Pink Evita

Climbing the Walls

2011-03-15T11:35:00.000-07:00

For your viewing pleasure, in case you did not get to the circus this year.

Moving....

2010-01-22T16:12:00.000-08:00

It's a new year. And, like most other things that force me to multi task in my life...I find them stressful. I must simplify, so I can spend more time on my couch, with my puggle.

Pink Evita is now here.

Please come visit.

Teacher Gift Time

2009-12-13T13:33:00.000-08:00

It's teacher gift time again. One of my very favorite times of the year to come up with something special for the teachers in our lives.

Olivia has 2 preschool teachers and a dear woman who runs the show coordinating teachers and lots and lots of little kids running a-muck. Hopefully they will like what a few of Olivia's friends and I have selected this year.

Ava's dear second grade teacher likes blue, we have come to learn. So, Ava selected this blue and green wool plaid mixed with chocolate brown velvet chenille.
We decided to toss on some ball fringe just to make things interesting.

This business started with a desire to make unique handmade items for teachers 3 years ago. It has grown slowly over time and I've been so fortunate to be able to have a creative business that allows me time to be with my girls while they are young and need me around the house while still having something of my very own.

Thank you to the teachers in our lives right now and all teachers out there mentoring our kids and molding them into inspired, passionate and learned souls.

Finishing up Custom Orders

2009-12-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

I promised myself that I would not work in December this year. Ha...but then one last little craft show crossed my path, I'll be hanging out there on Friday night the 11th. (See the side bar if you are in Indy and would like to pop on in at King of Glory church at 106th and Keystone Ave.) And there were just a few custom orders that I couldn't refuse. Mostly because they are for friends AND their projects just seemed like fun bags to make.

Here is one that had the challenge of black, brown and light blue. When the gal said this was the color combination she'd like, I thought, ugh oh...I don't think I can come up with something really great with black, brown and light blue. However, she popped over on a Sunday afternoon and this is what we came up with. I love it, I want one for myself.

The photo lighting is atrocious since my normal photo editing software is in the shop with my desktop hard drive. It is sick with a nasty virus since I didn't get it vaccinated, I suppose. I'm hoping my beloved old computer comes home in perfect order later this week and I can give the kids back their play laptop with the sticky "P" very soon.

What will I do with my time once this last custom order is delivered you ask? Besides all the normal holiday preparations of course? Oh, my fun project list is a mile long.

1) Snuggies for my girls ~ I heard that groan...but they are asking for them and I have about 6 lbs. of fleece I'd like to unload from my sewing room. So, they might just be getting snuggies for Christmas. No comments from the peanut gallery pppplease. See, that darn sticky "P".

2) A few family members have asked for and might be getting reusable market bags made from oil cloth and nylon handles. No advertisements for the local food market chain here folks. My only challenge will be to find some awesome oilcloth in masculine cloth. No pink damask or green dots, no way.

3) Felt and cotton scraps made into girlie hair clips for my girls to give away as Christmas presents to their friends. I'll post some ictures, oh great now the "P" is barely working at all. They are so darn cute and fun to make in front of the tv.

4) Teacher gifts...my favorite people to give handbags and tote to! They deserve so much more than a free tote bag...so I will try to design some fun bags for the girls to surprise them with!

5) Aprons...I'd love to play around a bit with the Amy Butler Goddess Apron pattern I ordered recently.

Looks like I better hop off the blog and get to work. Happy December gift making, drop me a comment telling me what you are making this month.

Still Here...but lost in the sewing room

2009-11-18T12:34:00.000-08:00

Time is zipping away. Poof gone...3 weeks in a flash. I keep wanting to post to ye' ole blog but then realize oh my goodness, that is 20 minutes that I could spend toiling away in the sewing room prepping for the next show. This fall season I signed up for six shows in 9 weeks. Which quite frankly is somewhat insane for me. You know me, little old WAHM with 2 small children, one 23 lb. puggle, and one muffin man to take care of. But, I'm doing it. Scrambling, but doing it.
I said scrambling right?

I committed to these shows really wanting to learn what is the best market for my little traveling market. What sells in public events best? Should I do preschool/church bazaars? Will people make an $80.00 impulse buy or is the threshold a little lower? Will people like my sometimes goofy sense of color and design? Through all of the crazed mania of running the normal cul-de-sac activities plus attending these shows I do feel like I have a better idea of what will work for my business.

For anyone out there who might be interested....here are a few things I've learned.

1. When setting up a booth at a fair or market have several smaller lower price point items and set them front and center on the table.

2. Attention to detail and neatness and a pretty table really do count. I have seen lots of booths with gorgeous things but they were laid flat on a white table...people don't stop to look if it isn't eye catching, colorful or interesting. Even then the stuff on the table is really cool.

3. Making eye contact with even the most reclusive shopper really does help.

4. When working a show, skip the "oh, so cute" but pinchy shoes. Those dogs will be barkin' 8 hours in, trust me.

5. Meeting other artistians and crafty folks is part of the fun of it all. I have coffee dates set up with a few of the most amazingly talented women I've met over the past few weeks. I'm very excited to begin sharing with other artzy'ies out there.

Tomorrow I'm off to combined open house home show. I've never done one like this that will last for 2 1/2 days. Oh, the digs are super lovely and I get to camp out in the hostess dining room. Yeeesssss. If you are in the Carmel, IN local area and want to see some gorgeous art, jewelry and ok, a few handbags too... stop by the Village of West Clay Village Boutique this weekend. (See the side bar for the address.)

Color Me There

2009-10-14T13:11:00.000-07:00

I will be here on Saturday. The Hoosier Artisan boutique at the Oak Hill Mansion in Carmel, IN.

The sewing room is a flutter, ok and a clutter of activity trying to get ready.

I've got big bags, small bags, casual bags, and fancy bags. IPod covers, diaper caddies, zipper pouches, heat therapy rice bags, and key fobs will be laid out looking for good homes as well.

Hey, grab a friend and stop by to support the March of Dimes and your local artisan community.

Off To Market

2009-10-06T11:32:00.001-07:00

Last week it was off to market for Pink Evita. I set up and broke down the "shop" two times in two days. That is right, as a complete martyr and glutton for punishment I participated in two shows in two days.

And then I collapsed onto the couch and didn't even unpack the truck until the weekend. I couldn't do that every week but it was a fun ride while it lasted.

I'm testing the market by choosing to participate in a wide variety of art and craft shows this fall and holiday season. I chose a church function, which by the way was an amazing 3 hours of fun and selling frenzy...thank you ladies so very much of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. I do hope to be invited back again next year. Then I chose a highly publicized event that was supposed to bring in 1500 ladies to shop for a 9 hour event. Gah, exhausting and not fabulous in the sales department, but ohhh, the people watching was amazing. I had the pleasure of being situated next to the nicest jewelry sales person ever and yes, by about 6 hours into the event we were drinking wine. Not sure about that show for next year.

Next up is the first ever Hoosier Artisan Show on October 17th at Oak Hill Mansion in Carmel, IN. (My hometown..now.) I am so darn skippy excited to be exhibiting with 50 other Hoosier artisans, this show is all handmade and all local. It is free to the public, so stop on by to say hello. I'm honored I could get a space and look forward to just hanging out with the other vendors. Look at this website...oooh, I'm sending the checkbook with the muffin man and letting him loose. While I exhibit, he can pick up some nice goodies for his lovely bride, that would be me. (I didn't say young bride, just lovely.)

Later in November I am also participating in a private home show and an open to the public show that will showcase local artisans. I'm testing the waters to see what works best for my little wee business. Is it better to pay the money to get into the larger more highly publicized public events or is it a better fit to focus on work of mouth sales and participate in smaller more private shows? I'm taking notes, people, taking notes and will report findings soon.

This week...ahhh, just working on a few custom orders. I love custom orders where people get so excited about ideas they have created. It is extra special fun as people consider handmade for gift giving this Christmas season.

These little zipper pouches with matching key fobs were a custom order and are going home today! The are girlfriend Christmas gifts. Apparently this group of ladies meets each holiday season for a gal pal dinner. This year the gals will each be receiving zipper pouch sets customized to their color preferences.

I'm off to go cut out some felt to make two Halloween poodles skirts. Yes, I know two little girls who want to be transported back to 1955 on Halloween eve. Yes, I'll post pictures of my gals in their new crinolines when I get them done!

Lake Lovely

2009-09-08T12:40:00.001-07:00

I've been here for the last five days. And oh, is Northern Michigan just lovely. To make this scene even more amazing is the fact that I was able to hang with some girlfriends and chill out with wine and women while watching this.

What a super re-charger of a trip. No little children asking for snacks 16 times a day, no one to bathe and put to bed at 8pm, no one to taxi drive to gymnastics class. Ahhh, heaven. Only for 5 days...of course I still want my life back, but I have to be honest it was heaven.

Here I am at the dock photographing my shadow.
Have you ever seen such a clean lake? Sand bottomed clean lake! We went up to Old Mission Bay and stopped at a winery or two or four, I lost count, it was delightful. It took all day to meander through the bay area and stop at wineries and finish up the day at a funky microbrew pub for dinner.

But now I'm home. My babies picked fresh wildflowers for me. How sweet they are. My darling 7 year old stared at me moon eyed for the first 2 hours I was home. My three year old gave me the tightest hug ever known in our house when she saw me step through the door.

Even my sewing machine seemed to be slightly rejuvenated after I tossed in a load of laundry, paid bills and fired her back up again. Here is what she helped me create this afternoon.

The picture doesn't show the cutie pie pleats in the purple chenille very well. But this truly is a sweet little bag. It measures only about 11" wide and 7" tall. The handle drops 10" and is perfect for a close fit over your shoulder. Pop a vintage pin or button on the front and I'm thinking what a super fall bag. I'm headed back to the drawing board for some other funky color combinations now that I know I like the shape.

So, here we go. Fall is around the corner. Preschool starts this week. I'm committed to three fall art shows and the whisper of seasonal change is in the air.

UpCycling

2009-08-23T11:18:00.000-07:00

In the last week I have been the lucky recipient of some wonderful cuts of fabric that shall we say, had worn out their welcome in their previous homes. Knowing that I am one to take in a stray cut of fabric now and again...my friend's have dropped their lovely bits of material with a free conscience. Of course your fabric will be loved here.

These were at one time some decadent curtains. But the owner has moved on to something more casual in aqua and chocolate. Oh that woman has some killer curtains in her home!

Notice I couldn't lay them out fast enough and begin the cutting process separating the amazing baby blue damask from it's lining.

Now, part of that curtain panel has been upCycled into this.

Oh heavenly tote. I have two of them and will be giving one to the original owner as a thank you for donating her fabric to the cause.

The other one will go up for sale.

This week I also scored some lovely chocolate brown curtains that it almost breaks my heart to cut up since they were quite well made. But, what good are they doing in someone's garage at the bottom of a box? They will be happier lining some nice lady's handbag as they move onto their next life.

Oh, the cutest little dresses

2009-07-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

I do love making handbags, that is for sure. I make them all the time. I often feel as though I'm stealing time from my family just to get up in my sewing room and start sifting fabrics through my fingers all in hopes that it will soon be some whimsical funky bag on some lady's shoulder.

I do all of my sewing on my two beloved Husquavarna machines. I don't have a serger, haven't really needed one as all of my edges are hidden and pressed away on the bags and wallets.

BUT...

I've been thinking. I see all of these adorable, I mean killer cute kids outfits and I can't help but think...I could do that. I know I could. But, when I try to make my girls clothes I am bothered by my scratchy rather unprofessional seams. My girls sometimes complain when I gather a skirt and the inside seam is well, a little fuzzy and ummm...bulky.

So I've been thinking serger. Cheap, hearty runs like gold serger. I want one. So I can make amazing little girls clothes like these....

http://www.polkadotmom.com/ This gal over at Whimsy Couture has the most adorable tutorials. The photo shows one of her dresses.

Serger...I'm thinking...oh, serger I covet thee.

