Upcycled purses from fabulous home decor sample fabrics.

I love it when I can use my creativity to explore and create beautiful new colors! Usually I make custom orders to my patrons specifications, or I make a repeat of something I have made before, and don’t get me wrong, I LOVE making that perfect bag for each client, but every once in awhile I have a little time in between, and some beautiful fabric that ignites that vision!

Lately I have been going through some fabrics I got from another wonderful artist! I have had the pleasure in making bags for a wonderful interior decorator and she has provided me with last seasons sample home decor fabrics to use if i want. Some of these are absolutely gorgeous! And they have been really fun to work with!

When working with these I usually have to do something small as the pieces are sample squares, and never duplicated but sometimes can coordinate. It is fun to look at a small square of fabric and visualize how this will become a beautiful purse with straps and lining and pockets etc…

My first choice to work with was this beautiful dark gray/brown linen with a maroon embroidered design on it! Being an embroiderer myself I love the details and elegance in this fabric and wonder how beautifully regal a full size drape might be, but I am satisfied with my 20″ by 20″ square and begin to cut.
I found a matching satin for the top of the purse which brings out the shininess of the embroidery thread adding glamor to the otherwise dullness of the gray linen. For the interior I found a glittery maroon damask fabric I have which is also very elegant. Custom fabric button and some leather straps for finishing touches and this chic, one of a kind, small ladies purse is ready for listing!

My next exploration was another embroidered piece of fabric. This one was narrower and long and I was able to use it in 3 pieces (2 pieces folded as front and back, and the other 3rd as a pocket inside) to create this beautiful kisslock wallet clutch. I am very pleased with my kisslock wallet clutches, as are many customers on etsy 🙂 and this one is especially beautiful with the way the embroidery is centered in the frame. It has an off white linen and the thread is silver so it has a very beautiful bridal quality to it. These wallets are smaller and thinner than clutches, so I would not consider them to be a full clutch, but they do fit all your cards, cash and in some cases a phone. I do make card pockets inside but the pockets for this one are limited, since the turquoise I used for the lining was also one of the sample fabrics. This has got to be my favorite shade of turquoise though (how many shades are there?) It’s vibrant and beautifully paired with the silver on the outside!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sometimes when I go through fabrics I immediately visualize what it will become. That was the case for these 5 squares of fabric with a coral design. Each was a different color and I wasn’t sure how it would come together, but I knew it had to be beach bag of some sort. After matching colors that look good together and pairing it with a neutral chevron print it all came together perfectly!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here are some more fabrics soon to be fabulous purses!

Months later…

Some more finished bags and my display shelf at our local store Buy Nevada First Gift Shop and Info

Custom made to order teardrop Hobos

As I will be away for a bit, I wanted to be able to show off my custom made to order teardrop hobo bags outside of my etsy store. Any of these, or other fabrics, can be custom made in time for (or before) Christmas, but not before November.

Purse palooza

This month there has been a Purse Palooza, full of Purses, patterns, bloggers, and prizes! One of these events included a prize for the best voted purse.If you have a Flickr account, please vote for my 3 purses 🙂 Vote here

This was for all purses made between June 4th through the 11th, and after the 11th voting is ON! Here are my entries!

 

 

This first one is intended to be a diaper bag, but I have not yet made the changing mat to go with it. I love how practical this is with the adjustable straps for a shoulder bag or messenger back, and then detachable back pack straps! It is about 13″ by 12″ and had 3 convenient pockets plus a key chain ring inside. You can see the full listing in my etsy store.

                  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My next bag is from Amy Butler’s reversible market tote pattern. I love how big and convenient this bag is! It is 22″ high, Almost 17″ across on the bottom (little less on the top) and has a 5″ depth. The straps are long enough to sling over your shoulder. The fabrics used are Amy Butlers Disco flower in tangerine and the full moon dots also in tangerine. On the disco flower side I have a contrasting pocket.You can read more about this bag or purchase it here

 

 

The 3rd bag I made is probably my favorite! This is an extra large beach bag also with one of Amy Butlers patterns, and fabrics by Joel dewberry. Thisbag is extremely large, but still fun to carry around. I stuffed 4 full size towels (3 bath 1 beach) and a 2 liter and it still was somewhat roomy! I added extra pockets inside since I was making this one for me to enjoy. 5 pockets plus a key chain clip! The pattern had some pretty complicated detail work around the handles, but nothing I can’t conquer, and in the end it looks FABULOUS! I am glad you also agree. 😉

Please vote for me!!!

