What do You Think? Is the Odyssey a Hit or Miss?


Hello, Handmade Handbag Junkies! So glad you can take a moment to preview one of the latest handmade handbags in my Fall Collection. I want to Introduce “Odyssey” and she’s ready for you to decide whether she’s a Hit or Miss? Fab or Drab? In keeping with the structured bag theme, I wanted to create…

The Latest Thread-Sewing, Business & Designs


This week I’m sharing New Products, LaCartera’s Business Plan, Introducing AP Quilting Production Maker, LaCartera Kids’, Craft/Flea Market Schedule, Spoonflower Shop & Etsy Opening. New Products As some of you know, I’ve been participating in the Spoonflower challenges, which have jump started my creativity.  I’ve placed 42nd in one challenge and had ulterior motives with…

The Latest Thread-Sewing & Designs


This week I’m sharing the Simplicity NewLook dress pattern results, and the weekly Spoonflower design Challenge entry. LaCartera Kids Well I think it has been at least 20 yrs. since I’ve used a sewing pattern, but I thought I would give it a try for this little dress.  I did make a couple of minor modifications…

XOXO Hobo Handbag- Is it a Hit or Miss? Fab or Drab?


Hello Handbag Junkies’ It’s Hit or Miss time! I want share the only sample I have on hand from the LaCartera handbag collection curated from my Spoonflower textile shop.  This beauty will make you do a double-take and maybe a triple-take! As some of you may know my collection is on hold right now, but not forgotten! …

Hobo Handbag- Is it a Hit or Miss? Fab or Drab?


Hello Handbag Junkies’ It’s Hit or Miss time! Here’s a quick look at another Swiss Army blanket turned into a hobo handbag! Adding the leather straps, buckles, rivets and studs are still my favorite things to do that adds interest.  I think it’s the style that I love and this time I’ve dressed it up…

Hobo Handbag- Is it a Hit or Miss? Fab or Drab?


Hello Handbag Junkies’ It’s Hit or Miss time! I’ve been working on my new handbag collection and was able to finish this Hobo Handbag in this zebra print before the holidays. You  know I love to mix it up a bit and decided to add a pop of red to the mix.  It’s soft, roomy and…

Woodstock Handbag- Is it a Hit or Miss? Fab or Drab?


Hello Handbag Junkies’ It’s Hit or Miss time! As you know I’ve spent most of the year designing textiles to use for my handbags among other things, but I finally completed a prototype for one of new purse designs that I will release soon.  I have a custom order that forced me to learn some new leather…

Sling Bag – Is it a Hit or Miss? Fab or Drab?


Hello Handbag Junkies’ It’s Hit or Miss time! Here’s a splash of sunshine for you today! The 5th sling bag is made from a batik textile from Malaysia!  I love batik textiles and the personality they develop. When you look at this textile you will see blues, purples, turquoise, green, grey and a splash of yellow depending on the angle….

8 Steps to Create a Stagecoach Valance or Faux Roman Shade- Tutorial


I was torn between a Roman shade and a stagecoach valance in my craft room! After scouring Pinterest I decided to combine the two ideas to create this valance that adds a bit of color to my craft room this winter.  If you’re looking to add some color to your room, here’s a fun 8 step tutorial! Pin…

Sling Bag#3- Is it a Hit or Miss? Fab or Drab?


Hello Handbag Junkies’ It’s Hit or Miss time! I decided to try the sling bag pattern with different fabrics in my stash!  This floral print is one of the textiles I purchased in Singapore and the rich jewel tones drew me in… that’s when I fell in love with this Japanese cotton textile! What do you think?  Is it a…

It’s Hit or Miss Time! – Sling bag Pattern Mix-Up


Hello Handbag Junkies’ It’s Hit or Miss time! It’s another sling bag pattern mix-up. I was given this fabric from Ghana two years ago and I decided to pull it out of my stash for this project. As you know I love mixing things up and this is no exception.   I had a couple of yards…

Upcycled Sling Bag- Is it a Hit or Miss? Fab or Drab?


Hello Handbag Junkies’ It’s Hit or Miss time! So far men have come up with the most creative ideas for custom-made handbags!  I wouldn’t have thought that, but here’s a great example of upcycling a vintage Swiss Army blanket into a cool sling bag!  Last week I showed you my test pattern and now for the big reveal. Here’s…