Over 30 Fashion Painting Ideas from DecoArt

August 15, 2018 by FaveCrafts

Upgrade your accessories with the beautiful fashion painting projects in 30+ Fashion Painting Ideas with DecoArt® Stylin™. Our friends at DecoArt have a new line of paints called Stylin™, and these paints have been specially formulated to be used on fabric, leather, and other textiles so you can take your accessories to new heights!

30+ Fashion Painting Ideas with DecoArt® Stylin™

There is a wonderful variety of fashion painting ideas in this eBook from several different designers. You’ll find gorgeous retro projects, watercolors, stenciling ideas, projects with templates, and more. The ideas in this eBook are so inspiring, and you don’t have to be a master artist to pull them off! Follow the thorough step-by-step instructions to make any of the beautiful projects in this eBook.

Here is a sneak preview of some of our favorite projects from this eBook:

Watercolor Effect Canvas Shoes & Pouch

Aren’t these flowers amazingly gorgeous? They are so easy to paint! Learn the basics of watercolor using these paints, and more darling shoes you’ll be so excited to wear.

Navajo Clutch & Belt

Use a basic template to make this American Indian-inspired belt and clutch. The bold colors and tassel detail really make this an eye-catching and vibrant project.

Galaxy Tennis Shoes

These galaxy shoes are simply mystifying. They look professionally painted, but they’re really very easy to replicate! Follow the step-by-step tutorial to learn how to make these starry shoes.

80s Mod Pumps & Clutch

Go back in time with this stunning vintage project! The simple shapes and bright colors make this a super easy project to make a vibrant accessory set.

Butterfly Shoes & Purse

The way the colors fade and blend on the purse and shoes featured here is really magical! You can learn how to do basic color blending like this and paint gorgeous butterflies for a stunning effect.

Sweetheart Cherries Heels & Purse

These shoes and the purse are such sweet accessories, especially when paired with a red lip and 50s hairstyle!

From now until September 13, you have the option to win some of this fantastic new paint and a gift card to buy shoes to paint! Check out our giveaways page to see the latest giveaways, and enter for your chance to win! Open to US and Canada residents only, excluding Quebec.

How would you update an item in your wardrobe with paint?

Our Favorite Crochet Bag Patterns

February 13, 2017 by FaveCraftsBlog

Bags are an ever-popular crochet accessory and a way to elevate your look to the next level. With so many different style options, there’s a bag or purse style for every outfit and occasion: a sturdy messenger bag or backpack for work or school, a large and roomy tote bag for shopping trips or the beach, even simple little handbags big enough for your phone, keys and some money. Sure, you can buy a bag or purse that’s perfectly suited to your tastes and needs, but there’s something about working up that crochet bag yourself. And with so many different types of crochet bag patterns to choose from, you’re bound to find just the perfect bag for you.

Crochet purses or crochet tote bags – you’ll find all sorts of great bag options here. My favorite, listed below, is the Autumn Day Tote – it’s a simple and roomy tote bag that’s worked up with solid-colored crochet granny squares and features sturdy pre-purchased straps and a chic lining for long-lasting durability. It’s so simple, but it looks so classic and timeless. If that just isn’t your style, there are many other crochet bags, big and small, worked in rounds or in granny squares, to choose from in this collection of 22 crochet handbags from our friends at AllFreeCrochet.

22 Crochet Handbags to Make

For even more crochet handbags, check out this little pattern collection!

What’s your favorite style of bag?

30 Free Crochet Bags for Summer

June 30, 2015 by Marie Segares

I’m Marie Segares from Underground Crafter. A few weeks ago I posted a roundup of 20+ Free Knit Bag Patterns, and I decided to share a crochet version today!

Crochet bags are super fun to make and use. I especially love to crochet bags as the weather gets warmer because they’re portable and can be used year round.

Here are some great patterns to start hooking!

Small Bags

These 3 patterns for small bags can be worked up quickly and used all summer long.

Flower Child Crochet Bag, free pattern by Tera Kulling/Trifles N Treasures.

