craftgrrl | Aranzi Aronzo tote bag!

I finally got my mitts on Aranzi Aronzo Cute Stuff - it's only just been published in the UK - and it's AMAZING. I've had Fun Dolls for a while and I've been waiting for Cute Stuff on tenterhooks!

Here's my first project, a bright red gusseted tote bag with ace crocodile applique!

Body made using Ditte fabric from IKEA (I've been trying not to buy new crafts materials in the interest of being more eco-friendly, but I couldn't find any second hand red things to cut up anywhere!), and at £1.99 a metre it's not exactly high quality. Even a glance will see it contorting into a mass of creases. But hey, it'll look loved! Lovely soft red cotton twill handles.

This book is FULL of gorgeous applique patterns. My favourite is the fox but the crocodile is more suited to my friend Kate, who the bag's for. I love the naive 'cross' stitch. Two things Aranzi Aronzo have taught me: 1) it's okay to use a bit of PVA glue to hold applique pieces on the fabric before sewing in place; 2) overlock the edges of your fabric to stop fraying!

Lining made from Postman Pat duvet cover I had in my stash - the colours match perfectly!

I tried to get an 'in action' picture of it but couldn't get a good shot in the mirror! I'm sure you can imagine how it looks anyway. The handles are just long enough to carry it on the shoulder, something I really like in my tote bags.

I'm pleased with how it turned out, and I can't wait to get onto more of the projects in the book. (I used my own pattern for this bag, but the applique pattern and the bag dimensions are from the book). I really like the cute drawstring bags and I want to use the appliques to make a set of brightly coloured cushion for a friend's housewarming.