Purse Blog

sweet pea inside

2012-02-12T20:54:00.001-05:00

sweet pea inside
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

You can see the pretty labelsmy friend from Brazil sent me. Thank you Silvia. Kisses

sweet pea outside

2012-02-12T20:53:00.001-05:00

sweet pea outside
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

sweet pea outside

pretty Shadow Flower fabric b y Windhanm made in a pattern called Sweet Pea, It has a magnetic closure and a zipper inside small pocket and an inside slip in pocket too. Straps can be carried or worn on the shoulder.

Lucille Bag 004

2012-02-08T10:07:00.001-05:00

Lucille Bag 004
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Well, here is the finished product of the Lucille Bag-my new pattern from Abbey lane Quilts. I really like the way it self cinches when you pick it up. Of course, I can't seem to totally stick with a pattern. Using the fusible fleece made it too thick to gather all the way through outside and inside, so I did the next best thing by using strip of elastic on each side. I put it inside and sewed it from the inside using black thread.
You may notice, I quilted the outer bag in the triangles too. The bag does not call for pockets, but I think you could put them in if you want them. I do like pockets, but decided it might just be too much trouble. Maybe next time?
LOL
The pattern had templates to cut out the corners in a rounded shape and also to cut out the semi circle in the middle of the bag. Then you cut a small triangle beside the top.
Anyway, I really enjoyed the pattern and like the way it turned out.
I love using Batiks.

Lucille Bag 005

2012-02-08T10:02:00.001-05:00

Lucille Bag 005
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

This is how the bag looks just sitting around and does not gape as I used a magnetic snap. I bought some on ebay and they are so strong it is unbelievable. And the little tip is minute.Good thing I reinforced under the lining pieces with heavy double sided fusible craf Tex by bosal and then ironed on a piece of Therm o Web Soft cotton woven interfacing. Pretty big pieces actually.

Lucille Bag 007

2012-02-08T10:00:00.001-05:00

Lucille Bag 007
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is the inside of my Lucille bag I made using Batik Fabrics. It also shows the purse organizer I ordered from Hong Kong on ebay. you can see the little white strips on each side of the bag where I put in a piece of elastic to inplace of gathering,.I did this instead because I used heavy Bosal fusible fleece on the outside and didn't think it would gather. the pattern from abbey Lanes Quilts did not call for interfacing. It called for an extra layer with the lining using canvas..I have not had a lot of luck with canvas so I just used the fusible and I am happy.

bag for parker

2012-01-23T19:26:00.001-05:00

bag for parker
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

bag for parker

2012-01-23T19:25:00.001-05:00

bag for parker
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

bag for parker

2012-01-23T19:24:00.001-05:00

bag for parker
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I made this little tote for Parker-son of friend Linda's cousin Paige who was in town visiting. He loved the books and the little bag. I used to love to read these books to my kindergarteners when I taught school.
Used the spot fabric by andover inside and out. Love this

Basic Ttoe Bag Tutorial

2012-01-18T12:44:00.001-05:00

http://users.zoominternet.net/~bbcarter/totebag.doc
I developed this tutorial a few years back to help people just starting out who did not know how to make a basic tote bag with inside pockets and interfacing and magnetic closure.

lovey lynn

2012-01-15T09:34:00.001-05:00

lovey lynn
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here's a shot from the outside.

lovey lynn make up bag

2012-01-15T09:33:00.001-05:00

lovey lynn
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I just love this bafric by Moda called chocolate. It is a few years old but one I really fell in love with.

art student tote

2012-01-15T09:02:00.001-05:00

art student tote
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

art student tote
When I was in Texas at the International Quilt Market I went to Anna Maria Horner's class and she showed and talked about this pattern. It was made in her new fabric of velvet. Gorgeous.

getta grip clips 002

2012-01-15T09:01:00.001-05:00

getta grip clips 002
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

These are the greatest clips and work wonderfully=especially on a strap or around the top of a bag. I know they would work on anything. No more sticking yourself. I ordered these from California from the designer in his shop. Then when I went to Texas I met him. fabuous guy.

