artsy-crafty babe

two

Hold on to your horses, are you ready? (drum-roll please.........)  this weekend I made not 1 but 2 bags!  Woohoo!!  And they're cute, if I do say so myself.  I'm not sure what got into me, but I was in the mood to sew.  Well, that chunk of time in a an empty quiet house had something to do with it.  Yes, there was a time when I'd make 2 bags in an afternoon, but I'm pretty sure those days are behind me for now.  Two in a weekend is good enough :) 

One of my goals this summer to make new samples of all my patterns for a fresh look.  I'm just plain tired of looking at the same old pictures!  I'm starting with the oldest, working up to the newest.  This weekend I tackled the Lily Beth and the Short & Sassy.  I had forgotten how fun the Short & Sassy bag is.  After being on a big bag kick for years, it was nice to make a smaller bag.  Lily was in love with it, in fact she wanted it for herself.  She said it was just her size. 

The ruffle was added for a little fun, along with the covered button.  I love ruffles and covered buttons! Apparently I was feeling hot pink because both bags are drenched in it.  I love all the fabrics I used, but I especially love that pink and orange print on the Lily Beth. Both the fabrics on that bag are by Jennifer Paganelli. 

After my success using muslin as interfacing on my applique bags, I decided to try something different on these - I used canvas as the interfacing.  Oh my goodness, I love it!

It's no secret that I'm not all that fond of interfacing in general and I absolutely hate fusible interfacing, so I'm always on the lookout for other alternatives.  I think using canvas for is a perfect solution for me.  No, it isn't the cheapest method out there, but so far I'm happy with how the bag feels - sturdy and durable without feeling stiff.  I'm going to play with this idea a little more before I become a total convert, but I'm on the way there. 

Okay, now here's a little bit of crazy...I must have a really bad memory, or big lack of self-confidence because I impressed myself with these patterns.  I know that sounds strange considering that I made these patterns, but I went into this project expecting these patterns to not be so good. They were my first, made 3+ years ago, and I've learned a lot since then.  

Much to my surprise, these first patterns were well made!  It's funny how we can skew things in our minds.  

I'm glad I decided to revisit these first patterns because they've given me the boost to finish up the two new patterns I have in the works!  Now that I'm in the bag making mood, expect more in the near future.  Up next, Pretty in Pleats and the Erica Bag!!

 

moving on...what's in the works

Sorry, I can't leave that negativity hanging out there as the first post you read on my blog, so lets look at something pretty, shall we? 

I've been working on a new pattern.  Well, revisiting is more like it.  Last summer I made 2 new patterns, but for some reason I got them both near completion then didn't do a thing with them.  Why?  Who knows!  I even got as far as making a sample for the cover image.  Yes, I'm a dork.  When I revently opened the files I was surprised at how close to competion they were - one was actually done.  Anyway, I've been working on tweaks and making new samples.

I'm kind of in love with that yellow.  Yes, it is a thrift store sheet score.  LOVE it.  See that pretty vintage pillowcase there?  I've been thinking of using it as the base of a mini-quilt.  Something with my hand stitched applique.  I had to throw the yellow in, just to see.

Speaking of that applique, I'm still quite involved.   Another butterfly in the works (on my fav yellow print!).  I haven't lost my love of hand sewing and vintage sheets just yet.  In fact, I seem to be seeking out projects to make with them.  Fabric roses?  Of course!

With all these 'in the works' projects going on, I'm sure I'll have something completed to show you soon :) 

 

pattern giveaway

Please pardon my stupidity.  You'd think by now I'd remember to offer a giveaway with the release of a new pattern - duh!!  I have no excuse other that my usual absent mindedness due to trying to juggle a million things at once.

In honor of the giveaway (and because I didn't want to post the same photo of a Nanette tote again) I decided to make another one.  With spring on my mind, I used my favorite vintage sheet with a  bit of ric rack and a covered button, just because.

My weekend was busy full of basketball games & birthday parties so mot much "making" took place.  By Sunday evening I was craving some time with my sewing machine, so a new Nanette tote seemed like a logical choice.  I'm sure y'all understand.

Oh yes, I'm sure y'all want to know about the giveaway - just leave a comment on this post and be sure that you've entered your email address somewhere so that I can get in touch if you win.  By the way, can I mention how annoying I find it when in order to win something you have to practically sign away your first born?  Enter here, tweet this, follow that...no thanks.  All I need is a comment, easy peasy.  Three lucky winners will receive a Nanette tote pattern, or another artsy-crafty babe pattern of your choice.  I'll leave comments open for a week, choosing a winner with the random number generator Sunday January 30th.  Good luck and Happy Monday!!

p.s. if you're interested in this bag or any others, just email me.  

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#192 - Marcia

#188  - Jabba

#17 - Patricia

All winners have been emailed.

the Nanette tote

Did you catch it in my last post?  My latest pattern, the Nanette tote is ready for purchase.  I can't wait to see what y'all come up with on this one!  

