless Chatter

2010-04-27T23:22:00.000-04:00

Well here I am, once again, sitting in front of this computer screen after a days work and playing Mahjongg (or however you spell it). But I have not disappeared.

I have started a diaper bag. My friend Vanessa has a baby shower in a couple weeks. She had some fabric she wanted to use for a gift. And who else would she get to make her diaper bag but yours truly. When it is finished I will show you the end result.

In the meantime, we have some catching up to do. My remodel project is coming along, although not fast enough for me. When it is done though I can sort out fabric so I know what I have to work with. I also have some leftover yarn scraps that may get used for some embellishing. I have decided that I really need to use some so I can buy more without getting overloaded. Too much means confusion for me and I just don't know where to start first. I do think though that since I have a small container with small pieces I may make some cosmetic type bags to use them. That means I will have a start on the church bazaar for this fall. Maybe even something for this summer.

I have been wanting to do some more crazy quilting and crumb piecing. Many many ideas have been floating around. I have started putting them on paper so I don't forget. That is where the ideas, crazy as some of them may be, end up. If only I could do these things as fast as the mind conjures them up.

I have been visiting some blogs that have giveaways. Don't you think they are fun!!!! I may have to put that idea in the pot with the others and think about that too.

I should probably shut down and decide where I will start tomorrow after my 2 cups of coffee. Catch ya all soon.

No Stash for Me

2010-04-06T22:42:00.000-04:00

I, for one have a large amount of fabric. (I refuse to say a huge amount, for that would mean I would have a lot of trouble justifying buying more.) So in my own defense and for the peace of mind of all my fabric and patterns buying friends out there in the sewing world, here is my new explanation (and making my self not feel guilty) when purchasing more fabric than some think I need or any type of supplies for any number of sewing project that I deem necessary it shall, from this day forward, be referred to, not as my stash but as my RESOURCE CENTER. We all know that we need lots of resources
LOL now don't we.

Livin' Life

2010-03-15T14:27:00.000-04:00

Well it has been way to long since I added to my blog. I did finish that bag and a friend of mine saw it and absolutely loved it. Sooooo I gave it to her.

My son is spreading his wings and is living with 3 of his friends. At this point is a trial. But he needed to give this a try. The day after he took the jump I had half of the carpet pulled from his room and the following day the rest was off the floor. Plans are working out quite nicely for this room. It is just not going fast enough for me. Paneling will come off, drywall and paint will go on. Laminate on the floor. Light fixture. All the fun stuff is pretty much planned. Hopefully it will be done soon.

Because of all that going on the sewing has kinda been slow. What do I mean kinda. There has been none going on. I did order a couple patterns from "fabric for quilts and more". I need a boost in the sewing department. Too much work and to little play. I am really excited about these patterns though. I have a couple small things that I may pull out try to start.

Spring is hitting Michigan. We have been having 50 degree temps. But alas it is only March and we will probably have at least one more big snow storm. We saw our first robin the other day and are now waiting for the hummingbirds. They are so much fun to watch.

Well the spare room is calling.

Following Patterns

2010-02-07T20:04:00.002-05:00

Some of you know me from Yahoo Groups--others don't. Well, those who do know that I like doing my own thing when I make bags. This week I followed a pattern. Yes I DID!!!! It was really hard for me to stay on track with this one because that little voice just kept saying "But!!!!!! Don't you want to do it this way. It might be better this way. Come on, ya know ya want to." Well that was what I kept hearing. I did do a few things a little different. But nothing that would affect the appearance of the original pattern. Right now I can't get a picture in here, but as soon as I can I will.

This is the Hobo Pattern from jcaroline.

http://www.jcarolin ecreative. com/Merchant2/ merchant. mvc?Store_ Code=JC&Screen= HOBO_BAG

I had the idea for members in the Yahoo Group "sewingtotebagsandpurses" to all work on the same bag so that some could help others with problems, just being funny in the suggestion. Well of course I had to join in, it was my idea, oh my, not even thinking that far ahead when I mentioned it. But it was fun and I learned something new. That afterall was the plan. To learn something.

