My Favourite Bag Pattern Ever!

Yesterday I had a little nudge from a dear friend, asking my why she hadn't received any blog posts arriving to her in box lately. I decided that she was absolutely right! Time to share a few more pictures. Well, ok, a lot of pictures in this post!  It's not that I haven't been creating, I sure have! However, I have also been busy doing other things. Like, a trip to Florida with my entire family! All 10 of us made the trek from our snowy homes to visit the Sunshine State. To say it was delightful would be such an understatement. We had so much fun swimming, visiting with Mickey Mouse and just plain hanging out together. I really love  having time when we can all just catch up with each other and few responsibilities come between us all. We played all day, and at night we cooked together and sat up chatting on the couch while having many good laughs. I really hope we can all do it again someday soon.

While I was away, I tortured my poor husband by insisting he drive me all over to various fabric and craft stores. He did so willingly, so I have to add his patience with me to the list of reasons why he truly is the best guy ever : ) I wanted to get some unique fabrics to create a diaper bag for my nephew who is arriving in May. Just before we left on our trip, I had an order for a diaper bag made from a new pattern. Well, I have to tell you that it is by far one of my favourite patterns ever! Just the perfect combination of form and function, with several sweet little features added in. The outside pockets have a nice little dart that gives them structure and shape. The pattern also allows for the combination of many coordinating fabrics, which is one of my absolute favourite things to do. I actually get very excited to create the bag as I purchase the fabric. I can just see it all coming together in my mind's eye and can hardly wait to get sewing. I also used a bit of Decor Bond, which is a product by Pellon. It gives the bag a nice amount of structure, and will also assist in providing durability for a heavily used tote such as a diaper bag. I purchased the pattern for this bag on Etsy. If you would like to make one yourself, here is the link: https://www.etsy.com/listing/115389267/diaper-bag-pattern-pn408-millie-nappy?ref=shop_home_active_1. The pattern was a delight to work with, and included very precise directions. The shop SusieDDesigns is full of many PDF patterns that might tickle your fancy should you want to spend a bit of time with your own sewing machine.

This order was for a little girl. The family hasn't chosen a name, so they requested that their last name be added to the front. Pink and black are so striking as a couple, don't you think?

This diaper bag can add more than just cuteness to its list of impressive features. In addition to the two generous exterior pockets, there are three deep pockets lining the back of the tote. Wide, polka dot (of course!) handles will be able to withstand plenty of use. Pretty, functional and durable - a great combo! Here are a few more pictures to let you get a feeling for how all of the coordinating fabrics match up with this bag.  I just happened to have some matching flannel so I whipped up a few burp cloths for the new baby as well. That "S" on the burp cloths? Well, that is another little gem I made with my new Scan and Cut. For my nephew's bag, I have chosen grey, lime green, cobalt blue, and hints of orange. I am just waiting on confirmation of his name before I go ahead and start. I'll just have to be patient I guess! 

Soon I will share another bag that I recently made. Coincidentally, it is also pink and black. It was made as part of a blanket/bib/bag combo to welcome a sweet new baby girl. Have a happy day!

Bath Time for Baby...And a New Sewing Room Addition Too!

Lately I've been sewing up a storm for the new baby (my nephew!) who will join our family in the spring. Since my own children are now teenagers, the delightful addition of a tiny baby has been luring me into my sewing room at almost every opportunity. It is such fun to plan a project, and then select the adorable fabrics to complete it. 

When my babies were little, I had a couple of hooded towels that were really handy for after the bath, or at the swimming pool. So, I decided to sew one up for baby boy. I used a pattern that called for a full sized towel, along with a facecloth that is made into the hood. I purchased the towels at Target, and I found that they had a wide selection of delightful colours. Also, the towels were very soft, becoming softer even after a run through the washing machine. Perfect! The hood is lined with a fun animal print. I used my serger for this project, and it really was quite simple. I love my serger, especially for projects like this. The results are professional with seams that are clean and secure. The towel worked up quickly and I am certain that it will be a very useful gift for the new parents, and a cozy item for baby.

