Gift bags...101

I had the best of intentions on this week's tutorial. I thought I would take a photo of every step as I sewed my crafty gift bags. I think I missed a few steps. But the first photo shows the muslin fabric and ribbons. Shopping...step 1.

Then I cut the fabric into horizontal squares, approximately 8 1/2 by 11. I added 5/8 inches on three sides and around 2 inches on the top for seams.

Now for some sewing. I sewed the bottom 3 sides 5/8 and did a zig zag cut.

I folded down the top an inch and a 1/2. The cut ribbons were sewed underneath the fold to form the handles of the bag.

Now for the art! I printed out my illustration, "Confessions of a Children's Book Lover", 4 per page on fabric transfer sheets. Mirror image.

I cut the transfers and ironed them on to the bags.

My proud moment. A perfectly finished gift bag. Applause please. Silence...

The goods. Minnesota wild rice, a bear themed pencil, a goofy cow chocolate and a banana cream pie flavored lip balm.

Plus my friend Barb Bjornson made some pretty recipe cards and donated some pearson's nut rolls to round things out.

Now the bags are ready to give to the speakers at this year's MNSCBWI conference. I made a few extras and used some for prizes at the end of the conference. I may be a crafty Queen but I think I'll stick with my illustration career thank you very much.