🙂

Great etsy finds for 11.11.11

1) Very Pretty Things…Closing Sale.
www.etsy.com/listing/74512981

Bring back some tradition with a stocking stuffer that shows an appreciation for the classic ways.

2) Abandoned Carousel Photography
www.etsy.com/listing/84978673

Bring back the nostalgic moment of your childhood fair, or the feeling in your stomach of anticipating being lifte up really high in the sky with this photo of the chail carousels.

3) Hello Again Vintage
www.etsy.com/listing/57951621
Cheetah Pendant Necklace

This beautiful piece makes a wonderful stocking stuffer for any woman, or even a man that has an affinity to heritage

4) Lolytte Designs
www.etsy.com/listing/72908943
Knitted Red Lace Baby Set

This is a one of a kind adorable set for baby. Make your baby stand out in a Christmas picture, or during the Holidays, with this adorable hand knit hat, jacket and botties outfit!

5) Darn Cute Crafts
www.etsy.com/listing/83290136
Scarecrow Tote Bag Purse

If you are still looking for that perfect fall bag, Here it is!

6) Monasbox & Bags
www.etsy.com/listing/84128455
Birdy Hobo bag

This beautiful bag makes a great gift for that bird lover, or just the girl that likes the unique one of a kind items that no one else has!

7) Garage Gypsy Jewelry
www.etsy.com/listing/81972438
Silver & Leather Handpiece

This is a beautiful way to adorn your hand! And a unique item, no one else will have anything like this!

8) Hypnoteyezed
www.etsy.com/listing/75747414
Handmade frame with recycled colored pencils

This frame makes a great gift in a child’s room or an artists studio. It is a creative and fun way to display pictures of your loved ones

9) The Blue Lantern – Crochet Santa Hat Small Adult
www.etsy.com/listing/85397443

Add a nice home made touch to this years Santa outfit with this crochet santa hat

10) Bubble gum yum from The Ivy Keep
www.etsy.com/listing/42610919

This makes both a delicious tea, and a fun center piece or conversational piece! Bubble gum in your tea! Even kids will enjoy this bit of fun.

11)Monogrammed Stationery from LJLDESIGNSSTATIONERY
www.etsy.com/listing/84847507

Make your invitations personal with this embroidered monogram card

12) peacock blue fascinator with green roses and peacock feathers
www.etsy.com/listing/83665837

Add some old country flair to your Holiday party outfit with this elegant hair fascinator.

13) visionofbeautydesign – Vintage Style Filigree Ring Trio
www.etsy.com/listing/83280369

These rings will make great stocking stuffers for a girl, woman, or even a man that has a taste for the adornment.

14) @RagBagArtistry
www.etsy.com/listing/84971056
Unique Christmas Scarf, air sewn & quilted

This unique scarf is nothing like you’ve ever had before! Use it to decorate your outfit for a Christmas party or picture!

15) Christmas Duct Tape Wreath
www.etsy.com/listing/85420291

This is a great wreath that will stand the tests of both time and weather! It will last you years without ever wilting, and it can also get wet, frozen, or hot without it getting ruined (but not too hot).

16) Colour Palette Scarf

Colour Palette Scarf

by lolyttedesigns

This gorgeous scarf really shows your colorful side, while staying warm on the cold weather! This will really spruce up a boring sweater!

$42.27 USD

Fridays new picks of goodies!

It’s Friday again and you know what that means! Artists selections! Check out some of these great finds form handmade crafters.

