This afternoon I have made 8 more Morsbags. Morsbags is why I started to sew again after a 20 year gap. We did 'needlework' at school but it wasn't really my thing - we made an apron and a dress, however learning to sew Morsbags gave me the confidence to try other things....

So what is a Morsbag? It is a simple tote shopping bag made from fabric that otherwise would have been thrown away and ended up in landfill. I have made Morsbags from old duvets, old curtains even old shirts, the bags are then given away free to friends, family or unsuspecting members of the public to discourage them not to use plastic bags.

My mantra is 'Carry a bag - not carrier bag!'. Please check out morsbags.com for more details of how to become part of the wonderful morsbag community.

First top made for the 'Spring Top Sewalong'... although it is more of a tunic , with side splits. I made it from an old sheet and it is lined with cotton. I made it without a pattern, sort of made it up as I went along but I am really pleased with how it turned out.

I am planning to make another couple of tops on Sunday, but anything could happen between now and then!

Fat Quarter Swap

I have just packed my 'Fat Quarter Swap' ready for posting in the morning.
The swap is part of a flickr group - check out www.flickr.com for details, this is my first swap and my parcel is going to Denmark - I can't wait for the next swap or to see what three fat quarters my swap partner has chosen for me. I am not posting a picture as I want it to be a surprise for my swap partner.

There has been no progress on the spring top - but I hope to change that this weekend! Watch this space for details........

Spring Top Week - Getting Prepared!

Today I went shopping for fabric and a pattern for 'Spring Top week.' My problem was there was too much choice. I bought 3 patterns and have yet to decide which to make (although I may make more than one).

I also got some fabric, enough to make one top, detailed in the picture above...... it is being pre-washed.... I can't wait to get started on it.

'http://madebyrae.blogspot.com/2009/03/spring-top-week-you-know-you-want-to.html

'In for a penny, in for a pound.....' I have decided to join in this sewalong.

I plan to shop for a pattern at the weekend. I have only ever made one top for myself before so this could be a challenge. I will post my progress , or lack of, as I go along. Why not sign up and join in? A girl can never have too many tops!

This was the 'charming handbag' from Amy Karols ' Bend The Rules Sewing' book I made for my swap partner. It was posted off yesterday... I hope my swap partner likes it.

I made it slightly larger than suggested in the book and added a wooden button and some elastic cording to help keep the bag closed.

The flower pin is removeable.

A place for my thoughts and projects.....

Well this is one of my '101 things to do in 1001 days'.... to set up and maintain a blog. Hurrah, one thing ticked off the list. (I have not yet completed the list...)

I aim to post details of my sewing projects together with more general musings about life in general.