Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Charm Bag

I recently took an afternoon class with my local Western Branch of the Irish Patchwork Society to make a shoulder bag from 5 inch squares.  I had not made a bag before, but at least had confidence in my beginner's quilting skills to give it a try.  If you haven't taken a class at your local quilt shop or with your local guild before, I would absolutely suggest that you sign up as quickly as possible.  This is a great way to learn a new skill or way of thinking about the skills you already have (as was my case here).  Most importantly, though, this was a great way to meet and interact with other local quilters, share a cup of tea and have a good laugh.  The bag is about 15 inches across and 8-9 inches tall (without the handles) and has a patchwork pocket on the front and two larger patchwork pockets on the lining.  I chose to use a deep brown lining to match the handles.  I am currently using it to cart around my embroidery floss, hoops, etc when traveling and I simply love it.
The fabric is from a spectacular line called Milly by Erin Ries for Clothworks Fabric (available at the Fat Quarter Shop).  I primarily used the bold, dark colors in the charm bag as these are always my favorites, but there are lovely coordinating spring colors and patterns here.  I was thinking of making the wine gift bags from the Moda Bake Shop with the spring fabrics to use over the next few months.  Do you have other suggestions of how to use spring-centric fat quarters?  I have about 6 coordinating patterns that I would like to use together.

1 comment:

Kathy said...

I am just so impressed with your work! I wish I could see it in person. I love the colors and designs of the fabric you've chosen.

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