sewtakeahike

Out of the box

I've kind of been in a sewing funk this last week or so.  Normally, I get excited about sewing projects that produce something functional (you've probably all picked up on this with the number of bags I make).  This week however, I have not wanted to make anything that is useful or "makes sense" to me.  This is completely out of character.  The themes to the things I am inclined to make are 1. function and  2. useful.  It's not very often that I have made something just because it's cute.  However, I always try to combine the cuteness factor into something that is functional and useful.  Today, I'm climbing out of that self-imposed box of "if I can't use it, I don't want to waste my time making it" attitude.  I think it all started with an email I sent to Alpa, suggesting some sewing projects for her to try.  The power of suggestion must be real, because I took my own advice! 

"Bella" is made of totally thrifted materials (which you know totally floats my boat) except for the thread.  The pattern is from this book.

So I pose a question for you, what kind of crafter are you?  Do you create for function, or for cuteness or both?

                  ~Penny 

perfectly spoiled!

I really am.  Let me show you why. 

First, this lovely soft comfy cozy wrap a kitten around your neck scarf came in the mail from Sarah, totally unexpected and just because she's so stinkin' sweet.

and THEN, within a matter of days, THIS

came in the mail from Sarah as well to say happy birthday to me!  So sweet. 

Although I have not been posting a lot the last week or so, I really have been busy.  I sent this special order camera bag and cozy off in the mail (along with a few other goodies that I will wait to share)

and also finished up this camera bag and cozy.

And lastly, check out these beautiful sheets I found at the thrift store this week

I can't wait to see what they become!  Oh happy day!

~Penny

pillowcases for Mom-in-law and thrifting bootie

                                           

You remember this fabric from a couple posts ago?  Well, I decided to make pillowcases out of it for my mother-in-law.  (since I choose not to make clothing for anyone but me and my husband.  It's hard enough for me to make something that fits either of us well!)  I sent them to her last week and she loves them.  Her favorite color is yellow, so that's why I chose the yellow ruffles.  (And thank-you Glynis for the yellow gingham fabric scraps!)                

                                             

And look at these thrift store finds from yesterday!  I was so excited to find 3 sheets and one pillowcase (the top one).  Also, the hand embroidered table runner and 2 hankies.  I'm thinking of sewing the hankies together to make a cute spring/summer tote or bag.  What do you think?

                                                             

~Penny

Green wool + brown plaid = (drumroll)... giveaway!!

Could it be a match made in heaven?  I bought this olive green wool skirt at the thrift store a couple months ago for another purpose, so really, this skirt has been REpurposed twice by me!!  So here is the progression: 

• said skirt partially seam ripped (I must have been too excited to get a proper before shot)

• seam ripped and pressed skirt with pattern, waiting to be pinned and cut.  (I made this pattern by eyeballing other purses I like and the pattern pieces are made from some interfacing I bought at a garage sale)

• finished handbag with hand stitching and detail shots

I used a tutorial from the creative little daisy website to insert the zippered pocket in the lining.  It's my first, I am so proud!!

Now, for the exciting news!  Leave a comment on this post between now, Sept 7 and then, Sept 12th, and I will draw names and YOU, yes YOU, could win this handbag!

~Penny

Lookie here, a "refashioned" business card holder

I was recently chastised by a colleague of mine for not carrying business cards for our business.  I put my tail between my legs and immediately went home and put some cards in my purse so I would have them at all times.  This in turn, inspired me to make my very own business card holder.

The leather is from a thrifted leather coat, and the inside and binding is just from my scrap pile leftover from a  Nappy bag I made for a friend who had a baby. 

So now, not only do I have business cards on my person at all times, they have their own little safe place in my purse!

I think I would change a few things if I decide to make another, but I think it turned out pretty good for the first time 'round!

~Penny