4 Girls Designs

Let's Make Some Padded Cases for Our eReaders, iPads, and Tablets!

2012-01-21T10:23:00.000-08:00

4girlsdesigns has PDF sewing patterns to cover up almost any eReader device, iPads, and Tablets that you may have gotten for Christmas! If you don't want to spend $30. or more on a case for that Kindle, you don't have to! Now you can choose your own fabric(s), a pdf sewing pattern from 4girlsdesigns, and your own creativity to make a one-of-a-kind case that reflects your personality! I will list below the devices and the pattern that you would use to make a book style case for your ereader/iPad/tablet or a padded sleeve that you can slip your device in when not in use that fits nicely in your larger bag or pocket.

Updated PDF Sewing Pattern for a book style case for the following devices:
nook 1,
nook Color
Nook Tablet
Kindle 1, 2, 3G, NEW Kindle Fire, Kindle Keyboard
Kobo 1 and 2
Astak Mentor
Be Book NeoCyBook Gen 3
CobyKron 7"
Foxit eSlick
iRiver Story
Lenova Idea Pad 7" tablet
Onyx Boox 60
Pandigital Novel
Samsung Galaxy Tab 7
T-Mobile G Slate

PDF Sewing Pattern for Padded Small eReader Book Case fits the following devices:
Kindle 4
Kindle Touch
Cybook Opus
Jetbook
Kobo 2Touch
Nook Simple Touch
Sony Pocket 350
Sony PRS300
Sony PRS505
Sony Reader Wi-Fi PRS-T1
Sony Reader Touch
or most readers 6 7/8” x 5”

Padded iPad Case Sewing Pattern for Large eReaders and Tablets Book Style Case fits:
Acer Iconia Tab
iPad 1
iPad 2
iRex Digital Reader
Kindle DX
Motorola Xoom
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
Sony SGPT111US/S
Vizio Tablet B1008

Padded Sleeves are the perfect solution for transporting your device. I offer the following sewing patterns:
NEW PDF Sewing Pattern Padded Case for Kindle Fire, Kindle 4, Sony, Nook, Sony, Kobo, eReaders 8 x 5 5/8 and smaller PLUS Accessory Case: fits:
Most 8" by 5 5/8" and smaller, including:
the NEW Kindle Fire
Astak Mentor
Nook
Nook Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi 3G
Nook Touch with Wi-Fi
New Nook (11/2011)
Be Book Neo
Coby Kyros 4 GB 7-Inch Tablet with Touchscreen and Android 2.2
MID7024-4G Coby Kyron 7"Android2.3, 4GB
Touchscreen MID7016-4G
COOL- ER
Cybook Gen 3
Dell Streak 7(wi-fi, 16GB)
Foxit slick
iRiver Story
Kindle
Kindle 2
Kindle 3
Kindle 4
Kindle Keyboard reg. or 3G Wi-Fi
New Kindle
Kindle Touch reg. or 3G
Kindle Fire
Kobo 1
Kobo 2 Touch Edition
Lenova IdeaPad A1 22282EU-7"Tablet
Nuut 2 NP-602
Onyx Boox 60
Pandigital Novel
Pandigital Novel 2GB 7-Inch Wi Fi Multimedia Tablet and Color eReader R70E200
Pandigital Android 2 GB 9-Inch Multimedia Tablet and Color eReader R90L200
Samsung Galaxy Tab (wi-fi, 3G, 16GB)
Samsung Galaxy Tab7.0 (wifi, 16GB)
Sony PRS300
Sony Pocket 350
Sony PRS-500Sony PRS505
Sony Daily Ed. PRS600
Sony Reader Touch PRS650BC
Sony Reader Daily Ed. PRS950
Sony Reader Wi-Fi PRS-T1
Sony Reader Wi-Fi ereader PRST1
Sony PRS-700
T Mobile G-slate wi-fi 3G/4G 32gb
Velocity Micro Cruz R101
PDF Padded Cover Sewing Pattern for e Reader, Tablet, Smartphones, iPad, Kindle, Nook, More/ Bonus Instructions for other devices.