Now that bag is done I have enough fabric left to make another bag of some sort. I really haven't figured out where I am going with it yet. I have about three others that I am working on. I don't quite have them on paper yet. They are just floating around. But the night is young and Bob is at his cousins watching the Super Bowl. So it's me and the dog.

Boxed Bag Bottom

2010-01-16T19:37:00.002-05:00

This is my first tutorial. We are going to hope I can make this understandable enough.

There are different methods for squaring off bag bottoms. I am going to try to explain my method which may or may not be like anyone else’s.

I am not going to go through the process of getting to this point. Only from this point to make your bag bottom.

You will need:

Your bag with side seams and bottom stitched together

Ruler that is at least 4 to 6 inches X 4 to 6 inches. (mine is 4 X 13)

Pins

Fabric marking tool

Iron

Sewing machine ready to go.

At this point the bag will look very similar to this. Wrong side out and flat. Very flat. Pressed to the point of maximum flatness. The goal here is to be able to see the crease in the bottom.

The next step is to press the seam open part way to the corner on the bottom. DO NOT trim the seam at the bottom or cut off the corner. This will be used in the squaring process.

Now with a bit of finagling (what a word) that seam is laid flat to the bottom of the bag and matched up with the crease to the seam. This is shown in the picture below The crease is shown with a purple line so it is easier to see. Then grab the point (shown in the last picture)of the seam and pull this point out so that the stitching is the point.

Now the big decision-----How big do you want the bottom of your bag. I know decisions, decisions, decisions. Well now is the time. For purposes here we are using 4 inches.

The seam is laid to the side at the point and press making sure the crease and seam match (like above) and the stitch point is a point.

Now to make the bottom a bottom. You will need your ruler at this point. Line up a mark with the seam and 2” deep. When this is lined up perfectly it should also measure 2” either side of the seam. This is why it is so important to have the point really pointed. Whew I hope that makes sense.

I then mark this with a fabric marker, pin and stitch opening that seam to eliminate bulk. I usually sew across, pivot and sew back on this line.

Then press and turn right side out. You can trim off the triangle or leave it. Whichever method you prefer. Poke out the corners and press again.

Please give input. I would really like to know if there is something that is not clear and feel free to contact me with any questions.

2010

2010-01-01T18:10:00.000-05:00

It is January 1, 2010. Another year starting with many hopes for the new year. My first hope is that my husbands job goes from temp to permanant. My 2nd is that maybe I can go visit my older children in PA and FL. The rest don't mean much compared to these.

My creative juices will take me where they will. I have made many friends in the yahoo groups I am in. I am moderator in one, it is really getting to be a fun group. But the main thing is that there are like minded people who love doing the same things I do.

But to all of you I sure do wish you all a wonderful New Year with all the blessings that may come your way. Enjoy the adventure. I received a text from a friend today that said this--Today is the first blank page of a 365 page book, write a good one. I loved that thought and am passing it on to you. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010

Monday Again

2009-12-21T08:58:00.002-05:00

Yes it is. Monday!!!! Christmas is 4 days away. I have a ton of little stuff to wrap and big stuff that is way to weird shaped to wrap. I did finish 2 bags for gifts and sent them out. They are really cool. I went back to my crazy patch which now has another name.

Free Form Crazy Patch. My friend Barbara gave it that name and I think it fits it well. One of the bags is a tote and the other was made using the pattern for the "Katti Lynn". I have also figured out that I really need to make more in the style of the original "Katti Lynn" with a few improvements.

Monday Realization

2009-12-07T11:49:00.001-05:00

It is Monday. 18 days til Christmas. ONLY 18 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OH my, now I feel behind. I haven't even started my shopping but I do know what I want to get and I know where I will get it. At least that shouldn't be a problem.

To many projects and to little time. I guess the first thing I need to do is finish the Glove Reindeer I started a week ago. They just need their eyes, nose, bows and ears. And everything is sitting right there ready to go. I guess I am getting sidetracked by my current purse. I am really liking it. I hope I have enough fabric left to make another one. I can't wait to be able to show it to all of you and see what You think. I like constructive criticism. That is the only way I am going to improve and being the perfectionist that I tend to be--------------Well all you other perfectionists know what I mean.

