Be Sociable
 

by Michelle Hand

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This past Christmas I decided to make Christmas presents for my mom, sister, sisiter-in-law, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. This was mainly out of necessity due to the fact I am not working and already had half of the fabric and supplies in my stash. I did buy the main fabric (fat quarters) at a local quilt store because she stocks such cool fabrics that fit my relatives personalities perfectly. I had the other fabrics, zippers and clear vinyl. My mom gave me the additional fabrics and trims to clear out her stash. This came in so handy and I was able to give her back some of the fabric in the form of a bag. 

I used a pattern I bought at another local quilt store many, many months ago. I procrastinated using it due to the fact it has very few pictures and/or illustrations to guide me. I dove into it and the first bag took me several hours at two different times in my studio. I get frustrated and have to walk away and come back later or who knows what might happen to the project or come out of my mouth....hey, I am only human! :) By the fifth one, I had the steps down pat and with each one I got better at making the construction square.

I also made coordinated tissue pouches to put inside of the bags. The bag can be used for makeup, beauty products, electronic cords/cables, or hobby supplies. They are a simple rectangle shape with a zipper at the top. Below, you will see photos of the ones I made along with information about the pattern. BTW, I think everyone really liked them and are getting good use out of them.


Peek-a-Boo Bag 9" x 10" can be found at: www.sweettreasuresquiltpatterns.com
 

by Michelle Hand

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www.traderjoes.com
I bought Trader Joe's face wash over 6 months ago at the recommendation of the  stock boy. A wise decision? Hmmm... ordinarily maybe not. But, this kid knew what he was talking about. I use it almost daily in the shower and still have 
half of the bottle left. It was only $6 and has been well worth every penny.  It is all natural and light feeling. It doesn't have an awful taste. You might  ask why this is important, but if you are like me and use body wash with a srunchie in the shower, you probably don't have a wash cloth handy. So, I rub it
on and then just splash water on my face to wash it off. It's a pretty sure  thing your gonna get a tasting of it. :) It also doesn't leave my skin feeling tight and dry. Mind you, I still have to use some type of moisturizer before my makeup regimen (when that happens on special occasions) but that is for another
post. I give it  five stars and if you have a Trader Joe's nearby, give it a try.