Sunday, October 16, 2011

Birthday and Retreat Goodies



Recently I found an interesting piece of fabric at a local thrift store. 2 yards at $2/yard, not a steal, eBay has it for $3 a yard but I didn't have to pay shipping.   After on-line research, I found that this sturdy camo fabric is used by hunters to make blinds in the woods and for hunting clothes.


Of couse I had to make a bag, a Super Sized Tote to be exact, and I thought it was the perfect birthday present for my mountain loving sister.

I added a feminine touch with the addition of a purple (her favorite color) monogram.


A buckle was used as a weight for the tab/flap closure.  The inside features a large divider and 2 slip pockets.


As a thank-you gift, I made this across the body bag for my Aunt who hosted my sister and me for a quilting/sewing retreat this month.  I made her a bag this style in the past, so I thought she may need a new one.  The stripes go different directions on each side....nothing fancy, just a simple design element.  She loved the bag!



And lastly as a little gift for the retreat crew, I made these little fobs featuring thrift store thimbles, beads from my stash and scissor charms purchased at JoAnn Fabrics.  I use the turquoise one as a zipper pull on my new purse.  They could also be attached to a key ring or strap ring on a bag.



We had a great retreat....unfortunately one of my sisters got the flu so didn't make it, but we are hoping to get together again to sew!!!  We did a lot of sewing and chatting, a perfect way to reconnect with the skills passed down through generations....Thank You Grandma H. and Mother - we love and miss you both!  And Thank You Aunt Louise and Carlene for helping to start a new tradition :)

Love and Hugs, 
Carolyn 

p.s.  Janice loved the "birthday" bag, I finally got to give it to her yesterday.

1 comment:

Heidi said...

What fun! I could use a retreat like that - sounds refreshing! I love those little thimble charms you made. :)

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