Tag Archives: hand-sewn bags

Dec21

Sew, Travel, Sew, Travel, Sew…

Posted on December 21, 2016 by Anny

This month we are fortunate to visit my two favorite cities: L.A. and NYC! Just returned from a short trip to L.A. to celebrate the engagement of our son, Bryan, and his fiancee, Liz. We spent some quality time in Marina Del Ray and saw the wedding and rehearsal dinner venues for June. Looking forward to an awesome event! This week we are having fun with our other son, Eric, and his girlfriend, Jill. Then Friday, it’s off to Austin to visit Jennifer, Tate, and the girls. Loving the holiday family fun times!

While in L.A., I dashed down to the Fashion District for a visit to Michael Levine and Mood. I spotted some brightly colored fabrics, anticipating spring/summer bagmaking. 🙂 We’ll be visiting NYC next week and our boutique hotel will be in the Garment District! Oh, darn–ha ha. Since many of my blog posts are about travel, you probably wonder when I have time to make bags. Well that’s coming up in January, but I did manage to finish a few after the China trip and Quilt Festival, and I’ll share those with you now…

Loretta Loves Leopard

Rumor has it that Loretta Loves Leopard was purchased by a lady named Loretta. I’m so happy! This faux fur textured bag’s pattern had extra room on the sides where you see I added two pockets. Fancied the top with a little gold fringe and a cute doll accessory, then added leather gold handles. Voila!

Beyond the Nest

Beyond the Nest was one of those purses that I secretly hoped wouldn’t sell–but it did. I love this bag! It is my own Jenny pattern design, created from a fur/feathery fabric from Michael Levine. The band is vintage crushed velour and I placed a beautiful brooch from Trims on Wheels. The handle is an easy-to-apply and fashionable clip-on that I love from Studio Mio.

Cowabunga!

Cowabunga is a snazzy little Western bag that will be perfect for Texas Hill Country. The faux cow-hide is from Cowgirls and Lace, and I simply added black and red fringe, dripping Western beads, and a few flowers to give it a chic yet country vibe. 🙂

London Flat again makes use of the crushed velour, plus a furry leopard, and beautifully textured golden upholstery fabric. A large flower and clip on handles complete the look. This is actually a pattern designed by Stephanie Prescott of A Quilter’s Dream that I had noticed at Quilt Festival where it was fashioned from cotton. I decided to use denser fabric and create a fall/winter look using the same pieces, and adding more interior pockets.

After returning from China, I couldn’t wait to finish Shades of Shanghai. This is also from the quilt world, a pattern from Pink Sand Beach called the Mahattan Handbag. I like to fancy it up and since this had an Asian vibe, I added bamboo handles and a frog closure just for decoration. The fabrics were a fat quarter bundle from long ago. This is why you purchase fabric that grabs you. I bought this not knowing what in the world I would use it for and it has become a stylish purse. 🙂

Now this is the same pattern, using another fat quarter bundle purchased long ago, but I added delicate dripping black beads, crushed velour gusset and handles, and sewed a purchased flower to one I made from faux leather. I named her Vintage Victorian.

Boho Chic is created from a Cindy Taylor Oates pattern called the Lakehouse Bag. I used a mod design fabric that has a denim feel and added a large boho style flower. I knew when I saw these beautiful Hippie look beads that they would accessorize it perfectly, with a little braid sewn on top in the same shade of green. A very fun bag!

We have a newborn in the family now from my nephew and his wife, and since she’s a gorgeous little girl, I had to make her a “first purse,” right? Fashioned from vintage chenille, this simple bag has cording for a handle and a ribbon closure. Of course it has a pocket and an “It’s Sew Anny” label inside. 🙂 Something tells me she’ll be receiving many more over the years…

Okay, don’t faint…this bag is for me! I had a very similar one I had sewn over four years ago and used every winter. A few beads had fallen by the wayside and it had some fading, so I whipped up a new version and enjoy it so much! This is from the same Cindy Taylor Oates book, but a style called “Caroline’s Bag.”

And that’s it for now–off to find more fabric in the Big Apple! Happy Holidays, Everyone!

Sep14

Business is Booming!