In other news, I gave into temptation and brought home a brand-new toy for my sewing room. I am the proud owner of the new Brother Scan and Cut. You can check it out here: http://www.brother-usa.com/scanncut/.  I purchased it specifically for the fabric cutting feature because there are many times when the project is small and I don't want to hoop and computerize for one letter, or re-hoop a long name. I also love the look of appliqué done this way - a little more shabby chic with edges that soften and fray a bit after a few washes. It has a different feel to it than appliqué done on an embroidery machine. I love both looks equally, so I knew it would be a good investment for me. I just took it out of the box last night after spending the evening reviewing the instruction manual from front to back. This morning, after the hockey game of course, I headed straight into my little sewing room full of anticipation. The results? True love! This little machine cut out the letters smooth as can be, after only a bit of testing and minimal frustration! I can already tell that the blog will be home to many projects made with my new sewing room friend. Once I have spent a little more time playing with this machine, I will share a few more thoughts. If you would like to purchase one for yourself, I suggest you visit That Sewing Place here in Newmarket. Not only are they knowledgeable about their products, but they will go out of their way to assist you in any way they can. One of the things I hate most is a business that fails to provide customer service once you have made the purchase. You will never-ever experience that if you shop at That Sewing Place. Friendly from the moment you walk in, every single time, this family run business is always ready to assist with a smile. You can find their website here:  http://www.thatsewingplace.ca. Tell Liana and Evelyn that I sent you!

I am working on a few other goodies for baby, so check back soon. Have a happy day!

"S" is for Sisters! Cute Totes for Big Sis and Little Sis

Happy Tuesday morning! Still more snow falling today and it would be easy to start to feel that spring will never arrive. In order to combat this dreary day, I have a couple of bright and cheery tote bags to share. Full of pinks, purples, polka dots and strips. A perfect combination of happy things to bring some colour to an otherwise dull day.

These totes were ordered as gifts for a family who just welcomed a new baby girl. I think it is so thoughtful when giving a gift to a new baby, to include the older child (or children) as well. In this case, Piper is now a big sister to Trinity. Trinity's bag is subtle pinks and a hint of apple green, perfect for a little girl but also suitable as she grows older. Piper's bag just had to be purple! I even used some  striped thread to add many shades of purple with hits of pink to the stitching. The upper and lower case letters are just so cute, and perfect for young ones.

I hope Trinity and Piper will use their new tote bags on many wonderful adventures as sisters! I have a few more pictures to share so enjoy : )

Piper loves purple!

Of course, polka dots!

The lining of Trinity's tote bag

label love!

Stay warm and cozy on this snowy day. I am off to my sewing room to work on some baby items - yippee! Stay tuned for pictures.

A "Monster" Party!

Recently I was contacted by a mom planning a first birthday party for her son. She is hosting a monster themed party, and she wanted a onesie for her son to wear for the occasion. She also wanted the onesie to have a "little man" feel so I added some suspenders to it - cute overload alert! Vivid colours will fit in perfectly with the monster theme, and will show up perfectly in all those special birthday pictures. Wishing you a happy "monster" day, Henry!

A Sweet Diaper Bag for Baby Boy

Hello! I have been sewing up a storm, however, I have been negligent in posting pictures and details here on the blog. That means I have lots to share! Today's bag is one that was really fun to make. It was ordered as a diaper bag to be given at a baby shower, complete with pockets and lots of fun colour. The recipient knows she is expecting a boy, but they haven't selected a name as of yet. So it was requested that the last name of the family be embroidered on the front.  The baby's nursery is done is a lovely pewter colour, accented with turquoise and green and I think this tote bag fits right in!

