Friday, July 29, 2011

Ruffled Kiss Clutches and Irresistable Fabrics



Part of me wishes that I was a bargain shopper when it comes to fabrics (I am with everything else)...but I fall in love with these designs and I just can't help myself, it's a weakness. 

This clutch was made with a 100% cotton gauze designed by Naomi Ito and imported from Japan.  I am absolutely obsessed with every one of her fabrics and can't wait to use more of them! 

Ruffles cascade from the left corner and add to the feminine design of this stunning fabric.

Bright avocado green interior

Antique brass ball kiss clutch frame from American Purse Supplies


This bright and cheery clutch was created using a cotton and linen blend floral fabric, purchased from Purl Soho in New York City.  I saw it and couldn't resist.  My husband says I'm a fabric hoarder.

I'm loving the interior fabric, a sweet little surprise when you open it up!


Again, sweet corner ruffles that I just can't get enough of!


Here's a sneak peek at my newest fabric purchase from Matatabi.  Another beautiful Naomi Ito fabric that I can't wait to create with!



Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Fabric Label Tutorial

As a small business owner, I've found that ordering custom labels to sew into purses or clothes that I make costs a fortune.  Since I can't afford to have them professionally made, I thought why not make them myself?!  Here is a very easy and short tutorial that I hope you find helpful!


First things first, you'll need the proper materials.  Here are my suggestions:


1.  A custom stamp with your name or business name.  I ordered mine from doodlebugdesign on Etsy.  She was extremely pleasant  to work with and I'm so pleased with my new stamp!






2. Twill tape or fabric scraps (the size will depend on the size of your stamp)






3.  Fabric paint!  There are tons of different types and colors!





4. Paper plate
5. felt scraps

Now you're ready to make some labels!

I started by pouring a small amount of fabric paint on my plate, in a line the same length as my stamp.  I then placed a piece of scrap felt over the paint.  Dab your stamp on top of the felt until the paint begins to seep through. (I tested the stamp on my plate to be sure there were no paint globs).

Now stamp away on your twill tape or fabric scraps!  I've taken two pictures here to show you what my first stamp looked like and what the second one looks like (if you don't re-dip it in the paint).


Now sew them into your next project! 


Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Falling Leaves Linen Clutch

Just sharing my newest clutch!  No surprise it's made from linen, with muslin and linen leaves handsewn to the front.  (Notice that little ball of white fur in the upper right hand corner?  That's my sheltie, who I honestly had to crop out of every single picture...he has a slight camera obsession).
It's slouchy and wrinkly and I love it!

Brushed antique bronze frame purchased from AmericanPurse on Etsy.

Mustard linen on the inside (one of my favorite colors).
Hand cut leaves, each are slightly different and hand sewn on to the front of the clutch.  You can purchase this clutch here.

If you're looking to create a clutch of your own, I found this tutorial very helpful at U-Handbag , and if you'd rather just buy one from me :), please email me at northernrootsetsy@gmail.com or visit my Etsy shop Northern Roots.

Have a wonderful day!!

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Neutral Leaf Linen Clutch

Two weeks ago my husband and I took a trip to New York City.  It was my first visit to the big city, so he excitedly asked me what my "must-see's" were for the trip.  My very first request was fabric shopping...I'm sure you can imagine how "thrilling" he found this request.  Next thing he knew, we were walking several miles to visit Purl Soho where I came across this incredible global weave fabric, imported from Jaipur, India.  I couldn't wait to get home and turn this fabulous fabric into a beautiful, simplistic clutch.
 Sweet linen ruffle across the top of the interior pocket

A squared bottom creates plenty of room for everything you need for a night out, or just a lunch date.  That's the beauty of this clutch, it's simple enough to fit any occasion.

Secured with a sterling silver kiss-clutch frame.

This is the first of many clutches that I will be adding to my shop.  If you're interested in purchasing this clutch, click here.