LARGE Pattern fits: iPad
Acer Iconia Tablet
Apple iPad 1, 2
Asus Eee Pad Tablet
Kindle DX
Motorola Zoom WiFi Tablet
Pandigital Tablet
Samsung Galaxy Tab
Toshiba Thrive 10.1"
Vizio 8" Tablet

MEDIUM Pattern fits:
Alex eReader
Astak Mentor
Nook
Nook Color
Nook wi fi 3G
Nook Tablet
Be Book Neo
Coby Kyros Tablet
Coby Kyron
COOL-ER
Cybook Gen. 3
Dell Streak 7
Foxit eSlick
Kindle 1, 2, 3,Kindle Keyboard
Kindle Touch
Kindle Fire
Kobo 1
Lenova IdeaPad Tablet
Onyx Boox 60
Pandigital Novel Color
Samsung Galaxy Tab 7
Sony Reader Daily
Sondy Daily Ed.
Sony 900
Sony PRS-700
SMALL pattern fits:
iPhone
iPod
iPod Touch
Smartphones
mp3 Players

Last, but not least, is a very versatile PDF sewing pattern for a padded case, with shoulder strap, and pockets and it is very easy to make!

Large and Small eReader Padded Bag PDF Sewing Pattern-With or Without a Shoulder Strap
Large bag fits the :
iPad
Motorola Xoom Wi Fi Tablet
any device up to 10" by 8 3/4"

Small bag fits:
nook Color
nook Touch
nook Touch wifi
Kindle
Kindle 2
Kindle 3

Back Pocket

Kindle Keyboard, Kindle Keyboard 3G, Kindle Touch, Kindle Touch 3G, Kindle Fire, Kobo eReader, Kobo Touch, most of the Sony line, any device up to 8 1/2" x 6 1/4"

Looking for the best gifts this Holiday season? Check out 4girlsdesigns.etsy.com and the rest of the shops on Etsy!

2011-11-24T17:33:00.000-08:00

We all like to receive special, unique gifts that reflect who we are, so why not shop where you can find those kinds of gifts for your friends and family! When you visit 4girlsdesigns shop at Etsy on Black Friday you will save $$$ by using the discount code: 2011BFTHRUCM

Thank you to all of my clients on Etsy, you are all THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

4girlsdesigns Eco Friendly Felt Christmas Stockings made it to the Front Page of Etsy!!

2011-11-10T15:13:00.000-08:00

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTUxMzY5Mjh8MTA1NjE2NDk5Mw/an-eco-and-wallet-friendly-christmas
4girlsdesigns has many items made with both eco friendly felt (made from recycled plastic water bottles) and merino wool felt. Please check them out, and many other sellers at Etsy.com who are creating eco friendly products!

NEW Sewing Patterns for Knitters, Crochet Artists, Painters, other Crafters

2011-11-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

This is a great time to make Project Bags, Needle/Crochet Hook Cases, or a great 40 Pocket Knitting Needle/Crochet Hook Organizer Roll for yourself or your favorite Knitters or Crochet Artists. These projects are also good for Painters to store their paintbrushes, Embroiderers toy store their thread and needles, Portrait Artists to store their colored pencils/markers, lots of other crafters can use these to organizer thier tools. These bags are not just for crafting but are also good as lunch totes, toy bags, cosmetic bags, etc. Make these for your wedding party to carry their last minute items for the big day! You will find all kinds of uses for these! (I do have some completed items from these patterns in my shop if you prefer to purchase finished items. I also do custom work to match your number of items to match or color preferences, from my currently available fabrics. Just send me a message on Etsy with your details.)

This 40 Pocket Knitting Needle & Crochet Hook Orgnaizer holds so much! One of the pockets is a zippered pocket to hold all the little items you need to knit/crochet. The pockets are sized appropriately to hold crochet hooks, dpn's, straight knitting needles, gauge, stitch holders, cable supplies, counters, etc. and are held safely inside the roll with a tidy, easy to use handmade belt. This is also great for holding pencils/pens/markers/and a large variety of paint brushes. The patterns come with detailed written instructions and many illustrations as well as numerous photos to help you in the step by step method I like to use. This case is padded through the use of pre-quilted material which is easily found in nationwide fabric stores across the US.

These would make great holiday gifts for those loved ones who are even now knitting and crocheting away making gifts for others!

Hand Embroidered Pillow from Engagement or Wedding Photo

2011-09-07T22:47:00.000-07:00

I have had the pleasure and honor of transforming a treasured photo into a thread picture on 100% Natural Linen pillows. Photos here are of two recently done projects.

I can also create a special hand embroidered photo from any special occasion or a favorite vacation spot.
You supply the photo(s) and I create the embroidered interpretation of that photo, accenting, adding, or deleting anything per your instructions. It will take approximately 7 days currently to create the embroidered images. I will then make it into an heirloom quality pillow. Bride and Groom's name and wedding date may be added to the other side of the pillow. Pillows are constructed of 100% natural linen and stuffed with new PolyFill.