Posted on September 14, 2016 by Anny

Standard

How happy I am to announce that Business is Booming! A HUGE shout-out to the Texas Quilt Museum in La Grange, Texas, who will now be displaying and selling my bags! I am supremely honored to be a part of their fabulous organization. Julie, the Museum Director, shares my love of lush fabric and we had a marvelous time deciding which of my bags would complement upcoming museum exhibits. The museum is comprised of several galleries showcasing masterpiece quilts. Leaders in the international quilt community display and lecture in the historic buildings from 1890. Exhibits from all over the world change every three months. For gardeners and garden lovers, Grandmother’s Flower Garden is adjacent to the museum which is a period garden that would be typical of Central Texas flower gardens around 1890. A 13 x 85 foot mural, depicting 15 traditional 19th century quilts, adorns the outdoor garden wall of the museum. Not to mention, there is a wonderful quilt shop right next door to the museum. What more could you want? If you need more information, just visit texasquiltmuseum.org.

And now let me show you the latest bags from It’s Sew Anny Designs.

You just can’t beat a lovely clutch. Based on an Ali Foster design, I paired a royal blue crushed velvet with a lime green suede to create “Sapphire and Diamonds.” The interior is Dupioni silk from SoHo Fabrics. Adorned with a faux mother of pearl and rhinestone broach, she’s ready to party! Yes, she was difficult to part with, but she’s already been adopted. 🙂

Velvet Gold was fashioned from an olive/golden velvety fabric I discovered at the Round Top Antique Festival. Complementing the floral paisley is a velvet green bow formed from Mood Fabric that I purchased in L.A. (More about that trip later…) The handles had been in my stash for a time, waiting for just the right bag. The pattern was from Charlie’s Aunt called “The Brief Encounter” bag. It was the first time I’d used this pattern and I know it won’t be the last. Love it!

You see two views of the bag called “Inside Out” which is completely reversible. I even added a pocket on each side. One handle simply loops through the other for easy access, and you have a lightweight functional bag that offers two colors and designs for a versatile accessory. Fabrics from Cowgirls and Lace, Dripping Springs.

Welcome Fall with Autumn Gold! She’s a marriage of golden hues from Michael Levine (Los Angeles) and Cowgirls and Lace. The Chemisette Handbag is a pattern from Craftapple Designs and is a delight to sew! I had the perfect flower to enhance autumn tones so I simply added a broach pin to the back and the bag was complete. The perfect size for those daytime jaunts.

“Chocolate Luxe” is a plush bag made from a watercolor chocolate velvet from Mood Fabrics. Dripping beads, a jeweled emblem, and a lush faux fur collar all combine to make this one of my all-time favorites. This is my personal design, “The Jenny Bag.”

An Amy Barickman pattern, the Rachel Bag, is one that uniquely opens from a zipper in the back.

I chose to call her “Lucy Goes to Town” and a close-up of the zipper pull reveals a little lady with her purse and heels on just ready to Go To Town. 🙂

I created another version called “Chasing Sunny” with a red suede handle and a zipper pull that adds a bit of bling with a rhinestone key. The red faux crocodile fabric was discovered at Fabric Decor in Houston. I used a golden faux leather to design the flower with a center button from Tender Buttons on New York’s Upper East Side. This is why you must purchase items you fall in love with when you travel. #l) You’ll eventually use them and/or fondly recall the happy memory of said travels, and, #2) If you don’t bring them home, you may be longingly recalling the “one that got away.” Some things just bring you joy. 🙂

Oh, my, oh my… I should have kept this bag. The fabric is another version of that silky velvet, only this time it is a teal blue from High Fashion Fabrics in Houston. The band is a velvet suede-like fabric from Michael Levine, L.A. The leather flower was also purchased at Michael Levine. I happened to have the perfect shade of blue beads in my stash. Happy Day!

A while back I discovered this magnificent fabric just rolled up on a table at High Fashion like someone forgot it. No one claimed it and I happily snapped it up. I have enjoyed making two purses from the textured medallion embroidery. This one is named “Tribal Fibers” and I enhanced it with a fringed leather key fob. The handles looked appropriately rustic to me so I fashioned loops to accommodate them. The faux ostrich is another Michael Levine purchase from our L.A. trip.

This time the medallion fabric was paired with a faux embossed leather from Cowgirls and Lace in Dripping Springs. The leather handles were from Shirley in Switzerland purchased on the internet. Adorning the bag with a little lady swinging from repurposed jewelry gave it a whole different vibe. I named it “Maddie Medallion.” Both bags were created from a pattern by ithinksew.com.