Did you know that there's an artsy-crafty babe pattern flickr group?  If you make one of my patterns be sure to add it to the group.  I plan to start featuring your creations here every so often (once or twice a month??) along with a little giveaway if you get chosen. I'm a little embarrassed that I haven't done this already.  Thanks to all of you who have been adding to the group already!

Here you go, the Nanette tote!!

You can get it right here, here, or here.

As always, if you have any questions, just ask!! (or if you see any mistakes, please let me know :-))

bags, bags, bags

No more sneak peeks, here they are - my newest bags!  

All I can say is that I hit 2011 running!  These bags actually started with these.  As soon as I made them, I had the next version worked out in my mind, but then sickness and the holidays hit.  Thankfully, the idea never left my head (a miracle), so as soon as things settled down, I got busy with my sewing machine.

This orange & pink one was the first I made.  It was love at first sight - exactly what I had in mind!  (love that!!)  

I then immediately went up to my sewing room and picked out the "good fabrics".  I had been saving this fabric combo for just the right project.  

As much as I liked that bag, I had to make another.  I dug around for the perfect fabric.  Oh my, how I love this one!  The print fabric is by Alexander Henry from the Matisse collection.  Have I ever mentioned that Matisse is one of my favorite artists?  The moment I saw this fabric I had to have it.  This bag is MINE!  I haven't carried a bag that I made since the fall, so a new artsy-crafty babe bag was long over due.

Oh, and there will be a pattern.  Soon.  Very soon.  I've been a woman possessed!!

market bag

 
The pattern is ready to go!  It is listed in my etsy shop and on my patterns page.  I hope y'all like it :)

new bag + winner + sale

When I started thinking about what I wanted to make last night, a bag isn't what I had in mind.  I really wanted to start on a quilted pillow, but I didn't have the time for that.  I wanted needed some instant gratification, so a bag it was. 

Do you kinda sorta recognize the shape?  It's my Round Yoke pattern.  I used the back/lining piece for the body instead of the front with the inset.  I'm not sure this is the best shape at the bottom, but I was short on time, so I went with what I had.  If I were to make this style again, which I'm pretty sure I will, I plan to do something a little different.

I started out by extending the top about 2".  I made the exterior and lining exactly the same, then sewed them together just as you would any other bag.  I then folded the top down at the sides to make a channel at each side.  I made one long strap the width of my fabric (44"), threaded it through the side channels, then sewed the ends together.

I thought at this point I was done, but it didn't look right.  I tried scrunching the sides up to expose more strap, but it was still off - the handles didn't quite lay how I wanted them.  So, I flipped the strap up at each opening at a right angle (I sewed the straps down at this point).  That was better...but still a little off.  The front and back gaped a bit, so I added a little tuck/pleat at the center front and back.  That was it!  I think it turned out pretty darned cute.

This one will probably go to my girls - it has no pockets or closure because I didn't want to invest the time on a prototype (I was going for instant gratification, remember?).  Wouldn't this style be cute as a large beach bag or market tote?  I think so.  Yes, the next one will be large...I can see it now!!

Okay, I know this is what you've been waiting for, the winner of the Stitch prize package goes to...

Comment #16 was written by Lera of The Sky is Pink!  Yay Lera!!  Lera was one of my first blogging friends way back when I started this gig, so I'm super happy that she won. 

And just because I'm feeling generous, how about another winner?  I'm sure I can find something in my sewing room to make somebody happy...

 Comment #18 was by Pieceful Threads.  Congrats!  You'll be hearing from me soon :)

And now for my shop announcement :: SALE!

Everything in the shop will be on sale until May 9th, Mother's Day.  If a pattern is sold out in my etsy shop (I don't always get the patterns re-listed as quickly as I'd like), you can always purchase it here, which should never be sold out.  Thanks so much for your support!

i'm a cover girl!

Well, not exactly me, but one of my bags is a cover girl.  Yep, that little cutie clutch on the cover of the  Spring 2010 issue of Stitch magazine is MINE!!  I always feel a little weird about tooting my own horn, but if there's anyone I want to share this with, it's most certainly y'all.  It's killed me not to share this news, which I've known about for a few months.  Having projects in publications is nothing new for me (always thrilling -  it never gets old), but making the cover is even more exciting.  I can't wait to get my hands on an issue!!! 

If you've read my blog for a while, I'm sure you'll see the evolution of this clutch - from this to this to what you see above.  It's funny how that works out, at least I think so.  Truthfully, I'd like to thank y'all for making this happen.  If it weren't for your comments, encouragement, and inspiration I'm not sure that I'd keep making variations of a theme and be at the point in my 'crafting career' (is that such a thing?) where I am now.  Never in a million bazillon years did I ever dream that I'd have sewing projects published in books & magazines.  I've come a long way from the 'Things to Make' section of Highlights!!  I owe it all to this little ole blog and the wonderful, supportive blogging community.  Thanks, friends!

How about a give away?  Would you like a copy of this issue?  Just leave a comment and I'll throw your name in a hat for a copy of the magazine plus some other goodies.  I'll leave comments open until sometime next week then draw a name (don't you like how specific I am?).  Good luck!!