What's New, Prison Pants, and Yummy Tassels

2009-07-28T10:43:00.000-07:00

It's a bit of of a mixed bag over here this summer. We've been enjoying our summer at sprinkler parks and riding our bicycles, my girls and I that is. For the last month I've certainly been working on the business, but well with the girls at my side, it's been admittedly been somewhat up in my head deciding what's next rather than at the sewing machine. Only Chloe, the puggle seems to truly appreciate my neverending desire to spend hundreds of hours tied to my creative place up there in the sewing room.

This past week though, I've made some strides to get ready for fall. I have committed to Girls Night Out Indy. If you are going to be in the Indianapolis, IN area on October 1st, 2009 pop on over to the website and register for the event, it's free and I believe they even comp a drink or two when you register. Yes, I do hope clients will be liquored up walking the aisles. (Wink.) I'll be showing there for the first time and am very excited to have this event to share my bags. Even if I am the one drinking herbal tea that day and evening.

Here is a preview of what I'm working on. I love to have a wall full of love to greet me when I walk in. Gah, that silver and pink one looks like it might just jump off the hook.

I've also been making prison pants. No, Ava is not waiting in line for juvenile detention. She's performing in a camp this week where the final show has a jailhouse rock theme. I managed to pull the assignment for several pairs of orange prison pants. I'm working on the 4th pair right now. (Or well, I'm technically taking a break from the 4th pair right now.) Next year I do hope there is room for some originally designed little girl's sun dresses. Now, that is a project I could grow to love.

Want to see some new scalloped wallets? They are so fun to make. Since they come in a set with a key fob to match...I wonder if I might have to keep one for myself?

And one final thought, these tassels were scored in a clearance bin. I bought several colors and some have beads. I had no idea what to do with them, but they were calling my name longingly and they came home. Perhaps they will wind up a decorations for some new swing bags? Any other ideas? They are just too pretty to sit around not adorning something.

Birthday Party Goodies

2009-06-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

My little Olivia is certainly too young to be invited to friend's birthday parties. Or is she? Maybe not, she received her first invitation in the mail last week. Sniff Sniff.

The little girl will be turning 4 and all the kids will be bouncing their little hearts out at this party.

The gift for the birthday girl? Here it is. An applique'd tee shirt with her name and cupcake. You know the cupcake was the fun part right? Yes, I did spend 1/2 an hour sewing the little glass beads on the frosting to look like sparkly sugar.

And because every little girl needs a ribbon drawstring pouch to match each tee shirt. Hmmm...blogger why are you turning my picture? I'm not happy with you, blogger.

Ever since I made the drawstring pouch for my daughter's friend, I've been obsessed with these darling little lined pouches and am determined that everyone I know will be getting one in the next several months.

Take a peek at this wonderful online tutorial. I downloaded it and was able to make the pouch in about 1/2 an hour! It is a great way to use small amounts of fabric from your stash. I'm using small bits of ribbons and beads too making them up.

Ahhh, summer time crafty'ness. I will get back to the very serious business of bags galore very soon. I promise. Say it three times. I'm ready to start the serious business of bag design, um, very soon.

I Heart This

2009-06-17T09:28:00.001-07:00

I bought myself a little present, for the business that is. I am usually an incurable cheap skate and rarely buy anything full price, I think it is my grandmother's depression era blood running through my veins. But, I saw this curvy and loopy acrylic template and just had to have it, sans coupon.

What would you use this for?

Well, first I tried the wavy side for a fabric basket I made as a gift for my friend. It was sized and designed to be used for magazine storage. The top was supposed to be a bit more wavy, but for a first attempt at a fabric basket, it's ok.

Then I used the scalloped side for this.
My next door neighbor is moving and donated a whole stack of old fabric to moi. She knows I love fabric like little colorful children.

In return I promised her a tote bag made from some of the stash. The scalloped edge on the floral section is a big pocket on the front of the bag. Clever yes? I was having a ball playing with making the large pocket work on the bag with the oversized tassle trim.

I think I will make up a few more bags with variations on the big curvy pockets in the front. What is left of my summer stash is out at 2 boutiques and I literally have almost nothing here or on the website. I'm planning on building up inventory again just as soon as I can get to work in the sewing room. My children are on summer break and seem to have different plans for my time. Hmmm, 2 kids at home full time does not seem to be conducive to accomplishing lots for the business.

However, when I figure out the balance and have several made I will post them on the website and I also plan to stock an Etsy store soon as well.

Ohh, one last little summer project to post about. My daughter's friend needed a new drawstring bag for her gymnastics equipment. Her mother gave me some material and asked me to take a stab at it.

I wanted this little bag to be lined and have a double ribbon string for easy access. With the help of a wonderful free tutorial and the wise internets I was able to whip up Becca's new bag in no time last night.

The lime green lame' with pink beads and ribbons makes me think of a very fashionable crocodile. I hope it makes the adorable Becca the envy of all the little girls on her team as she carries her new equipment bag around the gym.

That's what's new over here at Pink Evita this summer. Enjoying the lazy hazy days of summer with my girls and trying some new creative ideas!

Summer Present

2009-05-29T13:02:00.000-07:00

I finished them all. Every last commission, design your own, and special projects due out in the month of May. First I'd like to say, thank you for the business if you are one of the delightful people who ordered from me this past month. It was so very fun for me to make up a boat load of goodies and see them go to new aquaintenances and old.

I must say though, it just about killed me. Exaggeration, yes I know. But wow, I was cutting and interfacing at 11pm many nights. And this gal, she usually poops out right after the kidlets are popped into bed at 8pm.

The last month has been a whirl wind, and yet its given me the opportunity to focus on what it is exactly I love about the business and where I'd like to go, going forward. I guess I'm learning that I like the sewing...but I LOVE the designing. Sitting with stacks of fabrics and making decisions on how the clump of scraps will become something like what you see in the picture? Yes, this is me. (By the way, this is my new summer bag set, complete with cowgirl snap business card holder. Happy summer to me! Can we take a minute to bow to the pink fringe?)

This has been a bit of a true up, come to your maker moment for me in the business since the part that I like....but don't love...design your own, (where the ladies get to design their own bags and I simply make them up) pays well and keeps me busy. The part I LOVE, the designing doesn't move those bags as fast. Or should I say, I haven't figured that part out YET.

So, where does this leave me? At a cross in the road, with choices I suppose. This summer I plan to do a bit of research and perhaps some pounding of the pavement to see if there are some nice outlets for me to sell, sell, sell those creations in whatever fashion I love. In the mean time I don't know whether I'm ready to completely shut the door on "design your own" parties, which by the way is completely different than working with a client on a special commission for something custom, but I'm perhaps taking a step back from actively marketing the parties.

Ahh, there I said it. Does it have to be true now? Hee hee, we'll see.

Now, I must take my pink fringe new bag and accessories to the beach for a week. I will watch my twoladybugs build sand castles and eat more shrimp than one person should eat. Have a wonderful start to your summer everyone!

Taking the Girls Out in the Back for Some Sun

2009-05-19T08:12:00.000-07:00

Oh, I have to admit it has been hard to keep my head down and blinders on the last couple of days.

It is sunny and 65-70 degrees here. Ahhh, what a welcome change from the dreary rain of the last few weeks.
Should I complain though, when that dreary rain and the hurculean efforts of the Muffin Man have made our back yard grass look like kelly green carpet? Probably not.

Spring is finally here in the midwest. That is why I decided to treat myself and "the girls" here to a short backyard photo shoot.

Don't they look summery, all "dolled" up and ready to go home with their new owners? The black and white one has bubble gum pink lining. I'm suddenly very aware of how happy a sunny lining with a touch of sewn coordinating ribbon can make a person. How nice to have something small like that in your daily life, open a handbag and smile at the bright happy color you see. I'm easily entertained.

Alright, only 4 more orders to go in the May '09 lot.

Then I can concentrate on that backyard Memorial Day picnic we will be hosting this weekend. I'm going to treat us to a trip to Trader Joe's for a nice bottle of wine and some fun appetizers.

Three More

2009-05-15T11:02:00.000-07:00

Ahh, they're falling like bugs at an ant trap picnic now.

It does help to stack up the orders and cut cut cut first. Then re-stack up the already cut out projects into a pile on the corner of the craft table.

I'm not sure why but the projects do seem to make their way to the "hanging wall" faster if I can cut up a batch before I interface and sew anything. Or perhaps I can only tolerate the slowness of a multi project order in the beginning few days, after that to keep sanity I suppose I need to see tangible progress.

Hipsters are in again this spring. Probably for the summer travelers who want hands-free while site seeing and on trips here and there. I think I might want one now. Oh, will I have time before vacation? Who knows.

The picture of the lilac, celery and brown hipster is just not that great. It is a much prettier fabric in real life.

Last night I took a break from the sewing cave and went to my local quilt shop to teach a class. 1001 Uses Zipper Pouch is what everyone made. It was very fun. There were a mix of experienced and beginner sewers.

I simply loved the look on people faces as they exited with a completed little pouch project in hand.

I already have an idea for another class this summer. Fabric baskets. I'm dying to try one. But, must finish orders first. Whip cracking in background.

Life At The The Factory on the Cul-De-Sac

2009-05-13T12:58:00.001-07:00

Ooh, rainy day here in the mid-west at what feels a bit like an assembly line plant. My faithful assistant, Liv worked in accounts receivable while I manned the production room.

First, I worked on this ruffle clutch. I made several of these at Christmas time but hadn't been asked for one until last week. The inside has a nice duponi red silk surprise lining. Fun.

Looking at it here I just realized I forgot the wristlet strap. Oh good grief, where is Inspector number 9 when you need her? This one will have to go back on the line.

Next up was a little zipper pouch with a side body handle installed. Great for summer trips to amusement parks.

Finally, this bag was ordered in a postman style. Hands free again, for summer in a sweet pink and green theme.

Ahhh, 3 more down 15 to go before the end of the month.

Sew Girl Sew

2009-05-12T12:23:00.001-07:00

Back in March I sat down in a quiet space and set my intention with the Universe that work would come my way...I had the time and I was open for custom work.

And, now it is May and I'm swamped. Whee, I need an elf. An elf who cuts, irons and sews. Oh, and since I'm asking could he also look a bit like Matthew McConaughey? I think that would be pleasant to look at while I worked alongside. Seriously, I tried for a real elf but she couldn't make it work this week. That is what I get for giving this nice lady no notice at all. I'm up for a challenge, I can get all my orders done on time I know it. Cough....

In the last 2 1/2 weeks I've had three shows. I've already delivered the first 22 bags from the first show and now I'm working on the next 18 or so.

Oh, and I want to finish them all before I leave for vacation on May 30th. That's 18 more bags in 18 days.

Sew, girl sew.

In the interest of keeping it exciting want to follow along and see if I meet my goal?

Here are the 3 that I made last night and today.

Send words of encouragement and caffeine. Lots of caffeine.

I'll post em' as I finish.

Almost forgot, more good news...my ten year old iron died and I hopped of the cu-de-sac and got the most gorgeous silver shark that pumps out steam like a nuclear reactor. She's so pretty I might feature her along with the next small batch hopefully to come tomorrow. That's reason to stop back tomorrow right? Iron photos.

Coming Up To Take A Breath

2009-05-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

Ahh, I'm up for a breath of fresh air. I had a big show a week and a half ago and have been seriously and semi-permanently chained to the Husquavarna. Cut, iron, sew repeat...22 times. That has been my week and thus my lack of any word on the blogs and the website, which has also been shamelessly neglected as well. People who read the ladybugs blog probably think I took my kids and fell off the end of the earth. No really, I shooshed my kids out the back door told them to take the dog and spend some quality time on the swing set. Which they have done happily and graciously. Oh yes, and they've eaten their year's fill of hot dogs and pretzels too. I can make hot dogs and iron interfacing at the same time it seems. That takes some multitasking talent, I'll have to add that to my resume. No bother that I am up a few finger burns and one index finger that was sewn through. All would have been fine if I hadn't panic'd and ripped the thread out before unleashing it from the machine. Good grief you'd think I'd learn.

