Back in the Saddle
I'm thrilled to be back in the studio. Finished up several things. My sewing machine was humming along all weekend and so was I. After I stitched up the Redwork piece, I wanted to do something with it and this is how it ended up. Behold: my "Hugs and Kisses" bag. I think I'll leave this hanging around, just in case someone wants to surprise me and drop something sweet in there. Anyway, what makes this bag fun (besides the gift potential) is that it's constructed almost entirely from pre-cut jelly-roll strips; that means, no measuring or cutting. Not to sound lazy or anything, but time is often a deciding factor with a project like this and short-cuts are most welcome. The whole thing went together rather quickly too and that made me immensely happy. I'm discovering you can do so much with these pre-cut strips. Even cutting out diamonds and other shapes with relative ease for quiltmaking. I know. Everyone probably already knew that, right? I'm slow, but I catch on eventually!
Here's a sneak-preview of the Woody Alphabet I used here, which will be available Wednesday, on my website, along with the new bonus transfer set for Jan-Feb. Also, another blog give-away, and a freebie pattern for all, so be sure and stop by for some XOX from me to you!
How adorable!
Posted by: april m | January 14, 2008 at 10:07 PM
I've heard of jellyrolls but I've not ever used them. Then again, I've heard of charm squares/packs and I've not used those either. Really, I must get out more! Anyway, your bag looks great and I'm looking forward to all your upcoming happenings.
Posted by: June | January 15, 2008 at 12:20 AM
This bag is the sweetest thing! I'm just learning hand embroidery and have fallen in love with it . What a great use of the woody alphabet!
Posted by: jackie | January 15, 2008 at 04:13 AM
Another wonderful bag.
Love the woody alphabet!
Posted by: Dawn | January 15, 2008 at 05:21 AM
Came out super!
Posted by: Suzanne | January 15, 2008 at 05:27 AM
That is darling. I need a bag like this to cart my stuff back and forth to work.
Hope it's not too long before you find a special treat inside.
Posted by: Tammy | January 15, 2008 at 05:31 AM
As always, I love your stuff! I'm always coming back for more.
Posted by: Donna | January 15, 2008 at 05:52 AM
You are such an inspiration to me! I got a sewing machine for Christmas & to say I am new at this sewing thing is an understatement!! But, I have so far made some felt finger puppets for the kids, a t-shirt pillow for my daughter & oh yes a Barbie sleeping bag!! I would love to try a tote such as this. Could a newbie handle it you think?
Laura
Posted by: Laura | January 15, 2008 at 06:06 AM
I love it! You've reminded me that I have two WIP's somewhere in my sewing room for Valentine's Day. Looks like I have some projects for the week.
Posted by: Wendy | January 15, 2008 at 06:52 AM
This is so cute! How do you make your totes???? Patterns, in your noggin, or just plain old creativity and figuring it out at the machine? The alphabet is very cute!
Posted by: Dana | January 15, 2008 at 07:23 AM
what a pretty bag!!! I love your blog- so full of great things and inspiration!
Posted by: Euphoria | January 15, 2008 at 07:39 AM
I love the bag. Very pretty!
Posted by: Tracy | January 15, 2008 at 07:48 AM
Very pretty, very tempting, very inspiring... I will be back!
Posted by: Natalie | January 15, 2008 at 08:06 AM
That bag is so very clever! I love your new alphabet, it's gorgeous! I'll be at your shop tomorrow :)
Posted by: Toni | January 15, 2008 at 08:43 AM
I love this bag! I wish my sewing machine was in working order because I would love to start making things like this. I just started embroidery and *LOVE* the patterns you have available. I'm getting ready to place a second order already :-)
Posted by: Paula | January 15, 2008 at 12:00 PM
I love it! I've seen the strips but it never occurred to me they'd be useful outside a quilt--duh! I love the stripey patterned look!
Posted by: debra cooper | January 15, 2008 at 02:08 PM
You never stop amazing me with your talents! I love the bag and the redwork is devine.
Posted by: Alice | January 15, 2008 at 02:39 PM
The redwork piece turned out beautifully. Love the bag and the woody alphabet. Inspired by all you crafty people who make marvellous things, I dragged my sewing machine out from the under stairs cupboard. I hope to be humming along quite soon.
Posted by: Jennie | January 15, 2008 at 03:31 PM
Great bag...I have never heard of Jelly Rolls before...they seem like a good idea.
I love your xox stitching on the bag.
Posted by: Mo'a | January 15, 2008 at 05:08 PM
How neat -- wonderful work, as always. I'm (sheepishly) especially interested in your label inside the bag, since I'm looking for something similar for a friend's birthday. Did you make the label? Buy it? Would you mind sharing how or where, depending?
Posted by: Margaret | January 15, 2008 at 08:14 PM
I love redwork and what an excellent way to use it. It all goes together so nicely. Well done.
Posted by: Mary Beth | January 15, 2008 at 08:42 PM
All right all ready. You're just too much. I love your work and can't help coming back for more. You've inspired me to start my own blog and now I have to really start (finish!!) a project. Thanks for your inspiration.
Posted by: LadyMarcia | January 15, 2008 at 09:16 PM
That bag is just adorable! I haven't trid the jelly rolls yet but I really want to :0). I'm really liking the alphabet as well, fun!
Posted by: Angela | January 15, 2008 at 11:20 PM
Every time I drop by you have something new and inspiring to make me gasp in delight! The bag is lovely.
Posted by: Ravenhill | January 15, 2008 at 11:58 PM
love the homegrown alphabet! I'm working on one now with roots and tendrils---Sew Bohemian
Posted by: | January 16, 2008 at 06:58 AM