Hello April

Hello, 

How time flies! We observed Ramadan and celebrated Eid  last month. This time I did not do much cooking since the boys are away in college. Feel a little bit sad especially for the younger one because he spent Ramadan and Eid away from the family for the first time. The elder son went to Indonesia to spend Eid with his grandma and aunts (my mom and sisters). He went for a week and had a blast! Alhamdulillah for the internet, even though we celebrated Eid in different countries, we still able to see each other on facetime. 

During Ramadan, I did not do much sewing except for a couple of custom orders. So after Eid, I am eager to start making a few things. 

This curtain for the side table is the first one. The main purpose is hide the ugly sights behind the curtain hahaha. The table has all sort of things, including my sons gaming consoles and accessories. I was inspired to make the curtain after watching Chiyo Kezuka post on Instagram. She had a small TV behind the curtain!! I love watching he video on Youtube too but never thought that there's TV behind it! 

I got the block print fabric from Meenakshi (Rustic Origin) maybe around 2years ago. I wanted to make noren curtain in between the TV room and my sewing room. But afterwards I am not so sure , maybe later I will find an inspiration and make one! 

Last month, I've been sending quite a lot of these cute keychains! I need to make more variety! I wanted to make a trip to the market to get more laces, but I always ended up buying online. It's  more practical that way, plus there are more choices online. 

One of a kind fabric keychains

I also made these crossbody phone bags for order. One is regular size that can fit smart phone upto 6" Height and the Plus size can for smart phone up to 6.5" height. This time, I used thin batting to give more structure since the linen is thin. Unlike the one I made last month.

And I am inspired by Rebekah's post on Instagram, I made a DIY note card using  flash card and left over  fabric from the bag. I cut the edges of the card and fabric using pinking scissors and then  simply glue it using fabric glue. it makes pretty cute little card note, don't you think? 

The son sent this photo - taken at his campus 

That's all for the first week of  April. Thank you for taking time to read my blog! 

Have a nice day,

Elvira

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Phone Crossbody Bags

Corduroy Crossbody Phone Bag

Few days ago I went through my WIP drawers for the phone bag. I've been wanting to make a few bags for the shop. I have prepped a few and even sew the the flaps but somehow never got around to finish it. Here are the first 2 crossbody phone bags that I finished last week: 

The corduroy bag!

I have the corduroy fabric for a long time, I think I made something with it but could not remember what! The corduroy is pretty study, so I decided to skip the interfacing for this bag. Instead, I used the interfacing on the lining just to give it enough structure but not too heavy. The flap I used indigo block print fabric. It's leftover fabric from making this quilt. You can check more Indigo fabrics HERE. 

For the strap and the D-ring tab, I also did not use interfacing and I kind of liking it! I was thinking to use faux leather strap that I have but somehow the color does not match. The result is roomy mini crossbody bag! I love it! 

Corduroy Block Print Combo Bag

Another thing I tried, is doing the drop lining method to put the bag together. This method will be easier for those with wrist problem like me! It's easier to "birth" the bag this way. I will try to record the video and take proper photos on my next bag. 

OK, next one is this Denim combo sling bag. The denim was already prepped with all purpose interfacing, so I just used that. But I did not use batting this time. The result is good and sturdy denim bag. For the strap, I did not use any interfacing since the denim is pretty heavy one. 

Denim Floral Phone Bag

With zipper pocket!! 

The corduroy bag does not have zipper pocket because I forgot to add one! Thanks to my perimenopause brain. But if anyone want with zippered back pocket, I'll be happy to make one.  This is how it looks on my dress form! 

This mobile sling bag is my go to bag when I go for a walk,  for a quick errand and even when I travel. The pattern has 3 sizes and the phone bag is the smallest size. 

That's all for today, thank you so much for stopping by today! 

Have a nice day,

Elvira

Linking up to these wonderful BLOGS

 

Travel passport wallet set

Passport Wallet & Mini Keychain Backpack

 

I have so much fun making this set of travel wallet and mini backpack! I have completed 2 sets now and have a few cuts and ready to sew. So stay tuned for more. 