This is a great way to commemorate any special event and keep a lasting image of it for generations to come. Please contact me today about your custom embroidered pillow request. Prices start at $125.00 plus shipping and handling costs.

4girlsdesigns Has Exciting NEW Patterns: Embroidered Felt Bridal Bouquet Tutorial, Tri-Fold Wallet With 15 Pockets, Great New Travel Bag To Wear on Your Hip or Slip Over Your Shoulder--just to name a few!

2011-06-12T20:26:00.000-07:00

4girlsdesigns has put together a few NEW and Exciting Patterns!! Much time and work has gone into creating a do-it-yourself, easy to follow Embroidered Felt Flower Bridal Bouquet Tutorial and we are happy to make that available in the shop TODAY! Easy enough for a beginner to embroidery and a great stress-reducing craft when juggling wedding details can be a bit overwhelming. The full-size flower pattern pieces and many pages of detailed instructions/ diagrams/ photographs make this a really fun project. Carry a beautiful bouquet on your Wedding Day that will last for generations.

Maybe you would like to make our new Hip or Slip Bag that is worn on your hip, or slip it over one shoulder, or across your body. It's the perfect bag for the active girl or guy. The bag will hold all your necessary take along items, and keeps your hands free to do other things. I used mine at the airport, at the theme park, and when I ride my bicycle, or to carry an ereader...there are more uses for this handy travel bag than I can list. And it is really easy to make! You can make a whole slew of them for your freinds, or even to sell in your own shop.

Would you like a classy wallet that also has 15 pockets? Our Carry All Tri Fold Wallet PDF Pattern is just right for you crafty people! This is another tutorial that arrives in your "in" box via email. It contains several pages with step by step directions, photos, and diagrams to help you put this baby together. These would be great gifts for Graduation parties! You could get started now on that Christmas gift list. It is so much fun to make these, and it doesn't use a great amount of material so they are economical to make too. Why not use that piece of material you were saving for something special to make yourself a special wallet.

4girlsdesigns Wool Felt Gadget Case is Featured in Team CAC Treasury!

2011-03-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

FEATURED!

We have been featured in a special Treasury sponsored by Team Christian Artists and Crafters on Etsy! Please take a look at this beautiful Treasury! Spring Springs
Congratulations to all the TeamCAC members who created Treasuries and are featured in them as well. This is such a loving and supportive Team to be a part of, THANK YOU!!

Please take a moment and vote for your favorite Treasury on the Team CAC blog here:
Blessings!

Wool Felt - It has been around for a long time, but I just fell in love with it!

2011-02-24T11:04:00.000-08:00

HOT NEW CRAFT: Embroidering felt!

I was so inspired by some of the felt creations I have seen lately that I had to try embroidery on felt. Here are some of the eco-felt pocket tissue cases I have made. I am very happy with the way they turned out.

Eco-Felt is produced from recycled plastic bottles. I love that it recycles trash into a material that is soft, beautiful, colorful, inexpensive and readily available. I noticed that the felt you buy by the yard is a thicker product than the craft pre-cut pieces you can find most anywhere.

I began with eco-fi brand felt because it was easily available to me. This was still limited in the colors I could get and I figured if I was going to spend all that time embroidering a piece of felt, it may as well be one that will last a very long time. I recently purchased a good quantity of 100% wool felt from a wonderful seller on Etsy: feltonthefly

When I opened the package I was thrilled with the colors I had chosen. When I began to cut out pieces I was amazed at the quality of the wool. It just has an amazing feel and durability to it that the other felts did not have. I just completed my first project, an iPod case. I LOVE THIS STUFF!! Yes, I had heard that if you try wool felt you would never go back. I appreciate the color, the feel, the durability of wool felt. I also appreciate the eco felt that is made from recycled plastic bottles. If only the manufacturers would process the plastic bottles to produce a material as thick, soft, and durable as wool felt...

I have found embroidering on felt to be a wonderful, stress-reducing therapy. I have had a great deal of stress lately and having a craft I can pick up and do anywhere is helpful to my sanity. I encourage you to try it! I will be incorporating more felt items in my Etsy shop.