I Got Lost

2009-12-01T11:21:00.000-05:00

Yup I think I did. I was working toooooo many hours and had way to many things in the frying pan. Thanksgiving is done and I ate too much. Now it is time to get going.

I finally have time to get back to sewing. Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have 2 bags in process. I gave up on the diaper bag for now. I was just having to much trouble focusing on it. So I started something new. It had been nagging at me to get it started anyway. So I did.

In that creative line. I woke up one morning (imagine that) way to early. Like 4am. That for me is way to early. Anyway, I couldn't sleep. I had way to many ideas flying around in my head. I decided that I might just as well get up and put them on paper. So I did!!! I spent the next 45 minutes drawing pictures. Now I just have to get them in fabric or not. The ideas are there on paper whenever I get ready.

I am trying to get some gifts ready. Simple ones. Like cosmetic type bags. Pot holders. Reindeer ornaments. And one not so simple one. My dear hubby will not use the quilt I made him last year. He doesn't want to get it dirty.....????? He did say I could make an afghan with camo yarn. That must be the hunter in him---camo. Uh--ok!!! So I am working on that when he is at work and when the wrists are not hurting. Usually I have to hurry and put it away because I forget what time it is. It goes into a large garbage bag--gets tied--and put in the computer room. Thank goodness he doesn't make a practice of going through things. Should be done soon.

Life and Retirement

2009-11-08T22:08:00.000-05:00

I spent part of the day working on a bag that has been waiting to be finished, only to discover that I have 3 bags, a diaper bag, 2 cosmetic bags, 2 jewelry bags, a pattern or 2 that I want to study for the technique(like a drawstring) and who knows what all. On top of all that our church is having a Christmas bazaar and want me to have a table. I have maybe three bags that are finished and maybe a half dozen felted bags from a few years back. I could maybe dig up a baby afghan or two. Other than that I got nothin'. Not enough for two days!!!! So unless I can be super woman and work at this day and night it won't happen. I really am disappointed too. I need to be more visible. I just don't see any way it is going to happen. To much work and to little play is what is happening. I enjoy the work and in a few years I will quit. Hmmmmmm So this is what retirement is like.

Variation of Katti Lynn

2009-10-23T10:56:00.000-04:00

I have had to put the brakes on. I have not been accomplishing much. Working a lot of days and to many ideas. I have one bag sitting here not finished because I can't get hold of the girl who wanted it with her name on it. She may lose out if I can't get hold of her soon. I also have a diaper bag going that I put aside because I couldn't stand it any longer and had to do a purse that the fabric was shouting, maybe screaming, at me. So it is done!!! I used the same basic Katti Lynn pattern and changed it a bit. No Chenille on this one. Just more little improvements. AND of course more ideas for the next one.

I also have a zipper purse in mind. This could be fun and maybe a bit out there. I just haven't decided yet. I am thinking I might tackle this one before Christmas. I also think there are members of my family and a couple friends that need to have bags for Christmas.

I am sorting stuff out (what a job) in my computer/sewing wanna be room. I have way to much stuff. The bad part is, most of it is sentimental stuff. A few craft projects that I want to try. A woven basket that is not finished and needs to be so I can use it. Two string art pictures that my mother had that look like a rainy, lazy afternoon thing to do. I could go on for a few more but let's just say I have tried a number of things that are fun.

Well I guess I need another cup of coffee before I dive into the sorting today.

WHATEVER HAPPENED

2009-10-14T23:06:00.000-04:00

I would like to know whatever happened to the good old days. The days when you could go to bed and leave yours doors unlocked. Whatever happened to your word being as good as gold. Whatever happened to respect. Whatever happened to the days when Dads taught their boys to be boys. And those boys took and dished out their licks. Moms taught their girls to be girls. Raising kids to have values and their word meant something. Not to go after anyone who didn't agree with you or looked at you crosseyed. What are we teaching our children. I feel for the young parents who are raising their children today.