So, onto bigger and better and more interesting items. Pictures. What has all this blood and sweat produced? Here are a few goodies. This first picture shows a few I designed and whipped up recently. They are currently living at the 4th Street Gallery Boutique...hopefully to find a funky home soon.

These next ones show some of the design your own items at the most recent show. I am simply the sewing flunky on these. Ladies did pretty well right?

That's not all of them, but a few that give you the idea. A few people have contacted me recently about diaper bags. Maybe that is what the next few projects will be. Not to mention that my neighbor recently brought her new baby girl home from the NICU. I've been meaning to get on top of that situation as well. Preemie baby Ava needs a fun summer diaper bag right, preferrably before she's potty trained.

And that is the Pink Evita news update. Two shows happening later this week. I'll report back.

Out At 4th Street

2009-04-19T16:45:00.001-07:00

I've been thinking lots about how and where I want to sell my bags and accessories. Do I knock on doors at boutiques and galleries? Do I concentrate on the home party business where people come, sit around a grilfriend's dining room table and design their own bags? Or should I focus on the magic of the internet, designing and making what I love and then hope for the best in sales?

Without focus I find myself spread rather thin. Happily chasing opportunies as they come and waking in the middle of the night with design ideas, but still still running chasing my tail.

So here is the part where you expect me to give you the big answer right? Here is the new Pink Evita business plan. Except there is no true definitive business plan. I'm still learning. I'm still tossing proverbial spaghetti up against a wall and seeing what will stick. Perhaps true direction will come, maybe it won't. As long as I get to keep designing what I love, I suppose the rest will have to wait.

And yet, here is a gem amongst my clouded convoluted mind and opposition to definitive direction. 4th Street Gallery in Covington, IN. What a gem this gallery is amongst the flatlands of rural western Indiana. Owner Deb Duncan is as delightful as they come. Her gorgeous gallery, with it's soaring ceilings, seafoam green walls and plenty of turn of the century wainscotting is absolutely captivating. She has a wonderful mix of art; there is pottery, glass art, jewelry, silk scarves and now...Pink Evita bags. Yes, the super smart business lady convinced me to leave my very favorite pieces for her to sell. If you are in the area of Covington, IN you must visit her and her Corgi called Opey. (I almost left with him.)
http://fourthstreetart.com/

The next few weeks bring a few home parties. I must admit working with and meeting the ladies who attend these events are my favorite part of the job. Scrambling to make those design your own pieces, well, brings new challenges. She says grinning.

That's what's new and cooking over here at Pink Evita. I'll keep you posted if that brilliant business plan wakes me one morning at 3am. Until then, go visit 4th Street Gallery.

UPDATED: Deb emailed me the day after I visited the gallery to tell me she'd already sold three pieces. Yippee. Chalk one up to girl power and intuition.

Spring Pillow Case Dresses

2009-03-31T13:48:00.001-07:00

I know I've said it before and I'll probably say it again but sometimes having your own business is a bit like being on an island. Yes, it is wonderful to be on this fabulous sunny island but sometimes it can be a bit isolating. There isn't anyone to bounce ideas off of, as in should I really spend THAT amount of money on new fabric woven labels for the business? Should I invest in 16 yards of black fuzzy trim? Should I spend an entire Saturday at an art fair exhibiting and selling wares? This week my silent partner...the Muffin Man, husband extraordinaire had to help me choose a font for new labels. At about the 16th shade of pink, well, he sort of died on me and went back to selling widgets in HIS office. Poor guy.

So, what's a small business owner to do for inspiration? Well, invite the crafty preschool moms over for coffee and sewing time. This morning I had the pleasure of sewing with my friend Tanya. Her infectious enthusiasm was just that, infectious. She sews but wants to learn some techniques. And me? Well, I just wanted a crafty morning focusing on someone else's projects. Tanya chose a pillow case dress for her project today. This is her daughter's new dress. Isn't it too darn cute? And, yes it's made from a pillow case, some gros grain ribbon, a strip of material sewn into a fancy band and some buttons and bows.

She completed her new pillow case dress in under 2 hours and I must say I had to laugh out loud with how pleased we were with her project.

Since I scored bargain basement pillow cases at a clearance sale last week myself...Ava and Olivia got these cuties to wear this summer!

Tanya and I had a serious discussion about how young you'd have to be to get away with wearing one of these dresses. She argued that we could in fact get away with wearing a similar dress in grown-up size if we wore leggings too. Ha, I told her "Maybe YOU could get away with it." I suspect Tanya is a wee bit younger than I am. I think they will have to be made for the under 10 set here at this household.

Oh well, it was a fun creative morning, just spending time with a friend, the sewing machine and some really pretty ribbon!

Pink and Black on White

2009-03-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

Here is what I spent my weekend doing.

This is the latest custom order. My client chose the material and then gave it to me to work with. She told me what she'd like and I had a ball molding three different fabrics into 5 little spring bags. She even lent me her favorite bags to use for sizing and pleating ideas.

Now she just needs some hot pink and black tee shirts and she'll be all set for spring and summer.

You know, this project has been making me think. I've recently had a few requests from people to work with vintage material that they have or material they ran across on a shopping trip. I really love this idea of making something new and beautiful out of something old or tired or unused any longer. (Of course this material in the picture was new, but she found it and fell in love with it, I only supplied lining materials and hardware, and the labor of course!) Maybe I'll think about using this recycle angle to see if people want to recycle old dresses, table cloths, vintage linens, favorite but battered clothes into new bags that they'd use more frequently.

What do you think? Is this a good idea?

Come On Spring

2009-02-18T12:25:00.001-08:00

Come on spring. Winter, love ya but it's time to move on out. We've had the cold and ear infection as a token reminder and now quite frankly, we've over you. Don't be offended, we did like the one large snowstorm, that was nice.

I'm busy hunkered down in the sewing room working with bright colors. Lots of bright colors. I've packed away all the heavy dark materials for July, when I'm craving a cool day. Seems like it will never happen right now, but we all know it will.

Look at the key fob goodness. I have one of these little babies attached to my set of keys and even though I still carry the mongo sling bag that ate New York City, I can always find my keys with a key ring like this. I'm not sure if it is the size or the cotton webbing but my keys seem to miraculously float to the top of two ton annie, the bag! Ahhh, what a treat when the 7 year old is six steps ahead of me out the door and the 3 year old is tossing a sippy cup my way as we skip out the door.

I'll be offering them at the craft shows I'll be doing this spring/summer and of course through internet orders. They can be made in any color and can match any bag. Speaking of matching any bag...if you buy one alone they are $6.50 but if you buy one with any other bag purchase they are only $5.00.

They will be up for sale very soon with all the new spring bags at http://www.pinkevita.com

Inspiration In The Craziest Places

2009-02-12T14:12:00.000-08:00

My three year old, Olivia has been sick for almost 2 weeks now. Sniff Sniff. Just common variety cold for a week, 3 days of being well and then more fever followed up by an ear infection this time. I broke down, took her to the Dr. and got her the good drugs today, so she should be flying high again by tomorrow.

Liv has been snuggled up on a heat therapy bag to help her sore ear. She likes the warm lavender scented soft bag while watching way too many cartoons. Ahhh, it's winter time in the Midwest. I got the idea here for the bag. What a great tutorial and what a wonderful idea to use up some scraps of material from the ever growing stash of material that seems to be taking over the northwest side of the house.

While Liv has been recuperating I've been cutting out heat therapy bags. I couldn't seem to stop at just one for Olivia. At first I thought I would keep them for little homemade gifts but now I'm thinking I might take a few to a craft show I've signed up for in March.

They are so easy to make, just two sleeves. (Mine are larger than the tutorial suggested at about 16" x 8". I wanted it to be big enough to lay across the shoulders. (Can you tell where my tension usually sets in?) One sleeve sewed shut with lavender essential oil mixed with white rice and then an outer sleeve with a velcro closure to protect the inner sleeve and have something nice and snuggly warm to cuddle up with. This one is red flannel on one side and cow print flannel on the other. Who says when you are feeling sick or achy you can't keep your sense of humor with a cow print heat therapy bag? I've been to the grocery now two times for more rice. They are easy and fun to make!

Oh, if you are on the northside of Indianapolis on March 14th, 2009 and feel like stoping by the Carmel, Indiana Monon Center...pop on in for the craft show between 10am and 4pm. There is no cost to attend the show and they are expecting about 30+ vendors. I haven't done too many craft shows, they take away from family time and most of my business is word of mouth and internet...but hey, why not give this local show a try? It's practically in my back yard. I'm looking forward to showing some spring bags and accessories as well as meeting shoppers and other vendors.

All Things Spring

2009-02-06T13:13:00.001-08:00

It's spring here at Pink Evita even if the snow is still not melted in the front yard. I have packed away the heavy chenille's and dark tapestries. I've made up a few very spring'y' totes and just the feel of light weight pinks and greens running through my fingers has been enough to beat the late winter time blues. Of course my living room has 1/2 inch of dust everywhere but there are lots of new Pink Evita's already in the works scattered throughout sewing room and on the website.

I dug through some older stash to see if I could make some sewing room space..for newer material of course, and pulled together this pink and green dragonfly bag. New this spring will be little accessories to match each bag. Yes, that is a matching little dragonfly zipper makeup pouch sitting in the tote. Of course they are sold separately for anyone who doesn't want the accessories, but really, who could resist?

If this pink dragonfly and ladybug captures your fancy she can be purchased over here.

One more thing that put a smile on my face when it arrived in the mail this week. Snaps. Colorful little snaps, I swoon.

I have a million ideas for these little babies. Wallets, pouches, dog walking poopy baggie carriers, golf bag clip on wallets...so many ideas, so little preschool time to create.

Working with snaps is next up on the docket. I'll post more when these snaps have been affixed to something.

Messenger Bag

2009-01-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

I just finished this messenger bag for a barter deal. I'm sure I got the better end of the deal, even though I'm really happy with this great messenger bag.

It's for a personal trainer! Yes, I've made friends with an amazing trainer and we agreed to trade services. She would watch me work out (oh the joys of that one) and listen to my goals (Get stronger in 2009!) and then write up a plan for me. We've met twice and she has been amazing. She taught me several new tricks and I'm
sure that I might end up with a strengthened core and a muscle or two in a few months.

In return I would make her a messenger style bag that would hold her laptop and some personal files. Look at the back, more pockets. Lots of dots and lots of pockets.

Inside...even more pockets. Both sides are lined with various sizes and there is even some slots for pens and pencils. Don't you hate waiting in line at the bank and you can't find a pen? Argh.

Finally, I had a bit of coordinating fabric and thought she might like a key fob and zipper pouch to hold hand lotion and chapstick.

Have you ever bartered for anything? I absolutely love the idea and will try to do more of this in 2009.

What a treat to be able to experience something I probably might not have treated myself to otherwise.

The Swinging Sling to Beckon Spring

2009-01-07T10:29:00.000-08:00

I ordered this Amy Butler pattern as a little Happy New Year's present for myself. I was skipping around the kitchen when it arrived. I knew I would love the bag made up. Of course the zipper pouch for makeup and 1001 goodies is not part of the pattern but since the set is for my mom for her birthday I couldn't resist.

Oh yes, I also have oodles and oodles of this salmon colored material that ironically enough, my mom gave me a while back. She originally bought 5 yards of this salmon decorator weight material from Calico Corners for a drapery project that sort of hit the skids. I found the strangely matchy-fied green material at a decorator street sale a few summers ago. I immediately thought, weird...I think this goes with that load of salmon material I scored at Mom's a while ago. It's been hogging up precious storage space for a while now and quite frankly spoke to me out of the depths of it's storage drawer. At the time I was comtemplating a de-stash project...but that one's on hold as I found myself cutting up the Amy Butler pattern instead. It's lots more fun to make up a new bag rather than clean closets, let's be honest.

I hope my mom likes this slouchy sling as much as I do. This will of course be my spring bag when I get around to making one for myself, which is usually about a month or two after a new season starts.

