For those who follow me regularly on Instagram, you know that I am always on the lookout for talented creatives to collaborate with. It’s not always easy to connect creatively so when I do meet someone who not only truly gets my vision but also understands how to make my vision come to life, well, that’s a big win/win!
I always think of Barb Brandt when I want to see beautiful, textural hand work in projects that feature my fabrics. She knows exactly what I mean when I ask for precise Sashiko stitching that still feels natural or, organic hand embellishment that’s not too fancy but still feels special. Lucky for me, Barb speaks my language and her work always delights and surprises. So naturally, I thought of her when I needed a few items sewed from my current quilting fabric collection, Reverie. All Barb’s gorgeous projects were featured during a special Facebook Live, hosted by my local quilt shop, Sew Worth It. There is a link that will direct you over to watch the video at the bottom of this blog post:)
Look at this beautiful Boro Rice Bag she made using my Reverie fabrics from Freespirit Fabrics. The stitchwork is fantastic! Little embroidered and beaded accents that perfectly complement the fabrics.
And then she whipped up these adorable cosmetic and travel jewelry bags… I think it’s the details that make them extra special.
Then, because I am obsessed with Kimono’s, Barb sewed up a a truly special women’s robe/kimono. I love the length of this… It is accentuated with deep side slits and a tie belt. It features 4 coordinated fabrics from Reverie and it turns a simple robe into a sophisticated look. This one is begging for a coordinated pajama set (hint, hint:)
And finally, I asked Barb to make an exaggerated large, artsy tote bag that also featured some hand stitched embellishments. She added a solid painters canvas for the body of the tote and added leather handles for durability. I can envision this bag created in linen for an even lighter, beachy look. This bag idea is a great way to use up some of your Reverie scraps and a fun way to get creative with the addition of spontaneous stitching details.
Watch: the Facebook Live Video that I did with Sew Worth It Sarasota:)
Follow: Barb on Instagram: @barbbrandt3 and reach out to her directly for inquiries about any of the lovely projects she sewed for me!
Pattern Sources:
Modern Japanese Rice Pouch pattern is by Karen Stevens …https://www.kzstevens.com/shop-1/modern-japanese-rice-pouch.
Kimono pattern is by Seamwork patterns https://www.seamwork.com/catalog/quince.