My oldest is getting married this year, so I had to try my hand at making the new felt fower bridal bouquets. And, being me, I had to find a good way to personalize it, so I added names of two friends getting married along with their wedding date. I also, being me, developed a Felt Flower Bridal Bouquet Kit that comes with the felt flowers, in colors of your choice, button assortment for the flowers, wire, embroidery patterns for each flower (each one is different), and everything else you need to make your own Felt Flower Bridal Bouquet. If you would like to purchase just the Pattern for Felt Flower Bridal Bouquet it is going to be available as a PDF. I think it would be a great craft for the Bride, Mom, or a member of the Bridal Party to make for the wedding. Patterns for Bouttoniers are also available. I have included suggestions for the number of flowers to have in each bridal party bouquet. sCheck this out in my Etsy shop!

Are you looking for a way to personalize your Easter baskets? I have some Easter Egg Name Mini Bunting available. Just let me know the colors, name, and ribbon color you would like and I will make your personalized Easter egg-shaped bunting for you! Available in my Etsy shop now! Please order these early.

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Merry Christmas!

2010-12-04T01:22:00.000-08:00

I am in disbelief that it has not been since August that I have posted. So sorry. I have been engulfed in some things with my girls that has just overwhelmed us. Trauma drives me to creativity so I have been productive in making new things. I have some great new sewing patterns in the shop now. You can get a pattern to sew a case for almost any of the ereaders on the market. If you are not sure which one, just send me a conversation through the shop. I have had to turn off the comments here as I was getting some filthy comment posts that I don't want any of my readers to stumble on. Back to the shop...I have fallen in love with embroidering felt, and I am excited about the new recycled felt. It comes from recycled plastic bottles! I thought it may be rough to the touch, but it is not, it is actually very soft, yet durable. The colors are great too. So, there are many hand embroidered felt items and they are currently on SALE! Buy 1 Felt item get the second Felt item, of the same value or less, for half price. (This does not include the felt pillows or the wall art). There are some great buys on felt stockings and ornaments! I am trying to reduce my inventory so many items are at clearance prices.

Here is an easy neck warmer/cowl sewing pattern. It uses very little fabric and can be whip ped up in no time(ok, maybe more like an hour) These are large enough to fit over almost any head. You can choose from the super simple one piece cowl that any beginning sewer could handle, to the Reversible Multi-layer Cowl, fit for any sewer. This is a great project to reuse some favorite piece of clothing that has been outgrown. The model fell in love with both of these and has been wearing them both since the photo shoot! Make something warm and cozy for yourself, and when you see how easy these are to make, you can whip up some more for family and friends!

Are you a Narnia fan? The new DAWN TREADER movie is about to come out on Dec. 10 and I can hardly wait! My youngest daughter and I have been reading it together as an English assignment. It is a wonderful book written by C.S. Lewis. It is part of the Chronicles of Narnia series. I have embroidered a part of the Dawn Treader, a ship, that is the head of a colorful dragon. I hope to add more to this series of wall art.

Back to School! NEW items to celebrate this great season of the year: Padded, Water-Resistant Cases for all of your electronic gadgets!

2010-08-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the wonderful Back to School time of year with NEW items in the shop. 4girlsdesigns has padded and water-resistant cases for your favorite e-readers: iPad/Nook/Kindle and Netbooks/Min-Netbooks.

Matching items include cases for the following items: iPod Touch, iPod Classic, iPhone 3,4, GS, LG Cosmos, Compact Camera, Cell Phone, mp3 Player, iPod Nano, Blackberry Series, Zune, Blackjack, Nexus One, Motorola Droid, Eris, HTC Evo, Canon PowerShot, Flip Video camera, any gadgets that fit a 3.5" x 5" opening.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

NEW!!! Eco-friendly PDF SEWING PATTERNS (patterns are emailed to you and you need only print out the actual pattern pieces then enjoy reading the instructions with detailed graphics/photographs/many sewing tips!)

I have added a PDF Sewing Pattern for the Electronic Gadgets mentioned above. Now you can make some great gifts for any occasion, and make a great selection for yourself as well! Sewing ability level: Beginner through experienced. This makes a great sewing lesson!

Don't forget those favorite 4girlsdesigns Reusable Sandwich Bags/Wraps and Snack Bags/Napkins for a fun an eco-friendly lunch time! I have added some new designs so please check out my entire shop. There are some great wristlets and pencil bags as well.

2010-03-20T19:48:00.000-07:00

Spring 2010 New Store Offerings:

Clutches inspired by Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland Movie

Easter Bunnies

I have been very busy making new things for my shop. I have different sizes/types of Bunnies for Easter. I went to see Alice in Wonderland by Tim Burton and was inspired to make clutch purses based on the costumes in the film. I have also added many more eco-friendly sandwich bag sets. If there is a fabric product you would like to see, please leave a comment. Thanks to my followers who are reading this!