The Flower Child Crochet Bag by Tera Kulling is a bright and festive project made with hexagons that are joined together. This project is a great stashbuster!

Precious Owl Pouch. This image courtesy of 1dogwoof.com.

The Precious Owl Pouch by One Dog Woof is a fun project that makes a great gift pouch or notions holder.

A Creative Case for Crochet Hooks. This image courtesy of Red Heart Yarns.

Round up all your hooks and bring them along on your vacation with A Creative Case for Crochet Hooks by Kim Kotary! Make the case in the spring and you can start using it right away.

Market Bags

Summer is a great time for visiting Farmers Markets and strolling on the boardwalk. Bring along any one of these 5 market bags for an impromptu shopping spree!

Sturdiest EVER Crochet Market Bag. This image courtesy of simplycollectiblecrochet.com.

The Sturdiest EVER Crochet Market Bag by Simply Collectible Crochet is crocheted holding two strands of yarn together. This bag is just right for anyone living in an area with a plastic bag ban.

Magical Market Bag. This image courtesy of littlemonkeyscrochet.com.

The Magical Market Bag by Rebecca Langford is crocheted in the round and features button closure details.

Hobo Farmers Market Bag. This image courtesy of cre8tioncrochet.com.

Lorene Eppolite’s Hobo Farmers Market Bag adds a stylish twist to a classic market bag.

Two Hour Tote. This image courtesy of daisycottagedesigns.net.

Personalize your market bag with the Two Hour Tote by Lauren Brown, which includes a lovely flower applique.

Sunrise Market Tote. This image courtesy of calleighsclips.blogspot.com.

The Sunrise Market Tote by Calleigh’s Clips & Crochet Creations makes a sturdy market bag perfect for carrying heavier produce.

Messengers, Satchels, and Totes

These eight bags are attractive and sturdy, whether you’re going to the beach for the day or packing some reading for your vacation.

2-Tone Tote. This image courtesy of Caron Yarns.

The 2-Tone Tote by Mary E. Nolfi for Caron Yarns includes detailed instructions for assembly and lining with felt.

Fun in the Sun Beach Bag. This image courtesy of elkstudiohandcraftedcrochetdesigns.com.

The Fun in the Sun Beach Bag by Kathy Lashley features lively stripes to brighten up a trip to the beach.

Genius Crochet Bag. This image courtesy of crochetchiq.blogspot.com.

Mary Kathryn Vaughn’s Genius Crochet Bag is a perfect project for carrying your books or magazines to and from home.

Amazing Grace Crochet Tote. This image courtesy of beatriceryandesigns.com.

The Amazing Grace Crochet Tote pattern by Beatrice Ryan Designs includes helpful assembly photos and detailed instructions for attaching the handles.

Autumn Day Tote. This image courtesy of bhookedcrochet.com.

The Autumn Day Tote by b.hooked Crochet is made up of granny squares. The pattern includes video tutorials and a stitch symbol chart.

Work Satchel Crochet Bag Pattern. This image courtesy of oombawkadesigncrochet.com.

The Work Satchel Crochet Bag by Rhondda Mol includes helpful photos to guide in assembly and tips for reinforcing the bottom of the bag.

Crochet Nautical Tote. This image courtesy of thestitchinmommy.com.

Are you looking for the the perfect beach bag? Try out Amy Ramnarine’s Crochet Nautical Tote with braided handles.

Cute Kittens Crochet Tote. This image courtesy of poshpoochdesigns.com.

Sara Sach’s Cute Kittens Crochet Tote combines stitches to create what looks like small cat faces. This project is perfect for your favorite “crazy cat lady,” like me!

Clutches and Purses

No one wants to carry heavy bags in the summer. These 14 clutches and purses are great for carrying just the essentials.

Gotta Go Crochet Clutch. This image courtesy of pattern-paradise.com.

The Gotta Go Crochet Clutch by Maria Bittner is a great clutch for carrying your essentials. It would also make a great case for your crochet kit!