The lady who ordered this tote, was looking for a unique and personal gift. She knows the new mom would like a stylish bag for baby's goodies, but after scouring store after store she was unimpressed by what she found. Plenty of dark colours or plastic linings and uninspired on the whole. She wanted a bag that screamed "Stylish Mommy!" above all else.  When she contacted me, she indicated she was looking for a stylish diaper tote that would grow with baby and look great while not being too "babyish".  I think that this tote bag meets all the criteria, while being a unique and thoughtful gift. The colours are just so happy!! Have a  peek at the finished product!

The handles are accented with an apple green chevron ribbon and they are just the right combination of functional and fun. They are reinforced several times to allow for heavy duty wear and tear. 

Oh, and that lining? Could that colour be any better??? Cheery turquoise compliments the stitching of the initial and name. 

And, because it is my firm belief that all things are better with a sprinkling of polka dots, I had to find a way to work them into this project. Check out the interior pockets!

 I think that this bag is just the thing for a stylish new mom to tote around town : ) Have a happy Saturday evening! I have a sweet birthday onesie to share with you all shortly. See you soon!

Whoooo's Cute?

 Well, it is super chilly here today! The sun is shining which is a treat, however, don't let it fool you. This morning the temperature is hovering around -28 with a windchill bringing us to -32. Needless to say my regular hour long walk with my pup is not going to happen so I am using it as an opportunity to curl up with a cup of tea and post some pictures of a lovely owl tote.  This bag was ordered for a new baby boy, and the colours are just the best.

Whooo's the cutest?

Check out the polka dot lining - cherry red with white polka dots just makes you smile : )

This tote bag is the larger size, and would make an excellent day to day bag for baby's many necessities. The straps are long enough to easily throw the tote over your shoulder and head out on your adventures. Gussets provide a sturdy base for the tote bag allowing it to sit flat so you can see all the goodies inside. Here are a few more pictures of this cheery tote.

I have been busily preparing the invitations for the baby shower I am hosting for my brother and his family. We have decided on a book themed party and it would seem that the ideas on Pinterest are endless. I am having so much fun thinking about it all and planning for the big day. Too many ideas and too little time. If you would like to visit my baby shower Pinterest board, here is the link: http://www.pinterest.com/bryerpatchtotes/baby-shower-ideas/. Don't say I didn't warn you though - you might find yourself lost in the Pinterest vortex. Stay cozy today!

A Tote for Sophie and Exciting News!

Well, Happy New Year to one and all! I took these pictures just before the holidays so there is a Christmas theme to them. We had a lovely holiday, and have now settled back into our regular routine. The first week back was very exhausting, however, I think we are all feeling the groove and contentment of being back to the familiar. 

Here are a few pictures of a lovely little tote bag for Sophie. I adore the vintage feel to the floral fabric and the teal blue is a wonderful contrast for the apple green leaves.

Although I was on a bag sewing binge before the holidays, my current sewing interests are focused on a very exciting new development in our family. My brother and his wife are expecting baby number 3!!! So, I have been creating and sewing so many baby items. I can't wait to share them with you in the days ahead. We know that we will be welcoming a nephew, so lots of little boy projects are currently on my sewing table.  I visited Hobby Lobby and Joanne's fabrics recently, a rare treat for this Canadian girl! I might have gotten just a little carried away with my purchases but I have to say it was such a delight! 

Enjoy the pictures of Miss Sophie's sweet tote!

Tote Bag Week - Bag Three

Chirp! Chirp! On a day that finds us snowed in under dreary skies, I am happy to post some pictures of a happy and sunny tote bag. We didn't receive as much snow as some other areas, however, we are still enjoying plenty of the white stuff. The colours of this book bag are so yummy! This cheerful little winged friend is joyfully sharing a tune with us.

All five tote bags will packaged up for pick up today. I have really enjoyed sewing them, and I will miss their bright colours hanging all around me in my sewing room. 

Tomorrow I will be sharing another little boy book bag. No monkeying around! That hint ought to give  a pretty clear idea of the theme. I am off to enjoy a quiet and gray day. I have made a pot of chill, some tea biscuits, and a bread pudding is baking away in the oven right now. I have decided that today calls for comfort food and I just felt like being in the kitchen. A rare occurrence indeed - might as well take advantage of that! Check in tomorrow for another post!