Is anyone interested in purchasing the pattern for these bunnies?

My Cupcake Tower available for YOUR Wedding, Birthday Party, Shower--makes every event in your life a Special Event!

2010-01-06T08:05:00.000-08:00

My CupCake Tower

by
4girlsdesigns.etsy.com

-NOW the perfect way to serve the hottest trends in desserts: CUPCAKES is available to YOU! No need to rent a tower you only use once, you now can have your own for all your party needs! My CupCake Tower is available for purchase! Use it for weddings, showers, birthday parties, sporting events, -ANYWHERE desserts are enjoyed!

An elegant display of cascading cupcakes can be an affordable alternative to an expensive wedding cake, but just as attractive. Cupcake Bakeries are popping up to meet the need of this growing demand. They are creating informal to very formal designs for their cupcakes. Cupcakes are a hot new trend that you can make at home too! Never before has there been so many cupcake supplies been available to the home baker. There are cupcake pans in various sizes: mini, regular, jumbo, even in shapes! The pans are even made in a variety of materials: aluminum, flexible shapes. The cupcake papers are available in multiple colors,

prints, materials, sizes, all to make your cupcakes

more attractive and specific to your event. There

are new cupcake wrappers available too! The

wrappers are in every way as customizable as the

other elements to present your cupcakes. The best

part is they are inexpensive and you can choose

how much you want to spend to get YOUR look.

You can add in other desserts as well, such as

chocolate covered cherries, homemade candies, all

of it will look so beautiful when presented on My

CupCake Tower. You will find many uses, not only

for desserts, but can also be used to serve

appetizers, items for your chocolate fountain, tea

sandwiches, fondue items, even can be used to hold

your table assignment cards for your wedding

reception. And it is equally fun at your child's Birthday

parties!

My CupCake Tower can be increased in height and number of cupcakes it will hold by adding layers. The photos are of my standard size, three layers, which holds about 80 regular size cupcakes. My CupCake Tower has a high 4 1/2" span between the layers making room for the "high" fashion cupcakes that have high mounds of topping/sugar sculptures/specialty picks atop them. Most other towers do not offer this. It also makes it possible to make the best use of the space by tucking in all the cupcakes per layer possible, yet not looking crowded or smashing the frosting against the bottom of the next layer. You want your cupcakes to look just as beautiful when your guests pluck one as when it went onto the Tower. I also have hidden details that will keep the layers from shifting about as people take their cupcake. Please visit my etsy shop for custom ordering My CupCake Tower: 4girlsdesigns.etsy.com

Details for My CupCake Tower, as shown in photos:
*3 layers that measure 20', 14' and 8' across
*1/2' deep layers comes with Red grosgrain ribbon with White hearts(this can be easily changed for your other events)
*4 1/2' space between the layers allowing room for even highly decorated cupcakes to fit
*stands 12 3/4' high
*space for about 80 cupcakes
*the bottom layer stands on four spherical feet that brings the cupcakes 2 1/4' off table top, allowing for additional cupcakes to be displayed on table surrounding the Tower, if desired
*a top layer of 8' across, making it the perfect size for a small cake, flowers, or up to 7 cupcakes
*comes apart for easy transportation and storage
*is constructed with safety discs on top/bottom of each layer, that fits into tower cylinder supports, to minimize any shifting or tipping
*constructed of durable materials: mdf board(very durable, and sustainable)gloss paint--easy to-clean, wood, wide pipe center supports

My CupCake Tower can be made to your specifications for your special event (i.e. round, square, color of ribbon for layers, number of layers, etc.) Please convo me with any special requests. These are currently being made to order. Please allow two weeks for construction of My CupCakeTower.

My CupCake Tower comes with ribbon, no cupcakes or additional decorations.

4girlsdesigns.etsy.com Holiday Sale from now through Cyber Monday!

2009-11-26T18:23:00.000-08:00

Please visit 4girlsdesigns.etsy.com this weekend for some really great sales and offers! I have added dozens of new items to my store. There are new sewing patterns, tea cozies, ornaments, ...and a NEW opporutnity to purchase eco-friendly Reusable Produce Bag SETS, Gift wrapped and at Buy 3 get 4th FREE, there is no reason not to Give GREEN eco-friendly gifts this Christmas!

Thanks to Akane Designs for posting info on her blog about my H1N1 bags!

2009-11-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

Please visit akane designs blog to see her selection of H1N1 related gift items!!

MANY New Gifts Added Today!

