What happened in the whirlwind?

     Every year I think because I have a set of lists and plans the holiday season will be manageable. Apparently I live in a delusion. I got creamed by the running around, resulting migraines, food prep, and family stuff. Like getting a cortisone shot in your neck the afternoon before Christmas Eve and then doing Christmas dinner shopping is a recipe for disaster. My sewing studio, (the old living room) had to be all tucked away because the Christmas dinner buffet was going on its long counter. 

     Even the cat preferred to be in a bag. He still managed to cause trouble (chewing/shredding egg cartons everywhere and throwing up the evidence).
      This is why my grand plan to put up my new goals on January 1st did not materialize. I did write them and evaluate last year's, but did not type them in here yet.
     I made a bunch of gifts before Christmas but forgot to photo them in my haste to wrap them. My daughter sent some photos of the purses I made her thankfully. 

     I will get those goals up and some photos of quilts worked on shortly.

Vintage Sewing Machine Purse

     I really, really love cloth purses. However, I am a bit 3D challenged in sewing. I was recommended at a quilt show to give the Barbados bag by Pink Sand Designs a try because the directions were clear. They were clear except for one small spot that had to do with the lining. I used the vintage sewing machine fabric I bought a little while ago. I have enough to make another purse I think. I love the zippers and pockets. I did use Soft and Stable instead of fusible fleece. I think fusible fleece is too flimsy for a purse. I have never liked the way it works out. The Soft and Stable helps it keep its shape and sit up. I am so enamored with it that I have not put my stuff in it and used it yet.

Back

Front

Top

Inside pockets

Cross body bag

Journey Bag is Done!

   Today, I finished the Journey Bag. I saw it when I visited the vendors at Quilting by the Lake in July and bought it based on the finished one they had on display. The pattern photo does not show off the bag. To say I had difficulty with it is an understatement. My friend, Pat, came over and helped me make paper pattern pieces so we could see how the fabric was to go. This helped immensely. Second, there are too many pieces for such a small bag. I would like to make another one, but I have to rethink how to combine pieces and steps. Pat helped immensely to get all the fabric decided, cut out and labeled. All the interfacings also. 
   Next, my guild friend, Cathy, helped me sort out how to put the zipper in (20+ years since I sewed a zipper) and sew the bag to the lining and turn it. After I went home I could do that. I did not make the strap, I bought cotton pre-made strapping. So, I finished it and don't like the knot that ties on the handle. Have to figure that out. Looks lumpy.
   When I tried it on and filled it up, everything fits, but it is too tight. If I take the iPad out, I can get my hand in the purse. I don't know if I make it a couple of inches wider, if that would handle and solve it. I just have a hard time figuring 3D stuff.
   I like the fabric and the basic look, but the pattern needs to be simplified. Guess I need more expert help.

SIde with iPad pocket

Side with pocket for cell phone and two front pockets

VIew of bag from top

Inside pocket, tight fit

Better fit with iPad out of front pocket

Lots of inside pockets

   On Friday, I will be hosting a FREE FRIDAY PATTERN giveaway. You will just have to comment and let someone else know about this blog. I will send it to you, if chosen, free and free shipping.