This orange crazy patchwork print fabric has been in my stash for a long time. I found it in my stash and I know instantly it's going to be great for Voyage wallet and the Viola mini backpack! Now I am thinking of making a big or medium bag in the same print! Hmm...let's see. 

Orange Patchwork Passport Holder

Mini Keychain Backpack - Orange Patchwork

And the second set is this vintage print in black and grey! I made family passport wallet with the same fabric a few weeks ago and after making the small passport holder, I have a small piece leftover which is just enough to make the mini backpack! I did fussy cut for the backpack.  I really love how this set turned out! Now I wish I have a trip planned haha! 

Vintage Style Passport Holder

Vintage Style Mini Keychain Backpack

*****

In case you're looking for bag patterns, The Big Bag Bundle Sale from Sew Modern Bag is still going on till Midnight on the 18th. There are 21 bag, purse and wallet patterns for only $21 - That means only $1 each pattern.*

This is really a great deal if you want to learn making different kind of bags! 

(*This post includes affiliate link)

Big Bag Bundle March 2025

That's all for today. Thank you for stopping by today! 

Have a nice day! 

Elvira

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PATTERN SALE - 21 Bag Patterns for Only $21

Hello, 

The Big Bag Bundle  on Sew Modern Bag is back again! This time it's 21 patterns, including 4 new patterns, for ONLY  USD 21 !! That means $1 each pattern! 

If you plan to learn more about making bag in different style, this is the time to invest in the pattern! 

The SALE will end on March 18 @ "midnight" PDT /7 AM UTC/ 7:30 PM IST.

BUY THE BUNDLE NOW

** This post includes links that may earn me a commission**

Thank you so much for your supports!

Have a nice day,

Elvira

New Pattern - Viola Mini Backpack

Hello,

I'm so excited to introduce you to a charming sewing project suitable for everyone: The Viola Mini Backpack!!

Whether you're just starting out and need a simple, quick project, or you're an experienced sewist with fabric scraps to spare, this pattern is perfect for you. 

This delightful, micro-sized backpack is designed to carry small essentials and accessories, making it a versatile addition to your collection. Perfect for those who appreciate the art of creating miniature bags. Whether you use it as a doll accessories,  bag charm or for practical purposes such as carrying your daily essentials, this tiny backpack adds a touch of charm to your everyday life.

 

DETAILS

The pattern is perfect for beginners as well as seasoned sewists. This mini backpack comes with full scale templates and step by step video tutorial.

Dimension: 2.75” W x 3.75” H x 2” D (9 x 7 x 5 cm) -  It's compact in size but can fit in a lot of stuff! 

FEATURES:

QUICK & EASY: Designed for rapid completion, you can whip up this mini backpack in no time

SCRAP BUSTER FRIENDLY: Ideal for using up those fabric scraps you've been saving for the perfect project.

BEGINNERS FRIENDLY: Simple instructions make it accessible for beginners while still satisfying seasoned sewists.

CUSTOMIZABLE: Choose your favourite fabrics to create a mini bag that matches your personal style.

PRACTICAL USE: Perfect for holding daily essentials, money, makeup, charging cables and Air Pods, Emergency medicines, etc.

Great to store small items like Air Pods, charging cables, etc

Fully Lined - No bias binding involved :)

Faux Leather Version

Here's the video tutorial: 

Pattern details: 

• Cotton fabric scraps
• Zipper scraps (size5)
• Keychain or key rings
• Measurement in both Imperial and Metric
• The pattern comes with full scale templates that can be printed on home printer using A4 size paper. 
• Simple English instructions with clear step by step photo tutorial.

Whether you are looking to declutter your fabric stash or create a thoughtful handmade gift, this Viola Mini Backpack sewing pattern got you covered. This could the project to showcase those small fave fabrics pieces that you kept for a long time :)

The pattern is on 25% OFF from NOW to 13th March on both my WEBSITE and ETSY

HANDMADE Viola Backpacks are available on ETSY

Thank you so much for your continued support! 

Happy Sewing!