Lovey lynn in Florida's new bag I made

2012-01-15T08:59:00.001-05:00

Lovey lynn in Florida's new bag I made
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I bought this pattern from Etsy in PDF form and it is called Darla. I decided to use it to make Lovey Lynn's bag so it wouldn't be exactly like Lovey Mimi's bag. It turned out cute too.

lovey's christmas

2012-01-15T08:19:00.001-05:00

lovey's christmas
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

This is the make up bag I made to go with Lovey's bag. She loved it so much and held it up for the picture. We were at her house enjoying a pre christmas celebration and delivious dinner.
She and husband Kent really know how to entertain.
she loved this make up bag as it is big enough to hold all her stuff.

lovey's christmas

2012-01-15T08:18:00.001-05:00

lovey's christmas
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is the last purse I made right before Christmas for cousin Lovey-Mimi- which she loved. I used some fabric I had saved for a long time. It is Moda Chocolate patchwork and flowered inside and out. I love this fabric by # Sisters.
Lovey loved it so much she wanted her sister Lovey Lynn to have one too....so recently I made one for her too. She lives in Florida and I still haven't sent it.

sewspurses' photostream

2011-12-28T14:00:00.001-05:00

sewspurses' photostream on Flickr.

These are pictures of my cousin Lovey's home decorated for Christmas and my friend Linda. Lovey had us for a delicious dinner and lovely fellowship.

2011-12-19T20:14:00.000-05:00

I have not been good to post and I don't have a real good excuse, except I have had a lot of orders for purses to make for people....then I went to Texas to the International Quilt Market the end of Oct. I walked myself to death and saw lots of new things for sewing like fabrics, patterns, etc.

You just can't imagine how huge it is and how many vendors. The day before I left I had palpitations and was so exhausted I had to go to bed. I slept all afternoon too exhausted to go to dinner so I had room service.

I made it home and didn't feel any better all week so Sunday I went to the ER and spent the night in the hospital to find out my magnesium level had gone low which was the problem. Now I am finally starting to feel like my old self.

Here are some pictures of Texas -some of the classes and demos I attended.

Eay Peazy above

Patty Yound

Patty Young

Anna Horner

satchel close up

2011-09-11T20:34:00.001-04:00

satchel close up
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

inside of satchel

2011-09-11T20:33:00.003-04:00

inside of satchel
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

satchel aivilo charlotte alittle larger

2011-09-11T20:33:00.001-04:00

satchel aivilo charlotte alittle larger
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

side

satchel

2011-09-08T08:18:00.001-04:00

satchel
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I like this view because it shows the side pockets better and the handles and lining all matching. Love Robert Kaufman fabric.

Aivi;o Satchel Bag

2011-09-07T22:06:00.001-04:00

Aivi;o Satchel Bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is a good picture of the inside and y ou can even see some of the 2 inside pockets with coordinating fabrics.

Aivi;o Satchel Bag

2011-09-07T22:05:00.001-04:00

Aivi;o Satchel Bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I bought this pattern on etsy in pdf form and made it yesterday and today and love it. The fabrics are robert Kaufman Night and Day red white and black. It is fabulous fabric and I am hooked. The lining is like the bottom and the straps and outside pockets.

lottie dotjennifer jangles

2011-08-28T20:35:00.003-04:00

lottie dotjennifer jangles
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

lottie dot jennifer jangles

2011-08-28T20:35:00.001-04:00

lottie dot jennifer jangles
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

lottie dot jennifer jangles

2011-08-28T20:32:00.001-04:00

lottie dot jennifer jangles
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

renee 008

2011-08-28T20:31:00.003-04:00

renee 008
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

inside

renee pattern

2011-08-28T20:31:00.001-04:00

renee pattern
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

finished

Renee Tote Bag Pattern

2011-08-21T21:26:00.001-04:00

When I went to Cincinnati in April, I bought several patterns I had never seen before and loved the looks of this pattern....but I couldn't understand how to do step 1.

http://jeanycreations.com/24201.html

I finally decided to look at the web site and found that this lady has designed several purses and had her contact address @ of course. So, I emailed her and was pleasantly surprised when she answered the very next day with a detailed further explanation and her phone number for me to call her. she even offered to call me if it was long distance. How nice and refreshing to meet someone who is so helpful.Seems like i often need help.

I have to admit that after she sent the email, I read and re read it several times and decided to get started. i cut out the fabrics and sewed on the batting and ironed on the interfacing, and finally it was time to start the darts. I recruited George, my husband, to help. He stood with a magnifying glass and the pattern and I sat at the kitchen table with pins and the pattern piece and surprisingly i figured it out.