I am so proud of my kids. My oldest struggled in school, but he is a whiz with tools. Give him a few tools and a motor that need fixing and he is the one that will do it. He has sole custody of his children. He and his wife(not blood mother) are raising his children and have raised hers. He spent years waiting to get custody of them and has done a great job.

My daughter is in the Army. 20 yrs this year. She serves her country to keep us all free. She is a wife, a mom and step-mom. She is my daughter. I am proud to be her mother.
As daughters are to their moms---she is my soul.

My youngest son is one of the kindest, most tenderhearted people you could ever know. He can make you laugh with his hillarious sense of humor. Even if you don't want to. He loves to duck hunt with his dad. He is very good with kids and someday will have some of his own. Animals and kids are drawn to him. He is smart, sometimes to much for his own good which is another whole category. He is trustworthy and I can say has rarely given me reason to worry. He even listens to me although he won't always admit it.

I am just a proud mom who loves her kids. Everyone should be so lucky.

My Friend Vanessa

2009-09-21T11:49:00.002-04:00

Well, I promised to introduce you to my friend Vanessa, who I will probably refer to as Ness. I met this lady, let's see, about 23 ish years ago. I needed a babysitter and she was recommended by the one I was losing. So we talked and she got the job. That baby was about 7 months old at the time. She had 2 boys of her own that were young but in school. My little guy became the little brother. Oh the things those boys didn't think of. But what fun they had. It was good for my Bobby to have brothers since he was basically an only child. There was a large age gap between him and his sister. Any way, so much for how I met Ness.

We both sew. Although our focus is in 2 different directions. She sews mostly baby stuff and is working on a baby line of products. I do purses and totes (and anything else that strikes me as fun to do). I work on getting her to think out of the box since I get so many ideas. Now sometimes that is a challenge. She is a pattern person and I tend not to be.

We both manage to have trouble follow us although nothing bad. You know how there was always that friend when you were a kid that could make you laugh and forget how bad a day you had or would just listen if you had one of those day. Well that is how we are. Now mind you, we have no mercy with each other, and our spouses have days they stay clear and just shake their heads while we just laugh. Ahhh--We have no mercy on them either which is why they try not to be noticed when we are in one of those kind of moods.

Now you have met Ness and I am sure there may be more stories of our fun sewing days. And maybe even our not so fun sewing days.

Diaper Bag Finished

2009-09-12T12:50:00.004-04:00

Well, here I am again. I just finished a diaper bag last week. It is very girly and feminine. Of course it is for a young lady who is having a girl. I had to do some thinking on this one because everything is so pastel. I just can't seem to do a bag without the pop factor. So you can be the judge.

I think in one of my next posts I will have to introduce you to my friend Vanessa. She is such a character and we laugh a lot--and I mean a LOT. Maybe I will even let you in on some of our silly little things that come up in conversation.

Sew long, Open the box and let the ideas flow.

Helping Myself

2009-08-22T13:50:00.002-04:00

I have not been doing much of that lately. I have had so much to do and haven't gotten much of it done. My biggest problem in life is I keep things. To many things. It is very hard for me to throw things away. Now in some areas that is fine, but in others it is not. So I am trying to convince myself it is ok to get rid of stuff, even if it is not broken. I am going through clothes and sorting out ones I will never be able to get into again and even if I could I wouldn't. I think I came by this quite honestly. My parents were children of the depression and threw out nothing. AND I DO MEAN NOTHING I will change this. I pick the right day or take a few minutes everyday to do one little thing to make some place in my home better. It will work---on spot at a time. Wish me luck.

Having Fun

2009-07-27T20:32:00.001-04:00

Yeah it was fun!!!! I was sitting quietly one morning and I had this idea for a purse. I have mentioned before that I love trying different techniques. Well I used one of those techniques in this purse. I have a book called "Simple Chenille Quilts" by Amy Whalen Helmkamp. I have made placemats using the faux chenille technique in this book. I didn't want to make a quilt--which I have never really tackled before--so I decided to use this technique for a purse. I am sure I will use this again because it has such a cool effect. One of these is a gift, but right now I can't tell which one in case she reads this blog. So what do ya think? Are they winners?