Quirky Crochet Handbag. This image courtesy of crochetdynamite.com.

The Quirky Crochet Handbag byJaime Maraia takes the classic handbag for a spin! The pattern includes a photo tutorial for making and attaching an interfacing lining and attaching the handles.

Mommy and Me Crochet Purse. This image courtesy of mnecrafts.com.

The Mommy and Me Crochet Purse Set by Amanda Evanson is a matching set of purses in child and adult sizes. These are closed with Velcro, making it easy for little hands to open and close.

Summer Hobo Bag. This image courtesy of knotyournanascrochet.blogspot.com.

The Summer Hobo Bag by Teri Heathcote features a sturdy bamboo handle. The pattern includes a photo tutorial for inserting a fabric lining.

Floral Purse. This image courtesy of meladorascreations-com.webs.com.

This pattern for this lovely Floral Purse by Meladora’s Creations includes right- and left-handed video tutorials, and a photo tutorial.

Crochet Envelope Purse. This image courtesy of Kreinik.

The Crochet Envelope Purse is a beginner-friendly pattern by Chris Adams for Kreinik crocheted with ribbon for a sturdy shape.

Cable Purse. This image courtesy of Caron Yarns.

If you like cables, you’ll love the Cable Purse by Deb Richey for Caron Yarn!

Tunisian Crochet Crescent Bag. This image courtesy of crochetkim.com.

This stunning purse, the Tunisian Crochet Crescent Bag, by Kim Guzman is felted (fulled) after crocheting to give it added strength.

Sunset Waves Crochet Purse. This image courtesy of thecrochetlounge.com.

The Sunset Waves Crochet Purse by “e” Lee is a delightful one-skein project. Choose a self-striping yarn like the one in the sample to mimic the appearance of stripes without any ends to weave in!

Summer Crochet Clutch. This image courtesy of tangledhappy.com/.

The Summer Crochet Clutch by Sara Freisberg is an Anthropologie-inspired, textured clutch. Personalize it by choosing your favorite color for edging.

Crochet Shoulder Bag Tutorial. This image courtesy of rebeckahstreasures.com.

Rebeckah Ferger’s Crochet Shoulder Bag Tutorial is a template for a tapestry crochet bag along with helpful hints for designing your motifs or images. Tapestry crochet is suitable for even beginner crocheters.

Snow Queen Ruffled Bag. This image courtesy of crochetaddictuk.com.

The Snow Queen Crochet Ruffled Bag by Sue from Crochet Addict would look great in white or with vibrant colors on the ruffles.

Sea Glass Crochet Bag. This image courtesy of chocolatemintsinajar.com.

The Sea Glass Crochet Bag by Chocolate Mints in a Jar is made up of granny squares. The pattern includes a construction diagram.

Colorful Crochet Clutch. This image courtesy of mooglyblog.com.

The Colorful Crochet Clutch by Tamara Kelly is a great statement piece. The pattern also includes a photo tutorial for adding a zipper and links to a video tutorial for the special stitch.

If you like crocheting with cotton thread, check out my free crochet pattern for the Diagonal Bobbles Clutch!

I hope you enjoyed this roundup and that it inspired you to get your hooks ready for summer!

20+ Free Knit Bag Patterns for Summer!

May 19, 2015 by Marie Segares

I’m Marie Segares from Underground Crafter and I’m thrilled to share a roundup of knit bags with you today! Whether you’re an old pro or you’re just learning how to knit a bag, there will be something here for you.

As the weather gets warmer, you may be wondering what to knit. I love working on knit bags in the warmer months. Knit bags are portable so you can bring your work-in-progress to that picnic or barbecue, and they are useful year-round, so you can show them off as soon as you finish knitting! No need to wait ’til Fall.

There are many great bag patterns out there, and today I’m sharing more than 20 free knitting patterns that will keep you knitting all spring and summer long!

Easy-Peasy Knit Bags

These five bags use simple stitches and make great projects to work on while somewhere slightly distracting.