Now I have finished both front pieces and sewn the band and the loops and pinned the handles and am ready to attempt the inside zipper pocket. I have done these before, but these directions are totally different and "foreign" to me. So i think I will stop sewing and keep reading. LOL

More to come

Lottie Dot Bag by Jennifer Jangles

2011-08-10T22:25:00.000-04:00

Lottie Dot Bag

Pattern by Jennifer Jangles

Fabric and Buttons by

Jennifer Jangles

I just returned from a trip to Alaska and found this fabric and buttons at a lovely fabric store in Juneau. I had ordered the pattern before I left from Etsy and was anxious to make it.

I enjoyed making the flower for the pocket too as I love these flowers which are like the Brasilian ladies make.

Back view

Inside

Halloween Bag

2011-08-03T22:42:00.001-04:00

Halloween Bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is the inside.

Halloween bag

2011-08-03T22:29:00.001-04:00

Halloween bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I made myself a bag for Halloween. I really enjoyed making this bag using a McCall's pattern. It has green interior with Halloweeen fabric pockets lines in green. the inside gusset is Halloween and I put a key loop and magnetic closure on tabs.

Adrinda bag Pattern by ithinksew

2011-07-16T10:27:00.000-04:00

I found this PDF pattern on Etsy and bought it the other day. I really enjoyed making it and I love the shape. I used heavier fabrics for it but also lightly interfaced the outside fabric. The handles are braided, which added a cute touch.

This shows the inside with a zippered pocket and on the other side of the lining is a slip in pocket. You can also see the handles.

I had a question about the inside zippered pocket as I could not tell from the pattern exactly how she did it. we wrote back and forth and finally I went ahead as I had previously done them.

Then she mentioned another file I should have had and sent it to me,. it all worked out and I like her and the pattern and the attention she gave me.

The Peace Sign Bag

2011-07-16T10:20:00.000-04:00

This is the back of the Peace Sign bag by Sweet Seams. I love this pattern too and love the way it turned out. This is one continuous pocket with 3 divisions-2 of which have button closures and the third has no closure but a little button closed pocket on the outside of it. It has pockets on the sides too.

This is a good view of the front, on which is supposed to be appliqued the peace sign. i chose to leave it off for now. You can see the side pocket too.

Around the top is a drawstring to cinch it up alittle or a lot or not at all. Your choice.

On the inside there is one tiny pocket for keys. Pockets are really not needed on the inside. Although you could put them when you make your own.
I put a tiny bit of the outside fabric around the bottom of the lining pieces because I thought it was too short. Turns out when I had it together it was not too short, so I ended up pulling the extra fabric on the top of the lining to the outside -making it a couple inches taller. I kind of like the "happy mistake" as George calls it.
It seems like every time I make something=no matter how hard I try to do it perfect and follow the pattern instructions= I make a few alterations, no pun intended.
The fabrics are Moda on the outside and free Spirit on the inside.

The Carrie Bag with a button closure

2011-07-16T10:09:00.000-04:00

I think this really helped me love this bag pattern even more. It is wide and sort of gaped open and now it is perfect.

These are McCall's patterns I think but called Sweet seams and really simple and easy to follow and on paper not the brown flimsey tissue paper.

The Carrie Bag by sweet Seams

2011-06-26T19:29:00.000-04:00

The inside and a clearer picture of the outside maybe.

The Carrie Bag by Sweet Seams

2011-06-26T19:26:00.000-04:00

I made this bag very quickly because it is the best pattern with wonderful directions and diagrams. I really love the way she wrote it.

I used the fabrics from the Celia line for Benartex.

This is the third time I have written this post and keep accidentally hitting enter and it goes away. LOL

International quilt festival in Cincinnati. Ohio

2011-04-14T09:37:00.000-04:00

I went last week to this event with my husband and we had a wonderful time. The quilts were marvelous and the vendors were so friendly and helpful. Of course, i shopped and bought tons of fabric and 16 purse patterns and a few other little things.
I will take pictures and post. i took them once and this week my computer crashed the hard drive and I had to get a new hard drive. I lost everything on my computer......
Guess I will start over.

My faborite Bag ++ Kati Cupcake Pattern

2011-04-03T18:11:00.000-04:00

I finished making this bag and boy was it a struggle. The pattern calls for fusible fleece on outside pieces and inside and the outside pockets and part of the inside and the bottom and also heavy duty on the bottom.

I have 2 favorite sewing machines. Baby Lock is my favorite, but it couldn't sew through the layers - even with a walking foot and a size 16 denim needle.

