Remember that cute copper enameled Turtle pendent I showed off a few weeks ago? I designed a cell phone purse around the pendant that showcased both my quilting and beadwork. Here’s a close-up:
The enameled copper Turtle is from my favorite online beading site, ArtBeads.com. This bag was made to fit my iphone, here they are together:
The only step I need to finish is the strap. I’m torn between making one out of fabric, or weaving one out of fiber and beads.
How did I make this functional-yet decorative bag? It started with the teal focal point pendant. I next chose beads to complement and match the pendant. I used my own freeform beading tutorial to complete the beading.
Next I auditioned quilted fabric to see what would look best with the piece:
This green quilted fabric was discarded- primarily because it matched the teal turtle pendant too closely and minimized the importance of the copper enamel piece. The background behind this pendant needed to be either a dark neutral or other color which would showcase the pendant.
So off to the quilt store to find the right shade. I finally settled on the dark brown / black batik with a matching green batik fabric used both inside the bag and as binding on the edges. This color combination allows the pendant to be showcased.
Next I quilted it on my longarm quilting machine, using teal thread, then cut out my bag pattern. I bound the edges with the interior green batik and stitched it together. Last step was sewing on the freeform beaded embellishment.
As mentioned, I will design the straps next. It has to be comfortable to wear, so I will probably use fabric to construct.
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Last Product to Share: I also received this delightful Poppy canvas on wood pendant from ArtBeads.com, too:
I liked it because it reminded me of my poppy quilt. The canvas art is, in fact, titled, “Poppies,” and is by artist Charlie Clingman. It has a very nice silver bail, too, to attach to a necklace, or whatever I end up doing with it.
Hope you enjoyed seeing these new products. I love playing and designing with newer items that come on the market and sharing them with you.
Regards, Carla
Carla Barrett 