Saga of the 25 (part 3)

2009-07-11T09:02:00.003-04:00

Like I said--Everything I had in mind was no longer available. After another couple weeks of searching I finally found another 4 to go with the original one she picked out. So the race was on. I knew that the first 3 would be patchwork and the rest of the 18 would be dumbed down as I called it. That was the expression I used for making it much more simple. With about 2 weeks I had the 3 patchwork one well on their way to being done as far as the outside went. The linings would be a breeze compared to the patchwork.

The patchwork were finished and I was pleased. I thought by now I would be starting to get sick of the colors. Well I had to move on to the dumbed down versions. That made it all new--not sick yet. The ideas all came together and I started cutting strips for this version. It took longer to cut the strips and get them ready to be applied than it did to put them on. Now keep in mind--each bag had 18 strips per side x 2 sides = 36 x 15 bags = 540. Yeah that's right 540 strips I had to cut and apply. I would cut cut cut and apply apply apply. Finally about the middle of April I had them done. When I would get sick of working on that part I would work on linings. I had an assembly line with about 5 different stages being worked on at the same time. Tires me out just thinkin' about it.

Just about the time I figured I would have them done by the end of May I get a phone call saying "Mom, this is Martha, I need 4 more bags. Will that be ok?" Of course I couldn't tell her no, now how mean do you think I am. One of the biggest events in this girls life and I am going to tell her NO!!!! I don't think so. So again I was on the hunt. Fabric was running low as far as 4 went, all but the crackle. Here's Murphy again laughing--loud enough I can hear him--couldn't even get to him to stuff his mouth. So I finally found a fabric that fit in the color range which was the main thing so they would all co-ordinate. I looked like wallpaper but I kinda liked it. Didn't have much choice now did I. Then I was paid a visit one night by the Martha family and oh---she needed 3 more for a total of 25. Uhhhh ok.......... I think I ate, drank and slept sewing 16/ 7. You don't sew when you are tired ya know---cause Murphy is waiting around the corner.

To make a long story a bit shorter. The new fabric (looked like wallpaper) wanted a trellis added to it to break up the bouquets----it had to settle for a picket fence. I worked like crazy. Had the bags done (25)-----had the linings done (25)-----had the handles done (50). Put them together---4 at a time---pin 4--stitch 4---press 4. Had to do them that way to break of the monotany. I pushed and did not make it by the end of May. But by the middle of June they were done. Yes DONE. D-O-N-E!!!!!!!!
Called Martha--they were picked up---And by now they have been passed out to the 25 girls to be used for the next year.

All I can say is Whew I think I need a break, at least for a couple days.

Saga Of The 25 (part 2)

2009-06-26T17:55:00.002-04:00

February was getting a bit late in the month and we still hadn't been able to get together for the fabric planning session. I was starting to panic. I felt like I needed to get started by March and that might be cutting it close depending on life itself. Ya know, the best laid plans line or that guy Murphy who owns a monkey wrench. Well, I finally decided to have her pick up the main fabric and I would go from there. We decided on about 9 yards and she could get more if need be.

Finally about the 2nd week in March she brought the fabric. Orange, tan(light and dark), pinky( which I could get to go a couple ways by shade used). Now for you to understand the way I was feeling about then---Yellow is my least favorite color. I like the pale, I actually like yellow. Now you are confused I bet. Well to explain. I like yellow on other people---I look jaundiced. Don't wear it and don't stand close to anyone who does. Orange is very close.

Any way she brought the 9 yards and I figured it should be enough. I ordered an orange crackle that I knew would be perfect for the linings. I ordered 15 yards, planning on having enough left for a few other projects. I also had a bit of some other fabrics that would be perfect if I could find them and they were available somewhere.

I will have you know I couldn't find them anywhere. Murphy's law ya know. So the search was on and the panic was taking hold.