30 Minute Mixed Berries Bag. This image courtesy of Innerchildcrochet.com.

The 30 Minute Mixed Berries Bag by Melissa Mall from Inner Crochet Child is a quick knit using beautiful hand dyed yarn.

Chinese Wave Bag. This image courtesy of www.mooglyblog.com.

The Chinese Wave Bag by Tamara Kelly/Moogly is a great project for new bag knitters. Slip stitches create a firm fabric.

Knit Tote for Knitters by Donna Yacino for Berroco. This image courtesy of berroco.com.

Knit Tote for Knitters. This image courtesy of berroco.com.

The Knit Tote for Knitters by Donna Yacino for Berroco makes a great project bag. The handles are attached by inserting grommets.

Back-to-School Book Bag. This image courtesy of Craftown.com.

The Back-to-School Book Bag by Melanie Smith for Craftown is a great messenger bag to wear year round. For a more masculine version, omit the rosette detail.

Golden Bow Glam Bag. This image courtesy of cvetulka.blogspot.com.

And, if you have travel plans for the summer, be sure to prep by knitting up your own Golden Bow Glam Bag by Cveti from c v e t u l k a knits. This makes a great makeup bag to include in your luggage!

Color Play

These nine colorful bags will brighten up your needles! Many are also great for using up partial skeins of yarn.

Knitted Weave Clutch by Tagil Perlmutter for Petite Purls.

The Knitted Weave Clutch by Tagil Perlmutter for Petite Purls is a great introduction to entrelac. It also includes instructions for adding lining.

Farmers Market Bag. This image courtesy of Craftown.com.

The Farmers Market Bag by Melanie Smith for Craftown is the perfect tote to bring with you when shopping for produce at your local farmers market!

Boredom Buster Bag. This image courtesy of knittichristi.wordpress.com.

If you want a pattern that keeps both your brain and your hands engaged, try the Boredom Buster Bag by A Simple Stitch. This bag combines cables, moss stitch, and a touch of stranded colorwork to create a stylish accessory.

Wavy Messenger Bag. Image courtesy of RedHeart.com.

Chevrons add a striking touch to the Wavy Messenger Bag by Michele Thompson for Red Heart. This hands-free storage would also make a fashionable tote for your next knitting project!

Wavy Shoulder Bag.
This image courtesy of RedHeart.com.

If you love ripples but prefer shoulder bags, try the Wavy Shoulder Bag by Grace Alexander for Red Heart.

Easy Rose Petal Purse. This image courtesy of redheart.com.

The Easy Rose Petal Purse by Linda Cyr for Red Heart is a great way to practice a color motif on a small project. The textured stitch pattern will also keep your interest!

Slip Stitch Mini Tote. This image courtesy of orangefishknits.blogspot.com.

The Slip Stitch Mini Tote by Orange Fish Knits uses slip stitches to create complex looking color work while only using one color per row. This pattern is also felted.

Striped Peppermint Bag. This image courtesy of straw.com.

The Striped Peppermint Bag by Terry L. Ross for Crystal Palace Yarns is knit on the bias to create lovely diagonal stripes. Try contrasting colors for the decorative button and handles for a different look.

Asthore Bag. This image courtesy of knittichristi.files.wordpress.com.

The Asthore Bag by A Simple Stitch also uses slip stitches to create this dynamic pattern.

Cables

If you love the look of knit cables as much as I do, you’ll love these six patterns for stunning knit bags!

Brea Bag. This image courtesy of berroco.com.

The Brea Bag by Norah Gaughan for Berroco is a striking cabled purse with a unique shape.

The Ultimate Bag. This image courtesy of krazyawesome.com.

If you’re looking for a cable to take center stage, you may enjoy The Ultimate Bag by Jennifer from The Knit Monster.

Purple Purse Pattern. This image courtesy of yarnspirations.com

Purple Purse. This image courtesy of yarnspirations.com.

The Purple Purse by Patons uses a chunky yarn to make that central cable pop! This also works as a unisex messenger bag when knit with a different color yarn.

