Over the past few weekends I have made a collection of bags for my best friend’s birthday. We have been friends since we were born, and I wanted to give her something special for her 18th birthday. Before this little collection, I made that book sleeve (years ago) and then a simple tote, using Christine’s pattern, earlier this year. Needless to say, I didn’t have a lot of experience when I started this. There were a lot of mistakes made🫣 but it was all worth it. The tote bag is the Simple Tote pattern of Christine’s, but I added a lining to it. I struggled to find a sturdy material that is light yellow (my best friend’s favourite colour) so I opted for a lining to add a bit of structure. I also put a string of daisies (she loves them) around the top of the tote to add a little detail to the plain yellow outside. The little baggies is the Pyramid Pouches pattern of Christine’s. For this, I copied exactly what my mom was doing because she was also busy making these. The yellow material and lining is the same I used for the tote bag. Then I made these little bookmarks from a video that I saw. My friend loves reading (and with finals coming up) so I thought it would be a cute little something extra. I also used the same materials as all the bags. Summary of experience: Mistakes made - many Unpicking seems - 2 times Using incorrect seem allowance when stitching - 1 Bobbins needed replacing - 2 times (📌Note to self: always have extra bobbins when starting large(ish) projects) Urge (denied) to drop everything and start the next day - 2 times Little crashouts along the way - many Fun had - plenty Pride when looking at the finished projects - overwhelming Sorry for the essay🤭 I just wanted to share that even with little experience and many mistakes made, you can still create something beautiful🩷

I have assembled the blocks for the front and the lining. Almost ready to start sewing.....

This is my finished apron! I wanted a fun colour combination, so I went for this pink flowers and zebra print🌸🦓 I made my ruffles and neck tie opposite to the main apron fabric, this way it’s easier to see the ruffles! This was such a fun project - thank you Christine😊

I am so excited to share the end result of my "upcycled" apron. I tweaked the apron to be a bit more versatile for our specific needs. This is what I have changed: 1. I didn't use the elastic in the neckband because I didn't have enough and the shops are closed by the time I get home from work. 2. I made an unisex apron, so I left out the ruffle as it gives a feminine look and without it my husband can use it too. 3. I added a pocket only on the one side, then you have the option if it's needed and the beautiful pictures on the one side aren't hidden. 4. I improvised and added 2 "loops" on both sides of the apron. You can clip a lighter or bottle opener to the apron as well as slide a braai tong through the bigger loop.

I have completed my apron. This is the first time I did ruffles.