Pretty by Hand is OPEN!
August 22, 2012 (cheery little bell ring)
Come on in! So nice of you to stop by today.
Please notice my logo in the left column of my blog there ... click on it and you will be magically transported to my new pattern shop. (Can you tell I'm older than the interweb?)
Yes, FINALLY. I've been dreaming about this day for a VERY long time, often feeling like a turtle moving through molasses ... uphill ... backwards ... sometimes without a map ... often without a clue! LOL!
But I made it. And I owe a lot of thanks to so many people who have helped me get here - including all of you dear sweet readers. Your support and enthusiasm for my work has given me the courage to try.
So here is my first batch of 5 patterns for your consideration. I can't begin to explain how much I loved designing and making them all.
#1 - Honey Bee Bag
This purse I showed you last week that you were all so totally nice about?
This is what it turned into.
Sometimes when I design something, I get it right the first time. But not always. As much as I truly love the "practice" version, I knew I could do even better.
So I remade it with Lecien's "Durham Collection" (designed by the very talented Brenda Riddle) and added just a wee bit more embroidery. The knots on every seam corner are also on the original design - they're subtle but add that ... little something extra.
(They also hide some of the seams that didn't quite match up. But let's keep that a secret between you and me, kay?)
And you guys, the hexagons & triangles are TOTALLY MACHINE PIECED!!! That's right, no English paper piecing ... so this purse goes together much quicker than you think.
However, a few things inspired me to add the honey bee. First, beehives and honeycombs always come to mind when I work with hexagons.
Second, about 8 years ago I sold my first original hand bags at a local shabby chic shop called "Honey B's". It closed a few years ago. But in honor of the owner - now friend - who was so supportive of my work and validated me as a quilter, bag maker and designer, I named my first pattern after her shop. "Thanks Barb!"
By the way, all the embroidery in this pattern is optional. The purse would look just as lovely without the bee. And wouldn't little glass or pearl beads add so much romance in place of the knots?
#2 - Round Pencil Case
Way back last September I made up these little cases for my daughters and posted them on my blog.
I couldn't believe how many of you asked for a pattern.
Sorry it took me so long (turtle in molassas) but here it is.
The pattern includes 3 different ways to make this cutie little case:
Patchwork - make the body with squares
Scrappy - use a different fabric for each part of the case
Lace Trim - I simply couldn't resist!
I used mostly Lecien's "Old/New 30s" fabrics with a little "Flower Sugar" and even a few of my favorite bits of Bonnie & Camille's "Ruby" & "Vintage Modern" (by Moda).
#3 - Molly Messenger Bag
This messenger bag I made up - also for my daughter - also posted on my blog - got lots of pattern requests too.
She used her bag for the entire school year and I'm happy to report it still looks great. Even after being washed. Several times.
Fabric is Rachel Ashwell's "Wildflowers" from Shabbyfabrics.com
Pattern #4 - Cherry Blossom Baskets
You may remember the story of how this quilt was born.
It turned out so well I couldn't NOT make it into a pattern!
I wrote the pattern so you can choose your preferred construction method - EITHER with templates OR foundation paper-piecing.
And there are just a few embroidery stitches (that really do make the quilt, I think).
Stitch guide included.
#5 - Farmhouse Parlour
Another Quilt Market design that has a permanent home in my livingroom.
Now.
Yes, this quilt is put together with inset seams.
BUT WAIT!
Hear me out. I know many quilters are afraid of inset (also called "Y") seams either because they are intimidated or they've tried them with less than satisfactory results. I totally get that.
So I made the pieced hexagon blocks in this quilt nice and big so the inset seams are easier to manage.
And I wrote this pattern with a (confident) beginner quilter in mind. I've taught many quilt classes so I tried to give as much detail in the pattern as I would if you were sitting beside me.
So don't be scared. Give it a try and give yourself the gift of leaning a new skill. This design simply can't be reproduced any other way. And it is SO worth the time.
Oh, and the fabric I used - Lecien's "Antique Flowers" - is available at Shabbyfabrics.com as well!
