Previously, I made a few aprons from vintage calendar towels. 2017 begins with a new calendar towel, made into a simple tote bag. I modeled it after a non-bulky bag that can be rolled up to fit inside the outside pocket of my purse.
I added some fabric, and sewed the straps under the top fold of the bag. The tote could use some interfacing at the top and in the straps, but I couldn’t find any at home so I skipped it. I’ll use the bag for less heavy items.
In 2017, I plan to work on sewing clothes, some quick refashions, quilting (including a big project), and embroidery. I miss having something on the needles to pick up during this very rainy, stormy winter we’re having in southern California this year so maybe I will throw in a little knitting as well.
I always think of organizing at the beginning of a new year. One thing I’m doing is tracking my sewing spending using the “My Binder” app.
My sewing machine feet have a new home thanks to finding this neat little double-sided container for $3 at the drug store. What luck; they’re a perfect fit!
I don’t think I did any cross stitch last year. Well, at least not until the 31st of December. I spent the last day of 2016 and the first day of 2017 stitching this little gnome that I made into an ornament.
I changed the colors, lengthened his hat, added a felt bottom and a gold bead on top.
I like him hanging around – he makes me smile.
Happy sewing and crafting in the New Year!
Stitch It Again 
Hi Lisa! Love the little gnome :). I’m in total agreement with your interfacing decision. If I absolutely need interfacing, I dig out some leftover fabric, and use that as a sew-in interfacing. Nothing wrong with skipping it either, if it makes very little difference to the final project. Love the tote!
Oh, a good tip. I didn’t think about using something else for interfacing. I know I had some, but must have moved it somewhere else. I’m a little tote obsessed because I have to always have one on hand to avoid the bag fees.
The tote looks great! I didn’t think I was going to like the batik, when I saw it i the first photo, but it’s perfect! You have ambitious plans for 2017 . . . but, then, I think we all do that! I’ll look forward to updates!
Well, I like little projects because they get done, but want to have something bigger to work on too. It’s fun to make lists of possible projects at the beginning of the year, even if they won’t all get done. Then I carry those that I still like over to the next year.