Tote Bag Week - Bag Two

It seems to me that all littles love dinosaurs! So, today's book bag is just perfect for those who would love to inhabit Jurassic Park. I love this whimsical dinosaur alphabet design, a little cute and little silly all wrapped up in one!

This "Letter T" dinosaur is done in vibrant colours. Again, the tote bag is a great size for books and all the treasures that might be discovered during a day searching for clues about the dinosaurs. I enjoy mixing patterns in the same colour palette, and this tote bag gave me ample opportunity. The inside lining is a bright and cheerful star pattern and picks up on the spiky theme of the dino on the front of the bag. Because polka dots are so wonderful, I just had to add a few to the handles. I think this bag just screams "FUN"!!!!!

I hope that Thomas will enjoy his new book bag. His mom will also be happy to know that after a day spent digging for dino bones in the park, this tote bag can be washed up and ready to go for the next adventures.

Check back tomorrow for a tote bag number three. A little "birdie" told me it was very cute! Can you guess the design? See you tomorrow!

Tote Bag Week - Bag One!

By far, my favourite thing to sew has got to be the book bag. I just love that it is a very useful item, but can also be so whimsical and personal. Also, they appeal to all ages. The past couple of weeks have found me happily stitching away and working on several book bags that are heading off to new homes for Christmas. Isn't that a lovely gift? A book bag, along with a book is just perfect and so unique. This week, I plan to share a new bag every day. Today's featured tote bag is all about the fox craze that is taking over the internet! I fell in love with this adorable design, and it is just perfect for the pink/orange combination that I am fond of. And let's talk about that pink flower???? Very cute for our little friend Fox.

These tote bags are made to be used! In order to accommodate trips to the library for example, I reinforce the handles and add box stitches for added durability. A generous flat base allows the bag to sit upright and all ready to be loaded up with stuff. They are the perfect size for everyday running around, and the design is one that I created myself based upon experience. I knew the tote bag needed a nice wide opening, gussets to provide a flat base and stability, along with a generous helping of C-U-T-E!!! I also sew them so that there are no seams that have to be sewed up leaving unsightly, visible stitching lines in an otherwise cleanly finished product. However did I do that, you ask? Lots of trial and error to begin with. Then, one night I woke up with a grand plan and put it into action the next day. Success! A tote bag with entirely finished seams - my lofty goal achieved! Can you guess how it is done? 

Here are a few more pictures of today's tote bag. I recognize the last one is a bit blurry, but it does give you a nice close up view. Check in again tomorrow and have a peek at a little boy tote. Here's a hint about the design...don't get too close - it might bite! Roar!

So pretty under the tree. Merry Christmas!

Sunday Stitches

This has been a very busy season, filled with plenty of holiday orders! I have had my hands full working away on Christmas stockings for both humans and our canine companions. I love stockings! I think that they are such a nice way to decorate for the holidays, especially if they are personalized and unique. My kids love their stockings too - they always find them filled to the brim on Christmas morning. What fun! Here are a few pictures of some of the cute projects I have been working on.

Stockings for people have also been very popular! One little girl named Ayla, who is in love with polar bears, will find a special stocking hanging when she wakes up to check the treats from Santa.  I snuck in a little bit of time to make some stockings for my own family as well. Of course, they are turquoise and apple green, what else would they be?

Next up on the agenda is the matching stocking for our pup, Rosie.  I have some vintage lace and I am planning to incorporate that into her creation. She really loves winter, and we enjoyed a snowy walk last night. 

I recently finished an order for five book bags. Check back later this week to see some up close photos and a few more details. For now, here is a sneak peek of the adorable tote bags all in a row!

I just can't seem to decide upon a favourite! Stay tuned for plenty of pictures in the days ahead. Happy Sunday!

Wordless Wednesday