Pleated Clutch in an Evening

I pinned this project over a year ago, and tonight I figured it was time to try it out! This pleated clutch is simple and fairly quick to sew in an evening. It only took me about 2.5 hours, but that included ironing the fabric, cutting it out, mods, and a separate load of laundry. Less than two fat quarters and a 7" zipper later...

It turned out bigger than I expected, next time I think I would make it just a bit smaller. It could function as its own purse at this rate, but it is perfect for corralling items you don't want floating around your purse, like makeup or medications.

Mods:
- I added interfacing to the outer fabric for stability. This worked out great, until I wrinkled my fabric while ironing it onto the interfacing. Ooooops.
- I also did some top stitching along the zipper to help it the layers lie flat. In retrospect, this may be why it's pulling and curving a bit at the top, but it looks more finished.

taking stock

Making : cowls, scarves, and hats.

Drinking : water. lots and lots of water. it's summer.

Reading : blogs. knitting patterns. my to-read list.

Wanting : johnnie's italian beef. soon.

Looking : forward to vacation. 

Playing : with fiber. and board games with friends.

Deciding : what to wear to work tomorrow.

Wishing : there were more hours in the day to craft.

Enjoying : spending time with my husband. we're less busy these days, and it's lovely.

Waiting : for season 3 of call the midwife on netflix. hurry up, already!

Liking : pinterest, etsy, and craft blogs. my muses.

Loving : my husband. my friends. my family.

Pondering : my options.

Watching : burn notice. yum.

Needing : girlfriend time. 

Smelling : yankee candle's under the palms

Wearing : lots of purple lately.

Feeling : loved.

Banners Galore

Lots of banners around here lately... different kinds, but all turned out really well if I do say so myself!

A bunting banner made out of old books to welcome a new coworker:

And this set of banners for our six confirmands this year. Because there were so many this year, I chose one design for all of them. During the banner making party, we talked about the symbolism behind the design. Each confirmand was responsible for putting their own banner together. They did such a great job!