Check back for more of the Saga

THE SAGA OF THE 25

2009-06-21T23:54:00.002-04:00

This is the first installment of the Saga of the 25. 25 WHAT!!! You might say. Well some of you in some of my favorite Yahoo groups have been following the job that I have tackled. I have also posted a bit about this job in previous post. But I will start at the beginning.

One day, a friend of my sons who is a member of Job's Daughters, which is a girls organization, was at the house with her mother and sister. She was talking about her installation as state queen and the fact that they give tote bags to other girls around the state. She was looking at my photos of some of the bags I have made and the conversation ended up with would I consider making her bags. 18 was the number and I figured given enough time I could do it. No sweat. But she had to let me know by February so we would have time to talk fabric. That sometimes takes a while to find just the right fabric to all work. It takes 5 or 6 different fabric patterns to make my bags.

To be continued.

At a loss

2009-05-31T22:26:00.004-04:00

I have been at a loss for words. I have been really busy sewing and working. Four days in a row. My granddaughter is graduating this year and next year my grandson. Oh to be that young again and have your whole life ahead of you. They have so much to learn and so little time to appreciate life. I hope they find their passion. Something they love to do that will give them a reason to start everyday.

I have been doing a lot of sewing as you can imagine with 25 bags to do. They are coming along fine. I have 3 days that I won't be able to do any sewing so I hope that doesn't slow down the process to badly. I have about 2 weeks to have them finished and somehow I will do it. Then you will all see the end results.

Quiet Days

2009-05-26T10:05:00.002-04:00

There really aren't too many of those in my life. A week ago we celebrated our 26th wedding anniversary. That is an accomplishment these days. Our son took us to dinner for Chinese. Yummy!!!! We also picked out a couple plants for the yard and managed to get them planted within a couple days.

Other than that I spent the weekend sewing. I have piles of bags in some state of completion all over my sewing areas. Yes in this case it has to be AREAS, multiple. I have outer shells being stitched. Linings that are ready for pockets and pockets in the process. All cut, some sewn, some turned right side out and some pinned to be sewn. Soon, very soon this will all be done.

My stash is calling. I have not been through it since March, and oh my, I know there are things in there that are wanting to get out. Patience. I have to learn that every day. I must put all these ideas on paper so I don't forget.

Ok, good luck with that one, it takes quiet time. And we are right back where we started with not much of that valuable commodity. So on to the projects for the day. Maybe I will even get my dishes done.

ROLLIN' ALONG

2009-05-19T14:32:00.003-04:00

I have been so busy, but here I am.
I am making fantastic progress on this huge project!!!! I have been poked by pins and burnt by my iron. Small pieces with edges folded over and irons almost guaranty burnt fingers. At first I just thought it was because I had the steam on-----that wasn't it. It is just HOT.

I am gearing up for a 2 day stretch of sewing over the weekend. The male members of my family will be fishing--yea fresh fish--and I will be sewing and reading.

I am stepping over the dog today because he thinks he is a rug. Well he could be but he would be mighty bumping. This is Ice. He is 5 yrs old and pretty spoiled. But he loves to go duck hunting in the fall.

Well the purse project calls.

How I Started

2009-05-03T21:38:00.004-04:00

Whoa!!!! I just noticed that all the bags on the slide have Ka Ra La in big letters. I have changed that. I decided it was to much in your face. I didn't like that once I really looked at it. I have changed that part a lot, they are much smaller and you have to look for it, but it is still on every bag.

Thought maybe I should give a little background on how I started making bags. So here goes. I was being lazy one day and discovering the joys of Dish Network. I ran across a craft show, like duh what else would I be looking for. Well I happened on a program called "Uncommon Threads" and they were making a little(and I do mean little)purse using vinyl. I found some fabric around and made believe I knew what I was doing and made a little purse, it was like 6" x 6". Little, Little. I couldn't have that, so I started playing around. I played with size, well just the whole thing. It evolved into what I make now. I use no pattern for the patchwork, it just happens. It is kinda like a school yard. I have 5 or 6 kids(pieces of fabric) and they play together nicely or they get kicked out. They must audition to make sure they can play.