“Vintage Autumn” is such a sweet bag. I feel like the handles have a vintage vibe, as well as the jeweled flower. I believe the beautifully textured fabric was from Britex in San Francisco. Beadwork is from Interior Fabrics in Houston. And the pattern is another Ali Foster, called the Lucy Tote.

I chose to name this bag “Royal Velvet.” It is a mini Jenny bag, fashioned from a rich velvety fabric from Mood in L.A. The Greek coin button was found at International Quilt Festival, as well as the handles from Studio Mio. The tassel trim is from Interior Fabrics. An ensemble from many “in search of fabric” trips. 🙂

So, as you see, I’ve been mega busy. But, another very happy aspect to my growing business is Cheryl. Cheryl is a friend who has joined in my venture and is not new to the sewing world. She is a former entrepreneur in the custom dress shop field. You should have seen us last week as she cut and pressed and I designed and sewed. We are an awesome team!

Cheryl is a lady of many talents. She will live here and pet sit for us while we are in China. China? you say. Yes, I need silk. Just joking–it was on our bucket list to stand on the Great Wall. But will I cast glances in hope of fabric for sale? You betcha!

Until the next adventure tales,

Love, Anny

Mar24

PURSES, PURSES, PURSES!

Posted on March 24, 2016 by Anny

Standard

As you may know, we moved twice last year and that put a dent in my sewing (and blogging.) Drat! But Tina’s on the Strand invited me to be the Featured Artist for Artwalk last fall and I was determined to keep my commitment so I managed to sew a dozen fall purses which never made it into the blog. I dearly love the plushness of fall fabric, velvets, vegan leather, faux fur, and tapestry combined with fringe, full tassels, and dazzling embellishments like lush flowers and beautiful beading. So for those of you who follow this blog for sewing inspiration, I now present to you:

A Gallery of My Fall Collection:

BEADS OF A FEATHER

Beads of a Feather

A pattern I love from Ali Foster, this tapestry bag was embellished with dripping beads and feathers. The handle is from Studio Mio and SO easy to apply.

FRINGE BENEFITS

Fringe Benefits

Fringe Benefits is a Cindy Taylor Oates design, created from tapestry fabric, accented with faux fur adjustable straps, trimmed with tassels from Interior Fabrics and 12 inch chainette fringe from Mood.

MIDNIGHT IN THE GARDEN

Midnight in the Garden

Honestly, I don’t remember where I purchased this gorgeous textured, embroidered fabric but I’d like to find it again. The pattern was a modified version of an Abbey Lane pattern called Lucille. I added the gold braided piping, then attached a plush flower and dotted leather handles. Almost all my handles are from Studio Mio.

AUTUMN GARDEN

Autumn Garden

This sweet bag was a combination of patterns from books and YouTube. I experimented with the round dotted brown handles which paired so well with the autumn floral linen fabric called Ballad Bouquet.

CASABLANCA

Casablanca

Linen floral and a zebra print fashioned into a Cindy Taylor Oates bag, embellished with golden loop fringe and ruby red beading.

KEYS TO PARIS

Keys to Paris

This is one of my all time favorite bags and sold very quickly. The pattern is actually from the quilting world, called Pasadena, from “A Quilter’s Dream.” Normally sewn with cotton fabrics, I instead substituted a vintage crushed flock velvet from Etsy with alternating copper and silver fabric that had a soft texture. I added a purchased bamboo handle, plus a large flower and sparkly keys from Miss Rose Sister Violet.

COWGIRL CHIC

Cowgirl Chic

A fun messenger style bag, Cowgirl Chic sports faux leather fabrics from Cowgirls and Lace in Dripping Springs, Texas. The lady who purchased this bag said it reminded her of her mother’s real cowhide purse many years ago.

TINSELTOWN

Tinseltown

I named this bag Tinseltown because it is glamorous! It shimmers with a velvet textured silver fabric, complemented by black velvet (my fall favorite) and an amazing tassel trim from Cowgirls and Lace.

GIDDY-UP!

Giddy-Up!

Giddy-Up! is similar to Fringe Benefits but fashioned from faux leather, fringe and tassels. The exterior features a faux leather boot which I designed and appliqued to the pocket.