Elvira

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Last week recap

Last week has been pretty busy for me. I finished a few order, working on a new stuff and also working on my website. 

1. This Sunbonnet Sue wallet is now done and delivered to Tamil Nadu. It's been a while since I made Nuno wallet. I was looking at my Nuno wallet WIPS yesterday and I really need to start making more! 

 

Here's the behind the seams video!

2. Trying out a couple more of DIY packaging for the keychains. I got the ideas from Instagram reels and Youtube Shorts. I think I like the one on the right with the part of the keychain exposed in the middle. What do you think?

Check my previous post on how to make the faux leather keychain! 

Handmade Keychains

3. I finally bought Eco Tank inkjet printer and also bought HTV paper. Now I can make my own Iron on label and also do personalization for wallet. Here's the first one! I kinda like this result. 

I was thinking to buy Cricut but it's a bit too high for my budget right now. This Epson printer works perfectly for me for now. Can't wait to do more personalization! 

Personalized Family Passport Wallet

4. Sending out a few fabrics orders too! 

Hand woven shot cotton fabrics

Floral Hand Block Print Fabrics

More block printed fabrics

5. A few random stuff!  

Don't throw the selvage, use it as ribbon substitute for hanging tag! I kind a love it :)

Trying out new Indonesian Caramel Cake recipe I saw on Instagram! It turned out well and hubby loved it! 

Had a meeting with Indonesian ambassador when she visited my city. She wanted to meet a few Indonesian who lives here (there are only 3 of us!!) and received lovely souvenirs from Indonesia! We had a lovely dinner and catching up on several news and issues. I am feeling very grateful. 

That's all for today, thank you so much for stopping by! 

Have a nice day,

Elvira

Linking up to these wonderful BLOGS

Crafting Faux Leather Keychains: Simple & Fun Tutorial!

 

Green embroidered trim keychain 

Hello,

I've been a little bit under the weather in the past week. February weather is chilly and dry in here. This is the time when you feel warm and cold at the same time! 

I made a few keychains for orders a few weeks ago and took photos and videos as I go along. So this time let's learn making keychain using faux leather! 

If you're in India, you can purchase high quality faux leather from furnishing shop. There a few online too but in local shop, you might be able to purchase their sample pieces at a reduced price. 

Materials: 

- Faux Leather 2" x 12" 

- Embroidered lace 1" x 12" 

- Key fob - 1" wide 

- Pliers 

- Fabric glue (optional)

- Size 16 needle

- Teflon foot

Let's start:

1. Cut the faux leather and lace according to the measurement mentioned above. For keychain I would recommend a high grade sofa leather, because it's more durable! I have tried using cheaper one and not happy with the result. 

2.  Mark and draw a line at the center of the faux leather. Then fold the edges to the center and pin using wonder clips. DO NOT use pin. You can use alligator hair pins or paper clips too. 

3. Using a teflon foot, sew along the edges of the faux leather with 1/8" seam allowance from the center. 

It should look like this when finished and the width should be 1" wide.

4.  Now carefully place the embroidered lace in the sewn faux leather panel. The lace should be placed on the side where the raw edges are sewn. Secure with wonder clips and top stitch carefully along the sides. 

The front side

The back side should look like this. 

5. Put the short end together and sew with seam allowance of 1/8". Back stitch at the beginning and end. Then apply fabric glue (optional). I like to use the glue to add additional strength and it also work great to prevent the lace edge from reveling. 

6.  Install the key fob carefully and use key fob pliers to finish it. If you don't have key fob pliers, you can use any wide mouth pliers and cover the key fob with thickish fabric (flannel or scrap batting worked best!). I have key fob pliers but the rubber came off :D. 

Yay! Your keychain now is done and ready to use. 

Here are some keychains I recently made! They look so fancy, right? These keychains are available in my WEBSITE as well as in my ETSY SHOP. 

Faux leather keychain with embroidered lace

You can watch the short video tutorial on my YouTube Channel below: 

I hope  you enjoy the tutorial, until next time - Happy Crafting!

Elvira

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