Well that is my story. They evolve. They are changing everytime I make a new one. I continually have different ideas, some I use, others I file for future reference.

Creative Juices

2009-05-01T15:28:00.004-04:00

What a day! I don't usually get started 'til mid-day. You see, I am not a morning person. Although I get up early-6:30am to 7:30am most days, my brain does not kick in until 11 or so. I did some running for Hubby and have working on bags since. I am getting close, oh so close. I am almost ready to start applique and handles. I am not even sick of the color yet which is a huge surprise just for the simple fact that there are 25 bags all the same color. It is sure a challenge. But I am finding that is all I needed to get the job rolling. I am still shooting for the end of May. Wish me luck.

2009-04-26T13:25:00.003-04:00

It has been a couple weeks since I was here. But I had a thought, scary huh. I have a friend who is a published author of romance novels. Reading her blog I discovered that though the outlet is different the passion is the same. The need to be creative is the same. Her creativeness flows on paper in the form of a book. Mine flows with fabric and ends in a tote or purse. It is amazing that there is so much creativity and so many awesome places for it to go. We are all creatively intertwined. I understand your passion Mary. I will soon enjoy one of your products. Keep up the creativity and continue to let it flow.

Lost in thought

2009-04-10T22:24:00.001-04:00

Yes I have been lost in thought. I have someone very close to me going to Iraq soon. Very soon. Everything will be fine I am sure No matter how much faith you have there is still a bit of worry that slips in.

But on to my passion and progress.
I have pockets ready to go. I really love making totes and purses. The creativity just wears me out somedays with all the ideas I get. I have taken to writing them down if I can. But ya know when I have one of those really great ideas I never seem to have paper or anything else to write on. Oh maybe a tissue but that sure doesn't hold up well for writing on. And the memory goes before I get to the paper.

The bags are coming along quite well. I am just taking it in stages.

I am chasing rabbits today. I just had a thought. I have been watching for the hummingbirds to start showing up. There is just nothing more fun that watching the hummers eating. We discovered we could pull them in last year just before they all left. But so fun to watch.

2009-03-24T11:27:00.001-04:00

2009-03-21T11:00:00.003-04:00

I just thought that since I was talking about my patchwork bags that maybe I should add one. It is really hard to pick, but I liked this one. It ended up being a gift for a very good friend.

2009-03-21T10:34:00.003-04:00

I have been really busy of late. I have a part time job plus I am in the process of making 18(maybe 22) bags for a friend of my son. She is a really nice girl and is part of the Job's Daughters. She is being install as a state Queen. I decided the best way for me to accomplish this large task was to start with the most important ones first. Which is the top 3 that are all patchwork with embroidery. The outer shell of those 3 are almost done. Then I can stitch them. Yeah!!!!!!
I have discovered that this is really a new thing to me, the blogging that is. But I have had suggestions of trying a tutorial, so that could be coming down the road. But first I have to finish these bags. It really sounds sort of exciting to share with others what I find the most fun. Which by the way isn't necessarily making just bags, but just being creative and having an open mind to new things.

I hope others who share my passion for trying new things will visit my blog on occasion and enjoy my ideas.

My passion

2009-02-25T08:59:00.003-05:00

About this bag. It looked like pinwheels to me. Sooooo I decided that I needed to accent that and I appliqued a pinwheel on the front. This is one that I call a bucket bag. Carry your lunch or your knitting or just whatever.

Well at this point in time I am really into making totes and purses. It seems that the more I do the more ideas I get. My friends are loving it because they always seem to get gifts. Once in a while I sell one. This is a hobby that I want to stay a hobby. Hobbies are fun and jobs are not. Maybe I will put in a picture, Maybe.

The Whys

2009-02-20T10:57:00.000-05:00

I started this blog to have a place to put ideas that I have come up with while creating. Some are very original. Some are combinations of others that I have seen. I am into techniques and what I can do to make them work for me. Most of the things I do started somewhere and have been tweaked to the point that they no longer resemble where they originated. I just can't seem to leave things alone.