2009-11-09T08:07:00.000-08:00

I have been busy sewing away. I am especially enjoying the jar candle wraps. I have decorated all of my Yankee Candle jars now so they work with my decor. The Fabric Candy Gift Bucket makes a versatile, affordable gift for teachers, class gifts, team gifts, etc. Let me know how many you need, any color choices you would like-perhaps coordinating with school/team colors, and I'll set up a custom order for you to save you money on shipping!

JUST so you know: I have 133 items in my store UNDER $50.00; 16 items $25. and under; 30 items $15. and under; 37 items $10. and under; 26 items $5. and under. So, there are great handmade items that are affordable ready to ship. If you would like any of my items personalized, contact me through my store on etsy.com and we'll put together a custom order. I will even gift wrap your items, if you request it!

Holiday Early Bird Gift Discount

2009-11-03T06:31:00.000-08:00

EARLY BIRD SHOPPING DISCOUNT from Thursday, Nov. 5 through Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009. 10% off ALL merchandise in my etsy store!! Just mention the Early Bird Discount when checking out and I will refund your discount to you.

Scarves to keep you warm! Styles available for Women, Girls, Men and Boys

Choose from elegant, handsome, whimsical, fun designs ...need something custom? Please contact me in November. Fabrics available: SOFT Wool, Cotton, Damask print, Flannel, Cashmere Suiting, and lined wool cowls also available.

Add a touch of whimsy with my Stuffed Fabric Trees!

Table Top Trees: Decorate your tables without blocking the view of your guests! These are the last I have available.

You may appreciate these next two items if you are a handbell ringer, or know someone who is , with these NEW humorous Tote Bag (great for music, gloves, mallets, etc.) or an elegant Handbell Handbag. These are 4girlsdesigns Originals and only available at my shop.

A quick and easy gift: Get a hand embroidered, 4girlsdesigns.etsy.com original design, Candle Jar Wrap --then just pick up a candle and you have a unique gift. These will be made in a very small quantity, so please order as soon as possible. These fit Yankee Candles perfectly, but also fit most major candle jars. These can also be wrapped around mason jars, and homemade bread loaves
.

NEW: Fabric Baskets, Bins, Tubs, Storage Organizers. Get them in Holiday prints to use at your next party, or use as the packaging for gifts. Who doesn't love getting things that match their decor, AND help them get organized. Just send me a message for a particular color, or theme that you would like and I'll send you photos of fabric choices that match. They are great for toys, blocks, tools, food, sewing items, knitting projects, cd's, dvd's, game system controllers as well as the games. This is one of the HOTTEST gifts for 2009. When cleaning up after the holidays, your loved one will appreciate your gift right away! You can request handles when placing your order, if you would like that. The height can be adjusted simply by rolling down the top of the bin, to fit in whatever bookcase space, or just as an accent to the other bins.

buy handmade, candle jar wraps, bread wraps, children scarves, christmas trees, cowl scarf, eco friendly, H1N1 bags, pocket tissue cozy, handbells, handbell tote bags, handbell handbag, holidays, live green, pillow trees, scarves, stuffed trees, table top trees, teamCAC, tote bag

Getting ready for the Holidays!

2009-11-03T06:06:00.000-08:00

I have been busy making some new things for my etsy shop (www.4girlsdesigns.etsy.com). I have been having so much fun making things I can't wait to share them all with you! If there is anything you need that can be made from fabric, and even those you think that is impossible to do, let me know--I will make it!

GO GREEN this year and choose items that you can give as gifts that will help someone else think eco friendly too. My chemical free, Reusable Produce Bags, my pack cloth and fabric reusable Sandwich/Snack Bags and cloth Napkins (great for students, teachers, anyone who takes their lunch to work or snacks to sporting events), Storage Organizing Bins/Baskets/Buckets are reversible, adjustable in height, store all those things that otherwise would be uncollected clutter. (Great for toys, blocks, books, magazines, cd's, dvd's, knitting essentials, thread, tools, teacher's tools, SO many uses and they look so much better than those plastic tubs with the broken corners and lost lids! You can also throw them in the washer when needed! You can tuck a gift inside them for gift-giving, or just stick a tag on it and it becomes THE gift--who doesn't want to be more organized these days?) Other Green Eco0-Friendly products to look for this Holiday season: my Reversible Cup Cozy to hold your hot cup of joe/cocoa/cider, Pocket Tissue Cases made from 100% Natural Linen.