SAFARI SPLENDOR

Safari Splendor

This is a huge purse with twelve, yes twelve pockets–six exterior, six interior. The exterior is created from an embroidered faux leather, paired with a sturdy textured leopard print. The tie is a dark chocolate velvet with a fine gold etched thread throughout. The pattern is, again, from the quilting world, and is called My Favorite Bag from Kati Cupcake Pattern Company. Not an easy bag to make because instead of making it from soft cotton fabrics, I chose to use sturdier fall fabrics. And that’s a pain when grommets are involved…

MOROCCAN DREAM

Moroccan Dream

Such a joy to construct. This is another pattern from Abbey Lane. I modified it by using a vintage French ribbon down the middle instead of gathered fabric. I happened to have the perfect size ribbon from an antique shop in Los Angeles so I was able to apply it here, along with a sturdy, yet softly textured black velour, fancy tassels, and a braided handle made from a drapery tie-back. 🙂

LOTUS BLOSSOM

Lotus Blossom

Lotus blossom is an Amy Barickman pattern called the Rachel Bag. The back side is a heavily textured black fabric with a zipper down the middle for accessing the purse. A unique silhouette makes for a very charming bag. 🙂

Knowing I would be featured in the fall Artwalk show was the impetus for creating twelve purses beginning mid-summer. This was actually a wonderful opportunity to sew up a storm in that newly styled loft sewing room. I’m still enjoying my brightly lit sewing room with the brilliant colors, brick walls, and fabulous views!

Oct12

Trips = Happy Blood Pressure

Posted on October 12, 2014 by Anny

Standard

Hmm, just noticed that my last two posts have been mostly travel related. When I started this blog I imagined most all my posts would be about purses/bags or at least sewing. But travel is a big part of my life, especially since retirement. I once told my doctor that one of the ways I’ve managed to keep my blood pressure in check is to always have a trip in the works. As long as I know that eventually I can escape and be forced to unwind for a bit, I’m happy. And usually, to some degree, that travel includes some fabric or embellishment shopping. 🙂 Sometimes, the whole trip is about sewing, such as the International Quilt Festival coming up this month! Very excited about that and will report back. But in the meantime, here are a few projects completed recently.

Last fall, I found a pattern on-line for fabric pumpkins. Since fall fabric is plentiful in my stash, I was excited, but as with a lot of projects, I ran out of time and it was beyond fall before I knew it! But, this year, I started early and here they are. This pattern is called Patchwork Pumpkins by Kim Kruzieh at RetroMama.Etsy.com. You can download this pattern which has clear instructions, pattern pieces to cut out, and pictures. The stem and leaves are made from felt. The leaves have some handwork stitching, which you probably could leaf (lol) off, but I found very relaxing. In case you’re not familiar with or have forgotten some of the embroidery stitches, they are illustrated as well. All in all, a very fun project–maybe for a gift!

FABRIC PUMPKINS

You may recall my problem with purse frames. I haven’t practiced like I intended, but here is one that’s always a sure-fire hit with me. It’s an arched metal frame with a kiss-lock closure and an added chain that can be removed or tucked inside. The purse is simply sewn with a sleeve at the top. Then you unscrew one side of the frame bottom, slip the sleeve on, and there’s your purse! No messy glue or stitching! You can order it on-line from Mica’s Room. I embellished it with an antique brooch, designed by yours truly, from Victorian lace and a vintage button. Binge watching Project Runway while I sewed, of course, called for fabric from MOOD! These are silky pin-dot velvets, inside and out. I named this purse Victoria.

Cowgirls and Lace, one of my favorite places to gather fabric, is near my granddaughter’s house, so Gracie and her mom accompanied me to their Semi-Annual Sale. I think Gracie scored even more than I did! She had store personnel joining in her hunt for sample treasures. She designs sets for her LPS videos. It was like, “Oh, Gracie, this would make good wallpaper!” or “How about this fabric for a rug?” They even gifted her with a sample book! That’s my girl!

As a matter of fact, my most recent bag is almost completely fashioned from items from Cowgirls and Lace. Finding two very beautiful and unique tassels, plus gorgeous fabric, inspired the bag I titled Serengeti. The fabric is from American Folk and Fabric’s antique collection called Kings Muir. If you look closely, you will see that one of the tassels is an elephant. And the other is just plain elegant! The lining is a sage green silk Dupioni with three pockets from the exterior fabric. In some bags, this one included, I now add a swivel hook to the pocket to attach keys. The hook is attached to the pocket with a piece of leather from one of the sample collections I found recently at Cowgirls and Lace. I bought about six rings of leather samples, assuming I could put them to good use since each sample is 5″ x 5″ and they were only a few dollars per set!

