Favorite Tools

There is little better than the right tool for the job. A gadget that saves time, reduces frustration and improves the final craft result is fabulous. My current favorite tools include an adjustable hand vise for installing key fob hardware, a chisel for slicing exact magnetic clasp holes and custom ironing hams for pressing flat-bottomed pouches.

New Pouch

I've been playing around with flat-bottomed pouches in different sizes. This small one has a short side loop for using as a wristlet. It can hold a few essentials out on the table or secure in a larger bag. Experimenting with stabilizer combinations has yielded a bag that will stand on its own. Cute, right?

Sister Scooter Bags

I made these two smaller messenger-style bags for the significant others of brothers. The Japanese scooter fabric lends itself to a stripe across the back of the bag. Inside is a zippered pocket and an open pocket. A beefy 18 mm magnetic snap holds the front flap down, though the overall square shape of the bag also secures items inside. I've made this pattern several times now, and still find it fun to play with. Maybe a zippered pocket on the outside is on tap for the next generation of this purse.

More Color

I know you're supposed to limit your color to one or maybe two places on your person at any one time. With a necklace as bright as this one, it may even be prudent to wear all black the day before and the day after putting it on. But I like color and pattern. I like it in my house. I like it in my crafts. I don't draw the line in my closet. Bring on the color!