Cabled Bag. This image courtesy of http://www.vogueknitting.com.

The Cabled Bag by Linda Cyr for Vogue Knitting also uses a chunky yarn to create plump cables. If you don’t like purling, you’ll enjoy that this bag is knit in the round!

Cabled Boho Bag. This image courtesy of mydreamsweetlove.blogspot.com.

The Cabled Boho Bag by Amanda Reed features several cable patterns for a delightfully textured look.

Leafy Cable Bag.

The Leafy Cable Bag by Patons is another great unisex project that features a dramatic cabled strap. This pattern also includes instructions for felting.

Felted

These three patterns are finished by felting (or fulling) the yarn, so no lining is necessary. If you substitute yarn, remember to use an untreated wool for best results!

Felted 2 Color Bag.

The Felted 2 Color Bag by Premier Yarns is a great beginner project. The color blocked design makes a great fashion impact, too!

Felted Striped Bag.

Premier Yarns has another great beginner knitting project, the Felted Striped Bag. The stripes make a dramatic statement, but are really simple to knit.

Rose Tote Bag. This image courtesy of silkaburgoyne.com.

The Rose Tote Bag by Koleido by Silkie B. also features stripes, but it also includes a lovely rose embellishments, along with detailed instructions for felting to maintain the shape of the flower!

If you’re looking for a different portable project for the warmer months, you may also enjoy my free Cupcake Hat pattern in newborn, infant, and toddler sizes.

I hope you enjoyed this roundup and that it inspired you to cast on!

21 Ways to Crochet, Knit or Sew a Bag

November 25, 2014 by FaveCrafts

I have a confession to make: I simply love bags. Big totes, small pouches – I don’t care how big it is. If a bag catches me eye, I simply HAVE to have it. While it’s fun to go shopping and check out the latest style, it’s not so fun to watch my bank account dwindle. I’ve realized that I must seek out the best possible DIY projects to recreate my favorite bag patterns.

When you learn how to knit, crochet and sew your own bag, you have the world at your fingertips. Who needs fancy designers when you can bring your own homemade bag to life? My favorite way to make a statement is by upcycling old items like jeans and turning them into memorable handmade bags. Get inspired and get to work – you may never spend money on a handbag ever again!

Free Crochet Purse Patterns

Crochet Tote Bag – Super simple but so much fun to make.

Extra Large Bellagio Tote – Carry all of your essentials plus a few extras.

Beginner Tote Bag – If you’re new to crochet (or just don’t feel like working too hard), try this free crochet pattern.

Mini Knitting Tote – It’s teeny, it’s tiny and it’s PERFECT.

Smiling Sunflower Bag – Rain or shine, this bag will always make you happy. Little kids will also love this pattern (it’s perfect for traveling).

Felt Flower Mini Tote – It’s small but mighty! Who wouldn’t feel glamorous with this purse on their arm?

Little Red Crochet Bag – Get fired up! How cute is this free crochet pattern?

Striped Tote Bag – A bag that’s anything but basic, you’ll want to take this with you everywhere.

Knitted Purse Patterns

BeeBopper Knitted Tote Bag – The bold colors and wide strap make this pattern a unique delight.

Uptown Tote Bag – No matter where you’re headed, you’ll be glad you made this practical bag.

Shetland Cable Knit Bag – Who wouldn’t fall in love with knitted bag patterns like this?

Thrifty Market Bag – Take your bag to the farmer’s market or carry it when you travel. Either way, you’ll be able to fit all of your essentials!

Free Bag Sewing Patterns

Funky Jeans Bag – What do you do when your old jeans don’t fit anymore? Don’t get depressed – make a purse instead (and buy new jeans, of course).

6 Old Jeans Purse Patterns – Once you make the bag above, you’ll want to upcycle all of your old pairs of jeans and make more sewn bags.

Sew Easy Skirt Tote – Save a skirt, make a bag! This fashionable project will help you cut closet clutter.

