Archive for the 'totes and bags' Category

Class Updates

Published on February 25, 2008 in classes, Creating, design, embroidery, HomeSchool Sewers, Learning To Sew, LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches Jean Class, LuckyStitches Sew-cial, Perfect Jeans, projects, sewing, sewing with kids and totes and bags. 0 Comments

Sew much has been going on at LuckyStitches, so I’ll give it to you in one long post with pictures and a few words:

HomeSchoolers:

We’ve been working on our sewing machines. Some students have been stitching for a while, whether they started during the classes that began back in December, or earlier. Some have never used a sewing machine. You know what’s great about teaching these kids to sew on machines? They try anything. They don’t give up and aren’t afraid of the machine or to make mistakes. They are thrilled to be making things.

This week it was tote bags. Fabulous practice for first timers, lots of straight lines, hems, corners and straps. For those that are more experienced, they design their own bags.

Above – the kids ages 6 -11 – all sewing on the machine for the first time.

Flannel pups, we put french seams in our tote bags so they wouldn’t ravel all over our books, groceries, sewing projects, dolls, etc.

Dolls watch as we sew straps.

The perfect pocket completed by a first time sewing machine 6 year old queen.

While each child is different, I am amazed by the talent displayed by my youngest students. They sew straight lines. They remember how to wind bobbins and thread the machine. Some parents declare that their 6 year old can’t use a machine (and they could be right), but have they tried? Sure, they shouldn’t be left alone, it is a machine and it can sew over a finger, but why not sew together? If you give them a chance, they can totally do it.

The classes are designed as guidelines. Since everyone works at different levels, I provide the basic idea and encourage everyone to make it their own. This 12 year old decided her tote would be in strips.

After attaching the strips, she pleated every other one. I can’t wait to show you what she does with the bag this week. It’s a very clever bag (no longer the trad tote!).

This is a box tote, that has been quilted and has tons of pockets including a zipper pocket on this side of the bag.

Bag has handles attached with square rings and fabulous batik trim. The inside is lined. More on the bags after classes this week. We’re going to have a bag show.

We’ve also been working on embroidery. We are working in T-shirts. More pictures later.

Embroidery 101 :: I created a sampler and taught the basic stitches (so everyone could create their own!). Here we are using the “window method” to transfer the sampler pattern to our fabric. We are using basic color pencils to transfer the pattern

French Knots, Split Stitch, Chain Stitch, Satin Stitch and Blanket Stitch.

We are still making jeans. Here, the edges of the pieces are being serged (denim ravels like CRAZY). My jeans are just about done, but, and I can’t believe it, but my jeans are just way too big! How did that happen. The muslin fit! Maybe the “Sew Diet” is working. I’m eager to finish my first pair, I have many more in line.

If you have an iron, it’s best to have an aloe plant around. We needed this during a Sew-cial when a 6 year old was learning how to iron (with her mom), and ironed her arm. ouch. If you don’t have an Aloe plant at your home, sewing room or lounge, go get one.

Messenger Bags and The Bag Share

Published on November 18, 2007 in a-line skirt, bag sew, classes, Creating, design, fashion design, LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches Jean Class, projects, sewing, The Bag Sew, totes and bags and workshops. 0 Comments

Ok, first – if you are a local yokel – than please visit me Monday night, 11/19 at LuckyStitches 6pm-8:30pm for a Sew-A-Bration. We’ll be sewing up more bags for the Florence Bag Share which launches the same day (celebration). So come on down! Bring a dish to share, a machine to sew and fabric will be available for bags. If you have questions: info(at)luckystitches.com or 413.695.3092 Hope to stitch it up!

On to regularly scheduled business. The latest round of newbie sewers finished their messenger bags this weekend. I know you’ve probably heard me say this before, but I just have to tell you again. Hearing these guys and gals tell me that there is no way this is going to work and be a bag, then watch as their faces light up when they turn their bags out (we sew linings into them). It’s just so freakin’ precious! I love it. I also really love that each person is able to make their bags their OWN individual bags. All the choices are their own, including what to appliqué, how many pockets, inside pockets, length of strap, closure. I really want people to leave knowing that they can really turn what they are working on into something original, even if it is from a pattern. fun right?

