Sweetwater
Showing posts with label Sweetwater. Show all posts
super tote
12 January 2021
I am just so THRILLED with this bag! I searched for a long time for just the right pattern to sew, as this was a Christmas gift for my mum. Like me, she is particular in what she wants in a bag - a good size, big enough to hold A4 documents/files, a zip closure, pockets and long enough handles to be worn over the shoulder. This hit every need and it was a joy to make. I've honestly learnt so very much making it (read on for the specifics), I'm really happy with the combination of prints and all the details of the bag. Best of all, my mum LOVES it!
I have to admit being scared of sewing a dart, I'm no dress maker and making 3D things are already out of my comfort zone. Nothing to be scared of though, I followed the instructions and it looks ok to me! Are both sides perfectly symmetrical?! mmm not sure about that... but can anyone look at both darts directly at the same time... no!
The bag also has a recessed zip, which I don't think I've ever sewn before and I am so happy with how it turned out. Even the zipper tab at the end is neat.
I've had these Emmeline magnetic snaps for ages, I must have bought them for a specific project I wanted to make but goodness knows what that was. They are the perfect pocket snap, not too strong (like others, where you feel you might rip the fabric!) and they are very well made. I like the pattern on them too. The installation guide was invaluable and finally I'm confident putting in magnetic snaps.
There were no helpers to take a picture (this was back before Christmas when we weren't all at home again) so this is the best I managed. I was attempting to show you the size... fail! But at least you can sort of see that the straps are a really good 'on the shoulder' length.
The pattern is the Super Tote by Noodlehead. It is so well written and the attention to detail is excellent. Nice topstitching also thanks to Aurifil Forty3 thread with 50wt in the bobbin.

Gathered pockets!! I have never done this before either but it was simple following the instructions.
I added one of my labels (at mum's request) and also decided to add a lanyard for her keys (always getting lost). I looped the clip onto some premade Liberty bias binding I had, rather than use one length of fabric, honestly I don't know why but hopefully it might be stronger when she's pulling out her keys. I did stitch across the base of the clip so it won't move around. I like that you can tuck it into an inside pocket or an outside pocket because there's a gap at the end of the recessed zip.
So it probably wasn't the most well timed gift, especially as now we are on full lock down again, but I've told her just to carry her files around the house with her to break it in!! And she can look forward to using it out and about eventually.
I hope you are all staying safe and well. A reminder that I co-host a weekly craft along on instagram every Saturday night - if you fancy joining us to show what you're working on or just get some inspiration, please do! It's a wonderful and very encouraging community, find more info in this post.
Today is my 41st birthday! Obviously it's going to be quite low key, hoping to spend a nice relaxing evening with my family. To celebrate I am having a giveaway on my instagram, click the photo below and leave a comment to enter. Open worldwide / ends 15th January 2021.
celebrating a new sponsor
12 January 2013
Happy 33rd Birthday to me! I have spent today with my family and friends eating cake and chilling out - although a night out clubbing might help move the baby along!
I noticed I've had over 100,000 blog views so what a great time to celebrate and introduce my newest sponsor, the fabulous Fat Quarter Shop.
If you haven't yet heard of them then you must live under a rock or be new to quilting ;)
I have ordered from them since I began quilting and have lots of envelopes with that little logo on. They have such a huge selection of fabric you can't fail to find something you want and the service is truly brilliant. They are a fantastic team of people and I have always been happy shopping with them. I suspect that's where the vast majority of my stash has come from!
Here's just a little of what is going on at the Fat Quarter Shop...
The Fat Quarter Shop is continually adding New Fat Quarter Bundles, Yardage, Quilt Kits, Quilt Patterns and other items.
Here are some of my favourites:
Safari Soiree by Dan Stiles - just adorable baby/kids fabric
Luxe in Bloom by Sarah Watson - these prints are awesome and some are so versatile, I would use them for a million things
Noteworthy by Sweetwater - very cute prints
Hex on the Beach Quilt Kit - this makes my heart sing (and would be the best birthday present!). Seriously... 100 1" paper hexagons and 1008 precut fabric hexagons in Salt Water by Tula Pink and Free Spirit solids. Life does not get any better than this kit!
Did you know they Youtube??
I REALLY loved watching this interview with Pat Bravo - I could listen to her all day, she's infectious and so rock and romance! There's lots of other brilliant ones too, go and take a look at the Fat Quarter Shop channel.
There's some great tips and tricks too - like the Quilting 101 videos - including how to do Half Square Triangles.
The Fat Quarter Shop is thrilled to present our sixth annual Designer Mystery Block of the Month. This year, we will unveil a spectacular row quilt filled with basket blocks, star blocks, house blocks and flower blocks guaranteed to fill your home with color and style! You will receive 12 different blocks featuring the Avalon collection by Fig Tree Quilts for Moda Fabrics. Each block finishes at 12" and will be an easy to intermediate pieced block (no templates, applique or paper piecing).
The program is from June 2013 to May 2014.
So why not go and buy yourself a present today, visit the Fat Quarter Shop and tell them I said hi!
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