Just for FUN: Wallets made from Charlie Brown and Snoopy Winter Fun Themed fabrics, reversible Coasters to protect your table, H1N1 bags/pocket tissue case, Cozy, Warm, Scarves for fall and winter, and NEW Embroidered Candle Jar Wraps that can also be used to wrap around Bread for gift-giving as well as most of the major jar candle producers on the market, and I have added pdf Sewing Patterns for both round and square fabric Storage Organizers if you would like to make them yourself. Sewing Patterns for other great gift items and my own Disney Refillable Mug Carrier Pattern is available as well. Make sure you check back for Black Friday and Cyber Monday Specials! If you need custom work done, send me a message as soon as possible, in order to get the items before the Holidays. Thanks for reading this, and have a blessed day!

Fabulous Fabric Storage Buckets-adjustable, soft, reversible, customizable

2009-09-23T22:55:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to make some of these fabric buckets for a long time, and I finally did! These are so useful, and appealing, I know you will want to try some too. I find uses for them in every room in the house. They are soft, lightweight, sturdy, which makes them ideal for children to use. They are adjustable, just fold up or down the top to make them fit any shelf, or the item you want to store in it. They are fully reversible so you can have the print side out, or the solid side, or any combination of the two. You can customize them to any decor, season, holiday, event, etc. I like looking at them from across the room, rather than the toys that had randomly found their way to the shelf, or ugly plastic boxes. Please visit my shop at: http://www.4girlsdesigns.etsy.com/ and send me a message about what you would like your buckets to look like. I am happy to make them custom sizes, or fabrics. Thanks for visiting.

NO H1N1 Tote Bags-perfect for carrying tissues, masks, and hand sanitizer!

2009-09-23T22:06:00.000-07:00

Tell H1N1 to Go Away!

Are you aware that 1/2 of the people contracting the 2009 H1N1 are under the age of 13? That got me thinking that I want my children to be vigilant in doing what they can to avoid getting the flu, and also spreading it if they do get it. I knew they would need a somewhat constant reminder to wash their hands, and use tissues when possible if they needed to cough/sneeze. I designed this "NO H1N1" slogan, complete with a fun looking pig, to gently remind them, without scaring them, to be careful, use the tissues and hand sanitizer in their tote bags. The bag is also large enough to carry face masks that fold flat. The can fit easily in little hands as they are only 6" by 6", not including the handles. Hang them from their back packs, or keep them at their desks when they need them. They are also handy for hanging from a waist belt. I also have full size tote/book bags for adults. Please visit my shop at: http://www.4girlsdesigns.etsy.com/ to see them. Thank you for visiting my blog today.

2009-09-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be beneficial to post some of the links to products I found using the polyurethane coated nylon for food/water purposes.

Used for drinking sacks http://wildernet.altrec.com/shop/detail/18994/?sch=clk

Or flexible water storage containers: http://www.aquaflex.net/aquatank/

http://www.campin4less.com/product_details.em?product_id=1313171

http://pisealtech.thomasnet.com/product/ealed-vinyl-urethane-laminate-products-by-industry/recreation-rf-sealed-products?

http://aplusfooddeliverybags.com/large_multi_bags.htm Pizza Boxes

Pastry bags: http://www.instawares.com/pastry-bag-econo.jr2108.0.7.htm

Water bags: http://www.rei.com/product/733950?cm_mmc=cse_bizrate-_-datafeed-_-product-_-733950&mr:referralID=cfbc3951-a138-11de-99f3-000423c27407

Water purifier container: http://www.rei.com/product/758048

Camping bucket bag: http://www.rei.com/product/782974

Nylon case for food ; http://www.rei.com/product/633066

Traditional canoe food pack: http://www.rei.com/product/722911

Water bowl: http://www.rei.com/product/759617

Food case: http://www.waterproofcases.net/watershed-largo-tote-boat-bag-ws-largotote.html

Internationally sold Snack Taxi’s made from this material, and placed in the same way, with coating facing away from food: http://www.naturalkidz.com/busnsasa.html

Dry bag pack for food: http://www.surftosummit.com/gts-dry-bag-pack-pack-only-p-1740.html?cPath=199_202

July 2, 2009

2009-07-02T05:28:00.000-07:00

Stow It All Apron debuts!
I have been busy working on a new sewing venture: making craft vendor aprons!

Since many of us sell our creations at craft shows or farmer's markets it made sense to come up with an apron to conceal so many of the items used in that venture. I came up with an 8 or 10 pocket craft vendor apron, but they are also great just for keeping your tools in one place so you can find them easier. Great for gardening too.

