Embroidered Sewist's Tote

So far the only thing I've made with my embroidery machine have been match games. They take quite a bit of time since each set comes with 20 game pieces plus the basket. And to think I've only made three sets! Two of the girl sets have been sold. The animal set is in my shop waiting for someone to buy it for some lucky child (hint hint).

 So, while these are fun, as I said before, they are quite time consuming. I decided for my next project I would make something that wouldn't take quite as much time. I found a pattern for a thread basket that I found on Secrets of Embroidery site. When I started making the basket, it seemed rather large and the instructions were a bit confusing as I got more involved, so I decided to just turn it into a tote. It took me most of the day, but I love how it came out.

Except for the yellow striped fabric, it is made from four fat quarters I had in my stash. I think if I make it next time, I'll not make the top section quite as tall as it makes the embroidered block look a bit off center.

Here is a close-up of the embroidery design. Can you believe it was only $1?? And how true is the saying! I did have to change a few colors so they would show up on the yellow, but I think it turned out well.

This is the back of the bag. There are three 7" x 7" blocks (back and sides) with the sewing machines and 2" strips with a coordinating fabric (thread spools) connecting the blocks. The top and bottom of the bag are also the thread spool fabric. This is the first time I've ever attempted to make anything closely resembling quilt/piecework.

As an added feature, I decided to put some pockets on the inside. There are three of them. I also added a bottom to keep the bag square when standing. This was meant for a Secret Sister swap on an online sewing group I belong to, but I may just keep it for myself and use it as a "I don't need that much at JoAnn Fabrics today" bag.

And the Winner Is....

The winner of the tote giveaway is Christian!! Congrats!! I'll just need an address so I can send you the tote! Thanks for entering!

Tote Giveaway

Are you looking for a new tote but don't want to pay a lot of money? How about a free one? I am having a giveaway for this cute little tote. It would be perfect to carry to the beach (for those of you who aren't freezing this time of year), shopping, or you can use it for your every day bag!

It's made of brightly colored cotton fabrics and contains plenty of pockets to keep your essentials well organized.

Top and lining of bag feature bright blue striped fabric while bottom and handles of bag are black with brightly colored stars. Front and back pockets have brightly colored stripes on a white background.

There are seven various sized pockets inside. Bag closes with a magnetic snap that is located on the tab and body of bag. Batting is used inside of bag for durability and stiffness.

To enter giveaway, just visit either (or both) of my shops and let me know which item(s)you like best.
www.LilBitSassy.zibbet.com
www.LilBitSassy.etsy.com

For extra entries, tweet about it, post it on Facebook, blog about it, or follow my blog. Just post separate comments with links.

Giveaway ends Oct. 25th. I will post winner's name on the 26th. Be sure to post a contact link (email, blog, twitter, FB, etc.)

Coloring Book Totes

These are some of the coloring book totes I've made for my nieces and nephews for Christmas. I also have some for sale in my etsy shop--great gift ideas!!