Handmade Presents

I've decided that amongst working full time, making things for my shop and for craft fairs, that I would like to make Christmas presents for people this year. I like to do this because it means that I can try out other people's designs from books, as well as my own. One of my favourite books at the moment is Sew Darn Cute by Jenny Ryan. There are 30 different projects to make, and all are so cute and lovely.

I already made one of these fab square bears for my friend's little girl's birthday. They are relatively simple to make and so much fun. Might make some more for the babies in the family.

The projects in the book vary, from things for the home like this sweet collage picture...

... to tote bags...

... and even things like glasses cases...

I love this necklace. Probably because I have an obession with fabric covered buttons at the moment! What I love most of all about this book is her fabric choices. They are bright, modern and funky, and many are either Japanese or Japanese inspired, another one of my obessions!

Yesterday I added some more clutch bags to my shop. I have one range in funky bright Japanese fabrics, and my other range, which I started yesterday, are all made with fabrics inspired by nature. I will be adding to both ranges in the coming weeks as I still have plenty of fabric left that I haven't used yet!