I love everything about autumn -- the leaves turning colors, a sudden nip in the air, eager children going back to school, windows flung wide open, and a little more time to start and finish projects. It's a splendid time to hole myself up in my bedroom sewing room and listen to the hummm of my machine. There's something comforting and restoring in that creative time for me.
Last week I mentioned that I would be making three "sister" totes from four fabrics I had purchased. Most were from the fall-inspired fabric line called "Arcadia" by Sanae for Moda. I'm here to introduce the second tote in that trio...
I've christened this tote "Loose Leaf." The name "Loose Leaf" reminds me of school supplies -- loose leaf binders. This tote, however, gives that short phrase new meaning! Once again, the button makes me a little giddy...
I'll give you a better look at that voluptuous button so that you, too, can fall in love...
Here's the duo. Two totes with similar fabrics. Two very distinctive looks. Definitely not twins, but clearly sisters...
Just curious. Do you have a favorite? Is it "Loose Leaf" (on the left) or "Fall Fever" (on the right)? Next week I'll create the third sister.
Cupcake Mania -- and not a one is edible! I've been doing a little baking myself lately, so Etsy found me looking for "cupcakes" this week. Here are my deliciously delectable Etsy discoveries...
We've all heard the phrase "timing is everything." That expression has been driven home to me these last few months. In the months of June, July and August I sold only two items from my Etsy shop. That seemed a little strange because the two months preceding June, I sold 26 items. You'd think come summer I would have been a little upset over this turn of events, but I was so relieved. You see, I really didn't have the time to devote to my Etsy shop this summer, because I was so busy with a variety of family obligations. The phrase "timing is everything" crossed my mind occasionally during that time, because I was so appreciative that my shop seemed on a customer-imposed hiatus! It wasn't until last week, that I got the bug to start sewing again, thus building my Etsy shop up a bit. Coincidentally, I've sold three items in the last two days. A surprising turn of events. Again the phrase "timing is everything" is playing on my mind. I'm very grateful.
What inspired me this week?
My mom often inspires me. She's quite a lady. Everyone who knows her says so. She's 86 years old and has the stamina and enthusiasm of someone 60 years younger -- seriously. Lately she says that she can feel herself slowing down. That makes me chuckle. I might be able to keep up with her now. This week she took one of her lady friends, and they drove up to San Francisco for a few days. They had a great time walking up and down the streets, shopping and eating at a few of the charming restaurants there. One night there was a fire-drill at the hotel she was staying at. She and her friend were on the top floor. They had to walk down 14 flights of stairs to get to the ground level and outside. She didn't even complain. Sheinspires me with her vitality and energy!
What moved me this week?
I was moved today as I watched my husband go out the door for his latest flying adventure. When he was 18 years old he started the necessary classes to gain a pilots license. He acquired enough hours at that time to solo, but in spite of his desire to do so, he was never able to finish the hours required to obtain his license. College, work, seven children and a demanding wife booted that aspiration right out the window for a good long time. Recently he has started flying again. Today he went on his first cross-country. To say that he was excited at the prospect and buoyant when he returned home is an understatement. What moved me was the thought that he is finally able to fulfill his life-long dream -- especially since he has always supported and encouraged so well the dreams and desires of his loved ones.
I agree with the woman to the left... Life's little ups and downs seem trivial when you're holding a matching handbag! Thanks to all those who signed up for the give-away this month and thank you, especially, for your kind comments. Comments are always appreciated. Feel free to check back often...
Without further ado, this month's give-away, "Chocolate Covered Raspberries," goes to...
There's been a lot of talk about fevers this fall. Generally speaking I think we are all trying to avoid getting one. However, this fever might be the exception. I'm hoping that "Fall Fever" is one fever you'd like to acquire!
I told you about these fabrics last week. The orange leafed fabric on top is from a line called "Arcadia" by Sanae for Moda.
The fabric on the bottom of the tote is a Valori Wells creation from her "Deh Li" line. I adore them separately, but together -- ooh-la-la. Together they make me start spouting French.
What do you think of this real coconut shell button? Me? Do I like it? Thank you for asking. I am in love with it. If I wasn't already married, I would marry it. That's why I have taken approximately 756 photos of this bag each one with the button as the main focus... (I'm so transparent.)
I think this new pattern will be a successful one as "Turquoise Tantrum" has already been bought and flown the coop. She's on her way to a new home in Ireland. (I should be so lucky.) I think she'll enjoy living there.
Fall is definitely in the air and all my flowers are feeling the effects of cooler nights and my neglect. Honestly, it has been wonderful these last couple of weeks not worrying about the yard quite so much. We obsessed over it all summer long -- trying to keep it in tip-top condition for the wedding reception. It feels great to let nature take its course and not work quite so hard!