SERENGETI

To create Fields of Gold, a fabulous and fun gypsy bag, I chose a golden brown embroidered floral fabric for the exterior and a silky red interior. A textured leopard print handle was added, along with teardrop tassels, thickly braided fringe, and a flower centered with a piece of upcycled jewelry. This bag truly has it all!

FIELDS OF GOLD

Oh, and my good neighbor, Jeff, stopped by to bring me a beautiful rose and gold brocade fabric from his generous upholsterer friend! I’m sure you’ll be seeing that in the future, maybe as an elegant clutch! So many patterns, so much fabric, so little time! I love it all!!

Happy Sewing To You!

Anny

Aug24

TRADING PLACES

Posted on August 24, 2014 by Anny

Standard

Have you ever ventured into a Home Exchange? Remember Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet trading places in the movie “The Holiday?” Well, while Rick and I were basking in a beautiful mountain contemporary home in Colorado this month, the young family who owns that home was occupying ours! A first for both of us, and we mutually agree, we’d definitely try switching again. We just registered on Home Exchange.com and through a few emails and texts the whole operation came off without a hitch. Plus, our sweet doggies could accompany us!

Here are a few of the mountain activities we were able to experience:

VISITED CLIFF DWELLINGS

TRAVELED BACK ROADS THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS IN THE JEEP

TRAILBLAZED IN THE GARDEN OF THE GODS

EXPLORED AN ABANDONED GOLD MINE

LAZED AMONG THE WILDLIFE IN BEAUTIFUL PARKS

TOURED A FEW BREWERIES…

RIVER RAFTED THE RAPIDS

RELAXED WITH A BREW AFTER THE RAPIDS…

HIKED IN THE MOUNTAINS

ATE OUTSIDE IN THE FABULOUS COOLER TEMPERATURES!

Basically, we experienced a completely different lifestyle than we’re used to in the heat of Texas. But while we took pleasure in the high altitude climate, our mountain exchange family soaked up sun at several of our nearby beaches and selected fresh seafood from our local markets and restaurants. Definitely a win-win situation! And while they had an opportunity to get together with family here, we met up with long time friends now living in Colorado. The Home Exchange is world wide so who knows where our next adventure will be?

Once we unpacked, I set to work on my winter gypsy purses. Here are three that are hot off the sewing machine–so hot they don’t even have names yet. Any suggestions?

FRONT SIDE

BACK SIDE

You know how I love those sumptuous winter fabrics to decorate with fringe, beads, and tassels!! As we speak, I am awaiting a delivery from my awesome neighbor, Jeff, who just notified me that he has even more fabric for me! Oh, the anticipation!! Until next time, sew long from your

TRAVELING SEAMSTRESS,

ANNY!

Jul27

WILD CHILD

Posted on July 27, 2014 by Anny

Standard

Artwalk Galveston was awesome! Purses were sold and I was privileged to meet the clients who purchase and enjoy my wares! Since the show I’ve been loosey goosey on sewing. Both Gracie and Madison visited independently and Gracie made some colorful clothes for her treasured pet collection. Madison and I took a class in Burlap Flower Making and created all these and more:

I could attach these to headbands, purses, picture frames, etc. Speaking of picture frames, I also managed a frame transformation in a furniture restoration class using Amy Howard paint. I plan to take the follow-up class where you actually bring a small piece of furniture and transform it. (You know I salvage from the alley when appropriate.) 🙂

Picture frame BEFORE

Picture frame AFTER

Madison and I also visited thrift shops. I wish I had taken a before/after pic of the t-shirt that Maddie upcycled! So cool! We both bought place mats to turn into clutches. Hers worked really well. Here is an exterior and interior shot. She sewed the interior with several pockets and partitions with velcro closures.

My place mat purse was made from straw and was so stiff it will be used as a file folder. 🙂 Besides researching purse patterns and fabrics, I upholstered a chair and accomplished some mending. Not my favorite thing! But thinking ahead to fall, I have sewn one bag that I call Wild Child. The exterior is a soft yet sturdy floral velveteen that has a sixties vibe, with an interior of aqua moire.

WILD CHILD

On the travel front, I managed to visit my favorite city in the world one more time–NYC! If you’re a fan of Tim Gunn’s Project Runway, you’ll appreciate the following:

Still pinned from Project Runway!!!