1) DaSweetZpot Italian Wedding Berry Jam http://www.etsy.com/listing/68951793/the-italian-wedding-berry-jam-blackberry_

2) Moss Terrarium with Natural Quartz http://www.etsy.com/listing/65220833/moss-terrarium-with-natural-quartz_

3) Plus Size Brown and Cream KaftanFrom roseglen http://www.etsy.com/listing/66566387/plus-size-brown-and-cream-kaftan?ref=pr_shop

4) Back Home Vintage- http://backhomevintage.etsy.com_Cozy Kitten Salt/Pepper Shakers http://www.etsy.com/listing/69186668/1958-howard-holt-cozy-kitten-salt-and_

5) A Party Studio Set of 12 large pinwheels. Perfect decoration or favor for a garden party! http://www.etsy.com/listing/69139380/set-of-12-large-cottage-garden-pinwheel

6) http://www.etsy.com/shop/monasbox?ref=pr_shop_more Here is an adorable and bright spring bag with a simple coral design. http://www.etsy.com/listing/70068049/yellow-with-coral-and-pleated-tote_

7) When Love Happens – www.whenlovehappens.etsy.com These brooch pin boutonnieres will be perfect for any event! http://www.etsy.com/listing/70339839/dahlia-fabric-flower-boutonniere-brooch

8) http://www.etsy.com/shop/MonaAbraham_Very charming Whimsical Antique Flying Dove/Swallow Bird Charm Necklace http://www.etsy.com/listing/67529925/whimsical-antique-flying-doveswallow

9) Hello Again Vintage – http://www.helloagainvintage.etsy.com_Brighten up your outfit with Vintage 1980s Neon Earrings (Lot of 5) http://www.etsy.com/listing/40454257/vintage-1980s-neon-earrings-lot-of-5

10) Blazinbeads – http://www.etsy.com/shop/blazinbeads American Turquoise Wirewrapped Pendant http://www.etsy.com/listing/69960413/turquoise-wirewrapped-cabochon-pendant

11) Sesiber – http://www.etsy.com/shop/sesiber Pink – Beaded and Caftan Appliqued Regional Neck warmer http://www.etsy.com/listing/63912052/aod-free-shipping-pink-beaded-and-caftan?ref=v1_other_1

12) Totally modern love affair! He Love’s Her and now everyone knows with this colorful and fun save the date design by Kailey Marie! http://www.etsy.com/listing/66075957/the-he-loves-her-wedding-announcement

13) LJLDESIGNS – http://www.etsy.com/shop/LJLDESIGNSSTATIONERY Wine Anyone… http://www.etsy.com/listing/65204908/wine-anyone-note-cards-set-of-10

14) Garage Gypsy_Beautiful Sterling Turquoise earrings inspired by geometric shapes and the southwest. http://www.etsy.com/listing/70212414/turquoise-and-leather-fringe-earrings

15) Commonsensical Spa – http://www.commonsensicalspa.etsy.com_Get your first taste of Spring with this intoxicatingly floral Ylang Ylang Sugar Scrub! http://www.etsy.com/listing/67119063/ylang-ylang-every-day-sugar-scrub

16) The Fix Designs – Pink Circles Earrings for Spring! – http://www.etsy.com/listing/68488038/pink-circles-earrings-buy-2-get-1-free

17) ArielSimone – Vintage Inspired Deep V Swimsuit – http://www.etsy.com/listing/70212065/vintage-inspired-deep-v-gathered-waist

18) MellowMermaid – Vintage Upcycled Floral Wall Art http://www.etsy.com/listing/70205540/vintage-floral-wall-sculptures-aqua-blue

19) thebijoubarn – Multi-feather necklace http://www.etsy.com/listing/64771481/multi-feather-necklace

20) horseandhare – Japan Relief – Rising Heart Print http://www.etsy.com/listing/60042680/japan-relief-rising-heart-hand-pulled

21) Visionofbeautydesign – Beautiful Vintage Pink Fire Opal Brass Clip On Earrings http://etsy.me/fEhQUn

22) mkcollection- Rainy Spring Day Girls overalls/halter style appliqued. http://www.etsy.com/listing/70368211/girls-4t-overalls-applique-halter-spring

23) ChrissysCreation – Hawaiian Flower Tote Purese
http://www.etsy.com/listing/69203758/tote-purse-hawaiian-flowers

24) Sweet shoppe birthday invite
http://www.etsy.com/listing/70564714/sweet-shoppe-gumballs-lollipops-birthday

