Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Oh yes! Happy!

Without going too much into details, I can say that in the last few weeks I have rarely stopped for breath. I have been so physically and mentally exhausted each day I have cried myself to sleep at night and then cried all the way into work the next morning. I have no time for play, for gardening, for going out, cooking, blog-reading or for friends. Yes, it's been that insane.

So to spend a whole night last night relaxing and sewing was a rare treat. I made something, and it wasn't for the shop or for someone else. It was for me.

Cute as a Button Vintage Clutch

Pattern: Cute as a Button Vintage Clutch by Kara Smith from "
Meet Me At Mikes - 26 Fun and Crafty Projects"

Materials: A variety of screenprinted linen blends from
Lara Cameron via Ink and Spindle and a vintage button from my collection.

Alterations: I used heavyweight interfacing instead of mediumweight, mainly because it's what I had on hand, but also because I wanted a stiffer clutch. It worked out well, even if it was a little hard getting it to turn inside out.

Notes: There are some who believe that "good" fabric shouldn't be used as lining, where you won't be able to see it. I am not one of those people, and I know I'll see the lining everytime I open it.

Cute as a Button Vintage Clutch - lining

I'll be using this clutch for the first time this Friday, where I'll be taking my life back for another night so that I can see a band with a friend or two. There will be music, good food, great company and gin, baby.

So, what's next on the list of projects from this fantastic book? I have the fabric already picked out.

PICT2960

But I'm not allowing myself to start it until I've written three job applications and gotten this week's big work deadline out the way. I'll be champing at the bit until then.

23 comments:

  1. The clutch is so fabulous that I have just ordered the book online. I really enjoy your blog and hope that things perk up for you jolly soon.

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  2. Your clutch bag is really truly stunning. I love the combination of fabrics you have chosen.

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  3. Yah it's fabulous!
    I'm so glad you're feeling happier again and your mojo is back.
    Have a great Friday night. You definitely deserve it.

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  4. The kitteh is tops, glad that is your next project! Also, so good to make something for yourself - a most excellent reward.

    And the lovely lining is a bit like gorgeous handknit or handcrochet socks - even if they are hidden by shoes, you know they are there and can have a secret smile when you think of them!

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  5. I am so willing to just look at sewing and appreciate it, knowing I may never get that into it myself. It's lovely.

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  6. Oh, a gorgeous lining is the seamstresses secret delight! I think it's essential. You'll get to see that fabric all the time.

    Beautifully made purse. I hope you get more time to relax, sleep and enjoy.

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  7. Cool clutch, the kitty is going to look pretty good once it is done too!

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  8. The book picture of the clutch didn't do much for me but yours is FAB-U-LOUS. Even better though is to hear how you feel refreshed by carving out some time to making stuff - I can relate to that. Hope you can keep carving out that time.

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  9. oooh love love love!!!
    Can't wait to see your kitty too!!!
    And I'm so glad your making made you feel better! =)
    28xo

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  10. Really? Good fabric isn't for linings? Whyever would someone think that? I think it's a lovely secret surprise.

    Now, how to get that book here in the States??

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  11. I love the clutch, it's so pretty! I really should get and use my sewing machine more often and seeing the things you make is just the inspiration I need - so thank you! :)

    I don't think anything I made would turn out as nicely as your stuff does, but I'd be able to say that I made it myself.

    I can relate to how you feel and I know it's not nice to have enough time to do things that make you happy. I'm glad things seem to be picking up for you. :)

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  12. I'm so happy for you that you were able to make something that special and beautiful for yourself!

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  13. QM, it is fabulous. Im so glad you found some time and space to do that for yourself.

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  14. Oh temptress!

    I love the look of the book - and the instructions are grand - wanders off whistling to check out book.....

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  15. oh you poor chook - I hope it all ends soon. That bag is gorgeous. What a great way to take a break.

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  16. I'm with you on the lining. I love having a bit of secret beauty that no-one else knows about, whether it's the lining, or maybe just some pretty bias on the inside. And the book! I've been anxious with anticipation, having had it on order for weeks prior to release. I even ordered a copy for my sister (to whom I gave a QM sunnyboy last year), so she will be thrilled when I give it to her in a few days. Hope your weekend is better than your week has been.

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  17. It's beautiful Michelle! I too like the little secret details, the sorts of details that make you smile when you see them.

    I hope you have fabulous, relaxing night tonight and weekend!

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  18. I'm so glad you finally had a moment to do something for yourself!!! I LOVE the ginkgo fabric lining!

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  19. I would be happy if I had made that beautiful clutch and I am with you on the fabric lining, hope you had a fab friday with yr friend

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  20. Wow your craftwomanship is amazing - the clutch is gorgeous! I agree on using the good fabric for lining :-) I can't wait to see your version of Zing!

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  21. your purse is sooo gorgeous! beautiful fabrics and I love the vintage button. I too love to use "good" fabrics on the inside!!

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  22. You are now officially my Clutch-Making Hero. The fabric choice! The crafting! The perfect button! The 'go faster' stripe of a strap! OK. I'm running out of exclamation marks here. It's beautiful.

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  23. Your purse is lovely. Thanks for sharing.

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