This week I'm featuring some roses. I'm grateful for their hearty constitutions in the face of impending cooler weather...
I'm afraid that the last few weeks my poor herbs have been totally ignored. They've started to bloom and will go to seed soon. In the meantime I'm enjoying the beautiful, dainty little flowers of my cilantro and basil...
I've been inspired. Lately, I've visited some blogs that demonstrate how to refurbish or refinish different items. Yesterday The Shabby Nest hosted a Frugal Friday Linky Party that showcased a variety of frugal decorating goodness. Some very talented ladies showed what they have created out of used and abused items.
Yesterday afternoon I found myself at the flea market. Usually, when I go to the flea market I just browse. Rarely do I find anything I "need." There are only a few items that generally catch my eye at a flea market... dishware, linens and chairs are at the top of that short list. I have a thing for older wooden chairs. I appreciate the workmanship that is often found on an older chair. They often have more style than their newer counterparts. Anyway, as much as I like to look at these chairs I've never been tempted to buy -- until yesterday when this one beckoned me...
I was drawn to it because of its boxy appeal and wooden detail ...
and the fact that it was $39. I wasn't, however, crazy about its raspberry colored upholstery (yikes) or the sunken seat.
The arms are very worn at the hand rest, which makes me think this was a well-loved chair at one time...
Anyway, this is where you come in -- I need some advice. I've never refinished or reupholstered anything. I was thinking of painting the wood black and then reupholstering the seat and back. I'll also need to add more padding to the seat of the chair. When I read about experiences where people have refurbished an item, they generally use spray paint to cover the wood, so I'm thinking that's what I'll do. What do you think of my painting it black? Any advice? Any suggestions? Any opinions? Any recommendations? I'm obviously in over my head... and excited!
Today I visited one of my favorite fabric stores. I do a lot of my fabric shopping on the web, but there is nothing better than seeing and touching the fabric in person. It can make all the difference in visualizing the finished product. I really like the ladies at this particular shop. They seem to get as excited as I do about the fabrics I choose.
Today I came away with four fabrics. Three came from a line called "Arcadia" by Sanae for Moda. The fourth is a Valori Wells creation (top left) from her "Deh Li" line. I adore all four of these beautiful fabrics and was having a terrible time trying to figure out which two I should use for a new tote, so I decided to buy all four fabrics and make three different totes using a different variety of fabrics and pattern each time. I agree that sometimes less is more, but in this case more is more. Don't you agree?
Today I fashioned another Hang Up with the new pattern that I first tried the other day. This Hang Up will be for sale in my Etsy by the end of the day. I christened her "Turquoise Tantrum" because of the swirlish, girlish fabric she's constructed from. Not that tantrums are girlish, mind you. No, I'd never admit say that...
This tote is constructed of fabric from Amy Butler's line, called Daisy Chain. I do love the colors and design of this line. I don't know Amy Butler's IQ, but I'm thinking she's a genius. Her fabrics are simply fantabulous. They can make anything look good.
Goodness, I've lost my heart to this one, but I have to be strong. I just have to keep reminding myself that sometimes adoption is the best policy...
This bag has these delightful features ... two inside pockets, a magnetic closure, fully lined with double interfacing for extra support, two 22" reinforced fabric straps, the cutest little pleats you could ever meet and two big, beautiful, voluptuous buttons. This Hang Up measures approximately 14" x 12" -- she's "purse" size.
Drizzle a little chocolate on top and I could eat this baby...
Have you ever had a chocolate covered raspberry? Ambrosial ... Heavenly ... Scrumptious ... are just a few words to describe that delectable combination. Those same words apply to the chocolate browns and raspberry pinks in this beautiful line of fabrics designed by Patty Young called "Andalucia." That's why I decided to name this tote "Chocolate Covered Raspberry." It's just plain yummy! I couldn't decide which of the three fabrics to use on this Hang Up, so I changed around my pattern a little to incorporate all three into this tote. Rich browns, mossy greens, pumpkin oranges, russet reds and raspberry pinks combine to make this tote perfect for autumn!
Here are the rules for this give-away!
1.) The participants must live within the continental U.S. or Canada. I will provide the postage.
2.) Each person that makes a comment below will have her name entered into the contest.
3.) If you put a "shout out" on your blog about the contest, and come back and to give me a heads up I will enter your name two more times. (Trust me when I say it is worth it to add this shout-out. More often than not, these are the ladies that win!)
4.) No anonymous comments. Please leave an email address or blog that I can visit. Private bloggersmust leave their email address. If I don't have any way to contact you, your name will not be eligible.
5.) This tote is not meant for resale. Only those intending to use the tote for personal use may register to win.
This contest will run through midnight Wednesday, September 16th. Thursday morning, September 17th, the winner will be announced!