Also related to the Swinging Sling, I was thinking in the shower this afternoon, no, I didn't exactly shower until afternoon today..long story involving 2 hours I will never get back after speaking with 2 different banks about possible fraud hitting our checking account. Happy New Year some yowzers out there keep trying to access our accounts. But, back to the sling. I think I could make this reversible. Yes, reversible!

Next up, making this swingy sling in coordating materials, losing the inside pockets and making it reversible!

I'm off to package the new salmon bags up for my mom so they might arrive in time for her birthday.

Avery's Little Goody Bags

2009-01-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, my daughter Ava, is going to attend a birthday party being held for a little girl she knows from school.

With all of the holiday rush and a late invite...Avery's little gift is coming in right under the wire.

This fabric is whimsical and bright, just perfect for a 7 year old. Ahh, who am I kidding, I might have to make something up for myself in the polka dots, they are so fun.

What girl of any age couldn't use a set of zipper pouches to hold hair bands, lip glosses, polly pockets, music cds, and just about anything else you could think of that might catch a 7 year old's fancy?

With the zipper pouches go Ava's instructions to take copious notes at the party tomorrow. Her 7th birthday is right around the corner this month and she has been itching for a grand party full of shrill and gleeful 7 year old girls. Other than cake and ice cream and a pinata full of candy she's come up blank as to other ideas on how to entertain a dozen 1st graders for 2 hours. I'm holding a candle that we will find an easy craft that will entertain the troops for 1/2 an hour and not permanently affix glue to my kitchen floor. Please speak up if you have any ideas.

Holiday Goodies

2008-12-16T12:17:00.001-08:00

These two little black silk on black crushed velvet clutches were just made up for a commission and are ready to go out the door. They look so sweetly holiday sitting next to each other.

I almost think they would look as good with a little black slinky dress as they would with a crisp white oxford, jeans and high heeled boots.

Oh, I do hope they have fun at their next holiday gathering!

On the Wall, Off The Wall

2008-12-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

I've recently changed my workspace around just a little bit to help keep things organized. I took some hooks and randomly popped them up on the wall above where I work. Now I can see completed orders and watch them hang above me before they are bagged and boxed up!

In November, I did two shows and sold several cash and carry items, ahhh thanks so much to anyone who purchased a bag already made. I also took about 25 orders for "design your own" bags. That was just about as many as I could make and make sure I deliver well before Christmas.

Now they are gone. All delivered to their new homes this weekend. I sort of miss them.

Look at the sorry lonely wall.

This must be remedied, I can't stand the sorry lonely wall.

I quickly got busy and what you see here is a mix of teacher and holiday hostess gifts mixed with a few new internet orders. I take teacher gifts oh, too seriously, ha ha. I think teachers are never paid enough for what they do and giving them a coffee mug at the holidays...well, just seems a little wrong on some level. I have asked each teacher (between my two girls, we have 4 teachers) their favorite colors. Then I will either pull from inventory a bag that seems to hopefully match their color taste and personality or I will make a bag. We've had one declaration of a love for the color green. I like green, why the heck do I not have bags in inventory in green? That's a good project for today. Make Livi's teacher a green bag. Ummm, after I finish a few more internet orders. Oh, I hope they like them, and don't think, "Gee, another tote bag, wish I could have gotten a coffee mug."

Well, the wall is up and being filled again, I can rest easy and work happily.

One more thing....

Japanese doll print 1001 uses pouches. For over a week they sat like this all lined up in a perfect row next to my work area. Every time I look over to see those darling little faces on bubble gum pink, I grinned. But now they are gone to a good home. Bagged up with a little tissue paper, only to be delivered to separate ladies undoubtedly as holiday gifts.

As they headed for the egress, in a moment of weakness I secretly ordered more of this material. In pink, green and black! When I get time I will make up a few more of these little pouches to sit happily near my work space. Just because they make me happy.

Verdict's Out

2008-11-15T10:26:00.001-08:00

Since I make so many bags I'm always on a mission to come up with something different and exciting, in a artsy kind of way. But alas, some projects come out a little more on the home crafty side. Less artistic and more well, um...she didn't have fabric that matched so it's a little home crafty looking. Maybe I'm walking a fine line between what really works with some of the new bags I'm working on and well, quite frankly what doesn't. I suppose I'm pushing the limit a little bit in hopes of creating things that are truly different. I always want to come up with new ideas that people don't see at every weekend craft show.

Here is one where the verdict is out. I was so excited to make this bag, I was sure it would be amazing. Even when my dear friend and sometimes business advisor gave me the most polite thumbs down ever. Ha Ha. Now, I'm not so sure. I've even put the bag aside for a few days and have pulled it back out in hopes of seeing it with a less attached critical eye. No luck, still unsure.

The front is black and bronze with velvet flocking. The back is black velvet. The front pocket is black velvet with a shock of hot pink duponi silk that forms a band on the pocket. The pink silk is repeated as the lining. (That part I do love.) Then the handles are black and tan little leopard spots.

There is a large pocket on the inside that is made of the black velveteen. Also yummy.

What do you think? Oohh, so different in a one of a kind artsy way or oh dear, 7th grade craft project gone wrong?

Did Picasso kiss a few toads?

Soon To Be The Holidays

2008-11-11T10:13:00.000-08:00

I'm still here...locked in the back room...sewing away. Perhaps I'll toss my hair down the window and wait for a prince on a white horse to gallop on by.

In between a few custom orders I've just been toiling away desperately trying to guess what people will want to see and buy at 2 shows I have coming up next weekend. Will they want little pouches and key fobs for stocking suffers and teacher gifts? Or will they want bigger ticket items like amazing one of a kind over the body bags?

Baby blue suede with coordinating chenille prints on the bag flaps. Oh baby, is right.

Or, would people be more interested in holiday bags? I myself am not a huge cute holiday bag gal with Santas or Frosty, I guess I'm always looking for something a little more understated. Would I be completely outing myself if I admitted publicly that I did indeed sport a randy holiday sweater in the 1990's complete with tin soldier? Oh, What Not To Wear, where are you when I have needed you so badly?

So would a huge iridescent red bow be considered understated?

How about a satin sash?

These are sort of in the spirit of the holiday season without screaming Jingle Bells right?

Oh I know, I must step away and just go back to design something new.

I have this amazing scrap of leopard print chenille that I'm dying to mix with bright red fringe. It's a disaster waiting to happen I know it.

Emme's Bag and Dress

2008-10-29T12:39:00.000-07:00

Recently, an adoptive mom asked me to make her a messenger bag to carry when she brings home her daughter from China in a few months. She had more of that glorious Michael Miller fabric with the Chinese Kids and was willing to let me work with it. I swear I'm still not tired of that material even after working several projects.

Here is her new bag.
I've made this bag a few times so there wasn't too much mystery on what it would look like when done.

The tee shirt dress on the other hand required a little winging it. Right up my alley. I must admit I love not completely knowing how a project will turn out. Creating the sash bow took a little time to figure out how long and how wide...but going into Olivia's closet to find something with a sash to use as a reference point just was not feasible since she was napping. Planning ahead might not always be a strong point for me.

Here it is. Tee shirt dress for little almost 2 year old who will come home this winter.

Oh, so this is the Holiday Rush....

2008-10-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, apparently I shouldn't have sat around all summer making fun pincushions and matching twirly skirts for the girls. Oh, but how much did I love those twirly skirts...and the tutus...yes, I loved making the tutus.

But now it's all about business around here. I might have seen the writing on the wall and spent a little time this summer sewing steely gray fall wintery bags with wonderful black 2" fringe. Or broken out the creamy chocolate chenille with amazing light peach flowers woven in and added the peachy cream silk fringe on a few bags. Oh, so this is why you see that darn Christmas stuff in stores before Halloween...people will buy it! Early!

Gulp....

I had a show last week and ended up with orders for over 17 bags to be made up as quickly as possible. And those wonderful ladies even walked out with several of my fall inventory bags.

Here they are...

They all turned out just fine, but man I was sewing in my sleep.

Now I have a few more in the hopper and almost nothing in inventory. And two shows at the end of November.

Sadly enough, there won't be any more goofing around with tutus and scarves for the dog.

The dog says, thank you. And she will be happy to accept a bandana scarf in January. She would also like to request a little zippered pouch and key fob to match.

Fall Is Here

2008-10-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

You know, owning your own small business is sometimes a little like being on a deserted island. On one hand basking in the warm sun and sand all by yourself is amazingly relaxing but then again with no one help row the boat when you want to go ashore for lunch, you are never sure how hard to jump up and down waving the flag trying to grab the water taxi when you know you need civilization.

It is so easy for me to bask in the warm sun of my sewing room. I can completely lose myself in there just creating things. But the reality of it is that if this is a part time job gig, which it is...then I gotta get to work handling some of the business aspects of life as well.

The last few weeks I've booked a few home parties and last week even participated in an open house craft show. (I was reluctant to do it...but then did very well.) So well in fact that my fall stock was all but cleared out and I have a home party on Thursday. Yikes, two days away and I have to have something to take to this party.

So, I've been locked up slurping down coke zeros for strength the last few days trying to boost my fall inventory.

Want to see what I've got so far?

Big pink polka dot tote with black fringe.

Pink checks on the inside to match.

Here is a blue and chocolate brown velvet flocking evening bag with dark brown fringe on top to match. Oooh, I could almost eat that funky fringe on top.

Next up is a steely gray bag with a shiny silver vinyl bottom. There is even a little makeup bag that matches. It zippers. I am happy when I have tons of zippered pouches in my life.

And finally, I present a large raspberry floral and chenille stripe tote. It has lots of heavy black fringe on top and has pockets for pens plus 3 extra roomy places for lots of important goodies.

Technically this one is sold, my neighbor wants it for a birthday gift to take to a friend's house this weekend, but she's letting me keep it for Thursday's show for display.

So, only a few more samples of cash and carry bags and I'll be almost ready for my show. Maybe...probably...oh, yes definitely. Ok, I seriously hope the ladies want to do some design your own and have them delivered in a few weeks.

I'm picking up another coke zero and heading back to the deserted island.

The Fabulous Miss M

2008-10-13T10:47:00.001-07:00

This is the fabulous Miss M. She has a new Pink Evita bag, just her size and perfect for taking along on a fall day's trike ride.

The fabulous Miss M lived with my Olivia in China.

The last time I met the fabulous Miss M she was taking a dip in the resort pool at the White Swan hotel on Shaiman Island, getting used to being sprung from the big house and loving her new forever Mama.

Now she's got places to go and people to meet on that tricycle. Go, M go!

More Handbags

2008-10-01T11:22:00.000-07:00

Handbag goodness...apparently you can win a free handbag...not my handbags...but handbags nonetheless and did I mention free? Here.

And the answer is yes...um I might consider carrying a handbag not personally constructed by moi...if said handbag was a delicious bit of yummyness and it was shiny.

I like shiny.

Finalist

2008-09-30T11:29:00.001-07:00

Remember this? I'm just so excited, I made it into the top finalists with the black and tan twisted rope clutch! After returning home from a weekend away I opened my email to discover that my little bag was indeed selected as one of the Bags2Riches top finalists. This project is a fund raiser for homelessness here in the city. In year's past the finalist bags have been featured in the city wide Monthly magazine. Good publicity!

Want to see the finalist bags? Go here! I'm number 6. That photograph of my bag isn't the best in my opinion, but hey, what's a girl to do? I'm in and I'm thrilled.

Next week there is a fashion show downtown featuring the bags. I'll be the one carrying a camera in one hand and a two year old in the other, gah! If you are so inclined to make a small donation to homeless in Indianapolis, please place a vote for your favorite bag, which I'm sure would be the little black and tan twisted rope clutch with a big black satin bow on top, at the web site. Not so subtle, hint hint.

I could use a vote...apparently, at last count the bag cut to look like a little black dress is kicking my butt. ;)

Pink Bitty Pouch Complete With Keys

2008-09-19T10:27:00.001-07:00

Ok, the keys aren't exactly included with the set. No one wants keys to my backyard barn shed that contains one very dirty lawn mower and one overly dusty baby swing. You supply the keys.