So, not to be undone or done in, I switched to my Janome 11,000 with a walking foot and size 16 needle. which I promptly broke-the needle that is- and the walking foot came off of its own accord. I discovered I had attached the walking foot incorrectly.

So, I got the WF on right and added a size 18 denim needle- just in case- and the Janome pulled through.

This bag also has 8 grommets that go through outside and inside, which was an ordeal.

Then after I got it almost finished and was ready to install the grommets, the inside pockets were too tall and bumping into where the grommets would be. So, I had to removed some of the separating stitching to make room.

The purse is so thick, I had a terrible time isntalling the grommets.

If I make it again, I will not use fusible fleece on everything but will use lightweight fusible cotton interfacing on part of it. I will install the grommets earlier if I canfigure out how to do it, LOL And I will make the inside pockets shorter,

The overall design is really pretty and I love her pattern. She included templates for some pieces and also probided color diagrams. Every little bit helps.

Take a peek.

I forgot to say that this bag is huge and has tons of inside pockets and outside and I think it might have been designed as a diaper bag. I really love the pattern and found it easy to follow. but would definitely alter it for my machines and talent.

In my ebay store, this has been my most popular pattern as of late.

There is also a pattern included for a diaper clutch or for wipies. I am going to make one to match the bag and use it as a make up bag.

cinch tote bag pattern from All People Quilt

2011-02-18T11:08:00.000-05:00

I have not been blogging but decided to day to get back to it.

I have been t Ky to a Quilting Seminar and made a quilt in cindy Casciato's class call Star Quilt. She is a fabulously talented and very sweet person and wonderful teacher. She had such patience with me and my lack of quilting skills and hampered close up vision.

Anyway, I started making Cinch Tote Bags last Fall and have made several. They have grommets which I am loving. You put the handles in through the grommet's and feel them out to the sides and sew them down to the side s. Then when you pick up the bag, it comes together at the top. Magic!!

When you set it down, you can see all your stuff and easily get to anything you want and the handles seem shorter.

The blue batik fabric is Benartex and quite lovely. I did the applique in Texas at the International Quilt Market and when i returned home i made the bag.

Here is another one made with Benartex Celia, By this time I had moved onto colored grommets. I Love this bag too.

This turned out adorable using Moda fabric-so nice to work with.

Visit my ebay store for purse making patterns and supplies

http://stores.ebay.com/Fabric-for-quilts-and-more

Stuffed Peppers

2010-08-12T11:26:00.001-04:00

Stuffed Peppers
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Last week my cousin Mimi made stuffed peppers and gave us some and we enjoyed them so much we wanted more.
I found a recipe on the internet called Dad's Stuffed Peppers and used it along with George's home grown tomatoes.
I removed the skins by dipping tomatoes in boiling water and then plunging them in ice water and squeezed them into small pieces.
I used brown rice from Minute rice in the little containers to microwave because we love it.

http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/dads_stuffed_bell_peppers/

I used 6 peppers and about 1 1/2 lbs. of groun chuck and I used the tomatoes and their juice and mixed the ketchup and Tabasco sauce and the Worcestershire Sauce in with the meat mixture and it totally filled up all the peppers and I added 1/4 cup water to the pan and baked it 50 min 350 degrees uncovered.

Alaska July 2010 cruise with In touch and Dr. Charles Stanley

2010-08-01T19:54:00.001-04:00

Alaska 160
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I have listened to Dr. Stanley for years and years and started listening to him when i lived with my daddy after my divorce. Michael and I both listened and I was so impacted by him and his teaching.

There is no one like him.

George and I went to the Martha's Vinyard Inspiration weekend where Dr. Stanley preached everyday for 5 days. It changed our lies.This was June 2010.

I knew when I returned home I wanted to go on the cruise which was a month later in July. Michael and I went and had the time of our lives.

BABY BIRDS 003

2010-05-14T19:17:00.001-04:00

BABY BIRDS 003
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

What a thrill to have this nest about 4 1/2 feel off the ground on this open shelf beside our garage. I have never seen baby birds this close.

presents from Silvia Penov

2010-03-31T14:55:00.001-04:00

presents from Silvia Penov
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I am so excited to show everyone the beautiful presents I received from my Brazilian friend Silvia. She made me the cutest scissor case with my name embroidered on it and her mother made me a gorgeous necklace and bracelet.

She also sent me 3 new magazines that have so many great patterns and tutorials in them.