By the way, all patterns are available in your choice of either a paper or PDF version.
Ok. Now for the fun stuff.
I also have a giveaway. Remember this pretty little pincushion I made a few months ago?
I've been waiting so I could give it a good home with one of you.
And it will probably come with the little cupcake pin too, just sayin'.
To enter the giveaway, leave me a comment telling me which is your favorite pattern.
And if you make a purchase before the giveaway ends you can enter twice!
Comments close Friday August 24th 6:00 pm, PST and I will announce the winner Monday the 27th.
Ok.
Now I need a really big cup of tea.
And some chocolate.
With hazelnuts in it.
* * * * *
PS: On a very personal note, I chose to launch my shop today in memory of my dad who left this world way too soon ... before he could be a grandfather and before he could see me try to do something he always told me I should - write my own patterns. Today would have been his birthday.
Oh darn. Now I need a kleenex too! LOL!
Reader Comments (183)
Congrats on your patterns and shop. It's about time!!!! Can't wait to get my patterns from you!!!!
I so enjoy reading your blogs.. Thank you . Your work is beautiful.. I like how you use a lot of pinks in your work.. I love pink. I am considering purchasing the hexagon bag pattern at some point.
God Bless.. And many Blessings with your shop.....
Wow. I am SO impressed. These are all just absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!! I think the Honey Bee bag is my favorite. Congratulations on this accomplishment!
Oh my!! You are really going to make me choose just one??? I guess I love the Molly Messenger Bag the most of the bags and the Farmhouse Parlour the best of the quilts! But they are all lovely! Good job and much success with your patterns. Now I will run over and see what I want to buy!
How wonderful! I love them all, but I guess I would have to pick the Farmhouse Parlor if I really have to pick only one! I need to go order some patterns now.....
I didn't read anyone elses comments before I wrote this, I just wanted my words to come from my heart! Congratulations....over and over again!! I will be rushing over to your shop when I have finished writing this comment to make my purchases! Your work is so so beautiful Kristyne. I have myself been a turtle in molasses here in Australia trying to get going with writing my own patterns. I have released 3 patterns over the past 12mths but feel right now like I am at a stand still! You have given me renewed hope for the future! Now is just not my time, but it sure is yours! I don't even know you, Kristyne and i hope this doesnt sound to 'strange', but can I say how proud of you I am ......you go girl! You will do so so well I just know you will! And all the tears came to my eyes too reading about your Dad. He would be so proud of you too! I hardly ever write comments on blogs but today I'm going all out...not to win anything, just because you have moved me so much. My favorite pattern would have to be the Honey Bee Bag....it's just so pretty. I wish you all the luck in the world Kristyne with your new venture but you won't need it I'm sure! Lots of love, Kim xxxxxx
PS: I read your blog every afternoon when I get home from work, it is my time to take 5mins from my hectic schedule with a nice cup of tea and a little chat with my mate Kristyne!
what is the name of the pattern for the hexes/little triangles? it is the one you used for the bag you made. do you sell the pattern for just the quilt blocks?
thanks!
Congratulations! I am a huge fan of your work & your very funny blog. You are one talented lady. Honey Bee Bag would have to be my favourite, but they are all fantastic - it was a hard choice!
Hello again, I have just ordered the round Pencil Case pattern. My twin girls will just love some of these. Well done on all your hard work.
That Honey Bee Bag is just the bee's knees! I love it!
Congradulations! I love your blog and have been waiting for your patterns. I am a quilter but since my 2 grandaughters I have been sewing garments bags and anything else they can come up with for me to make and I love it. I cant pick just one pattern as my favorite as I want to have both of your new bag patterns. So Happy for you!
Congratulations! When I saw the Honey Bee Bag on your blog the other day I was totally in love! So excited to see that your pattern was available! I ordered it right away! PDF you know because I could! YAY! So excited to make my own. I love hexigons! Your blog is so cute! so glad I subscribed. keep the beautiful stuff coming.
