fold up tote bag

I decided that i must be able to make a simple tote that folded in on itself.  Didn't want anything too heavy so no lining or any fancy bits.  I added 2 rope tubes around one corner of the bag so i could fold the rest of the bag into one corner and then pull the rope to keep it together.  This is the prototype.  Next time i will go for lighter fabric as it is a little cumbersome.  The large size is good but the handles are a little long.  Am still pleased with it having said all that!

Sleep masks

I always make some birthday presents during my school holidays as once the term starts there is not much time to think about anything.  I have decided on sleep masks and bubble bath for colleagues and friends this year.  This is the prototype.

Covered coat hangers

Had a little play with some plastic coat hangers.  Whenever you see these on the internet they are always using wire or wooden coat hangers and they are expensive or hard to find.  I like to use everyday things and was determined that a plastic coat hangers could be used and look just as good.  I was right.  I prefer the bottom pair because of the fabric and i love the lace trimming.  They ended up being a present for my sister in law.

Ribbon invitations

 
It was my little girl's birthday and we made our own invitations using left over ribbons and things from my sewing box.  I think they're gorgeous and would love to receive one.

Doorstops

I have had this fabric for ages.  I think it may be one of the first purchases i made.  I've never known what to use it for because i didn't want to just throw it away on something so i've saved it.  I made some large apple doorstops for Christmas last year so had an idea of the weight needed.  I was pleased with these but don't need them in my house.  I gave them to a good friend who loved them as much as me and had just moved into her first home.  I think this fabric was waiting to be a doorstop!

Button broaches

I love the idea of button broaches so i had a go at making some of my own.  I like the layered buttons but they are a little floppy.  Perhaps i should add a stiffener or make them a little smaller?  I have given a couple away as gifts but need to finish the others.

Pretty little bags

I decided that my bag was too small and i needed something that could carry more.  I invited a friend round with some patterns and then we went fabric shopping.  I managed to make this and then my little girl wanted one too so i made her a mini one!

Mother's Day gift

I usually make my mum something to do with flowers for Mother's Day each year.  I didn't want the traditional flowers this year so i decided to use my free-foot on the sewing machine and create this bunch of flowers.  I love it!

Trick or treat bags

I love making things for occasions.  I made these simple bags, with iron-on transfer names and a large spider on the front for lots of little boys and girls that i know ready for collecting their sweets for trick or treating at Halloween.

Advent calendars

I've always wanted to make some advent calendars but have always been put off thinking that a good one would take a long time and might not turn out that good.  I wanted to make sure all the pockets were the same size and then they had to be big enough to put presents in.  They were made for family and friends and i personalised them at the end.  I was very pleased with how they turned out!  I had to pay for the fabrics but only used half a metre of each.  I made sure the back fabric was strong to take any weighty presents.

I haven't written anything for ages!!  I have been busy though.  Will post some pictures soon.