25) DellCoveSpices – Pink cocktail sugar rim. Margaritas, martinis, drinks fun with festive glasses. Recipes included.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/70511884/pink-cocktail-sugar-rim-margaritas

26) prettymuchdana – Origami Alphabet Soup Crane Egg Jar
http://www.etsy.com/listing/64176746/alphabet-soup-crane-egg-jar

27) Vanrobmac–Tulle Double Birdcage Wedding Veil
http://www.etsy.com/listing/61778652/tulle-double-birdcage-veil

28) OnMommysApron- Damask and Stripe Kitchen Accessory Set
http://www.etsy.com/listing/70732392/pot-holder-oven-mitt-set

Some great artists

Here are several great artists and there awesome products for sale on Etsy. All these items are one of a kind and hand made with care.
1) DaSweetZpot COKE and RUM Jelly
http://www.etsy.com/listing/49124266/coke-and-rum-delicious-as-topping-sauce

2) Monasbox
Easter egg basket with Robin’s eggs and birdhouses design. The handle and sides have Birch tree designs. This can be customizable any size or fabric. See the listing
http://www.etsy.com/listing/68881544/fabric-robins-egg-easter-egg-basket

3) ddfoto
Photo of Cadaques Spain-Yellow Town 8×12
http://www.etsy.com/listing/66230679/yellow-town-8×12-photograph-cadaques

4) @JLamDesigns
Perfect for spring: Love bird save-the-date
http://etsy.me/efLPZN

5) PurdyThings
Fun Chunky Fiber Necklace
http://www.etsy.com/listing/68193034/crochet-chunky-fiber-necklace-mustard

6) Delightfulprints
Adorable Easter Party Invitation Must Have
http://www.etsy.com/listing/68235248/easter-egg-hunt-invitation-diy-you-print

7) darncutecrafts
Baby Girl Polka Dots Diaper Bag
http://www.etsy.com/listing/65267042/handmade-diaper-bag-baby-girl-polka-dots

8) MeShe Designs
Starfish Beachy Necklace
http://www.etsy.com/listing/68797124/star-fish-beachy-necklaceswarovski

9) CloudberryAndMoss
Spring green wool, gems and silver flower necklace
http://www.etsy.com/listing/66630622/green-felted-flower-necklace-with

10) Jewelery with me
Fun light weight earrings in two shades of green
http://www.etsy.com/listing/69018383/green-with-envy-aluminum-wire-earrings

11)  GlassTableaus Great Art for Easter! (or any time!)
http://www.etsy.com/listing/68154571/come-holy-spirit-original-hand-painted

12) Leebweeb – modern knits
Perfect cowl/ wrap for a romantic evening out!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/67185937/15-off-sale-natural-brown-chunky-knit

13) Bead on a Wire – Unnique and Inspired Jewelry
http://www.etsy.com/listing/67818849/the-sky
Gorgeous silver and lapis lazuli bracelet with funky clasp.

14)ElephunksTrunk
Sun hat perfect for spring gardening
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15)visionofbeautydesign
Purple Passion
http://www.etsy.com/listing/65487733/purple-passion-bobby-pins

16) ArielSimone -Bright Lazer Swimsuit
http://www.etsy.com/listing/69315027/bright-lazer-swimsuit

Monasbox & Bags customizations

Monasbox sells primarily on Etsy, but I have several other selling venues such as artfire, zibbet, and for the European shoppes, Dawanda. I also have my own website and email.

I am a stay at home Mom looking to supplement my previous income with what I love to do, creating. I started by making jewelry but have found more passion in sewing and designing. My interests are mostly in the children department such as girl’s clothes, diaper bags, or bib and burp cloth sets, but I also love making clutches, household goods, and you name it. One trend I have been working on are bridesmaids clutches-even metal framed ones.

I love to use mediums not so common, such as tulle and feathers on my bags, sequins on my skirts, designer fabrics such as Amy Butler, and others.

I also have a readily available embroiderer for any monograms, customizations, unique patches, or other individualization required.

As an artist myself, I would be happy to help support and blog about other artists who are willing to share blogs with me. Lets keep each other working, and keep our goods home made!

Thank you for supporting home made goods.