Shades of Project Runway

SWATCH–Mascot of Mood Fabrics

Other than a visit to Mood Fabrics, I tried to incorporate new adventures. Tender Buttons is a little shop on the Upper East Side that is top to bottom just buttons, and I will let the pictures speak for themselves.

Two tours of New York City that I would highly recommend:

1) If you are a fan of Law and Order (and who isn’t), please take the Law and Order Walking Tour of Manhattan. It is led by a real, retired NYPD detective who has written a book of true crime stories and a guide to true crime sites. OH!! And while he was showing us Central Booking, a town car pulls up and two detectives lead a real handcuffed suspect into the door where every arrested person must enter–from petty thieves to terrorists! Trust me–you will enjoy this tour!

Central Booking

2) If you love awesome food (and who doesn’t) you’ll be so glad you booked the NOLITA/NOHO Food and Culture Tour through Foods of New York tours. We were led to the most scrumptious food sites imaginable and given samples at each one!

As you can tell, this tour started with dessert and ended with dessert–my kind of tour! 🙂 Both of these tours incorporated history through real life stories to keep it even more interesting.

I’ve been a little behind on blogging for the following reasons:

Oh, let’s face it–I’ve just been having fun! More to come, with reports on Colorado, Italy, and the fabric I might find there!

Ciao!

Anny

Jun4

SNEAK PREVIEW

Posted on June 4, 2014 by Anny

Standard

Here is a SNEAK PREVIEW of the THIRTEEN new bags I have been frantically creating for ARTWALK GALVESTON, Saturday, June 7th! I am honored, once again, to be Tina’s on the Strand Featured Artist. Galveston galleries and boutiques put their best foot forward for this event all day long starting around 10 a.m., but the most fun happens from 6 to 9 p.m. when patrons wander from gallery to gallery sipping wine, shopping, and socializing. (Makes a great “girls’ night out!”) I will be presenting all day and evening and the theme will be ST. TROPEZ BOUND, thus the French flair to all the following bags. Drum roll please…

PARTY ON THE YACHT!

BEACH BOUND

SUMMER SOIREE

DANCING ON WATER

MONET’S GARDEN

MAKING WAVES

DREAMING OF PARIS

RENDEZVOUS IN ST. TROPEZ

NIGHTFALL IN ST. TROPEZ

PARIS FLING!

SUNSHINE DANCE!

LADIES’ NIGHT

(Backside of Ladies’ Night)

PARIS FLEA MARKET

And now for something completely different…As you probably noticed,the latter two bags, although charmingly springy, are a total departure from the laminated breezy, beachy vibe. They were created from 100% vintage materials. The outer bag was fashioned from a chenille bed covering from the fifties and the blush floral chintz was a vintage remnant from a friend. To be true to the 100% vintage, I did not add the usual interfacing between layers, nor did I add a magnetic snap. The antique dice button on Ladies Night, which is Bakelite, serves as the closure, along with the loop made from antique velvet French ribbon. Why did I title the bag “Ladies’ Night?” Can’t you just picture the ladylike hands wearing those proper little gloves gently tossing the dice onto the casino table in Monte Carlo on the French Riviera? Oh, yes, we’re still on the French theme! 🙂 Inside I fashioned a pocket from a removed chair covering from a Paris flea market. The floral embellishing came from the millinery section of a department store that closed in the sixties. An unopened box was found in the back room containing the post WWII “Made in Japan” delicate flowers. I’ve tucked inside the glove the little fifties style original brochure that came with the pair describing care, etc., and inside the pocket is the original button card from Costumakers (25 cents!)

I’m really looking forward to Saturday and hope to see many friends there. But I’m REALLY excited to present the summer line so that I may start my fall/winter line! You know, when I used to teach, I would be worn out by May and looking forward to summer. But at the same time, I would be anticipating fall, and my head would already be filled with ideas for my new students! Well, some things never change–my head is spinning with fall/winter ideas and I’m ready to open that armoire containing my lush chenilles, faux fur, leather, and warm fabrics in rich darker hues. Aren’t I lucky that I LOVE my work?!!! 🙂

Mar31

Flowers and Beyond!

Posted on March 31, 2014 by Anny

Standard

Spring has sorta sprung here in Texas and my thoughts have turned to flowers–fabric flowers that is!

Fun to Wear Fabric Flowers by Elizabeth Helene Searle is a wonderful resource that guided me through crafting all the flowers above. A 96 page book with fabulous photos and examples.