I've recently scored some key fob webbing and hardware, and have been trying to come up with inventive ways to offer it.

I sat down yesterday with this delicious icy pink fat quarter and just let my fingers do some cutting. Before I knew it I had one sweet little zipper pouch and a key fob to match.

The little pouch is about 7" x 4 1/2" and is lined with the same icy pink material. It would be perfect for a drivers license, credit card, keys and a lipstick. Hook the little ribbon loop over a finger and off you go. I'm not sure whether it is worth it to make up several sets? I am going to exhibit at a little local show in October and could make several sets to see what happens. What do you think? Would you want a bitty pouch with matching key ring? I think I'll pop on over to the shop, list it, and see what happens.

LBF's New Outfit

2008-09-19T10:27:00.000-07:00

In between filling orders I have been sewing some very fun little gift projects. Gift projects are my favorites. There is nothing better than the feeling of a napping two year old and just sitting in my sewing room, back in the recesses of my house all alone...plotting out a gift project. I can sit and stare at the wonderful material for a 1/2 hour before I start cutting, just because it is there. Add a Coke zero to the mix and I'd clearly be one step away from the pearly gates.

My 6 year old daughter Ava, has a sweet little best friend, (I affectionately call her lbf for short) whom we have known since she met her parents within minutes of when we met Ava in a crowded Chinese hotel conference room 6 years ago. LBF will soon be 7, doesn't seem possible but it is. I saw this material online and had to spend an hour looking for a vendor who had it in stock. Oh poor me...had to spend an hour shopping for material from the comfort of my own office loft in my pajamas. I love you, internet.

I've made this skirt several times for my girls just because it is made of 4 rectangles. Yes, 4 rectangles. It is the easiest thing to whip up. I found the directions in a quilting magazine of all places and then realized that the magazine had misprinted the directions...but after the second attempt I conquered and got the measurements of the top layer and underskirt just right. The top is just a cheapy tee shirt with appliqued dolls to match the skirt. LBF is the tiniest of little things...Ava probaby has 2 to 3 inches on her. I hope it fits, even with the stretchy elastic waist. If not, she'll have a cute spring outfit.

The Serious Business

2008-09-11T09:10:00.001-07:00

This is serious business...

Wheels to get us to the mall? Check.
Bear in finest silk outfit? Check.
No-nonsense shopping outfit? Check.
New bag holding all daddy's credit cards slung casually over shoulder? Check.

I see a new outfit in this bear's immediate future. How about you.

Thanks to Mrs. H for sharing a photo of her adorable daughter sporting her new Pink Evita bag.

New Baby

2008-09-09T09:43:00.000-07:00

Oh, to be 9 months pregnant at the end of August/beginning of September. Ugh...the thought makes me want to grab a huge glass of icy lemonade and sip slowly. I "had" both of my babies (Who came to me at 8 and 9 1/2 months old respectively in the sweltering heat of Southern China) thank you very much and really...if only we could plan these things a little better, ladies. I'd vote for a nice cool day in March just as the spring blossoms are starting to bloom but there is not an 80 degree marker in sight for another 2-3 months. And then, just as you are about to go seriously insane with new baby in the house, why then feel free to walk in the warmth of the sunshine outside in the brand new shiny pram.

But life doesn't always play out like that. Sometimes you just gotta have a baby when it is 106 in the shade. Just ask my next door neighbor. She almost ready to pop. Oh, and she is almost done. I know, I asked her and she said..."I'm done!", as she less than cheerfully rolled her recycle bin into the garage.

Maybe this will cheer her up, that and dropping about 8 lbs of baby any day now.

Of course the dapper "tie one on onsie" is for the newest little Mr. The crayon caddy is for 2 year old big sister. Because I am sure that this one little crayon caddy will completely keep her busy and happily occupied while Mommy attends to the newby, ahhhhhemmm. And the diaper caddy is for Mommy. May she try to squeeze two different size diapers in this little caddy and keep her sanity all at the same time.

Ok little Mr., the cul-de-sac is ready. Come on home.

Measure, Cut, Sew Repeat

2008-09-08T10:40:00.001-07:00

Late last week and into the weekend it was a little like ground hog day around here. I was watching lots of little Chinese kids take form. And, no it wasn't Ava and Olivia taking form...although they were running amok much of the time in and out of the sewing room, it was these Chinese kids.
Yes, I know if you watch the blog they might look familiar...but I got another custom order to do several mini totes using the Michael Miller Chinese kids material.

Just when I thought I had done just about everything possible with this material. (I've made twirly skirts, totes, purses, zipper bags, and business card holders, gah!) I was asked to make a crayon caddy too.

It turned out so cute my 2 year old could hardly keep her little mits off of it. I remained firm and promised her I'd make her one of her own soon and popped it in the big box to be shipped. I'm sure the real owner of this crayon caddy would not appreciate gently used crayons and missing pages of white paper.

Normally when I finish a big order like this I am very happy to clean the sewing room and package the goods in their box getting ready for shipment. Good bye, order! Hope the next one involves a change in color scheme or weight of material. But over the weekend I lingered, watching all the bags neatly lined up on the work table. I had a fleeting thought that I might take them and hang them all around the room like Chinese lanterns. But, then I took a swig of Coke and snapped out of it. The Muffin Man bought me a big box and they are off to their new home today. I hope their adoption reunion is big fun, and all those little kids are healthy and happy in their forever homes.

The Leopard Twins

2008-09-08T10:28:00.000-07:00

Last week my family went to a yummy cookout at a friends house celebrating Labor Day. It was a nice mix of people from different parts of the hostesses life. My dear friend, the hostess is always helping to promote and market Pink Evita things. Before I knew it she had whipped out a few bags that I had made for her last winter. Two ladies saw one bag and said, "Can we have this one?" Meaning a re-creation of the original. I said, "You both want this same one?" Oh yes, they chimed. My first reaction way didn't they want something different? Of course I was chomping on my second hotdog at the time. But then I had to pause and remember just a few months ago when at my birthday dinner my two friends and I showed up at the restaurant with the exact same bags, different sizes...but the exact same bags. Oh well, who's too good for 8th grade? Not me.

Here are the leopard twins. They are pretty darn cute if I don't say so myself. They are a nice mix of brown and black, perfect for fall and winter evenings out on the town. They are rather smallish at 10" wide by 9" tall. The black material is a durable velvet and the print is the softest most wonderful high end chenille that of course I scored on a clearance table. I loved working with this chenille so much I'm going back tomorrow to see if there is any left.

I hope the leopard twins carry their new bags with panache and have fun with them. I know I had fun eating the summer's last potato salad, watching my two year old slip and slide in the backyard and of course working in a few minutes for business as well.

Tea House Garden Set

2008-09-02T12:21:00.000-07:00

This 3 piece set of diaper tote with four huge internal pockets and key latch, diaper caddy, and matching toddler Mommy and Me bag was commissioned last week and went out the door this morning.

I admit it, I'm a sucker for these Mommy and me sets. Oh, I do hope the Mom receiving this likes orange, they did come out very orange. :) It all did not seem that orange when I was at the wall o' fabric. Drooling - over- all - that - amazing- Amy Butler - material.

I'm off to start working on a few bags that have yummy black velvet mixed with rich fringe and a heavy chenille small animal print. Two matching bags, for two friends. What a switch from the Teahouse Garden set. On deck...it's more Michael Miller Chinese Kids bags.

Never a dull moment around here.

Olivia

2008-08-25T11:44:00.001-07:00

I will admit to not usually being "taken" with too much character wear. I sort of cringed when my then 3 year old daughter went through a Pooh Bear phase and wanted to wear a hand-me-down Pooh jacket each and every day for 5 very long months of my life. I'm much more laid back about what my second daughter wears...and quite frankly am pretty darn pleased with myself when she
steps off the cul-de-sac in something covering a diaper and dare I say it...has a clean tee shirt to boot. I'm simply too old and too tired to fight about whether the pink sandals match the dress these days.

In a step away from my character wear snobbiness...I stumbled on some Olivia the Pig material recently. And, yes my little 2 year old's name is Olivia but I was smitten with the material because quite frankly I think it ROCKS. So, I had to have it in not one but two colors.

I have serious doubts whether anyone would have the slightest interest in Olivia The Pig material on a tote bag but on a whim I made it up anyway. Build the bag and they will come right?

I interfaced this bag with this amazing new stuff and boy oh boy...it is super lightweight but fabulously stiff and holds its shape perfectly.

I've also discovered the wonderful world of key fobs. Yes, I know other designers/crafters have been doing this for a while but who am I if not one to follow a trend dreadfully late? So, the key fob in the picture comes with the bag and there is a neato clasp hook directly sewn into the bag for the keys to hook directly on! No more keys dropping to the bottom of the bag!

Because the person interested in this bag might have a child...dare I guess...there are also 4 large bucket pockets sewn into the lining.

Miss Olivia the Pig is 14" x 14" with 25" handles and sells for $60.00. You can get her over at Pink Evita.com or by emailing me.

I am now off to much more dignified work. My girls NEED fancy halloween candy baskets in this incredible witch hat material I scored at a 40% off sale this weekend. Yikes, it is uber cute. Oh, and they don't know it yet but the candy baskets will have huge orange satin bows! See me smile, see me swoon for huge orange bows.

Bags 2 Riches Contest

2008-08-20T11:14:00.001-07:00

A friend told me about a contest that benefits an organization that fights homelessness earlier this year. Here, go look them up...http://www.bags2richesindy.org
After reading their website, I decided sure, what the heck I will enter a bag and see what happens. Worse case scenario they get a bag to try to auction off for a good cause.

So I made this one. It is called An Affair to Remember. If you had an affair to remember, wouldn't you probably be carrying this bag? I would. And, I thought I was done.

But then I made this one. She is called A Kiss on the Chic. And, I couldn't decide which one to enter into the contest. So I entered them both today.

I'd like to win. There I said it. I have no idea how lofty that goal is...but heh? It's out there. Wish my little baggies good luck....please.

A Princess Crown

2008-08-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

I felt like taking a break from belts and bags today. Mostly because it is just one of those days where the Muffin Man is traveling...out selling widgets to midgets and I'm here holding down the fort. There are precious few days left before the official start of 1st grade. Six days and counting if you must know.

I bought a few plain tee shirts on clearance at Target recently for each of the girls. I've been feeling the need to applique something recently. Why? I have no idea. But when I get an idea in my head...it usually gets stuck and then starts niggleing me uncontrollably, until I do something about it. Like, just applique the little crown on the tee shirt already and then move onto key fobs or something. It is hard to live in my brain sometimes. If only it was as driven to scrub a toilet or wet mop a kitchen floor, if only.

Here is Ava's little princess crown. Does she look like she is merely tolerating my request for photographic evidence that I sewed a little crown on a tee shirt? This is appliqued courtesy of some scrap Amy Butler material. She'll be the princess of all princesses at Forest Dale Elementary. Although, I don't suppose she truly needed the tee shirt for us all to believe that one.

Pink and Green Quilted Belt

2008-07-17T12:11:00.000-07:00

Six Little Girls From Jiangxi

2008-07-16T12:53:00.001-07:00

Six little girls came a long way 2 years ago all the way from Jiangxi China to eventually get a Pink Evita bag. Honestly, my most traveled customers yet.

Their parents will be celebrating together next month with a China adoption reunion. They will remember picking up scared little babies in a hotel and holding their children while reassuring them they would be loved in a forever family for all of time. One family met their daughter then 5 years old, not a baby at all. Hopefully a darling 7 year old will like a bag to carry webkinz and dolls, and other very important things.

Then they will revel at how much changes in 2 years time, little babies are now scampering 2 1/2 year olds, 7 year olds attending school full time. I'm honored to be a small part of helping to make this year's reunion special with a little tote bag for each family.

Baby Nicole's Purple Tote

2008-07-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

What better gift for a new baby and her parents could there be but a little tote just big enough for a bottle and a few diapers and wipes? You knew I would suggest a handmade tote didn't you? If Mommy and Daddy need to toss in a wallet and cellphone, there is room for that too.