Every now and then I browse Etsy to look for a good find. This week I found JoliMarbleSwirls' shop. I bought three lovely items there for $6.95 each! They've already arrived and I love them. (See item at right.) Just beautiful and wonderful workmanship. There are so many fabulous finds on Etsy and, for me, it feels good to support these artisans.
I've decided to scout out favorite Etsy items every now and then and highlight them in a "Friday's Fabulous Finds" post. Hope you enjoy!
As you've heard by now, within a three week period two new souls join the ranks of our family...one in the form of a grandchild and the other a son-in-law. It's difficult to put into words how grateful I am for both of these events. I believe, pure and simple, a child to be God's most precious gift. That has certainly been true in the case of my children and grandchildren. Additionally, my daughters-in-law and sons-in-law are treasured gifts that have abundantly blessed and enriched my life. I am moved by the hearts ability to expand again and again to fully embrace, cherish and love each new family member.
What surprised me this week?
My family didn't play a lot of board games when I was a youngster, so I never became adept at them and in turn never enjoyed them much. Some might say I'm slightly competitive (possibly an understatement) and I rarely, if ever, won these games, so as I said they weren't much "fun" for me. Until now. Several months ago we purchased the board game "Ticket to Ride." It's the first board game I love. What surprised me thisweek is I beat the socks off my husband practically every time we played the game. And we played it often. I know pride is an undesirable quality in a person. It's unbecoming and rude. Still, victory is sooo sweet! (As my husband suggested, I will try to employ some humility in a few days. Just let me revel in my accomplishments for a time.)
What inspired me this week?
I'm often inspired by my blogging friends. I love reading blogs of all types. I am particularly drawn to blogs that inspire my creative side, but there are a few authors of blogs that I am loyal to that touch the recesses of my soul by their words. Carolynn's blog, A Glowing Ember, is one of those. She is a gifted writer who candidly shares her wisdom, her thoughts, and her views. She constructs stories much like a weaver forges her fabric -- layering her stories with rich colors and designs. She takes such thought and care with each of her posts, that after reading her blog for a little time you feel as if she's a time-honored friend. These last few weeks she's had a rough go of it. One of her beloved pets passed away. What inspired me this week was her comment after telling us of "Bear's" passing. She stated, "In the midst of all the heartbreak and tears, what consistently rises to the surface is a profound sense of gratitude and love." I am inspired by those who can rise above their heartache and show gratitude. What a noble characteristic to possess-- the ability to demonstrate gratitude in the face of sorrow -- so inspiring. Carolynn also shared this beautiful message by Brother David Steindl-Rast. His sentiments in this video are so calming and reassuring. I encourage you to listen...
This morning I felt in the mood to create. It's been awhile. Been busy with more important things. Still, creating is important to me. It's one of the things that brings pleasure and peace into my life, so it felt good to pick up a pair of scissors and hatch a new creation. I recently purchased this fabric. It's a Tina Givens creation from her Annabella line. It may be my favorite line at the moment. Love the mossy, rich, fall colors of this particular fabric and the fanciful, lively nature of the print. I've fallen in love and I might have to keep this one for myself...
In addition I felt in the mood for a little experimentation. I've seen totes similar to this one on the web and decided I would mix it up a bit and try a new pattern. I ended up changing the pattern totally (I'm just not very good at following directions and for some reason I feel the need to resize and reconfigure everything!), but I love the end result.
Love the detail of the button...
Love the rich russet oranges and mossy greens...
Love the metal closure...
Love how it matches the pillow in our family room...
Yes, indeed. I am in love with "Woodland Poppy"...
We've been on pins and needles -- waiting rather impatiently. I say the word "we" loosely. I realize I am mostly referring to our family. "We" have, however, been anxiously awaiting a little sneak peek of the photographs of the wedding reception held at our home a week ago. (Remember we had two different photographers: Amy for the photos right after the wedding and Angie for the photos of the reception.) It was a beautiful night -- quite enchanting, if I do say so myself. I was hoping that Angie, our reception photographer, could capture the beauty of the night. When you spend months working on the details, you hope that someone will notice and appreciate them. She did.
Let me introduce the photographer, Angie Wilson. She's amazing. Angie, of Angie Wilson Photography in Longmont (Colorado), is one talented photographer. Once you look at some of her photos, you'll have to agree. She and her husband, Jim, are an accomplished team. Jim recently quit his full time job in advertising to run the business side of their venture. With photos like these -- and Jim's expertise in advertising -- I know they will be very successful. As a side note, Angie and Jim were best friends in high school with one of my sons. It's so fun to see people that you knew as teenagers, grow up and develop such wonderful talents. Click here to go to Angie's blog and see a preview of some of her marvelous wedding photos...