Upcycled Denim Tote Bag – Go green and save your denim from the trash can. You’ll love the look of this fashionable sewn bag pattern.

BONUS – FREE EBOOK!

How to Make a Purse: 20 Patterns for Sewing Totes, Bags and More – Once you start making your own purses, you might not be able to stop! Luckily, there are a ton of fun and exciting bag patterns in this free eBook. Purses can get super expensive, especially if you plan to buy a fancy handbag. Stay away from that department store and step away from the computer – this free eBook will help you save money and look like a million bucks. Whether you want to make a fancy clutch or a large crossbody bag, we’ve got you covered. Download a copy today.

What is one item you have in your bag right this second?

What You (Almost) Forgot to Bring: Sewing Purses, Organizers, and More for Travel

July 14, 2014 by AllFreeSewing

Warning: This post contains incredibly helpful information and sewing tutorials.

You were supposed to leave 12 minutes ago for the airport, but you know you’re forgetting something. Your keys? Chargers? ID? What is it??

There just isn’t time to think about it anymore. Boldly you yell at everyone to get in the car, scoop the dazed 4 year-old off the floor, and head out.

Settled at your gate with your group of nomads, a heart-sinking realization sets in that you forgot everything.

Don’t worry! It was just a dream. To prevent yourself from forgetting those personal and family essentials, we’ve created a list of items that you definitely need. Best of all, they’re all simple sewing projects that you’ll enjoy making immensely. How do we know? Come on, you’re on a sewing blog; we’re one in the same. Take a trip with us by browsing through these tutorials on sewing purses, organizers, and more gear for traveling. You’ll be surprised at how incredibly useful each of these free sewing projects is.

Sewing Purses, Pouches, and Toiletry Holders

Sewing Project Ideas for Parents

Necessities to Sew if You’re Camping

How to Sew Helpful Accessories if you Lose Everything All the Time

Sewing Tutorials for the Luggage-less Traveler

Additional Items You Always Forget

Tell us:

Did we forget something? Hopefully not, but if you thought of an item on this list that wasn’t mentioned, tell us what it is!

Summer Lovin’: How to Sew a Bag for the Beach

June 21, 2014 by AllFreeSewing

Going to the beach is right up there with barbeques, outdoor concerts, and fireworks when it comes to the quintessential summer activities. If you are a total beach babe, you know that having the perfect beach bag can make or break your day at the beach. A bag that is too hefty or too small can mean a lot of inconvenience. That is why we have collected these tutorials that will show you exactly how to sew a bag that is perfect for some fun in the sun. Summer Lovin’: How to Sew a Bag for the Beach has everything you need to create a beach bag you will love and adore for many, many summers to come.

My favorite beach bag is a tote bag I purchased long ago. It is old enough to get sandy, sturdy enough to stand upright on my towel, and big enough to carry all of my essentials. I have a hard time finding the right size bag. If a bag is too big, I end up filling it with things I insist I might need at the beach. This means I’m lugging a heavy bag with a few too many books, some snorkeling equipment I won’t be using, and sometimes even my phone charger. All of these patterns show you how to sew a bag that is the perfect size for your essentials. So, sew one of these up, pack up your beach towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, favorite guilty pleasure reading material, and any other essentials, and get ready to get your tan on.

How to Sew a Bag for the Beach

1. Swimming Bag Tutorial Bottom-right
2. Hooded Towel Backpack Bottom-center
3. Canvas Beach Bag Top-left
4. Insulated Bag Tutorial
5. Beach Bag and Towel in One
6. Summer Fling Bag Tutorial Top-right
7. Super Shark Satchel
8. Shower Curtain Beach Bag
9. Hooded Beach Towel Backpack Bottom-left
10. Fab Flamingo DIY Tote Bag Top-center

If you adore these bags and want to learn how to sew a bag for any occasion, check out 27 Patterns to Sew Purses + 6 New Coin Purses and our Sewing Bags: Tutorial’s You’ll Love & 15 Free Purse Sewing Patterns eBook.