Baby Nicole loves purple, or so her parents think. This bag mixes the durability of sturdy denim, which you need with a messy baby, with a sweet lilac Laura Ashley print. The inside was lined with soft lilac satin and even has a pocket for keys or other Nicole toys.

Baby Nicole's tote will be off and ready to cross state lines soon.

Oh, it's Scotch Guarded too, even sweet baby Nicole will tangle with a little baby mess now and again. Trust me, I know of these things.

Pass The Pen, Please

2008-07-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

If there are any last souls on this planet who still do not schedule their lives on blackberries, who don't send all their notes through an IPhone or dare I say it....need a pen and a piece of paper now and again, you've come to the right place.

I'm this person. My cell phone is the $19.99 model and usually sits idol until I think to recharge it's dead battery only to find out I did indeed have a message. But it is pink, it's only redeeming character. It makes me chuckle when I hold it's $.10 body of pink plastic. Needless to say the Barbie phone is not cutting it when I need to take a message or remind myself with a note. Or provide a quick form of entertainment for my 2 year old.

Here she is....Pass The Pen

It is a tri-fold with room for a collection of business cards...3 pens and a 3"x5" pad of paper!

Then you fold her up and toss her in your purse, or stash in your glove compartment so you might have a 50/50 chance of really having a pen handy at the bank when you need it.

This is just the prototype, which I am giving to the gal who came up with the idea in the first place. I'll see if I can whip up a few more to sell.

The Pink Williamsburg Wristlet

2008-07-10T12:14:00.000-07:00

Of all the little wristlet fun bags out there in the world...and you had to walk into my sewing room.

Swoon...it's killing me to send this one off in her little pepto bismo pink gift bag, I'd rather keep her and take her out to dinner myself. The pepto bismo gift bags were of course an internet purchase gone wrong...way wrong. But what is one supposed to do with 250 pink plastic gift bags that weighed about 80lbs. when they arrived UPS on the doorstep? Send them back because the color looks like an upset stomach?

I digress. This little out and about wristlet was commissioned for a birthday gift. May she bring good wishes to her new home.

Floppy Fringe

2008-07-10T12:06:00.000-07:00

I was asked to make this little black and tan bag with floppy fringe for a friend who has amazing web site development talents. More on the web site developments here at Pink Evita very soon. Yes, I am completely aware of the fact that anyone who knows me in person has been graciously tolerating my empty promises of a fully functioning Pink Evita dot com web site for more months that I care to count. However...it is close...really close. Seriously, I'm not kiddding it will be done before 2010. Way before then.

Anyway, this bag is for a very talented lady who is raising a wonderful little genius. May their talents take them far.

Amy Butler Bags...Completed by following instructions

2008-06-26T14:13:00.000-07:00

I rarely spend big bucks on patterns, call me el cheapo at heart. And, when I see something I like, I'm likely to have this moment where by I say to myself "Well, I could probably figure that out." Which 1/2 the time I cannot. I also have myself convinced some of the time that patterns stunt my creativity. But the reality of it is that when I do use patterns I always learn something new. This ultimately makes me more creative and daring for future projects which are wholly my own.

Where is all of the existentalism going on the craft blog? I recently sprung for the Amy Butler Sophia Carry All and the Weekend Traveler patterns. I was so darn excited I could hardly stand it when they came in the mail. I skipped from the mail box to the couch to read and re-read the instructions.

Then, the very next day I went to one of my favorite fabric stores and spent way too much money on expensive fabric. No pressure or anything making sure this project comes out!

Here is the Sophia bag all made up. I'm pretty pleased with it. It has a double open purse zipper and everything. The false bottom turned out great too. Although making the piping by hand covering 1/4" cotton cording...ugh, the tedium. And stress to make sure it gets added to the bag evenly.

Next up...the matching weekender bag. Wheee....

Wavy stripes of Chenille

2008-06-20T14:00:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I love the way this bag has all these amazing soft waves of chenille. It is topped off with cranberry fringe that slips through your fingers when you go to pop your hand in the bag.

The lady who designed it chose a super cute cranberry floral for the lining that matches perfectly but is unexpected.

Making this bag was making me a warm and toasty...thinking about cool fall breezes.

I've got to snap out of it and start working with the cool summer colors I still have back there in the sewing room.

Hope Miss Wavy Chenille is happy in her new home, she's being boxed up and sent out tomorrow.

Peachy Keen With A Twist of Brown

2008-06-20T13:54:00.000-07:00

I just finished this darling 10"x10" peachy brown bag for a special order client. She designed the bag and she really wanted to mix the light cotton with the heavier chocolate brown velvet chenille. The chenille was left over from fall and the floral print is brand new.

The trick to this was to heavily interface the light weight cotton so the finished results would be seemless as far as the weights of the two materials. And, heavily interfaced it is, the thing could probably walk away on its own if I had given it legs. It's the first time I had worked with the super stiff Pelex material.

She also wanted the fringe doubled up. Of course that creates a very fuzzy top. It's perfect balance with the heavier bottom.

So there it is...it will be off in a box to it's new home this weekend.

Captiva Love

2008-05-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

I rarely make bags for myself. Usually I just wait until a project goes awry and then I decide I can't sell the darn thing and then I make up some excuse as to why it can't possibly be thrown away and then it becomes my new bag. Great advertising for myself as I tootle around town don't you think?

But I made something for myself yesterday. It is completely unpractical. I usually have to carry a huge bag due to the fact that I am constantly toting a kitchen sink around for my toddler and 6 year old.

But we are headed off to Captiva Island in Florida this weekend and I'm determined to go somewhere where I can carry this. I used an old scrap of fluffy trim I couldn't part with and it matches nothing I own and I simply don't care. It is that cute. And very Florida vacationish...don't you agree?

Spring Pink Flowers

2008-05-12T13:10:00.001-07:00

Every once in a while when I am working a Pink Evita "design your own" party I meet someone who has her own ideas about what fabric swatches should be offered. The best part comes when she offers to run on home and gather bits from her own stash so I can work with it and design a bag for her.

I love this...what a hoot. Why not get the bag you want AND use the material YOU love and had to have that day at the fabric store...but alas never got around to using it for anything...yet.

I introduce Spring Pink Flowers from Cathy's stash. She's attending a conference later this week and of course has an outfit that this bag will compliment. She mentioned that she makes jackets and often will make a fun jacket out of material to match a theme of a conference or party. (Perhaps she and I need to barter bags for jackets.) She even offered to pass out my business cards when people comment on it. How nice to assume it would be worthy of compliments even before the thing was made up.

This one was plenty of fun to design and make up. I'm grateful for the opportunity.

The Navy Dream That Could

2008-05-12T12:57:00.001-07:00

I attended a Pink Evita "design your own" party late last week and the ladies attending were completely cracking me up. They were an absolute hoot in that many of them had been friends for over 30 years. So many stories so many memories. This is one of my absolute favorite parts of my job in this little bitty business in my corner of the world, getting to meet so many amazing women. Each and every one seems fascinating to me as I meet them at the parties I do. (But then again, I am often starved for conversation with intelligent women OVER the age of 6.) You can see the intelligent women under the age of 6 1/2 here.

One lady came to the party with a bag that she has been carrying for over 10 years. Thinking she might be due for a new handbag, she asked for something green as she sat down at the dining room turned design table. But then she sort of fell for the navy swatches. She asked for a this navy ticking material paired with the apple green dots...which I sort of flinched at in the beginning. However, me of little faith, found this amazing contrasting navy striping for the bottom at the fabric store and I started to get excited. I can make that bag work, I thought to myself. I incorporated a stripe of navy gros grain ribbon that she asked for and here she is. The Navy Dream.

It is 14" by 14" and has generous 26" handles. The bag is completely lined in the green apple polka dots, of course and has 5 internal pockets. Even the pockets have coordinating navy gros grain ribbon affixed...I simply could not resist.

The lady who ordered this bag seemed rather conservative...I do hope she loves it.

Green Apple Dots

2008-05-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

I am the sweet sister to Preppy Pink Dots wristlet. Arrow down to see my sister. If green apple is just a little bit more your thing, perhaps I am the answer.

I'm 7 1/2" wide x 6 1/2 tall with a black zipper closure. I'm lined in contrasting pink with green dots!

I hook to belts and other larger bags for hands free life!

I'm just big enough to take to dinner out on the town storing keys, credit cards, lipstick and id!

I'm $25.00

Preppy Pink Sweet

2008-05-08T12:04:00.000-07:00

This little convertible pinky polka dot wristlet is sweet preppy and ready to arrive on your arm at the next function. Of course she is casual enough to hang out at the next summer bar-b-que and new sophisticated enough to attend an adult bar like evening.

She zips up so no keys or credit cards fall out. And she can attach to any other bag or belt loop with her gold lock at the top!

$25.00 email me if Preppy Pink Sweet is to be yours.

Children of The World

2008-05-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

Convertible Wristlets
These little 7 1/2" x 6 1/2" wristlets do double duty with clasps that hook to the other side of the bag making a loop that will hook the wristlet to another bag or a belt. Hands free existence.

These two bags are for sale and feature a children around the world theme. One is paired with a solid black linen contrast and the other has a polka dot contrast. Both are completely lined and zip up for a secure closure.

This is the perfect little bag for dinner and movie or a long day of shopping where you only need id and a credit card or two, plus keys!

The little wristlets are $25.00 each and are ready for immediate shipment. email me at pslowey@indy.rr.com if you'd like one.

Kids Around The World

2008-04-26T13:40:00.001-07:00

One of the very best things about owning my own business is having the freedom to make business decisions from the heart. I believe the more I can use my gifts and resources to help others the more happy I find myself. It is really that simple.

I am approached a few times a year to make donations of handmade goods for worthy causes. I consider it a privilege to say yes, and usually like to design something original for auction or charitable give away.

This "Kids Around The World" Mommy and Me set are for Families Thru International Adoption's Fall 2008 Gala Night. They raise thousands of dollars each year to support programs in countries like China, Guatemala and India for children who are not adopted. These are often the kids without families who don't get to come to Western countries and find forever families. Sometimes the money is used to pay for sick children's medical care and sometimes it is used for training purposes for the people who care for children in orphanages. On a personal note, I am also eternally grateful to FTIA for helping the Muffin Man and me to adopt the amazing Ava Jing and over the top adorable Olivia Xi Ge Ge. As it turns out they are now the better 1/2 of the family.

I hope someone sees the Mommy and Me "Kids Around The World" purse set at the auction this fall and digs deep into their pockets to help a worthy cause.

Summer Brown

2008-04-25T11:50:00.001-07:00

This little bag is for my mom. She is an earth girl with lovely taste in simple lines and colors found in nature. She asked for a summer bag in neutrals. I hope this is neutral enough. I struggle with what is neutral...since her version of neutral and my version of neutral might be a bit different. (I was always the one more likely to find myself blinged out, of the two of us.)

The bag has a mix of brown batik and black celestial material and a dash of fern green leaves dancing over subtle pink hued background.

I love the way it turned out, and hope she does too.

Ginger Blossom

2008-04-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

Remember the little girl doll quilts? Oh, how I love those colors and the materials. I've been coveting the small amount of fabric that I had left over from the doll quilt project trying to decide what to do with the material.

There were only little bits of each fabric, barely enough even for a lining of 1 bag. I stretched it though...the idea, not the actual fabric and made this stripey little one.

Ginger Blossom is 14" wide x 9" tall with generous 24" straps. She's a perfect little summer bag, that is plenty big enough to carry real woman stuff. She has a large internal pocket and a magnetic snap closure.

$45.00

I ended up with even smaller bits of material leftover. I just can't bring myself to toss even one inch.

So, headbands. Reversible headbands. More later about the headbands.

Ted's Totes

2008-04-19T06:41:00.000-07:00

Ava, my 6 year old has been invited to a bowling alley birthday party this weekend. I'm always a wee bit flummoxed at the grandeur of birthday parties in my daughter's circle of pals these days. When I was little I always had a cake that my mom baked and since my birthday is very close to the 4th of July I felt as if I got fireworks each and every year. Oh, and a bathing suit usually followed as well since it was early enough in the summer to still enjoy a new bathing suit.

