Martha Copied Me

What should a friend spy on Miss Martha Stewart's site but a little gadget I have been making and giving away (or selling) for years--the Bag'Em! Or, as MS calls them, "Pretty Little Plastic Bag Holders." Martha made hers from a dishtowel and twill tape; I went all out with contrast insides; grosgrain trim and handle and french seams. I think mine are a little bigger, too. 

Anyways, they're simple to make and are great hostess gifts (and a way to use up extra fabric!) 1). Just cut two pieces of fabric the size you want to make the bag, 2). sew together at the top and french seam the sides, 3). sew a channel on the bottom for elastic 4). finish the seam after you put the elastic in and add the ribbon trim!

Crafternoon Followup

The Crafternoon was a huge success...Khara, Sarah and Terri came over and we made lovely Valentine's cards together. Techniques were shared, moment were photographed, cookies were devoured and an all-around jolly time was had by all. I can't wait until the next one is hosted....maybe to make mini-books? 

Crafternoons!

There's nothing more fun than seeing something handmade emerge from a pile of fabric scraps, glue and paper....unless it's creating that self-same item with a group of likeminded souls!

Crafternoon, the new book by Maura Madden, outlines a fun way to connect with other people while engaging in the creative process. I bought into the concept hook, line and sinker and arranged for my very own inaugural Crafternoon where we will make homemade Valentines. 

Of course, food is an integral part of any gathering, be that a Crafternoon or a Superbowl party, so I must find some Valentin-y recipes to present to the group. I'm providing the paper and envelopes, others will bring the inspiration! 

Maura's inspiration for her wonderful idea is best summed in her own words: "Crafternoon is about being around friends who support your work, who encourage your growing craftiness, and who inspire and get inspired by you...it's about getting pleasure out of the process as much as the product. It's about the contentment you feel when you are surrounded by friends who can see the beauty in imperfection, the pleasure of happy mistakes." 

Look for more about the inner workings (and results) of this first-time event in posts to come! And think about hosting your own Crafternoon (how-to's available in Maura's book!)