And lastly, I received Brazilian fabrics!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My friend Silvia is famour in Brazil for her great purse patterns and is featured in the Bolsa magazine.
Lovely lady

Sew Along Hobo for Yahoo group

2010-02-09T16:04:00.001-05:00

Sew Along Hobo for Yahoo group
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I like this picture with the handle down. This is beautiful fabric and was such fun to sew.

I used Bosal fusible fleece on the outer bag and Bosal lightweight cotton fusible interfacing on the handle and inside bag,

Hobos are my favorite bags. i like a little bigger bag myself.

Sew Along Hobo 003

2010-02-09T16:02:00.001-05:00

Sew Along Hobo 003
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Picture 2

this shows the inside fo the bag with a zippered pocket and a slip in on the other side. You can also see the magnetic closure and the rings.

sew along hobo

2010-02-09T16:01:00.001-05:00

sew along hobo
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

http://www.jcarolinecreative.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Store_Code=JC&Screen=HOBO_BAG

My Yahoo purse Group called sewingtotebagsandpurses
is having a sew along hosted by Kathy our Moderator. This is my contribution to the effort. I used new fabric by Moda of Me and My Sister designers.

I had a real struggle with the bag but finally won out.

Make Up Bag Tutorial

2010-01-25T22:50:00.000-05:00

I want to warn anyone who looks at the tutorial that for some reason it came up backwards. I tried to avoid that in the postings, but I guess the truth is I am not so good at the google blog.

Sewing it up Last Part 5

2010-01-25T22:33:00.001-05:00

Sewing it up:
Unzip the zipper
Take the 2 pieces of outside fabric and put them together right
sides facing and sew up the sides and across the bottom.
Take the lining pieces and put them right sides facing and sew up
each side only.

Here you can see where I left the bottom part of the lining open.

*********It is at this point if you want your bag to stand alone
you can box the corners of both the bags before turning.
Take the side seam and the bottom seam and match them up
forming a triangle and sew across the end about 1 ½” from the tip
of the triangle. You would have to sew across t he bottom of the
lining leaving a 3” hole in the middle for turning.
Turning:
Reach through the end of the un- sewn lining and get a hold of the
outside part and pull it through the hole. Turn under the bottom of
the lining and pin and sew across. Tuck the lining down inside the
outside bag.

finished!!!!!!!!

Loop handle Part 4

2010-01-25T22:24:00.003-05:00

Loop:
Now is the time to add the loop. Take the piece of fabric and iron it
in ½ wrong sides together lengthwise and then tuck the long side
inward to the crease and iron again and top stitch down each side.
Fold in ½ and sew across the end.
Put this piece with the end along the side of the outside piece about
an inch under the zipper and the loop will not be sticking out.
Sew across the end a couple of times and only sew this on the
outside piece. Be sure and keep the lining pieces out of the way.

Last step of zipper Part 3

2010-01-25T22:23:00.001-05:00

Zipper Part 3

2010-01-25T22:22:00.002-05:00

side 1

shows the lining piece in place to sew and turn over to top stitch

top stitching

Putting in the zipper Part 3

2010-01-25T22:17:00.001-05:00

Zipper: 7”
Lay an outside piece right side facing you and lay the zipper down
about ¼” down along the long edge at the top right side of zipper
down and the edge even with the edge of the fabric. Pin and sew
along the edge all the way across with your zipper foot. Lay down
on top of this a lining piece wrong side up Pin it over the zipper
and re sew along the top edge through the lining piece and the
zipper side you already sewed. Turn the lining over and top stitch
on the edge of the fabric on the outside beside the zipper. Be sure
to pull the lining down smooth against the outside piece.
Now, take this whole piece you just sewed and lay the side with
the zipper down on top of the other outside piece right side facing
you. And pin and sew across the zipper onto the outside piece.
Then take the lining piece wrong side facing you and lay it on top
of what you just sewed and sew across it again. Turn the lining
piece over and top stitch. Now you should have the whole thing
laying flat with the zipper in the middle and the pieces on either
side.

