I never realized the amount of time it would take to go through the whole process - designing the pattern, writing the directions, coordinating the fabrics for the pattern cover, and making the many samples to make sure everything was written correctly!!! I gave many classes to promote my tote bag pattern at quilt shops. I also taught many friends to make one for themselves at quilt camps and club meetings.
Now I am in the process - almost complete - of updating and revising my bag pattern. In five years, I've learned a bit about the process...I think. Originally I wanted a unique way to sew the bag...now I think the generic process is just fine.
I love auditioning different colors and patterns to see how they work together. Picking out the fabrics is the most important part of any project for me and sometimes takes longer than the construction of the item. I have to love the colors and design of the fabric otherwise I probably will never finish it. And I do have a few dozen of those in my sewing room - don't you?
Here are the two samples I made - one for the cover of my pattern and the other for Cottage Quilts and Fabrics in Elk River, MN. They will be selling my pattern - yay! They sell the fabrics used in the sample bag that will hang in the shop.
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| This tote bag is featured on my pattern |
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| Sample for Cottage Quilts & Fabrics, Elk River, MN |
In less than two weeks, I have another quilt camp so its time to start planning and cutting out projects! Woo hoo!
Take care and remember to do something fun today!
Bonnie