But, times have changed and so have birthday parties. In the last year Ava has attended parties at bounce houses, swimming pools closed down for private parties, princess for a day events and what looked like an Olympic ready gymnasium. Lots of guests, lots of gifts.

At today's party I think her entire Kindergarten class has been invited for an afternoon of bowling strikes and pizza with cake and ice cream. How many spider man action figures can only little 6 year old really need? Or want?

So here it is, my tribute to simplicity and practicality for Ted's birthday. May he have many more.

They are little toy totes for all those spider man action figures he will no doubt be enjoying later today.

Ava asked if I would eventually make all of her friends toy toes while rolling her gorgeous eyes at me. As you may have guessed, this is not the first time she has had to arrive at a birthday party with a toy tote in hand as obligatory trade for entertainment and ice cream.

Why, yes I answered. As long as I have material left over from the last project dear, you will have a toy tote to give.

She acted as if she did not appreciate my glib reply.

Doll Quilt, Yes Again

2008-04-16T13:50:00.001-07:00

It's done. One little boy friendly doll/stuffed animal/snuggle up in front of the television quilt. Very easy pattern if you could even call it a pattern. 5"squares galore and then piece them together. I made that up...can you tell?

It has been so much fun doing this little project, not to mention that I learned quite a bit, that I really want to take a class now that teaches free hand quilting. All I could muster this time was stitching in the ditch to create square blocks. But it has given me the confidence to take a class where I don't have to start completely stupid, only mildly uninformed. Hooray.

Now that I am done it is ready to go to my partner. Last night I realized I had quite a bit of extra fabric left over. I know I sew quite a bit but I don't use juvenille prints all that much so I wondered what else I could do to use up those scraps.

From reading my partner's blog, I know she has little ones. One can always use another diaper caddy when living with little people who wear diapers right? It's just big enough for 2 diapers and a slim wipey case. I have three of them and use them all the time. They are great for the car and the bottom of the stroller. There is nothing worse than being caught without a diaper when you really need one. Enough said.

Onward and upward. I have this blouse that makes me look rotund. Now, I like my fried chicken and M&Ms as much as the next gal but I'm not exactly rotund. Blouse must be altered if it goes off the cul-de-sac. I have to figure out how to take it in a bit. If it works I will report back. If it doesn't I will distract you with more spring bags.

Doll Quilt But Now With A Y Chromosome

2008-04-14T13:30:00.000-07:00

Obviously the pink quilt simply would not work for the quilt swap since there seems to be a plethora of little boys over at my swap partner's house. We'll just have to make good use of the completed pink quilts over here...and since we don't seem to be short of stuffed bears or dolls I don't see a problem. And neither will they.

So, it's been big fun to come up with a plan for a doll quilt for a little boy.

Here is what I have so far...bright colors with one whimsical helicopter and plane print added in for fun. Notice my Heather Bailey quilt binding instructions? They rock. And once I really read them for the 8th time AND marked where the final stitch would go with a pen on the end of the binding...it worked.

I'm thinking little squares again...since honestly I'm just not sure if I'm quite capable of anything else yet that is more complicated. Math+rotary cutter+perfectly measured pieces = not me!

But I'm trying. And that's what counts right? Just tell me yes to humor me.

More later as I pull this heap of material into something like a little quilt for teddy bears.

The Doll Quilt Swap where I can't Swap....yet

2008-04-12T12:16:00.001-07:00

I've joined a doll quilt swap. I saw this post here and did not hesitate to join. Even though I knew not one thing about making quilts. I did attempt a doll quilt at one point in my dubious career as crafter extrordinaire but it was well, moderately lame at best. Although my sweet Livi never complains and sometimes uses it to cover herself up at night in her little toddler bed. (Sweet redemption.)

This doll quilt swap seemed like the perfect time to learn something new. Little things like, what should you really use in the middle of a quilt? How to you keep all the layers from binding and scrunching up when you quilt them together? How do you make that cool edge binding? Oh, so many questions. So little time.

We headed off to my parents home this week for spring break and since they are always more than gracious about keeping my kids occupied, I thought oh, perfect time to whip up a doll quilt.
My mom even steered me to the most amazing quilt shop called Quiltguilders in Beverly, MI. I just about peed my pants walking into the store to choose material. Even my mom, who has never been interested in quilting kept saying "Oh wow, the color choices nowadays, Now I get why this might interest you." I bought the prettiest Amy Butler pinks and greens you have ever seen. After pumping the lady at the store for free information about requisit "how to's", I practically skipped all the way back to my parents house armed with a rotary cutter.

Turns out I had enough material to make 2 pink doll quilts. I simply used the easiest pattern of 5" blocks I could think of. Presto...mostly everything worked and within 2 days I had 2 doll quilts, one for the swap and one for my little girls. I had some extra material and thought, oooh, perhaps I will make the little girl I get matched with a matching pretty handbag!

Then I got an email saying doll quilt matching assignments would be out in a day or two. I checked out the flickr group of members who had joined.

Ugh, oh. Seemed like, by reading a few of the members blogs that they had little boys, not little girls. It never occurred to me I might want to make a unisex doll quilt! Or a baby blue doll quilt. Oh crap, I told my mom I bet that I would be matched with a woman with little boys, I just knew it. They would hate a pink quilt!

Skip ahead one day...doll quilt swap assignments. Just like I knew in the pit of my gut....I was assigned what looks like the nicest lady with a very cool blog. Sorry I can't link her since I don't really know her and she might not appreciate unasked for traffic. And guess what? She had the two most adorable little BOYS you've ever seen.

I knew it! A pink Amy Butler doll quilt might be just a little too inappropriate even for the most confident in his masculinity little boy.

So, in the end....perhaps my two little girls will get matching pink Amy Butler doll quilts and I will get one more chance to improve my less than perfect quilting skills whilst I practice on something unisex...or red...or blue...or with trains...or snips and snails and puppy dog tails.

Whimsy Floral With a Belt

2008-04-05T12:03:00.001-07:00

Nothing says spring time like a little tote purse with a belt to match in bright springy pinks and browns.

This little tote with magnetic snap closure measures 11"x 11" and has 22" straps. It has a nice sized pocket inside as well. The straps will sit on your arm or go over your shoulder. The 44" matching belt is made of 8" strips of coordinating material in a repeating pattern of flowers and stripes. The best part of the whole pair is the pink rhinestone belt buckle! The belt is adjustable and is made to fit easily into a standard pair of jeans belt loop.

The set is $60.00. Email me if you'd like the belt to be longer or shorter, made to order is no problem at all.

pslowey@indy.rr.com

Oh, I can't wait to see someone wear them together!

Spring Flower Power

2008-03-31T12:58:00.001-07:00

Step away from your wintery black suede bag. Carefully toss it up in the closet, but please step gently away.

It's time for flower power to brighten your day. This 11 1/2" x 12" tall bag is pieced together with stripes of coordinating pink, brown, aqua and lime green that go all the way around the bag vertically. It is completely lined with a soft cotton coordinating material of all the same colors. Four large pockets completely line the inside of this bag and a magnetic closure will hold all the goodies inside.

Flower Power is $45.00

Crazy Monkey

2008-03-31T12:51:00.000-07:00

I just couldn't help myself from giggling when patching this funky monkey bag together. I was hoping the silly monkeys would become even more whimsical when patchworked together in 5" squares. The bag is now 14"x14" and is lined with a soft red flannel.

The insides are completely lined all the way around the bag with 5 large pockets. It has a magnetic snap closure. It could easily be used as a diaper bag or just a super fun everyday bag. This funky monkey would be an idea shower gift for the new mama who loves something a little bit different than baby pastels for her diaper bag.

Both sides of the bag have this patchwork melding crazy dots with adorable sock monkeys.

Monkey is $50.00

Peachy Love

2008-03-31T12:45:00.001-07:00

This 14"x14" tote bag with magnetic closure and large inside pocket is interfaced with cotton quilt-like material. It gives the bag a soft yet stable feel.

It is the perfect spring bag to use as an everyday purse or to stow small items for a day trip.

It's 25" handles easily fit over your shoulder. The mix of soft cottons in light chocolate browns, creams, and peach add to the sweet quilt look of this bag.

Peachy Love is $50.00 and ready to go to a good home.

Baby Blanket Set

2008-03-26T10:37:00.001-07:00

My youngest daughter is almost 2 1/2 and I still admit to being a baby blanket hound. I love them and simply cannot stand to send any to Goodwill despite the fact that we have too many to count. We have them knitted, crocheted, cotton, jersey knit, chenille and of course the beloved satin mix named Pink. I might just have to completely annoy my daughters and save each and every last one for their children.

When I spotted this Michael Miller Chinese Kids material and saw how nicely it washes into a soft baby cheek worthy cotton...I got the idea to mix it with some ultra soft baby chenille. This is the result. Stroller blanket or crib blanket with To-Go Diaper caddy to match. The caddy is only big enough for about 2 diapers and a plastic slimline wipe case. Perfect to toss in the stroller or take out to a restaurant when you don't want to lug the 15 lbs. of baby paraphernalia.

Take a look....

The back of the blanket is the same soft sage green chenille and could possibly be baby's favorite lovey.

The set is $45.00 plus $7.00 to ship. If you purchase it as a gift, I will wrap the set up with a darling bow and ship for you.

Stay tuned for two more color options coming soon.

Hint: Little Boy Blue Nursery Rhyme in Retro 1930's style and Mod Hot Pink and Brown Floral for a favorite baby girl.

Lazy Girl

2008-03-26T10:06:00.000-07:00

The aqua and brown colors of this 18"x13" purse make a perfect transition to spring. She has a flap closure fixed with magnetic closure over the middle of the bag. Rounded wooden handles fit comfortably over your elbow. She is very roomy inside to carry lots of loot and even has 9, yes 9 pockets that completely line in the inside of the bag.

What a fun bag for a day trip or even as a small overnight bag, perhaps for a pair of jeans a tee shirt and toiletries.

Lazy Girl is $45.00.

Purple Waves of Groove

2008-03-06T13:49:00.001-08:00

This little bag was designed by a girl at a party this weekend. I think it reminds me of one of those amazing Pucci scarves of the 1960's. So darn fun.

Of course I have a stack of this wavy material and coordinating stripes because I fell immediately in love with it at the store and jumped to buy a truck load. Let me know if you like it too and I will make you a bag and perhaps a belt to match too.

Groovy.

Oh, the trim

2008-03-06T13:44:00.001-08:00

I took 22 inches of this amazing blue and brown ribbon trim to a Pink Evita Design Your Own party this weekend. I took 22 inches of the trim because it was all I had. I brought it on a whim to see if anyone could come up with a good idea for this amazing remnant.

Low and behold one lady snatched it up and paired it with this brown acetate embroidered material. I wasn't sure at first..thinking maybe the blue's did not perfectly match. I was wrong it is perfect. I can't wait to give it to her. I even designed the bag's measurements around the strip of ribbon trim.

I want one of my own...but alas the remnant issue. Truly one of a kind yes?

Oh, it will be so darn cute going out to dinner or to a show.

Black and White Dots

2008-03-06T13:39:00.001-08:00

I just had a commission to make this black and white dot zipper tote. The new owner chose a wonderful green floral to mix.
I decided to use this squishy thick quilt like interfacing so the bag is thick. I hope not too thick. :)

I like the look and think it will make a fun spring tote, we'll see what she says.

It has the best green and white polka dot lining and tons of pockets all along the inside. That part I really do love.

Ugh, I'll report back if the thick squishy stuff doesn't fly.

Sock Monkey!

2008-02-17T12:32:00.001-08:00

Remember Sock Monkey's? Me too. Loved them then and love them now. This whimsical sock monkey tote is 14" x 14" and is lined with a coordinating red and white check. It has plenty of internal pockets and could even be used as a diaper bag.

Both sides of the bag have sock monkey squares dancing across the middle. The top and bottom of the bag have a sturdy denim material. The handles are pieced together using coordinating red and white polka dots.