Quilted outside piece Part 2

2010-01-25T22:14:00.001-05:00

Make up bag Quilting Part 2

2010-01-25T22:13:00.001-05:00

sandwich pieces ready to quilt

Make up bag Part 1

2010-01-25T22:06:00.001-05:00

Quilted Makeup Bag Tutorial Part 1

2010-01-25T22:04:00.002-05:00

Part 1

Quilted Make up Bag Tutorial by Barbara Carter

Cutting:
Cut 2- 9 ½” by 8” rectangles out of your outside fabric
Cut 2 pieces of muslin 10” by 10”
Cut 2 pieces of foam or batting 10” 10”
Cut 2- 9 ½” by 8” rectangles out of your inside fabric
Cut a strip of either fabric 3” by 9” for a loop handle if desired
Quilting:
Quilt the outside pieces by sandwiching the foam or batting in between
the muslin and outside fabric right sides out. You can
quilt it on the diagonal 1 ½” apart or your choice of design
Using your rotary cutter, even up the rectangles and be sure to cut
off the excess muslin and foam or batting.

another izzy and ivy purse-FARRAH

2010-01-09T21:47:00.001-05:00

regular shot
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I seem to be stuck on making izzy and ivy purses. First I made the ruffle bag twice and then I moved on to the Sassy Connie. Persevering, I made the Farrah and no( it is my favorite.
Of all the patterns so far (3) this is the easiest to read and follow. Yeah...
The fabrics are free spirit and the ruffle is marcus. It has 2 silver rectangle rings and no closure. It has an outside pocket and 2 inside slip in double pockets. I think it is adorable.

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag

2010-01-05T15:38:00.001-05:00

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Another close up.

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag

2010-01-05T15:37:00.003-05:00

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Close up of the new bag.

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag 018

2010-01-05T15:37:00.001-05:00

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag 018
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is a great shot of the inside with the zipper and the cell phone holder pocket is opposite the zipper pocket. You can also see the magnetic snap tabs. The pattern called for a strip of fabric to cover the sides at the top but I decided to make it a square and turn it to be trianges on both sides. It turned out quite cute I think.

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag

2010-01-05T15:35:00.001-05:00

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is a good shot of the outside of the bag=the side with no outside pocekt. The lining sticks up above the the outsdie.

I had a lot of fun making this bag even if it was challenging.

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag

2010-01-05T15:34:00.001-05:00

izzy and ivy sassy connie bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Just finished my new Izzy and ivy pattern-the sassy Connie Bag. This was a super challenge and really difficult for me to make. That said, I succeeded---finally.................

The bag is really 2 bags. and it took me awhile to figure it out due to a few typos in the pattern.This first picture shows an outside dot pocket and the straps with ring loops. it also shows the lining.

This is a large bag with tons of storage room and would be wonderful for traveling. It called for magnetic snaps in the lining, but my new favorite way to do this is using tabs sewn into the lining. I like that much better.
This fabric is Mary Engelbreit for Moda . Of course, I love the flowers, and that is why i bought this fabric.

Closer - better view of the ruffles

2009-12-29T14:50:00.001-05:00

has 4 round rings
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

inside of the Izzy and Ivy Penelope Ruffle Bag

2009-12-29T14:49:00.001-05:00

1inside
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

On the inside I used a free spirit pink that has some reds in it and it worked out fabulously.
I made magnetic snap tabs instead of attaching them in the lining and added an inside zipper pocket and a slip in double pocket.
It also has loops with 4 silver rings. I did follow the pattern except that I turned the bag instead of adding bias tape on the top and used the magnetic tabs.
Seems like I just can't follow a pattern completely....

Izzy & Ivy Penelope Ruffle tote

2009-12-29T14:47:00.001-05:00

Izzy & Ivy Penelope Ruffle tote
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I am fascinated with this pattern by Izzy and Ivy and this is the second one I have made. I made a black and white one and gave it to Connie. She was thrilled with it.
Then I decided I wanted one for myself. When the new Moda for valentine's Day arrived, I said yeahhhhhh. This is it.

Diaper Bag Tutorial

2009-12-05T14:45:00.001-05:00

I have decided to post my Marlee Bag Diaper Baby Bag tutorial for those of you interested in making one. It could very easily be adapted as a messenger bag too. Give it a try and let me know what you think. Send me a picture of yours if you make it and this is for personal use only. It is copyrighted. Thanks for looking.

let me know if you have any questions.
tutorial will be posted soon I promise.

christmas purse

2009-12-01T21:16:00.001-05:00

christmas purse
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Good over all shot of the purse with the inside peeking out and a tab and the webbing handle.

christmas purse inside

2009-12-01T21:15:00.001-05:00

christmas purse inside
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here's a good shot of the tabs I mentioned.

christmas purse close up

2009-12-01T21:14:00.001-05:00

christmas purse close up
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Close up shot showing the quilting and the stitching on the band made from Moda bias binding.

christmas quilted purse

2009-12-01T21:13:00.001-05:00

christmas quilted purse
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I just finished a purse to carry myself during the holiday season for Christmas.