We practice a bunch of different things, just so people can become familiar with their machine. I encourage pressing all the buttons, levers, turning all the knobs, trying all the widths and lengths. Everyone brings different types of fabrics (above is a thick fleece – she’s using a cool fish print and a fun stitch on her new to her (but previously owned) machine and came up with something that looked like seaweed.

On the other, he used some pink satin to appliqué a one-eyed robot demon guy onto his black corduroy bag. It’s so cool! The thread he brought was a little thick, so experimenting with all these things were really fun, and what a cool surprise it was for these to become actual bags they can use.

and what lovely “LuckyStitches poses”!

Oh – on to the next…I’m working fast and furious to finish up the JanFebMar 2008 schedule. Fingers crossed, I can finish tonight! I’ll be repeating some classes, like Sewing Machine 101 (that will happen every month), Jeans and a few others, and there’s some cool stuff for the late winter and early spring. A coat class, a skirt class, a wrap dress class. Some pattern-making 101 classes, like Full Bust Adjustment and Sewing Patterns 101. I’m also introducing a Homeschooling Sewing Series. That actually starts in December. It’s starting to fill up, so if your are interested, please register sooner than later. I’m also thinking of running the winter hat class again. I so LOVE the pattern I made, it’s perfect for kids and adults. So many projects and only 3 months…

Magical Bags…

Published on October 30, 2007 in cape, classes, costume, Creating, Doll Quilt, fabric, LuckyStitches, projects, quilts, sewing, sewing for Iz, totes and bags, WIP and workshops. 1 Comment

Yes, these are magical. These LuckyStitchers made these really amazing and wonderful and so-well-made messenger bags for Sewing Machine 101 Class. I had so much fun, I think they really had fun too. The bags are each so special and spectacular. Great fabrics, fun appliqués and pockets, one even with a zipper! I really enjoy teaching people to sew. For me, it’s like a sew along, but I get to share what I’ve learned, and it’s even more wonderful to see the amazement on faces when they turn something right side out and realized that they made a bag! MAGIC! (not really, just patience, practice and direction…). There were some other photos, but this is my favorite. These three kindly humored me as I asked them to give me a “LuckyStitches” pose. The bags look better this way – don’t you think?

I made this little cape today for Marie’s oldest, she’s going to be Word Girl for Halloween. How cool is that?

The doll quilts started this past weekend at LuckyStitches, here’s one getting “stripped” up! Jen has an amazing amount of fat quarters. I think this one might make it to crib size…stay tuned.

Here’s mine, all pieced together. I used scraps from my first quilt.

Learning to Use Your Sewing Machine and Domestic Inspiration

Published on October 17, 2007 in about me, book review, classes, craft, Creating, family, friends, inspiration, kindness, LuckyStitches, my house, projects, sewing and totes and bags. 2 Comments

Last night was part 2 of the 4 part Sewing Machine 101 class where we are stitching up our own messenger bags. The fabric choices are creative, the applique designs/concepts sparkle and I can’t wait to show you more after next Tuesday. Here’s a sneak peak:

I’m sure by now, you’re up to date on the whole brouhaha about Jane Brocket’s book The Gentle Art of Domesticity. You can hear the interview that sparked it on BBC Women’s Hour.

I don’t really need to add my 2¢ (but…). I think you know, after all, I’ve sewn all my life making my own clothes and many, many gifts, been the breadwinner for many years, taught myself to knit, CHOSE to leave my office job to raise my daughter, and most recently launched a business, yes, a sewing business.