Seriously, how could you have a bad day when carrying the Sock Monkey?

Sock Monkey is $50.00.

Oh So Blue

2008-02-17T12:22:00.001-08:00

This 14"x14" tote is the prettiest shade of spring periwinkle blue. The material is very similar to the Spring Peach (arrow down a bit) which sold last week. Of course I wasn't looking for blue flowers and stripes when out and about but this set of materials jumped out at me and became an impulse buy.

After recently hanging out at some local quilt shops, I'm completely inspired by the amazing quilts that people make. I'm in awe of all those little pieces painstakingly put together to eventually make quilted blankets. Am I inspired to make a quilt? Oh no. Not even tempted. However, I'm starting to piece many materials together in quilt-like fashion to form these handbags. They are so interesting and subtlety busy that I don't think they need ribbons or fringe.

This tote has pockets sewn inside on both sides to store lots of goodies. It stands up on its own and will be a wonderful spring bag for the right gal.

Oh, So Blue is $50.00

Messenger With a Twist

2008-02-12T12:31:00.001-08:00

This weekend my friend offered to loan me an Amy Butler messenger bag pattern. I've been wanting to try some Amy Butler purse patterns, but don't sew that much with patterns so I haven't taken the time to pick any up. But her offer was too good to pass up.

It is a messenger bag with a twist...the flap that comes over the top of the bag is another little purse bag in itself with a flap of it's own. All these little "flaps" are velcro'd to anchor. You can't have flaps flying all over the place. Pretty clever if you ask me. I made the bag from cotton fat quarters I had lying around in a mix of spring oranges, browns and greens. It is a casual messenger bag to be slung crosswise over the body and can hold almost a weekend's worth of stuff. Perfect for a long bike ride or walk.

Look, here is the purse flap slung over the back so you can see the inside of the bag.

The back of the bag has two pockets for keys and other need be accessible quickly stuff. Handy. I am forever loosing my keys deep down in my bags.

I have to admit, as much as I think this one is nifty and clever...it was a bit of work. I think this pattern will will be kept for gift making rather than the steady stream of knocking out bags to sell.

Messenger Bag

2008-02-11T13:40:00.001-08:00

I do love a deep messenger bag slung over my shoulder and hip. Maybe it reminds me of my corporate working days when I would toss an amazing British Tan leather messenger bag over my shoulder and catch a plane to wherever. (But then a pen popped in it at 32,000 feet and blue ink inside my lovely leather...it wasn't pretty. That is another story.)

This bag was made as a special custom order and features the Chinese children playing with coordinating pink and black dots material. It has an adjustable strap and black shiny O rings on the sides to allow for easy up and down adjusting.

The inside has plenty of pockets and bright happy pink that will not hide any little do-dads like the deep black bag linings that can be the never ending black hole of wallet and tissue hell.

I hope the new owner has lots of fun swinging this whimsical bag over her shoulder.

Spring Peach

2008-02-07T12:02:00.001-08:00

Being a young and impressionable teenager of the 1980's I am careful with my use of the color peach. If you lived through the 1980's you know what I am talking about.

However, I saw all these amazing spring cottons mixing a sweet pinky peach with soft browns and greens and almost had to kiss the lady at the quilt shop. Love at first site. I left with a spring in my step...I'm sure it was a site to see...grown woman with two year old on one hip and skipping through the parking lot with glee and a quilt shop baggie in the other hand.

This 14" by 14" tote purse is heavily interfaced to give the soft cotton some stability. You can see it stands up on it's own. I was delighted to get carried away and piece the inside together with more coordinating materials. It has 3 large pockets sewn in for good stuff.

I am also offering the coordinating makeup/spare change wristlet as a set. The little zippered bag is 8" by 6" and fits nicely inside the big bag but also leaves enough room for other goodies.

The set is $55.00 and will give someone a big spring peach kiss when she gets it !

Tangerine Mod Circles

2008-02-07T11:59:00.001-08:00

This 10" by 10" bag with mod circles will make you smile. The thick coordinating fringe trim gives the high end upholstery material a whimsical flair.

It is fully lined with a coordinating brown taffeta and also has a nice sized pocket. I love my pockets.

$40.00

Brown and Green Stripes

2008-02-07T11:56:00.001-08:00

The 10" by 10" handbag features brown suede paired with a brown and green silky material. The fringe on top picks up both the brown and green tones in the materials.

It is a great bag to toss over your shoulder to transition away from the dark winter months into the beginnings of a brighter spring.

$40.00

Hipster For Fun

2008-02-07T11:38:00.001-08:00

This 7"x9" pre-quilted material hipster bag provides a hands free day. It is meant to sit crosswise on your body and sit on the front of your hip. The strap is long enough for a 6' tall person but will be very cute knotted up for someone a little more petite.

It has a light blue zipper and reverse side fabric pocket appliqued on the front.

It is completely lined with a coordinating light blue and white stripe.

The minute I am not carrying 6 diapers and sippy cups...is when I start carrying a little bag like this!

$25.00

Fringe Clutch

2008-02-07T11:32:00.001-08:00

You will never see anything like it again. Even here at Pink Evita. This amazing rope fringe was found in a designer store's back room. I was only able to get one small piece and thought what the heck will ever become of this amazing rope fringe? But it was so high end and interesting I bought it anyway.

It became an 11 1/2" by 8 1/2" black suede clutch with the most gorgeous thick black satin bow closure. It is completely lined with black satin and looks like it could walk the red carpet.

Here is the inside.

It is going to make some little black dress absolutely over the top!

$25.00

Baby Blue Clutch

2008-02-07T11:29:00.001-08:00

This little bow tie clutch is lined with pink cotton and has a pink and brown ribbon running down the middle!

It is 10"x6", just big enough for keys and some mad money when out and about town.

$20.00

Creamy Clutch

2008-02-07T11:20:00.000-08:00

Last summer I made some bags for a wedding party. The bride's material was this beautiful cream shantung silk. It was so pretty I had to keep the tiny scrap of material...just couldn't part with it. I thought someday this little scrap of material will find it's home on a lovely new bag.

Well it finally hit me. Clutch! This little going out for an evening of fun clutch is made with the piece of shantung silk. It has coordinating lively peach/cream fringe and a cream satin tie closure. It is fully lined with a peachy cotton with delicate flowers. The outside of the bag has a line of the satin ribbon sewn in the middle...can hardly see that from the picture.

It is 10 1/2" wide by 6 inches tall. If you have a spring/summer wedding or first communion or baptism...it would be perfect!

It is $25.00.

Chinese Kids Tote

2008-01-31T12:34:00.000-08:00

Ni Hao. Oh, how I love this material.

In the last post I featured the smaller 11"x11" bag made from the same print. This larger tote bag is 14"x14" and could easily double as a diaper bag. Or just a fun spring tote. It stands up on its own and can easily be a companion carry on bag or maybe even a book bag.

It is closed with a slim silver magnetic closure and has a big pocket. The lining has been whimsically designed with Chinese kids on one side and pink dots on the other.

This tote is $50.00 and is for sale. Please email me if you are interested at pslowey@indy.rr.com

Chinese Kids

2008-01-31T12:26:00.000-08:00

I admit I've been stalking this fabric on the internet for over a week. I couldn't rest and had to pick some up. I even dreamed about this amazing Michael Miller fabric print after seeing it the first time. Of course, with two little Chinese girls of my own that is perhaps why I had to have it.

This 11"x11" bag is fully lined and has a generous inside pocket. It is heavily interfaced (that's the stuff that makes flimsy soft fabric sturdy and stand up on it's own) and has three different Michael Miller prints, the Chinese kids playing and the coordinating pink and black dots.

It has slim silver magnetic closure.

It is $40.00, please let me know if you are interested.

Bunny Tote

2008-01-31T12:17:00.001-08:00

This adorable little bunny tote is made from heavy weight canvas. It was hand painted by a dear talented friend of mine. The handles are nylon and are perfect for little easy clean up should chocolate coated hands touch it. Maybe it's and an Easter gift? The tote is lined with a light pink cotton to coordinate with the handles and bunny ribbon.

The tote is 11"x11" and the handles are 16". Perfect to carry little toys or even diapers and wipes.

The tote is $25 and is for sale. Look for more canvas handpainted totes soon. They are so fun to make, we can't resist. Email me at pslowey@indy.rr.com if you are interested.

Stylist Wristlet

2007-12-14T12:01:00.001-08:00

I'm seeing my hair stylist tomorrow for an updated bob...a much needed one I might add.

I made this little wristlet for her to carry over the holidays. It is just big enough for some cash, a credit card, a comb and a lipstick. She'll be ready for dinner and drinks out on the town.

It is lined with the brown and black flocking material and has a tuxedo black velvet bow sewn on the front. It zips open and will hopefully fit right on her hand.

Ellen

2007-12-11T09:31:00.001-08:00

Ava has been invited to a Bounce House birthday party. I wonder how I could convince the bounce house people to let one very large 38 year old child to bounce away until her heart's content? I'm working on a good plea.

Of course no good self respecting almost 6 year old would show up to a bounce house party without appropriate 6 year old gift in tow. My daughter Ava, will be no exception.

Here it is...the little Ellen. Named for the birthday girl of course. Here is the problem for little Ellen, she decided to be born just a few short days before Christmas. Thus the child gets every toy known to man all within a four day span ranging from December 21st to December 24th. Great when it is late December....not so great in July.

So in the spirit of letting the Pet Shop and Fur Baby toys sit on the shelf one more day....Ellen will receive the tiniest little Pink Evita bag yet. Perfectly sized for a 6 year old's arm. With a little pink fringe I hope it impresses the sweet birthday girl.

Tartan Christmas

2007-11-20T09:18:00.000-08:00

This little Christmas tartan plaid bag is for Fran, my dear friend's mother in law. Fran has been feeling a little under the weather...I hope this new Christmas bag will help make her season.

I was asked to modify the handles a little bit to include only 1 handle that goes side to side. Very fun little idea.

Merry Christmas Fran...I hope you are up and running to all the holiday functions soon with this little bag on your arm!

Bags for Toys

2007-11-20T09:12:00.001-08:00

We are off to the grandparents house tomorrow morning. Of course Ava, my almost 6 year old will need lots of activities in the car...so no one's head explodes with 5 hours in the car with 2 children.

She loves her little leapster, a perfect car riding toy. But I am always worried that she will lose the little tiny games that plug into the leapster.

So, this morning I found some old scraps of material and put together a zipper toy bag for the leapster, games, and extra batteries.

I love this bag! I hope she does too. I'm so darn excited that the leapster now has it's own little bag that I might have to make up some more bags for headphones and an MP3 player, some Polly Pockets and whatever else is lying around the playroom floor.

Little Leopard Hipster

2007-11-20T09:07:00.001-08:00

I've been playing around a bit with a hipster bag. The handle is worn across the body diagonally and it is meant for a small wallet and perhaps a few small items.

This one has black twisted cording as the handle. It has a black and tan almost leopard material mixed with a pretty decorator black. The bottom is lined with glass beads that swing when you walk.

It has a zipper closure.

I think I will take it to the next Pink Evita show this weekend to see if anyone is interested in little hipster bags.

Marked $35

Ever See a Leopard With Feathers?

2007-11-06T12:42:00.001-08:00

You have now. This is what Mrs. Leopard with an eye for fashion would have done for herself had she known the way to the mall.

Because this Mrs. Leopard is especially fetching and has been plumage deprived for so long she also chose to add a string of black shiny beads under her filmy feathery fringe.

Now she's ready to go.

P.S. Since she did not want to seem ostentatious to the other less fashion forward leopards she chose a texture friendly and yet sensible wide whale corduroy to sit on top of. Nice touch.

The Tree

2007-11-06T12:38:00.001-08:00

This Chic sized green chenille and dark brown sturdy velvet bag with little spare change purse to match set is perfect for late fall. It has darling brown brocade around it's middle and pretty floppy green fringe at the top.

Oh, it makes me want to grab my leather boots and a barn jacket.