A Few More Bags, and a Cute Pup

It's a cold and lazy morning here in the Pacific Northwest. I've the usual work to face, but that's no fun so what better time to update the blog?

A post or so ago I promised photos of my new muslin and lace bags which I'm preparing in quantity to list in my Etsy shop in a few weeks. I'm really excited at how well these are coming out! I like the new designs I'm doing so much better than what I was making last year that I shall probably end up phasing the old lace bags out. It's a satisfying thing to see my skills and designs evolving and improving. You might not notice the difference, but I'm the one who sees the whole construction process and I'm never happy offering an imperfect item for sale.

On the other hand, maybe I should get over that! Handmade is handmade. It is what it is.  

Some time ago I received photos from a bride who purchased some of my bags for her wedding attendants. I remember how anxious I was about the minor details and that I remade some of the bags just to be sure they'd be top-notch. When I saw the photos and what she'd done with them, I was so dismayed! The poor bride had no idea of presentation and the pretty bags looked...well...awful. Well, she was happy with them, so that's the main thing. But it does make me think I need to start enclosing some photos and/or extra instructions on how to use the bags to their best advantage. And I need to quit obsessing over the impossible goal of perfection.

But I digress.

Okay, let me show you what I've been up to:

Unbleached muslin with champagne-colored lace overlay. 2 sizes! Completely lined and no exposed seams.

Dark unbleached muslin with vintage lace trim, small favor size.

Here they are again, with a cute vintage stuffed dog and my parents' wedding portrait. I don't know why I included  the dog, but he was cute and I wanted to and so I did

 

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Speaking of this delightful vintage dog, I am wondering if any of you might have some idea of his age or maker?  He's beautifully made, but definitely showing his age. The excelsior stuffing is coming through his muzzle and his plush "fur" is wearing off. You can see he has real leather/fur ears and his body fur is real, also, I believe. Perhaps Isobel of ColdhamCuddliesCalling has experience with "stuffies" of this type? (Check out her blog!)
  

 Well, I'd better buck up and get to work here. It's been fun sharing! Your comments/critiques are welcome.