Through blogs, circles, groups all of these have social aspect too. For me it’s all about inspiration. I hope to inspire others and be inspired. How boring if I sat in my chair in front of the television by myself and did nothing but veg? I don’t want a mush brain. I choose to sew and knit and bake and craft it up. Keep my brain thinking about patterns and colors and textures, all of which include color theory, math and vocabulary and pattern making. I want to learn new things. I rarely do the same project twice, I’d rather pick something I haven’t done before, something challenging, change the pattern, scale, use an unexpected color or medium. It’s even better if I can experience it with like minded individuals who are just as passionate (or more) about it as I am. And all this while I raise my daughter and make a home for my family (I didn’t say it would pass the white glove test).

It’s disappointing to me to hear people complain about what other people do with the choices they make about the creative outlets they choose. While I wouldn’t want to run a marathon, 26 miles isn’t for me, I’ll be their cheerleader on Lafayette Ave (NYC Marathon route). I don’t want to write a book, but hey if that’s what you want to do, go for it, I can’t wait to read it.

Maybe those complainers need to be more critical with their own creative outlet choices than with others, and should be thrilled that they are able to choose what’s best for them.

Ode to Buttercream and a Happy Bag Sew

Published on October 12, 2007 in bag sew, craft, creative spaces, fabric, friends, LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches Sew-cial, photos, sewing, The Bag Sew and totes and bags. 2 Comments

Oh Buttercream, I love you so. Not too sweet, but oh so rich and fluffy, creamy, smooth, buttery, creamy, heavenly, LOVELY! Ok, more about the buttercream in a minute.

11 fantastic fabric bags made from scraps of fabric, curtains, stashes, a throw and a nightie. That’s what we made Wednesday night. These little loverlies will get donated to the Bag Share, a Hilltown Sustainability Initiative. A local shop will get a basket of reusable bags, mostly made from fabric like what you see above, that will sit next to the cash register. Customers can borrow the bags, instead of using paper or plastic, then return them to the store (or another in active in the Bag Share program), for the next person. Extra special thanks to Tracy, Marie, Jen and Julie who stitched it up!

This one is made from a throw. It’s groovy bag – check out that fringe!

This is made from really cool old green curtains. (This is Marie. Hi Marie! She and I are sharing the space, she’s holding art workshops – ArtStar)

Labels get sewn onto the bags as they are finished.

It was a really fun Sew-cail. We’ll be doing it again, more regularly after the holiday season. While we were able to finish 11 bags, we still got in a few good stories (note the arms in the air) We had coffee, tea and lovely, lovey cake, baked by Marie and partially donated by Bread Euphoria (Thanks – it was awesome!)

LuckyStitches!! xxoo

Ready to Make Some LuckyStitches!

Published on October 9, 2007 in classes, Creating, LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches Sew-cial, projects, sewing, sewing machines, The Bag Sew, thrift and totes and bags. 4 Comments

These are the keys. They belong to the space I’m renting with my friend Marie. They open the door to the new lounge. They hang on one of my most favorite fobs, a wire ball given to me from my most favorite work family.

These are the chairs. I immediately contracted goosebumps when Marie and I found them at Ikea. Not only were they super affordable, but they are comfortable too! They stack beautifully, leaving lots of room for a dance party

This is the vintage 1940s Industrial Singer that will be up and running soon. Perfect for heavy fabrics, like canvas or leather (yummy!) bags. Soon it will be available for Lucky Stitchers to visit and rent.

And this is the messenger bag we’re making in Sewing Machine 101 (intensive). This one is mine, made from a thrifted vintage bed skirt. The colors are quite lovely, and seemed so appropriate to make during these summer October weeks.

I had my first LuckyStitchers in the space tonight. It’s always fun helping people learn how to use their sewing machine and stitch up a groovy project of which they can be proud. I’m excited to see the fabric next week for the Messenger Bags we’ll be making. I’ve given them a basic design, and if they’d like they can tweak it, so we’ll do a little pattern making 101 too. So much to learn and it’s so fun when LuckyStitchers bring in their cool, sometimes old, some new machines, with really beautiful fabrics and fresh ideas.

And a reminder – tomorrow is the Wednesday Night Sew-cial and Bag Sew. This bag was made from a nightie. The armholes make perfect sleeves, and the neck, the perfect opening for groceries and other goodies you might need to carry.