Congratulations on your web store opening! I think your dad is smiling with pride looking down from above. How sweet that you waited for his birthday. Your blog and patterns are very inspiring! Please enter me in the contest for the ever so sweet pinkalious pincushion!
Congrats! I am sure you will do very well. Your designs are beautiful.
Congratulations on your "store"! Very excited for you and looking forward to seeing more and more of your patterns. I wish you much success. I love following your blog but am lazy with posting my comments, so I leave you a nice long one today. Please know that I am very impressed with all that you do. I have to say that I am in love with your new purse!! The attention to detail with the french knots. Love it! And the embroidered bee just put it over the top for me. IMy eldest daughter got married in Vt. two years ago August with a bee theme. Wish I had that pattern then. What nice bridesmaids gifts the bags would have made!!
Congratulations! What an accomplishment! I love getting your posts...and smile through every one. My favorite pattern of the five is the Honey Bee Bag. Lovely!
Congratulations......I am so excited for you!
Pick only one......not fair, they are all wonderful, but
Pick one.....Farmhouse Parlour.
Yay for you!! All of your patterns look so lovely but if I had to choose just one it would be the Honey Bee Bag. I love it! Congrats on this new endeavor...I'm sure it will be very successful!! Best wishes. :)
You go girl!! Your patterns are fantastic! It's really hard to pick a favorite, so I'm just picking the one I think I would make first and that is the Honey Bee Bag.
Best of luck in your new venture.
I'm very happy for you that you are selling your own patterns, I love how you sew. I'm sure your father would be very proud of you because you followed your dreams.
Well done on your pattern company. They are all beautiful will be back soon to buy! A terrific memorial to your dad
Congratulations and much, much success to you. I'd gladly order the adorable pencil case (cuz I love it) but I'm seriously bagophobic so I'll simply admire it. sigh!
Congratulations on opening your shop! How exciting. I love following your blog & just bought the honey bee bag & pencil case patterns!! If I had to choose I'd say the honey bee bag!! Just adorable! Keep up the fabulous work :)
Olivia
Western Australia
Congratulations. It has been fun watching you make all these projects. I can't decide on one because I Love them all. I hope this won't disqualify me from the contest but you are amazing....
Polly
Congratulations! The patterns look terrific...I especially love the Cherry Blossom Baskets and Farmhouse Parlor quilts. I loved seeing them on your blog and am excited that I can add them to my to do list. Hip hip hooray for you :-)
Holy cow Batman!,
Of course I will be purchasing.......all of them!!!
You clever girl,yay for you!!!
I think I might start with Farmhouse Parlour before I try the two bags, so gorgeous!!
Hi!
I am so glad you opened your shop and are living your dream! Your work is amazing! I am so new to sewing, and just purchased the pencil case pattern as I think I will be able to manage this one!! But I love them all, especially the honey bee bag.
Thanks so much for the inspiration!
Monique in Tasmania, Australia xxx
So excited for you when I opened my email post today! You are such an amazingly talented person with a sense of humor that cracks me up. Congrats and know this is beginning of great things!
Lisa in Texas
The Honey Bee bag is my favorite.
Just fell in love with the Honey Bee Bag, but all of your patterns look so great!
Congratulation Kristyne!!! I am so inspired by you even, even more. Would love to follow your steps too.. But for the time being... Of course I'll go shop and get those patterns! My favorite has to be the Honey bee bag...
Congratulations! and well done for showing your bag on a real person! It makes such a difference being able to see exactly how big a bag is.. My favourite pattern is Cherry Blossom Baskets, but I also love the hexie bag so it comes a very close second. x
Oh congrats, sweet one! I'm so tickled for you.
Favorite pattern? You mean I have to pick just one? ;)
Honey Bee Bag is whispering madly to me. I see them all coming home eventually.
So darn tickled.
I just ordered the messenger bag. I loved it when you first blogged about it!