My Bosal interfacing friend Drew sent me some thin foam to use instead of interfacing. I assume the best way to use it is to quilt the inside and outside fabric together.

It turned out great, and I was thrilled with the results. I used a french seam to finished where joining sides and bottom and installed magnetic snaps on tabs I made and sewed the tab only to the top band on the inside. I have been wanting to try that for ages.

The bag has shape and no bulk and went together quickly.

Moda toweling to make christmas tea towels

2009-11-28T21:28:00.001-05:00

Moda toweling to make christmas tea towels
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Isn't this beautiful cotton towel fabric? I think you could make napkins too or even use it for a tote bag. I love Moda fabric. Looking forward to Christmas.

somehow they all turned out alittle different

2009-11-13T20:41:00.001-05:00

somehow they all turned out alittle different
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I made baby bibs today!!!!!!!Such fun. I got the pattern free from chickpea online. I have a great niece and a great friend's daughter I am making these for. I started out with the baby bag-Marlee Bag I designed for my niece. Now I have moved onto bibs.
I also made the crayon caddies for the ones alittle older in the family.
Now I am waiting for the Happy Stacker pattern by Heather Bailey.
Not enough time in the day to sew. My dear mother, God rest her soul, loved to sew too and it is a shame she didn't live long enough to see me sew. Maybe she sees it anyway.

Inside with pocket

2009-10-31T15:05:00.001-04:00

Inside with pocket
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

This one is going off to Maine to a little 3 year old girl. Holds crayons and a big pocket for important papers. I used the Moda Birdie fabric inside and out and Bosal fusible fleece.

calendar holder -- outside

2009-10-31T13:14:00.001-04:00

calendar holder -- outside
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is the outside of the calendar.

calendar holder--inside

2009-10-31T13:13:00.001-04:00

calendar holder--inside
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I am all ready for 2010 with my new Moda calendar in a holder I made. I used the Moda Birdie fabric by me and my sister which I dearly love. I love pink and green together too.

birdie sling

2009-10-28T18:22:00.001-04:00

birdie sling
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Today i finished the second birdie sling I made for dee dee. I love the way it turned out. The fabric is free spirit and lovely. I love Amy Butler's patterns, because she goes into a lot of detail, and I am a detail person. Thanks to her Stash and Dash pattern I learned to put in zippers. I attended her school house session in 2008 at the International Quilt Market and she was delightful and so down to earth. Very natural person.

Al Fresco fabric using Birdie Sling pattern by Amy But;ler

2009-10-27T15:41:00.002-04:00

Al Fresco Birdie Sling
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I made this for DeeDee's mother or daughter I don't know which. I made DeeDee one and she loved it so much, and when she took it home her family wanted one too. So, sheasked me to make her a green one and I did. I love this Marcus fabric called Al Fresco. This is my favorite bag pattern and I always make myself one every season or so.

crayon caddy

2009-10-18T15:15:00.003-04:00

crayon caddy
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

crayon caddy

2009-10-18T15:15:00.001-04:00

crayon caddy
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

crayon caddy

2009-10-18T15:14:00.001-04:00

crayon caddy
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I made another crayon caddy and this time like a little portfolio with a holder for papers and coloring books etc and more crayons. I used the Moda Birdie fabric charm squares quilted. I also used the Bosal Craf-Tex to reinforce it and it opens up like a suit case and has velcro to close it.

crayon caddy back side

2009-10-17T15:10:00.001-04:00

crayon caddy
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Thought you might like to see the outside.

crayon caddy

2009-10-17T15:09:00.001-04:00

crayon caddy
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

While in texas i bought Japanese fabric called Happy go Lucky and used some of it today to make crayon caddies. I got the pattern from the internet from http://www.skiptomylou.org/2008/09/keep-on-rollin/
It is such a nice pattern with lovely directions and pictures. I just made mine to tie because I didn't have the cord stop she called for. I will get some and try again. I love the pattern/tutorial and her blog.

