Mandarin Kids' Clothes and a Fan Bag and some Fiori Fun

I've had a few projects in the works lately... I made two little girl outfits with a Mandarin flair. Both have Mandarin-style collars and I tried a variation on frog buttons for one. It was my first time using self-made covered shank buttons in a project of my own. I will definitely look into doing that, again.

Then I also whipped up a cute little bag for a neighbor. She picked the style and the fabric. All I did was choose the lining and create a pocket design for inside. I've made the fan bag before. But this time I gathered the lining inside to create a little more space (filling the entire inside). I also added a band pocket with three compartments. I used fusible fleece interfacing in the "collar" of the purse, which really gave it good shape. I LOVE fusible fleece right now. It almost has a quilted look and fullness without being quilty... if ya know what I mean.

Lastly, I've been going crazy with the last of my Laurie Smith Fiori fabric. Made two bags, the HUGE modern diaper bag from Amy Butler's Little Stitches book and the Taxi Tote from Anna Maria Horner's Seams to Me book.

A Little Comfort from the Past

When I was a little kid... like about 3 or 4... my mother made all us kids huge towels with hoods. Much like you might see at Pottery Barn or Costco today. But her pattern was much bigger. When each of my kids were born she made towels for each of them. I liked the measurements so much that I replicated them in a blanket. Now I've made them in a few materials, colors, textures. I love them and they only take a few minutes to whip up. If I get my act together I'll write a tutorial for them.

Bird Tote

I love this tote. I made it, and within days my cute friend, Chance, snatched it up. So, now I need to make more.

Wool Felt Mini-Tote

I've been experimenting with some bags. I've made four bags in about 2 days. Plus a couple clutches before Christmas. Here's a picture of the wool felt mini-tote (I personally think it is the perfect size for a working gals lunch bag) and the clutch.

I also had to make another yoga tote. I wanted one for myself. I really splurged on this one and use timtex in the base and fusible fleece on the rest. So, it's sturdy and pretty. I can't wait to use it tomorrow at my yoga class. I've already slipped a few business cards in the pocket because I think I'll get at least one question about it. (I can hope, anyway.)




PS -- The next market is scheduled for April 4. If you want an invitation (to sell or to attend) drop me a line.

PSS -- The very best news of all is that I ended up winning (I use this term loosely) the Finny and Donk sew along. This has been a very fun experience. I encourage all you sewing folks to check them out and follow along in 2009. http://finnyknits.blogspot.com/2009/01/this-years-adventure.html

People Always Ask Me...

From time to time folks ask me to repair school uniforms. I'm not really a tailor so I stay away from major repairs, but for friends and neighbors I don't mind it. Next question... how much?

Here's a list of some of the repairs I do, and what I charge.

Move or sew on buttons $1.50 each

Take in skirt waist $12.50

Hem skirt $12.50

Elasticize a waistband on skirt or pants $20 (includes elastic)

Taper legs of pants (2 seams) $12

Taper legs of pants (4 seams) $20

Hem pants $8.50

Attach badges or emblems $2.50 each

Fix zippers $20

And that my friends is just about all I'll do.