Are you an active beach-goer or a sleep in the sun beach-goer?

The Best Blogger Crafts: Quirky Crochet Handbag

April 8, 2014 by FaveCrafts

This month we’re celebrating our bloggers and their creativity. In January 2014 at CHA, bloggers gathered at our CHA Networking Event to meet companies and to work more with us here FaveCrafts. After getting a bunch of crafty swag from the event, they set out to make projects out of the materials they were given. We’re featuring these projects all month with giveaways so you can make your own versions of their wonderful crafts.

Quirky Crochet Handbag

In our contest last month, each of these blogger crafts were voted upon by fans for a great prize! This Quirky Crochet Handbag by Jaime Maraia from Crochet Dynamite came in second place!

This Quirky Crochet Handbag is an explosion of color that you can carry with you. This tutorial on how to make a crochet purse involves alternating seven colors of yarn. Instead of looking chaotic, the effect is a cute striped pattern that allows the colors of yarn to blend slightly.

You can find this project, as well as many other fabulous blogger projects, in our new eBook, The Best Blogger Craft Ideas 2014: Decoupage, Sewing, Jewelry Making, and More free eBook. Download your own free copy today!

Enter to win today’s prize

Today’s prize is a variety of Lion Brand Yarns. Included in the prize is a set of Bon Bons (Party), Unique Yarn, Fettuccini yarn, Heartland Yarn, Thick & Quick Yarn, and two pom poms. Be sure to check out these other best blogger craft projects that use items from this Lion Brand prize!

In order to win today’s prize, all you need to do is:

Like the AllFreeCrochet Facebook page here, AND
Like the Lion Brand Yarns Facebook page here, AND
Leave a comment on this blog post below telling us:

Which type of Lion Brand Yarn do you want to use most?

Congratulations to Idell M. who answered, “Where do I start, I craft in all medias, knitting, crocheting, quilting, painting, building …. and I share my crafting with my grandchildren and great grandchildren. My 14 year old granddaughter asked me for YARN for her birthday this month — so I am hopeful the traditions will go on.” We are hopeful too and we hope you enjoy the variety of yarn in this prize!

To see the current giveaway, please check our giveaway schedule.

Enter to win our Super Spectacular Grand Prize Giveaway! Filled with more than $500.00 worth of amazing prizes from 15 companies, this is the ultimate way to get crafting this month! The deadline to enter is April 25, 2014 at 11:59:59 p.m. Eastern time.

OFFICIAL RULES FOR DAILY CONTEST

There is a maximum of one entry per person. The entry will be based upon a comment left on this blog post. Duplicate comments will be deleted and are not tallied.
You must “like” both the AllFreeCrochet and the Lion Brand Yarns Facebook pages to be eligible.
Winner will be selected at random from the comments on this blog post below.
Winner will be announced here on the blog tomorrow as well as contacted by the email address provided.
You have until tonight, April 8th, 2014 at 11:59p EST to leave your comment on this post. Comments posted after that will not be counted.
Contest open to anyone 18+ in US and/or Canada.

New Edition! “Sewing Bags: Tutorial You’ll Love & 15 Free Purse Sewing Patterns” eBook

December 5, 2013 by AllFreeSewing

There’s no such thing as too many purses. Whether you need a laundry bag, a gym tote, or a gorgeous evening clutch, there are bags for all occasions. Sewing a bag is always a great way to spend an afternoon, since it’s a project that you’ll use over and over again. They make for wonderful gifts, especially around the holidays! In the spirit of Christmas sewing, we at AllFreeSewing have put together a revamped, better-than-ever, new edition of our eBook, Sewing Bags: Tutorials You’ll Love & 15 Free Purse Sewing Patterns.

From over-the-shoulder sling bags to linen jewelry bags, this free eBook has a little taste of everything. It’s the perfect collection of bags and purses, full of variety. You’ll find tutorials for refashioned bags, vintage patterns, organizer projects, and bags for every age.