International Quilt Market in Houston 2009

2009-10-14T21:09:00.002-04:00

I just returned Monday from Houston and enjoyed so much attending the Quilt Market and seeing all the new products, fabrics, etc, for the sewing industry. While I was there, I helped out in the Bosal Foam and Fiber booth demonstrating my Marlee Baby Bag made using their fusible fleece, poly therm insulated fleece and their craf=Tex sew in heavy interfacing and lastly their cotton woven interfacing!!!!!!!!!For my great niece Marlee, I designed the bag and made the first one for her. Then we worked up the pattern on the computer and had it printed and I sold and gave away copies at the Market. I took several I made which are listed and shown here in the blog. I also made one 1/2 way so people could see the interfacings sewn and or ironed in.
The people from Bosal are fabulous and were great to me-even printed the pattern-and took me out to dinnerand gave me an opportunity to see the Market from the Vendor's prospective.It was fun and enjoyable.
I love their product because of the way my bags look and feel using it and because it is made in the USA.
I met a lot of great people there and enjoyed talking with them.
I went to the Moda Fabric/United Notions dinner and met some lovely ladies from California who make mosaic quilts based on architecture they see all over the world. So fabulous to talk with them.
When I left the Hilton to get a cab to the airport, I chatted with Kate Spain, Moda's newest designer, and we shared the long cab ride to the airport. She designs fabric, paper products, a lot of things. She was so great to talk with and so nice. It was my honor to meet her. Her fabric line is called Verna by Moda. Check it out.
The people at the Hilton and at the George Brown Convention center were wonderful and I really felt at home.
It is great to get outside and travel and see other parts of the usa.

new flower

2009-10-14T17:52:00.001-04:00

new flower
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I just can't stop making these fabulous flowers and love the way this one turned out. I bought a book about folding flowers Japanese style and this is my second one. So much fun to make.

pink baby bag

2009-10-14T17:51:00.001-04:00

pink baby bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I made this baby bag too from the Marlee Pattern and a blue one posted just like it. I can't stop making these fabulous bags.

diaper bag I designed called The Marlee Bag

2009-10-14T17:50:00.001-04:00

diaper
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is the very first bag I made and the one featured in the pattern I designed with tons of pictures.

blue baby bag

2009-10-14T17:48:00.001-04:00

blue baby bag 047
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

After making so many pink baby bags I had to make a blue one too.

another baby bag for friend drew

2009-10-14T17:47:00.001-04:00

another baby bag for friend drew
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I made this Marlee bag for friend Drew at the Bosal Foam and Fiber company in Maine. I use all their interfacings and helped out in their booth at Houston Quilt Market. Great people with a super product made in usa.

marlee bag pattern

2009-10-14T17:45:00.001-04:00

marlee bag pattern
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Here is a picture of the pattern in its plastic bag. It is booklet style and full color.

Birdie baby bag front

2009-10-14T17:44:00.001-04:00

Birdie baby bag front
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I wanted to show the bag from the front which also shows a peak of the lining. I love this fabric line and have the pink too. I sell this in my ebay store
http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Fabric-for-quilts-and-more_

Birdie baby bag side view

2009-10-14T17:42:00.001-04:00

Birdie baby bag side view
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

This is a side view of the Marlee Baby Bag pattern I had printed and copyrighted in honor of my niece Marlee. This one is the Birdie fabric line by Me and My Sister for Moda Fabrics. I love the bag and this shows the side pockets that are insulated to hold the bottles.

drawstring penny sturges

2009-08-25T20:34:00.001-04:00

drawstring penny sturges
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

more drawstrings............

pieced quilted bag 003

2009-08-25T20:33:00.001-04:00

pieced quilted bag 003
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

The other side of the quilted pieced purse.

pieced quilted bag

2009-08-25T20:32:00.001-04:00

pieced quilted bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

one side of the bag that I quilted.

jewelry bag Svenhilda's pattern

2009-08-25T20:31:00.001-04:00

jewelry bag Svenhilda's pattern
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I love this drawstring jewelry bag and enjoyed making it once I mastered the drawstring tunnel and button holes.

drawstring shopping bag

2009-08-25T20:29:00.001-04:00

drawstring shopping bag
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I am fascinated with making drawstring bags and made this one recently and love it.

special order braided handle bag

2009-08-25T20:27:00.001-04:00

other side
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

Everybody loves the braided handles I make with the diva weaver. I love this michael miller fabric too,

clutch

2009-08-25T20:25:00.001-04:00

clutch
Originally uploaded by sewspurses

I did my first embroidery with my new janome machine and then attached it to my new clutch I made. It is actually hot pink but looks coral to me in this pic, I really love my janome 11000se/ it is awesome.