Scallops aren’t just for the Beach

Posted on May 19, 2018 by Penny Haren

I am in Portland and the excitement started right when I landed. I ran into Christine Poor of Poorhouse Designs at the airport. If her luggage arrived safely, I will actually get to see the originals tomorrow.

She uses a no binding technique that sounds appealing. I can’t wait to stop by her booth and see how it is done. The purse and clutch are made with one package of Bosal pre-cuts. Buy two because you are going to want to make the placemats as well!

They come in In-R-Form or Craft-Tex. Choose your favorite product or make samples in both so customers can feel the difference!

We have a new baby at our house so I want to make a set as changing pads! Wouldn’t that be adorable??

Everything should be in stock by the end of the month so order them now!

Shop Hops and Shows – Part Three

Posted on April 9, 2018 by Penny Haren

Once again, a sample sells! These 5″ x 5″ x 10″ bags are the perfect way to use those novelty fabrics that just don’t seem to work in traditional quilts! The size is perfect for everyone – teachers, fellow quilters, friends who actually take the time to wear makeup…every day…

Display the zippers and recommended interfacings right with the pattern and fabrics. Why make them look for the basics?

When you find a pattern you like, look for other patterns by the same designer. If they are talented enough to have a best seller, there may be hidden gems yet to be discovered. In this case, check out her Sew Square bag:

How cute is this??? You could create the next craze!

To see our Shop Hop Guide Event Ideas and Inspiration booklet, click here

Take Your Bags to the Next Level

Posted on March 10, 2018 by Penny Haren

Janelle MacKay of Emmaline Bags provides the most amazing bling to take your purses, totes, and wallets to the next level.

Her latest additions will arrive soon. They are available in a variety of finishes so check our website for ALL of the choices. But, these examples will give you an idea f the possibilities.

All of her bling is reasonably priced and can turn a “homemade” into a “handmade” with class!

Paper-Piecing with a Little Bit of Whimsey

Posted on February 15, 2018 by Cindy Abdoo

Super Cute Paper Piecing by Charise Randell is full of charming little projects that provide instant gratification. These little bits of paper-piecing are the perfect foundation for totes, bags, pouches, pillows, and even a small quilt.

In this case, the projects are so cute, you don’t need any commentary from me:

What a great way to add paper-piecing to your skill set! And, if you already paper-piece, this book is a no-brainer!

Emmaline is into Bags

Posted on June 14, 2017 by Penny Haren

These frames by Emmaline Bags were a big hit at Market.

These rods create the framework for bags that pop open like an old fashioned medical bag. They come in two sizes that retail for less than $5.00! The frames include the link to her website where you can download a free pattern for a retreat bag.

The large frame can be used to create this Lunch Bag. Just to be clear, this is NOT a free pattern and is available on our website.

What makes ALL of her bags special is the addition of the hardware – also very affordable. Zipper pulls and metal tags add a professional look to every bag so your customers will want these as well. Check out the entire line of Emmaline products on our website.

An Abundance of Annie

Posted on June 1, 2017 by Penny Haren

In case you hadn’t noticed, Patterns by Annie is now simply By Annie – because that gal has her act together! She is providing everything you need to create professional looking bags – Soft and Stable, hardware; zippers, mesh, fold over elastic, strapping, and the perfect design for every occasion!

She was the hit of Market and instantly had five patterns in the top 100!

These will be joined by Market favorites:

Did you realize that 20 of the top 100 patterns are bags??? If you aren’t offering a bag of the month club, you are not meeting your customer’s needs! Who can make just one? When their friends and family see them, they will ALL want one – and may take a class for the first time because they may find it less intimidating than a quilt! What a great way to gain new customers!

Totes with Style

Posted on December 18, 2016 by Penny Haren

These new totes by Riley Blake are so reasonably priced that they would be great favors for your next quilting event.

These sturdy, reinforced bags will quickly become top sellers. Simply display them by the register. You could even offer their choice of one free with a qualifying purchase! I know these bags are not due in until April – but many of you are planning your shop hop events now and are looking for something “new”. You can’t get any newer than this!

Charlie’s Aunt Fall Releases

Posted on October 8, 2016 by Penny Haren

I love the vintage style of Charlie’s Aunt satchels. They fill my need for Downton Abbey withdrawal! These 1940’s inspired designs are the perfect companions for the popular wools that are showing up everywhere. The button embellishments could be straight out of my mother’s button box!

The Brancaster Messenger Bag features an asymmetrical flap and front pocket. This nine by thirteen inch size would be a great diaper bag. Or picture it in Scarlet and Grey Shannon Suede with the OSU logo appliqued in place of the buttons. The possibilities are endless! (And for those of you who were curious, Brancaster is a beach community on the North Norfolk Coast Line.)

The Breckland Bag also features asymmetrical flaps but looks totally different. I love when the pockets become a fashion statement! (And by the way, Breckland is an area of Norfolk.)

The awe factor is in the details so be sure to have coordinating buttons in stock!

Swoon over these Bags

Posted on July 20, 2016 by Penny Haren

The Swoon bags have those added touches that turn homemade into designer original – for a fraction of the cost. They add pleather accents; metal magnets and buckles – this attention to detail makes all the difference.

The Blanche Barrel Bag includes side pockets for keys and a cell phone as well as piping and leather trim to add that designer touch. The City Tote is simply a classic!

Paradiso Designs has a wide variety of Pleather to choose from in several textures to give your bag that special touch – and protect the bottom of your bag. It is easy to cut and easy to sew.

Not all of the bags have leather trim. They can be just as dramatic with a coordinating fabric. Some of these Swoon bags are in stock, more are expected later this month. And, did you know that we have over 600 Bag and Tote Accessories to choose from? Check them out today.