ARTFUL BAG CHALLENGE AND LOTS OF FUN

Once again I have gotten myself involved with a monthly challenge. For several years I participated in the monthly challenge at 'MindWideOpen'. But, alas, Gail closed the challenge.  Now I have found a new one to try my luck in.  Over at Frosted Petunia's, Anna has a challenge to make a handbag or purse out of anything except a purse. Here is a link to Anna's site:  http://frostedpetunias.blogspot.com/2011/06/june-artful-bag-challenge.html  
 DVD cases, paper sacks, etc, etc.  I decided to use a Nestle's Quick Chocolate container for my entry. 

I covered it with some batting and cotton fabric, made a lining, hinged the lid with ribbon, added a bead tassel, ribbon rose and bow on top. 

I added a ribbon strap. The lid is padded also.  It made an interesting little bag.  (I carry tote bags all the time, too much stuff for little bags.) I really had fun with this.  The other ladies that have entered bags so far have some really cute bags and ideas.  I can't wait for next month.  Thank you Anna for hosting this challenge. 

PROBLEMS, PROBLEMS

Today has been frustrating. I have joined a cottage group and would love to add a badge? to link to the group, but everything I try does not work. This has to be the only time I every really miss working in an office. I could always ask the IT folks how to do anything. Now I have no one to talk to. It can't be too hard since it seems everyone but me has them on their blogs. I tried the gadgets thing here and it kept saying there are errors. I will keep trying sooner or later something will work.

On a brighter note here are some more pretties I have made.

I made my own fringe on the strawberry purse. It is dangling strawberries that are beaded.

The nautical tote has beaded dangles with beads and real shells.

The turquoise ribbon rose brooch has 3 ribbon roses that I made, plus beaded dangles.

I really enjoy making ribbon flowers. It is better than taking a tranquillizer. It just calms my soul to sit with a needle and thread and a piece of ribbon and create something pretty.

Be sure and check out a really cool cottage chic place at http://www.etsycottagestyle.ning.com

Lots of talented ladies showcasing lots and lots of beautiful things.

Peace to all of you. Mary