Thank you for the dolly love. The birthday party was fun with lots of people and lots of presents, a little overwhelming for a four, but I think she liked it. I also appreciate the information shared here on die and digital cutter systems. I'm still searching for one that's programmable, cuts paper and felt, embosses, is no larger than a toaster oven, preferably pink, and cooks dinner at the same time. That's not too much to ask for now is it? So far I haven't run across that particular model, but I'm narrowing down the choices. I didn't realize there were so many.
And the pocket bag is done (as you can see) and yes there are polka-dots. This just couldn't have turned out cuter. (Click on images to expand views). It's from this book. Grace loves it. It's the perfect size for toting around her music books, water colors, drawing tablets, camera, cell phone...the works. Hers also has the addition of a flap, which she requested.
It was super easy to do:: just cut out another pocket with lining ; stitch them right-sides together; turn right-side out, top-stitch and slip it between the lining and the bag on the backside. The directions didn't specify how much yardage was needed, but if you use cotton duck for the outside bag portion, as was suggested, and as we did, you'll need at least 1-1/2 yards to allow for some major shrinkage. Half the strap is cut 37" long so a little over a yard of pre-washed fabric is needed for the whole bag and additionally for the lining. Other than that, the directions were excellent and it went together without a hitch, although there was some adjusting and hand-basting around the handles and bag edges that was necessary to keep them aligned, but next time, I think I'll use a little stitch witchery to hold everything in place instead. Nice little bag though.
Beautiful bag! You make it sound so easy.Congrats on your upcoming book.
Posted by: zenmomma | August 24, 2008 at 09:51 AM
Wow, you are a published author! You go, girl!!! Love the dotty bag :)
Posted by: Aim | August 24, 2008 at 10:18 AM
Yes, you should make a bag for yourself. I love it and can imagine different fabric combinations. Congratulations on your book!
Posted by: Debbie | August 24, 2008 at 11:22 AM
That is such a cute bag! I love the polka dots, too!
A book? What kind? When? How exciting!
Posted by: Lana | August 24, 2008 at 08:43 PM
I love the bag with the polka dots! Who wouldn't want one. It looks so practical, and it's pretty too! You do such lovely work. I think you should have one!!! Oh, if you find that pink programable die cutter that is no larger than a toaster oven, and cooks dinner at the same time, please let me know where to find it!
Posted by: Velma | August 25, 2008 at 08:59 AM
Love the bag!
ditto the cutter thingy!
Posted by: farmgirlinnewmex | August 25, 2008 at 09:54 AM
PS: you need a bag too for all those books...
Posted by: farmgirlinnewmex | August 25, 2008 at 09:55 AM
cute- love the colors!
Posted by: andrea | August 25, 2008 at 11:54 AM
this sure is a nice bag!
Posted by: heleen | August 25, 2008 at 12:38 PM
Such a cute bag. I'd love to live in a polka dot world. It's so happy!
Becky
Posted by: Wonders Never Cease | August 25, 2008 at 01:08 PM
Cute bag! Bet she can stuff that full of all sorts of things!
Here is a site for a die cut... if you haven't seen this one yet!
http://www.accucutquilt.com/Whats-New-C1.aspx
take care.
Posted by: Jean C. | August 25, 2008 at 02:48 PM
Cute cute cute!!! Love those polks dots!
Posted by: Ele | August 25, 2008 at 07:41 PM
What a great bag to hold all the things she needs. I appreciate items that are both pretty and functional; your project came out just perfect.
Posted by: j.scroggin@cox.net | August 26, 2008 at 08:25 AM
Love the bag, and your blog. I've ordered the book from B & N. Thank you.
Posted by: bs honey | August 26, 2008 at 01:04 PM
This is really cute! And it is the perfect size!
Posted by: Rachel | August 26, 2008 at 02:08 PM
I haven't seen the book but I'm definitely going to have to check our local bookstore. The bag is uber cute.
Posted by: AJ | August 26, 2008 at 10:29 PM
That is beyond cute! I bet she takes it everywhere! You can't go wrong with polka dots. If you make one for yourself, will you also do a flap and will you make it the same size or bigger? I always love big, more room for 'stuff'!
Posted by: Jane | August 27, 2008 at 09:07 AM
Thank bag looks fantastic and what a nice "thank you".
Posted by: Tammy | August 30, 2008 at 04:03 PM