A Bag and A Summer Weekend in the Fall

Published on October 7, 2007 in aqua and red, birthdays, fall, family, Flickr, friends, LuckyStitches, nature, photos, projects, renovation, roof, sewing, thrift and totes and bags. 1 Comment

We had a birthday to attend to this weekend, for a 4 year old. I’ve quietly promised to use things I have on hand. I found a aqua with yellow dot coverlet while thrifting and a scrap of this red dot and thought they’d work well together (and you know about my aqua and red thing of late…) and I had the All For One Bag pattern from Besty Ross Patterns, just waiting to be stitched up…

I initially thought I’d line it, but instead did a little French Seam Action on the inside, and I am super pleased. I’ve got a few more presents to make and I’m going to stick with this pattern. I think I’ll make the handles 2 inches longer, it was a little tight going over my shoulder (but not a 4 year olds…and she LOVED it!). And in case your were wondering the pattern was fantastic, the directions were a breeze and it was a really fast sew. It’s a great shape that’s super versatile. I’m making a wool one next. (stay tuned for pictures)

The party was fun. It’s the first time we actually got in the car and Iz said, “Mom! I had a lot of fun!”. She pretty much always has fun, but it’s the first time she’s said it without me prompting.

Lui led the drumming. Iz was pretty pleased to see her. (she always is)

We spent time jumping off the bench, sliding tummy side down, head first down the slide. Oh the outdoors.

The day before, it was sweltering. It was so hot, none of us could get comfortable. We spent the morning in Northampton picking up the last of the LuckyStitches furniture at the kung fu studio, then dropping it off at the new location. It was hot. We left Haydenville, on our way to Ashfield for the Fall Festival. The drive on 112 is pretty breathtaking. I think the drive anywhere in New England is pretty amazing. The leaves are changing colors, looks like the trees are catching on fire, but not fully inflamed.

This year was different, Iz is more independent, wants to do so many things on her own. There is no casual strolling, but more following, running and insisting on hand holding when the crowds get to thick or the walk gets too close to the road.

Our little kitty had fun, she got to ring the bell, act like a kitty and see tons of her friends (that’s a funny thing about living where we do, we get to see our friends every where we go, not like the subway, where you barely recognize people from day to day).

We had to leave, it was too hot and too close to nap time. After a bowl of mac & cheese, we headed for the car. But it never goes as smooth as that. The power of distraction is key to happiness sometimes, and Iz was thrown into the air with every step, Rob got a great upper body workout, and she happily got into the car, where after we got going, she fell asleep.

It was a really great and productive weekend. The roof is almost finished. I made a lovely bag, and Iz got to spend both days outside playing and playing. And she got to hold Annabelle.

LuckyStitches Learn How to Sew

Published on May 4, 2007 in classes, LuckyStitches, sewing, sewing machines, totes and bags, tutorials and workshops. 2 Comments

LuckyStitches Learn How to Sew, originally uploaded by zannestar.

We finished up our first Learn How to Sew class..and let me tell you WHAT A CLASS!

I always think how cool it is that people want to learn to sew – and they are afraid too – yet they jump right in. I know that I was standing over each and everyone of these LuckyStitchers – but they could totally do this on their own.

This was a series of 4 classes. The first class – we talked about our machines – how to wind a bobbin, thread the machine, check/adjust tension, learn and practice the many different stitches and make a button hole. There are so many cooooool things you can do with a sewing machine and a little experimenting. Like the scallop stitch – if you do it properly – you can use it as an edge!

Anyway – the next class we started our totes (instructions for all to come soon – check back – they will be posted here). There was lots of practice sewing some straight lines, turning the corner while sewing and turning corners when you turn your project right side out.

We finished up our totes by the third class – we were ready for our little pouches for the fourth and final class. First – I demonstrated how to do an applique – then the gang went to work. It think everyone was pretty happy – and kind of amazed…they all looked so cool! Even more learning about the sewing machine – getting the stitches just so – and the applique works perfectly!