Bags for the Fashionable Sewist

This bag is so stylish and pretty! The DIY Rug Clutch is a clever way to refashion an old rug. This bag is such a great addition to any outfit. Plus, it’s an easy project to sew. This tutorial will teach you how to insert a lining, button, and zipper to make a sturdy, life-proof clutch out of a discarded piece of home decor.

Bags for Dr. Mom, MD

Everyone knows that being a Mom means that you’re also a teacher, artist, lawyer, chef, and of course, doctor. Never be without a Band Aid and some Neosporin, thanks to the adorable Emergency Zipper Pouch! This great little on-the-go bag is perfect for skinned knees and bruises. This zippered pouch is easy to sew and includes a little keychain so that you can keep it with you no matter where the emergency is.

Bags for the Overnighter

This project is Not Just Another Pretty Purse. This big bag is stylish and pretty, but more than that, it’s useful. The bag’s shape and size make it perfect for overnights. Whether you’re jet-setting off for a weekend vacation, attending a work conference, or just packing the kids up for a weekend at Grandma’s, this bag will hold all of the essentials.

Download your free copy of Sewing Bags: Tutorials You’ll Love & 15 Free Purse Sewing Patterns today!

What items do you always carry in your purse, no matter what?

Fashion & Function: Cute Quilted Bag Patterns for Making Life Easier

November 2, 2013 by FaveQuilts

Prada. Chanel. Louis Vuitton. Vera Bradley. These classic designers dominate the fashion world through their highly coveted bags and purses. While couture handbags look posh, they are not exactly the most functional (or frugal) accessories when you’re grocery shopping with cranky toddlers or cleaning the kitchen while making dinner.

Does needing a practical bag mean you have to sacrifice having a fashionable bag? FaveQuilts doesn’t think so! We believe that every quilter can put their skills to good use by making their own free quilted tote bag patterns or free purse patterns. To help each busy crafter find their ideal quilted bag pattern, we’ve compiled a list of our most stylish DIY bag patterns for simplifying errands and chores.

Quilted Bag Patterns for Home Organization

Lets face it — crafters are messy! If you need help keeping scrap quilt fabric and applique patterns organized, then the Crafty Caddy is the perfect tote bag quilt pattern to safely store a wide variety of crafting materials. For storing sharp sewing supplies, the Cutting Mat Caddy is ideal for creative moms in need of a place to stash their tools away from the little ones.

If you love keeping recipe and quilting magazines around your house, but don’t love how cluttered they can get, check out the Darling Dollhouse Case and the Bumblebee Project Pouch (shown). This vintage house quilt design and adorable applique bag allow you hold sewing kits, various magazines, and unfinished quilt projects in both of their tidy pockets.

Quilted Tote Bag Patterns for Errands

A bigger bag is usually necessary for trips to the grocery store or farmers market. Add style to your weekend errands when you sew a reusable tote bag like an Insulated Market Tote or this Easy to Sew Market Tote (shown). Not only are both of these DIY bags great for going green, they also provide enough room to fit a large amount of food within their sturdy interiors.

If you’re looking for an easy quilted bag pattern to hold many items, you’ll be impressed by the lightweight material and cute coffee pattern featured in Angie’s Big Quilted Tote Bag. When you’re carrying just a few items, like a stack of books, you’ll be glad you made the exquisite Expandable Library Tote for keeping all of your books organized and compact.

Homemade Quilted Handbags

Small quilted pouches and purses make the best presents! For example, the Really Simple Wristlet is one of the most popular quilted gift patterns for a trendy teenager. Similarly, the Quilted Make-up Travel Bag looks just like a Vera Bradley design and is great for holding valuable beauty products. For even smaller and chicer fun, check out this Classic English Flex Frame Pouch (shown) for small coins and keys.

Remember fellow quilters — any quilt project can be functional, frugal and fashionable if you use creativity.

If you’re interested in more quilted bag patterns, check out these 11 free quilted drawstring, messenger, and tote bag patterns.

What would you use a quilted bag for?