If you were reading this blog on Monday of this week, you probably noticed my
quick mention of the ‘Handbag Challenge’. It was a very quick mention, so in
case you missed it, I thought that I would mention it again today.
You see, I am still shocked and a little amazed that it was so easy to make my
very own handbag my own way, and I want to share that little creative thrill
with you. So…I am hoping that you will join me and make your very own personal
handbag.
I will post the pattern that I designed on the Daylilies Patterns Page (to be
posted by Oct. 9th, 2009) . This is a free pattern (and there is no purchase
necessary for your entry into this challenge) – all you need to do is download
the .pdf pattern and get to work! As long as you use this pattern as a starting
point for your handbag, the challenge is completely open ended. You can make
your handbag from your favourite old sweatshirt or your husband’s old ties;
you can try the handbag out of leather, a gorgeous plaid wool, or duct tape (if
you are so inclined). Whatever you want to use is up to you. And – it is only
important that you use the pattern as a starting point. If you don’t like the way
it is working for you, change it up. This is your handbag – for you to make your
way.
As an example of how this handbag can be changed, I have done this bag
completely 2 different ways – the duponi silk evening bag you saw on Monday
(the picture is posted again here) and another, more casual, winter white wool
blend. Each handbag is created from the same pattern, yet each handbag is so
very different – really, they just reflect my different moods (I guess I was just
more ready for winter this past week too – making a wool purse and all):
Back to the challenge – what will your handbag look like?
If you want to take part in this challenge, you have until January 15th, 2010. to
email your pictures to me at debra@dayliliescreative.com. When you send me
your picture, please send along a quick description about your project – what
materials you chose to use, etc. (and… you do make big changes to the pattern, I
would love to know what and why – just in case the pattern has some problems I
have missed) and in return, I will send you a $25 gift certificate for use on
any purchase over $50 from Daylilies.
It is that easy.
And I do hope that you will join me 
I have also made things even easier! Starting next week, we will have a
discussion forum on our Facebook page just for handbag discussions. Problems,
questions, successes… I will be there to help you every step of the way. Only
basic sewing skills and a straight stitch sewing machine are required. I can’t
wait to see all the great things you do!