Second – was the zipper and the making of the pouch. It was based on this wonderful tutorial from twelve22

I think the pouches turned out super swell….and I think these LuckyStitchers no longer fear their machines and will keep sewing!

I think no matter your level of sewing – you can take a class and learn something. If you take a class at LuckyStitches – you’ll notice there is a skill level for each class. THIS IS A SUGGESTION! Don’t be afraid to learn something new. It’s fun!

LuckyStitches – Friday Night Sew-cial

Published on April 23, 2007 in Creating, creative spaces, friends, inspiration, LuckyStitches, networking, photos, projects, sewing, totes and bags and Uncategorized. 1 Comment

LuckyStitches – Friday Night Sew-cail, originally uploaded by zannestar.

LuckyStitchers gathered at LuckyStitches Friday night…and we had a blast!

Robin worked on a child’s quilt with fabulous prints from Purl. Tina FINALLY (jeez…I don’t know what she was waiting for) finished her tote bag that she started in the fall. Lex was busy sewing a baby carrier – with baby on her back once he woke up. Erin was busy knitting a bracelet (ooh…can’t wait to see this one finished). Helene was knitting a wool hat (yes in April…it’s for a benefit auction), and then sewed in a fleece lining. Stephanie was adding a loop (to keep her hair in place) to a hat she knit from Knitty. Marie wanted help with her draft of an A-Line skirt.

It was fun! So much fun…I can’t even remember what I worked on. Can’t wait to do it again! I’m planning on having LuckyStitches open almost every Friday for a Friday Night Sew-cial. 6pm-9pm in Northampton, MA. Check LuckyStitches.com for details.

LuckyStitches – Sewing With Kids

Published on April 5, 2007 in classes, Creating, family, LuckyStitches, sewing, Sewing 1-2-3, sewing with kids, The Children's Art Museum and totes and bags. 0 Comments

We had so much fun tonight. Mom(L) and 5 year old daughter (L2) came for a stitch session at LuckyStitches. I have to tell you how thrilled I was to learn that L2 has already been sewing on a sewing machine with her mom. How awesome is that! And not to mention that she celebrated her 5th birthday this past week, so she really started sewing when she was 4!!! We had a lot of fun. After reviewing how to thread the machine, L2 spent some time stitching over some straight lines that I had drawn on muslin. What amazing coordination! It was really wonderful. We quickly then turned to making little totes. Perfect for carrying 5 yr old gear around (and made form cool pink fabric from Reprodepot), she sews like a pro! And her mom made a tote for her little brother, out of the sweetest green print (also from Reprodepot). I think they had a great time. I had a lot of fun. I’m pretty sure they are going to keep sewing together. Oh, think of the things they’ll make!

Sewing with your kids is a really wonderful experience. There may be times when attention spans are really really really low, but they are paying attention and learning. Remember…it’s all about the practice!

There will be several chances to get your kids sewing in the next couple of months at LuckyStitches. So click on over to LuckyStitches and sign up for the announcement list! There will be Sewing 1-2-3, which will meet every Thursday afterschool from 3:30-5, where we will have small projects using the sewing machine. This is a great class for kids who already know how to use the machine, and for those that don’t parents can stay and sew too! There will also be Sew with Me! A sewing class for the beginners, where kids can bring an adult in their life and sew a project together. And don’t forget about the Sewing 1-2-3 class at The Children’s Art Museum in Shelburne Falls. This meets every Monday 4pm-5:30pm, where we do some really cool projects, by hand!

Archive for the 'totes and bags' Category

Class Updates

Messenger Bags and The Bag Share

Magical Bags…

Learning to Use Your Sewing Machine and Domestic Inspiration

Ode to Buttercream and a Happy Bag Sew

Ready to Make Some LuckyStitches!

A Bag and A Summer Weekend in the Fall

LuckyStitches Learn How to Sew

LuckyStitches – Friday Night Sew-cial

LuckyStitches – Sewing With Kids

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