A 'clutch' of bags.

Sorry for the terrible pun - I have so little to say for myself at the moment that it is hard even to think of a post title or even a blog worthy tale to tell so I am afraid that all I am in a position to do right now is post a few pics of my latest endeavours on the old sewing machine. I managed to get hold of some nice bag 'fixings' so that I could try out a few new things for the upcoming craft fair season. I have booked into quite a few large events and most of them are new to me so I am pretty excited about the prospect of casting my net a bit wider (see side bar for details)

So first up are these large clutch bags........

I really love the big bobbles on the top and the finished product is satifyingly chunky. I have 3 different colour lining fabrics and I have been mixing them with the fabrics that they work with best. The large clutches have a wee pocket for putting a compact in and I have sewn both the Harris Tweed label and my label into the inside as I feel it works best with a handbag (as opposed to a make-up bag)

I have also been using a different style of frame for some smaller clutches...........

they come in 3 different finishes (silver, gunmetal and antique brass) and I have managed to get chain handles to match so that they can also be used as shoulder bags.

and I have really enjoyed trying different decorative ideas and colour combinations...........

There is something very satisfying about bag making..............

but I think I will stop for a while until I sell these. I tend to get a bit over enthusiastic and make loads of something that I enjoy making, without actually testing the market. I am off to Troon this weekend for a Craft Fair run by Ayrshire Craft Association so we will soon see!

Wish me luck..............I could do with a bit right now!

PS One really lovely thing that I did last week was to meet up with Caireen for a visit to the Collins Gallery to see their amazing Sashiko exhibition. I am ashamed to say that in 18 years living here in Glasgow I have never been there before! It is a small but perfectly formed gallery owned by Strathclyde Uni and the exhibitions are mainly craft related AND IT IS FREE!!!! If you ever visit Glasgow you must go. Pop over to Bella Bheag if you would like to see a really good post about the current exhibition.

Comments

[Pebbledash]

These are lovely, Suzanne. Best of luck with the new fairs, and a happy easter to you.

[caireen]

I am impressed with these = they look great... I sent off the purses with a small chocolate in each one! cx

[Rebecca]

I LOVE them all!!! The chunky fasteners are gorgeous!!! They all look fab! Good luck this weekend x hopfeully catch up for a coffee soon x

[Monica]

they're gorgeous!

good luck with them.

[Stephanie]

These are amazing. You are seriously talented. How are there not 300 comments on all your posts?! Just stumbled upon you here, thanks much for the inspiration!