Four of the five flowers you see above were sewn from kits I purchased at International Quilt Festival. The top left flower, though, was made from a pattern by Heather Bailey that’s attached to her purse pattern, “Marlo Bloom Handbag.” This decorative flower is easily constructed following her well-written instructions and adding a vintage button. Here is a closer look:

And here we have the same flower styled with laminated fabrics and a hand-painted button from Mood.

Sometimes, as with the Heather Bailey project, the flower is a bonus from a purse pattern. The same happy circumstance occurred with Carina Gardner’s “Dainty Blossoms Sling” which sports a lovely lush flower that I created for our Springer Spaniel, Kate, from laminated pink floral. She wears it proudly and everyone can see just how feminine she is! 🙂

For Kate

From that very sling pattern I actually fashioned a laminated bag with a casual vintage vibe that I titled “Welcome Back, June”! in honor of summer approaching and a nod to June Cleaver. 🙂 “Now, Ward, don’t you think you were a little hard on Beaver?” Oh, geez, showing my age again… But it does just channel the fifties, don’t you think?

Welcome Back, June!

In addition to my journey into flowers, I also sidestepped into headbands. And where did I find those patterns? Just Google “how to make a reversible headband” and YouTube, of course, will have you stitching headbands before you know it! Here are a few of about a dozen reversible headbands I created. Such fun! Easy and quick! Now at Tina’s!

During Spring Break, my adorable Gracie, The Fashionista, visited and here is a picture of her latest creation–a purse, and of course, it’s in animal print! Girl after my own heart!

My return to actual purse making came in the form of an Anny Clutch from a beautifully vibrant laminated Kaffe Fassett print. Behold “Cheshire Garden.”

Cheshire Garden

One of my favorite Etsy shops, Laminates, provided the fabric (Who’s That Girl? from Robert Kaufman) for this awesome Parisian bag which I deem “Shopping on the Seine.” And the genuine leather handle is from another favorite I’ve mentioned before, Cindy’s Button Company.

Shopping on the Seine

Wanting to experiment with laminated fabric using one of my favorite patterns by Cindy Taylor Oates, I stitched a bag with elements from the sixties. The flower child print is from Stella Dear Stella Designs which I discovered at an awesome Austin shop called Stitch Lab. Dripping with tassels, fringe, and a large leather flower, I coined a new word for this lovely bag– “Fringeship.” 🙂

Fringeship

In the spring/summer season, it’s too easy for me to get caught up in the laminates. (Although, that seems to be what the customers like.) AND I was ready for a pattern that was completely new and different to me. I chose a pattern called Laguna from The Quilter’s Dream. When I saw the sample ready-made at Quilt Festival, it was sewn from all cotton. Instead, I chose to fashion it from a teal floral heavy linen, then machine appliqued the large flower from a fuchsia chenille. I placed a purchased light pink fabric hibiscus in the center, then topped the rim with a sage green ball fringe. I’m delighted with the outcome and titled it “Floral Magic.”

Floral Magic

And now for the Anny Bags–all laminated. The first is a wild Brother/Sister Designs fabric, alternating with a Michael Miller polka dot, which I named “Psychedelic Gardens.”

Psychedelic Gardens

Then I reverted to my four ruffle Anny Bag pattern. I am continually tweaking (not twerking–although that would be exercise) my Anny Bag pattern, usually fiddling with dimensions. I always think, “Ah, this is perfect!” Then, I adjust it again. What’s that about?? Anyway, the following are three that I have delivered to Tina’s in the last week or so.

Black and White and Red All Over

Garden Party

Flirty Flowers

And there you have it, folks! The fruits of my labor! This week I plan to produce three more Anny Bags. Yikes! Actually, Tina’s on the Strand has chosen me to be the featured artist at Artwalk on June 6th, and fear of inadequate inventory drives me! I text pics of the completed bags to my daughter who last night inquired, “Do you ever leave your sewing room?!” Well, yes. I go to Curves, Bunko, Mah Jongg, Lunch with the teachers, friends, and family, mani/pedi, etc. But the REST of the time, I’m sewing. Happily Sew! 🙂

Feb10

What do you get with Dismal Weather?