Wow, your patterns are all gorgeous, and picking one is pretty tough work, it would be a fight between the Honey Bee and the Molly Messenger, its a close thing, but i think the Molly Messenger just edges it for favourite. Congratulations on opening your shop and best of luck with it, it must be the week for making brave new steps, i pushed myself and yesterday started my own blog too, after much procrastinating and worrying about it! I could only hope to be half as popular as you and your fantastic blog! Angela
Congrats on the shop launch. It's so lovely that you chose a special day for it. I'm sure your dad would have been so proud.
Congratulations - you were the first blog that I ever followed, I am always blown away with the beauty of everything you make and am truly excited to have the chance to buy your patterns. Thanks Sally x
I just purchased the honey bee pattern by pdf and had a quick peek before leaving for work; it looks amazing with lots of clear instructions and diagrams Thank you so much Sally x
Congrats I am so happy for you , you make wonderful thimgs and I love to make one and now I can !!
All the patterns are ones that I would love to make but my first will be the honey B bag, I fell in love the first time I saw the it.
hope I can join the give away because I am e big fan from the Netherlands ;-)
Happy Quilting,
Ellen
What lovely news, I love the Farmhouse Parlour pattern (I'll be ordering that today!)
I need a tissue too! Can't imagine losing my parents! So glad you released these (& I'm one of the ones who nagged you every chance I got!) This week I was just thinking if you'd make another bag with school starting again & looking for the next opportunity to nag some more!!
How exciting! I wish you all the success in the world. My favourite is the Honey Bee Bag.
Big Congrats! Would love to join you in that cuppa and hear all about your wise dad.
These patterns are sure to be a hit. I'm inspired by your Parlour quilt to say the least!
Fabulous givaway.
Congratulation! How wonderful for you (and all of us) to open your own pattern shop. I must say the Honey Bee Bag is my favorite. It's so lovely!
Congratulations on opening your shop! What an exciting time for you! If the instructions in your patterns are anywhere close to those of your little pouch tutorial, they will be excellent! You've given us a hard challenge, but I love the Farmhouse Parlour best, I think, although the pencil cute is adorable.....
Congratulations to one of the nicest people I know. How about a book too ;)
I just bought the Honey Bee Bag. What? No hand piecing? I'm right now driving my son from our home in Chicago to Williamsburg, VA where he will be a freshman in college and I will be an empty nester and all I'm doing are 1/2 inch and 1 1/4 inch hexagons with Lecien Antique Flower in Pastel and then a little embroidery to keep me sane. Can't wait to make this bag! Thank you once again for putting a smile on my face. I'm afraid I'm going to cry on the way home all through Ohio!
To My Favorite Kristyne in The Whole World,
I am so entirely proud and happy right now ... you have truly done it - you have indeed done everything we talked about - and then some.
Those Sundays spent talking about it - dreaming about it while sewing stunning bags (you!) and pretty funky quilts (me ... for Anna!) I just cannot believe it has only been 5 years and here you are - taking over the quilting world ...
Your stuff is as always perfect - from the tiny little bee to the lace trim to the color and fabric choices - and look at those photos ... they are stunning - who is the model (I'm guessing Kate :)
If I would have to pick a favorite it would be Molly's bag ... and I say that knowing I'd be just as happy with the pencil case or the other bag or the quilts - any of it is made to such a standard that I would be in awe ... for days, weeks, years!
As for opening the store with your Dad in mind ... your heart is as amazing as your work ... if he was here he'd be bursting with pride - you know that pride that takes your breath away - the one where you look at your child and cannot say a word because if you do you'll burst into tears - that is how proud I am and then you can add the pride of a parent ... that is how proud he'd be!!!
You have truly done it - I LOVE you for it - LOVE LOVE LOVE ...
Well done Missy!
Bxoxoxoxoxoxo
Congratulations! It's a big step and you're making lots of quilters quite happy. My favorite is the Farmhouse Parlor pattern but your purse pattern seems to be calling my name too.
Fantastic job! I am so glad that we can purchase your patterns now! My favorite is the messenger bag pattern! I'm sure my daughter would love to help make one!