Monthly Archives: January 2012

Jan31

The Apron Challenge

Posted on by
Standard

Anny "APRON" Bag

Back in November I was given a bag full of vintage or semi-vintage aprons by the owner of a wonderful architectural antique store in Austin called Revival.  Having seen the Anny Bag, she wondered if perhaps a bag could  be created from those aprons.  This project, which I started after the holidays,  proved to be quite the challenge!  First of all, these were random aprons and there needed to be a common thread (so to speak 🙂 )  I eventually decided  to add a fabric of coordinating color but it couldn’t be anything contemporary.  Aha!  A lightweight light blue denim from my stash.  I chose three print aprons that had similar blue shades that looked very vintage.  Alternating these for the ruffles, I allowed the edges of the denim to fray.  The band was from the same denim.  Now realizing that a purchased handle would not look right on this bag,  I came up with an idea.  I took three of the apron ties and braided them for each handle.  Then the handles were attached using vintage buttons from my grandma’s button box.  Thanks, Grandma!   Yesterday, I handed over the bag and the remaining aprons to the shop owner and she was mighty pleased.  Will it sell?  Stay tuned!

Advertisement
Jan22

“If a Man Does His Best, What Else Is There?”

Posted on by
Standard

This is a quote suggested by my sixth grade granddaughter to accompany a project called “Carrying A Soldier.”  This sweet girl has generated an idea that is so heartfelt and valuable.  Knowing that I make bags, and often search for vintage items to incorporate, she is suggesting that a part of the uniform of a fallen soldier be made into a bag so that his widow could “carry” her soldier.  Perhaps an emblem, patch, pin, etc. could be added to a tote bag in memory of the fallen soldier.  I am so impressed with her creativity and sensitivity.  That’s my girl! 🙂

Jan8

NEW YORK REVIEW

Posted on by
Standard

Holy Smokes!!  I miss New York City!!  (The only thing I love to do as much as sewing is traveling. ) My daughter and I had a fabulous time exploring and taking tours.  Our hotel was right in Times Square where they were setting up for the New Year’s Eve celebration.  Needless to say, one of the highlights of my trip was a visit to the Garment District.  Fabric stores everywhere–one after another!  We tried to visit Mood Fabrics (Project Runway digs) but they were closed for the holidays.  Regardless, I hit several shops and scored some outstanding trims and fabric.  Did you know they make navy blue fur trim??  Rose and gold crochet trim?  I was given a rather large piece of fur for free–just a remnant one store had tossed aside.  My fabric purchases included a navy blue/gold striped upholstery that will make a great satchel bag with that navy trim.  Also I found a beautiful moss green silk pleated fabric that will be perfect with some floral accessories for a spring bag.  I tried not to go overboard with the fabric and hoped they wouldn’t charge extra poundage for my luggage but I definitely brought enough home to have fun and will retain the business cards in case I go into withdrawal and need some more of that chic and unique NYC fabric!  In case you’d like to see photos of our trip, I will attach a few

Garment District

Sewing on the Button

.  Can’t wait to return to the Big Apple!

Up next, a wonderfully thoughtful idea from my granddaughter.  Stay tuned!