First and foremost I'm a wife, mother and grandmother who loves her family and likes to create. Join me as I explore my addiction for all things creative!
We've been invaded. A flock of owls has come to roost at our home... A few months ago my six-year-old granddaughter and I were br...
More posts...
Learn how you can transform an old TV stand into a brand new Treat Shop for children!
A s'mores table for a large group!
More s'mores! Here's an idea for a small gathering of friends!
Click here to download the pattern and instructions to make a monster appliqued tooth fairy pillow!
From start to finish, learn how to refinish {and how not to refinish!} a dining table.
Crossbody Owl Purse... find out how to get the pattern & tutorial
Tutorial for a cape for little girls who want to save the world!
My Snappy Bag tutorial gives step-by-step instructions on how to make this cute little pouch. It's a project that even a beginner sewer can master!
Chick-sicles! Learn how to make these rice-filled cooling pads for your children!
Make this easy project -- a grocery bag dispenser!
Learn how to create this herringbone accent wall!
Check out this easy ruffled pillow that anyone can make!
Make this adorable purse from a free online pattern and tutorial.
Learn how to make this pillow by using an easy quilting technique.
Click here to find out how to make this reusable Trick or Treat Bag. {Free pattern & tutorial!}
Animal jars -- so simple to make!
A flock of "Love Birds" descended on our house! Check out this post and find out how you can make a rice-filled heating pad for a child you love!
My "Ruffled Kindle Case" tutorial is up and running. Just click here to find out how to make one for yourself or someone you love!
Maggie the Taggie Owl... the tutorial and pattern for a cute taggie blanket is available!
Our Art Gallery... display children's artwork in a fun, creative way!
Click to find out how to receive the pattern to make this gorgeous Camellia-like fabric flower pattern!
Click here to be directed to a tutorial for this Childs Play Tent!
Click here to learn how to make a similar iPad Case!
Click here for a tutorial on a ric-rac edged receiving blanket!
Need a baby shower gift? Click here to find a tutorial on how to make these easy and inexpensive baby burp cloths!
Go here to find out how to receive this beautiful sunflower pattern!
Get the free pattern and tutorial by clicking on the picture!
Click here for a tutorial on how to applique on fabric...!
Click on the photo to find out how to make and receive the pattern and tutorial for this cute pocket bib!
The free pattern and tutorial for this "Trick or Treat Bag" for the little ghost or goblin in your life can be yours -- click here!
Click on the photo to be taken to a tutorial on how to recover a lamp shade.
Click here to find the tutorial and pattern for my "Snap Trap" Wallet for kids & adults!
Two-Toned Tote! Click here to be directed to the pattern and tutorial. Also, find out how to make a sturdy, well-crafted tote!
Bunting Cosmetic Bag Tutorial ... find out how to make this cute cosmetic bag!
A diaper and wet-wipe case... click here to find out how to receive my Dwipe Pattern and Tutorial!
Lil' Boy Car Caddy :: Need a little something to keep your toddler busy? Follow these instructions to make this car caddy for the student driver in your life!
Store anything in these beautiful fabric baskets!
Need an idea for a gift for a little one. Try this easy-to-make crayon caddy. The tutorial is a click away!
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Feel free to link to posts on my blog, but please only include one picture. Then I would ask that you link back to my blog and include the name of my blog in your post. Please do not reproduce my content or tutorials, in any language, without my explicit permission even if your intention is not to profit from it. The material at "Just Another Hang Up" blog is copyrighted. Thank you!
Terms of Use: Free Patterns & Tutorials
Feel free to use items made from my tutorials for personal use, gifts or you may make one for a charity/fundraising event. Items made using my tutorials are not to be sold for profit. Please contact me for clarification or requests above and beyond these limitations. Also, my patterns and tutorials are not to be copied and distributed or sold for profit. My patterns and tutorials are copyrighted. Thank you for respecting my wishes.
I'm truly honored. CSI chose my "Smith Art Gallery" as one of their Top 10 Projects of 2010!
I made the cut in the "Neighborhood Gift Challenge!" Thank you for featuring my organic facial scrubs as one of your favorites!
My wood button pillow made the Top 10 at the CSI Pillow Challenge!
CSI Lampshade Challenge... thank you, Jen, for picking my recovered lampshade as your favorite in the CSI Lampshade Challenge!
Last week I mentioned that I would be making three "sister" totes from four fabrics I had purchased. Most were from the fall-inspired fabric line called "Arcadia" by Sanae for Moda. I'm here to introduce the second tote in that trio...
I'll give you a better look at that voluptuous button so that you, too, can fall in love...
Here's the duo. Two totes with similar fabrics. Two very distinctive looks. Definitely not twins, but clearly sisters...