Posted on February 10, 2014 by Anny

Standard

What do you get with dismal weather? Eight purses! Seriously, I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed sunshine, so I’ve been stitching up a storm! Temperature down=production up! Here are six that I haven’t shared with you…

Madison’s birthday was last month and she (like her Granny Anny) loves all things British. I had seen an Indygo Junction pattern for a British flag pillow at Quilt Festival. Madison’s room decor, however, wears teal and many other colors other than red, white and blue. Aha! I shall convert the pillow pattern to a bag! Using Amy Barickman’s new Crossroads Denim (which is softly washed and available in many colors), I stitched the front and back following pillow directions, then added a gusset, handles, and lining of navy ticking to create this patriotic bag. BTW, the front and back consist of layering red, white, and navy, stitching along pattern lines, then cutting through either one or two layers to expose the red and white and allow the edges to be rough and free. Love this textured effect! I’ve always been a huge fan of Amy Barickman!

Not wanting to leave Europe I guess, my next two bags were fashioned from what I call my Paris fabrics. Ooh La La by Jo Moulton for Wilmington and Salon de The’ Paris by Holly Holderman for Lake House Dry Goods. Two Anny bags, one with a fabric handle and one with a purchased clear bamboo textured handle.

DANCING IN PARIS

LA BOUTIQUE DE FLEURS

Since a bit of the luscious Downton Abbey fabric, licensed to Andover Fabrics, was spotted still lounging in a corner of my sewing cabinet, I decided to give it a whirl in a completely different pattern. I harkened back to a Pink Sand Beach pattern called the Manhattan Bag, which allowed the various Downton fabrics to piece together in a lovely flow. This time the gusset featured the castle fabric. The handle was purchased. I replaced a jewel on the flower with a crown charm, and the necklace type embellishment on the front was a reclaimed charming but broken bracelet. Since this style has a wide bottom and the castle was a light colored fabric, it was the perfect time to try something new–purse feet!

DOWNRIGHT DOWNTON

Mardi Gras celebrations in Galveston are huge–second only to New Orleans. So my next bag (an altered Amy Butler design) presented with deep purple velvet handles. The look was completed with dangling jewel plum beads and a lush blue violet flower. Did you know that Pantone’s Color of the Year 2014 is Radiant Orchid? The perfect title for a bag fit for a Mardi Gras Ball!

RADIANT ORCHID

The sixth bag was created from a deep desire for sunshine. I chose the most spring/summer fabrics available and fashioned a bag I call Gardens of Paris. The blue floral is a heavy linen, surrounded by a buttery loop fringe and dazzling golden beads. I love this gypsy style, which is a modified Cindy Taylor Oates pattern.

GARDENS OF PARIS

Am I gathering fabrics, trims, and patterns for bag number seven? Tempting… But I’m taking a break to “sharpen my saw” as they say. More tutorials are calling my name, as well as books, patterns, and gorgeous ribbon (some vintage) for crafting fabric flowers. As Jimmy Fallon would say, “Thank you, Dismal Weather, for enticing me to sew!”

Jan15

DOWNTON ANNY

Posted on January 15, 2014 by Anny

Standard

Are you a Downton Abbey fan? After fighting the mobs at Quilt Market this year for the official Downton Abbey fabric (exclusively licensed to Andover Fabrics) I was determined to fashion a bag for Downton fans. Thus, the DOWNTON ANNY was created! Adding a feather embellishment to the band, and adorning it with a rhinestone crown, I whisked it off to Tina’s just in time for the Season 4 Premiere. The faux leather handle is from Studio Mio and the interior is lined with the quintessential castle fabric seen here in the first ruffle layer.

And so, still feeling those royal vibes, I designed my next bag, “Lady Berkeley.” I’m so in love with the vibrant colors and textured body of this lovely bag, parting was such sweet sorrow. Fashioned from upholstery fabric from Cowgirls & Lace, faux leather for the gusset, and a bold vintage tassel, this bag would feel just as comfortable on the Berkeley campus as it would at tea in Berkeley Square!

So until next time, I’m wishing you Happy Times in the Kingdom!

Love,

Lady Anny

It's Sew Anny!

Do what makes your heart sing! A blog about Sewing and Traveling

Tag Archives: hand-sewn bags

Sew, Travel, Sew, Travel, Sew…

Business is Booming!

PURSES, PURSES, PURSES!

Trips = Happy Blood Pressure

TRADING PLACES

WILD CHILD

SNEAK PREVIEW

Flowers and Beyond!

What do you get with Dismal Weather?

DOWNTON ANNY

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this: