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)
I love the Farmhouse Parlour quilt!! Beautiful!!!
Congratulations on opening your shop! I've enjoyed your blog for some time. You have great photography skills which makes your lovely creations even more pretty.
I think my favourite pattern is the pencil case pattern followed very closely by the honey bee bag and the cherry blossom quilt.
I love the Honey Bee bag without a doubt. Thanks for making everything available as a PDF. As soon as I post my comment, I'm off to purchase the bag pattern and ...well maybe everything. DD would love the pencil case & messenger bag, I love Farmhouse Parlor. Congratulations on your shop. I wish you much success.
Sorry, my comment is so late but you see I was in Greece and had a great time there! But now I'm back and first thing when I check your blog is this! How amazing congrats,girl! My favorite is the messenger bag you made for your daugther ... now I need do go shopping! Hildy
Oh, my decided what pattern is my favorite is really hard! I would have to say that the "Honey Bee Hexie Purse" is my favorite. It is so original, and could be made out of all my quilting scraps. I could even embroider on some of the hexies as you have done. I will be ordering your pencil case pattern too, as I am a reading tutor and I always need pens and pencils.
Thanks so much.
Nettie
Congrats! May you be blessed with many years of new creations and business success! My fave is the Cherry Blossom Baskets!
Wow so exciting!!! Congratulations I actually screamed out with excitement when I saw. Its so hard to choose I really love so many of them but I have to say Farmhouse Parlour is my favorite! I love love love the look of it and then to top it off I am rather partial to quilts whose edges are not square.
You creations are so pretty and I am looking forward to using your patterns! Congratulations on making one of your dreams come true!
Your shop looks lovely, and just "you" best wishes on your new endeavor
Love the Honey Bee Bag. I've always hand sewn the hexies. Would love to do a project that's inachine sewn to save some time. Also, the pincushion is so cute and the cupcake pin is the icing. Love it all.
Awww, I'm so happy for you! I just love all your patterns, but I thnk the hexie purse is my new favorite. I just love those cute little hexies! Congratulations on a beautiful new beginning!
Made my purchase! I love all of your patterns, but especially love the smaller projects so I had to buy all 3! Congratulations on your store. What a great accomplishment and fun for all of us ;)
This is just great! Shop and patterns! I think the best pattern is the messenger bag or maybe pencil case or... They are all so great! Keep on designing!
I just have to go the shop and buy some...
Congratulations on your shop. As soon as I have written this comment I'm headed over to it to buy at least one. I love the Honey Bee pattern. It is always such a pleasure to read your blog, I love your sense of humor. Greetings from Denmark.
Just purchased the Honey Bee and Farmhouse Parlour Patterns. Thanks for making them for us!
I love all our patterns! The Farmhouse Parlor touched my heart. I love the colours you used. Congratulations on opening your shop! Daddies are always proud of their little girls!
Am so happy for you and all of us who LOVE your work. I love the Cherry blossom
Basket,so cute and yes I have to have the pattern.Best of luck with your new shop, I can't wait each day to read your blog and see what is going on with you, now I have to visit the shop to see what is new.Good job
I don't KNOW! I love them all. Okay the Farmhouse parlor or the baskets. Thanks
Congratulations!!!! you did it!!!!!!!! I am very happy for you and wish you so much success. The "shop" looks fab and I love the logo. I think the Honey Bee bag is my fave.
I thought I posted yesterday,but cannot find it,so here goes again! Congrats of course Kristyne, we all have been patiently waiting for this to happen,somehow!!ould not be any nicer,and your photographer is more than outstanding!! Every pattern is just a pleasure to look at. Hard to pick a favorite,but the Round Pencil case intrigues me,and the Honey Bee Bag, and Messenger bag,really love Cherry Blosson Baskets, I have al arge fat quarter stack to work with! I am hoping for the day your pattersn are so successful,as I know they will be to actually run into another person and say, I made Kristyne's pattern too!!! Won't be long,sood news travels fast! Bittersweet dayfor your opening,but I know your dad is watching and smiling. WE can all say,we knew her when!!
Congratulations on your lovely shop! This is SO exciting!!! I've been waiting and hoping for the Round Pencil Case pattern since I first saw your posting on it. I can't wait to make it for my daughter :D
Congrats!!! You make beautiful things but my favorite is the pink and blue pencil case.
Congratulations! This has been a long time coming, and fabulous news for us blog readers. I love the Honey Bee Bag, I'm going to nip over to your shop right now. I love how much effort and energy you've put into your patterns: it's so nice to be able to receive a special "gift wrapped" design. I can't wait to see more in your shop soon! xx
Congratulations! I have long been an admirer of your gorgeous creations and am delighted you have turned some into patterns!!
I have ordered (and recieved) the pencil case pattern - and desparately want the honey bee pattern - but that isn't showing up on my page to order. Please tell me I can still order one??
And...maybe I'll win something cute??
Congratulations Krystine! You are super talented and I am thrilled you have patterns available. I "must have" the honey bee purse pattern, and I don't usually make totes, but can't wait to get started on it. Go girl, go! Keep those pretty by hand treats coming. I love your blog. Best wishes!
Is the Honey Bee pattern sold out? I really want that one!
Congratulations on your new shop!
Awww !!! Big congrats !!!!! I have been sooooo waiting to see if you would put out a pattern for cherry blossoms so that is my fave AND I bought it :) but am LOVING your new bag as well. I do believe that will be a must have as well !!!! LOVE love love your work !!!!
Here's my second little entry since I went and bought the fabulous Molly Messenger bag pattern. Thanks for another chance to win!
When the honey bee purse pattern be available in your shop for purchase?
Congratulations on your business/shop! It's the perfect next move for you. We look forward to many more patterns, and to continued interesting, funny, informative and beautiful posts on your blog. I love the Farmhouse Parlour Quilt, and have already ordered the pattern. Congratulations again, thanks for sharing, and may you and your business prosper!
Congratulations on the launch of your store! I have tried to find your Honey Bee pattern - but it doesn't appear to be in your store? I'm sure you will reap the rewards of your gorgeous work - I look forward to watching you grow :)
Love your blog -- I check in every day! All your patterns are awesome -- tough choice between the messenger bag and the honey bee bag -- I'll go with the honey bee bag. The fabrics you chose are perfect!
I LOVE the Honey Bee Bag! It looks lovely using some of my favorite fabrics. So happy you have ventured out with the patterns, blessings to you! Thanks!