One of the things that I learned as Editor for Sew Hip was that photo shoots are rarely (and quite possible, never) glamorous. But I have to say that the 'shoot' for my new collection of Weekend Totes was probably even less glamorous than most.
Because we've been so limited by the lack of light recently, when I woke up the other morning with a rotten cold but great sunlight, I knew that I had to try and get some photo's taken. So I changed from my pyjama's into my favourite new shirt dress and my biker boots, showed Jim what I was looking for (he needs serious direction when it comes to photography), made sure he knew not to photograph above the neck (silly wool hat, no make up and a runny nose) and tried not to slump too much.
The totes themselves are extra big and sturdy, making them suitable as a book bag, a shopping bag or (as I've been using mine) as an informal, throw every thing in, weekend bag.
I've used my favourite canvas for the straps and the body of the bag. It's really strong, whilst still being soft to the touch and having a nice drape. And importantly it's pretty light weight, so you don't start off with a heavy bag before you've even put anything in it.
I've sewn all the grandmother garden blocks together first, before then sewing it to the tote, rather than just using wonderweb, which would have been quicker, but not looked nearly as nice. I've also used a slight variation of fabrics in each colourway so that the blocks are all slightly different, giving each bag a touch of individuality. And where possible I've combined both vintage and modern prints.
The tote is lined with a grey leaf printed cotton and has one inner pocket with a key fob attached to it.
I designed and made these totes the week before the Trade fair, on a sunny afternoon whilst watching The China Syndrome on tv. I love that film, even though I'm not overly keen on Michael Douglas (one of my best (male) friends used to go out with Catherine Zeta Jones when she was in Darling Buds, before she became CZJ, not that that has any affect on my feelings about Michael Douglas, I'm just showing off). Jack Lemmon is so great in it though and I love how depressing it is!
So anyway, it was a good afternoon and the tote design came together nicely. And I had the studio window open, so that I could chat to the neighbours as they went past and those things help in a design. Seriously.
So this one worked nicely and works nicely. And those things are linked if you ask me.
Oh and they're in the shop.