***winner to be announced soon!

spring bag

I've started to clean up my sewing studio, started being the key word.  While moving some piles I came across this bag that I started before I the whole Spring Collection took hold.  Everything was cut out and ready to go (even the pockets)...gosh, that makes bag making so much easier!  It took me almost no time to complete it. If I remember correctly, this was supposed to be my spring bag.

Well, it's still spring, so this is my new bag :-)  To make this, I used the lining pattern pieces of my Short & Sassy pattern.  This bag is a bit larger than the the Short & Sassy bag, but only by accident.  I had the wrong setting on my printer, so when I printed it, the pattern printed much smaller.  Instead of reprinting it (the easy option, which I never seem to take), I sliced the pattern to make it larger, guestimating the size. I over estimated.  Oh well, I like a larger bag anyway.

If I were to make it again this size, I'd probably increase the bottom darts because it seems a little flat.  I think it looks fine as is, just saying.  The flower was made using instructions from Fun to Wear Fabric Flowers.  I've had the book for a while, but this was the first thing I ever made from it.  I think it added a fun touch, for spring and all.

I decided to get ample with the pockets.  I added 2 large divided pockets to the interior to organize all my stuff.  I never seem to be able to find anything in my bags.  I'm hoping this will help - it usually doesn't, but I'm crossing my fingers.

Speaking of patterns, I've been wanting to revisit my designs to show you some different ways of using them - like using the lining of the Short & Sassy for the look without the pleats.  For my next pattern, I was going to focus on the Pleated Tote Bag from Dottie Vintage - does that sound good?  Good. 

Well, today starts a long holiday weekend that I've very much been looking forward to. Lots of relaxing and visiting is in order (and some boiled crawfish later this afternoon!).  So, if you'll excuse me, I'm off with my new spring bag and Lily as my companion to check out a new thrift store in town.  I hope I find some goodies!!

a year of making

It's always fun to look back on the year to see what has been accomplished.  In my mind, it doesn't seem like I accomplished all that much, but when I went back through my photos - holy crap!  Seriously, did I do all that?  I have the photos to prove it, so I guess I did. **warning, photo heavy post!

It looks like I sure got into my knitting groove this year!  Over the course of this year I completed 8 sweaters.  Of those eight completed projects, three of those were baby sweaters, two were short sleeved and one was a vest.  I also managed to end up with 6 wip's (works in progress).  Oh Christmas day Matt and I each wore a hand knit to church, which I thought was pretty cool.  I still need to post about his vest and my finished red featherweight sweater.

I had kind of forgotten about this category, but I also managed to sew some things for myself and my girls.  Back in the early spring I got on a dress kick, resulting in 5 dresses for me.  There was also a dress for my friend's daughter, a first communion dress for Lily, a birthday dress for Ava, a pillowcase dress for Craft Hope and 2 Alabama Stitch skirts for me (which are my favorites of them all).

Participating in two quilting bees made quilts a constant in my making.  It's been a lot of fun trying out different quilt blocks.  I also completed 4 quilts (2 for me, 2 given away) and started a few quilt tops as well.  Piecing a quilt top is my go to craft when I feel the need to just play with fabric.  Quilts are such a satisfying thing to make.

Some time this summer I got on a home decorating kick.  After 5 years in our house I was ready for some change and wanted things finished.  I'm the queen of half-finished decorating projects!  My focus was my living room and the girls' room.  I made pillows, 2 chair slip covers (for the same chair), a table skirt, a bookcase skirt, curtains, a futon cover, and more pillows.  I never did give you a full reveal of either of these rooms, but they're coming.  As soon as I take down all my holiday decorations I'll show you my living room, but I'm still finishing up the girls' room.  Just this past week I did a lamp project and hung some art on their walls, so it's almost there.  I'm determined to get their room FINISHED.

Last but not least, bags.  Ah, bags.  Can I really count all the bags I've made this year? I had photos of 27 bags in my flickr set, but I know there were more than that.  I don't usually take photos of custom orders and I don't seem to have any photos of the bags I made for my pattern covers.  What can I say?  I love to make bags.  In all my bag making, I came out with 5 patterns, one for free, three for purchase (which are still on sale in my shop), and one in Stitch.  I'd say that was a pretty good bag year!

Dang, what a year!  I'm starting to think that 2010 needs to be the year of rest and slowing down.  Who am I kidding, I can't sit still long enough for that.  I promise, I am NOT a robot, but I may be a little crazy ;-)

Thank you all for sharing this knitting-sewing-making journey with me.  All your encouragement and kind words really do mean the world to me.  One thing I'm not so proud of in 2009 is my lack of comment replying - sorry about that.  One of my goals for 2010 is to do better in that department.  My interaction with you all is what makes this fun for me.  Please know that I do read each and every comment you leave me.  Thank you for taking the time to stop by here.

Well friends, Happy, Happy New Year!!  I wish you all the best in this upcoming year.  Here's to another crazy craft filled year in 2010!!!