Variation on a Kimono Bag

For some unknown reason, my dearest friend receives the prototypes. For Dal, this red kimono bag was no exception.

I saw an article in Threads about handbags made from old kimono sleeves. Not having any old kimono sleeves laying around (which is surprising if you've ever seen my sewing room) I opted for using yardage. The first bag I made for my friend is the red one. I stitched it up with a piece of batik yardage from my stash. I followed the directions given in the article, but I found that the opening was too small to be practical. On the second bag, I knew the opening had to be bigger but didn't want to change the line of the bage. I added large snaps to the upper corners to keep the top closed.

Both bags had the embellishments chosen for their soon-to-be owners. The first red bag needed a bold statement, but I didn't want to overpower the fabric (I loved this fabric and held off using it for at least two years....) I chose some vintage beads and chenile yarn.

Mother's Day was an opportunity for me to try again and the blue bag was born. My mother was happy with her gift and I was careful not to embellish this one. I thought the sea shell flower was enough to highlight the fabric and wanted my mom to be comfortable.

So far, both women are happy with their kimono bags. Maybe I'll get around to making one for myself!!