The Apron is called the Stow It All. The top of the line apron has 10 pockets, including a hidden zipper closed pocket to stash your hard-earned cash in. There is a flap-closed pocket great for keeping change in, but also large enough for other items you need to keep secure. There are pockets perfect for keeping pens and markers in, where they can lay sideways. Keeping the ink horizontal cuts down on pens leaking or not wanting to write. Business cards can stay close at hand, yet hidden. Tools fit in the small, medium, and large pockets neatly. There is a place for your cell phone, calculator, receipt book, and more! The Stow It All has a hanging key strap with swivel metal key hook. There is also a fabric loop great for keeping scissors or sunglasses close at hand.

This Stow It All apron is made with the best materials for long-time wear. The apron is made with canvas or twill and layers of premium cotton fabric, interfacing, highest quality thread, durable metal swivel key hook and topped off with a decorative yo-yo with ruffled layer. The apron can also be worn reversed as a plain front version. The waistband is a comfortable 2 1/8" deep. You don't have a tiny, uncomfortable, waistband cutting into your waist as you are working. Want to get one? Go to my etsy store. You can get there from the top right of this blog.

2009-05-18T12:50:00.000-07:00

Some of you have been requesting sources for the polyurethane coated nylon, here is a short list. I am sure there are many others. I have purchased from some of these suppliers before, but not all of them. Thanks for reading my long report! : ) Have fun making your bags!
http://www.seattlefabrics.com/
http://www.beaconfabric.com/
http://www.rochfordsupply.com/
www.rayjardine.com/ray-way/Tarp-Kit/urethane.htm
www.questoutfitters.com/coated.html
http://www.rockywoods.com/

Reusable Sandwich Bags and Wraps Are Taking Over the World Like Wildfire and Some of Them Are Unsafe...

2009-04-28T08:42:00.000-07:00

…what’s worse is your child’s lunch may be wrapped up in one right now. (Keep reading to find out how to WIN in my Reusable Snack Bag Giveaway!) A reusable sandwich bag or wrap is supposed to free you from using thousands of plastic baggies every year. It is a great choice, economically and environmentally, to switch to reusable containers in packing lunches and stop using disposables.
UPDATE: March 29, 2010- I am still seeing many sellers using unsafe materials. If you choose to purchase the coated rip-stop nylon lining PLEASE be sure the seller has the shiny, coated side away from your food. It saddens me to see someone selling bags made out of just rip stop nylon with the shiny side on the inside of the bag where your family's food will be stored. That is unsafe. Don't use those. Also, just on a structural note: make sure they are sewing at least twice around the edges of the VELCRO closure or it will not last. Look carefully at these safety and functional details prior to purchasing food bags.
Many, many, sandwich bags have been made with PUL fabric which is NOT considered to be food safe by the FDA. Despite the fact that this is noted on the vendor’s websites, and the manufacturer’s web site, people are still out there, on thousands of blogs and forums, telling each other to go ahead and use it and sell it to others. Although PUL is a fascinating fabric, it is not designed for, nor does it meet, the standard of materials that are in contact with food. PUL stands for a cotton or polyester knit fabric that has a laminate layer on one side. It was made for a variety of purposes, like hazard-mat suits, hospital bedding, shoes, and somewhere along the line was embraced by those making their own diapers. Now the latest trend with PUL is to make the reusable sandwich bags/wraps out of it.

This is what the manufacturer says about the product PUL:
Fabuthane® PUL is used in the following applications:
1. Apparel
2. Footwear
3. Inflatables
4. Medical
5. Protective coatings
6. Transportation

This is what two of the leading vendors of PUL say:

Celtic Cloth: “No, PUL has not been approved as food safe.”

Neptune Fabrics: Is PUL fabric food-safe? Can it be used to make reusable sandwich bags? Unfortunately, the polyurethane laminate on our PUL fabric is not USDA-or FDA-approved for direct food contact. They suggest if the user wants to use PUL in the sandwich bag, they need to have a separate fabric layer between the PUL and the sandwich (food). (Crafter’s if you are making your bags out of PUL please follow this suggestion, for the safety of yourself and those you are selling to.)

Another maker of PUL food sacks argues that she has done her homework, still insisting that it is safe and she lists THIS outdoor dog gear shop to “prove” PUL is safe. However, I searched the entire site and found only references to polyurethane coated nylon material being used. The PUL user goes on further, telling the purchaser to “use lemon juice and lots of sunlight to get the mildew out” of the PUL liner. I include this only to say to sellers, be sure of what you are selling. And to buyers, be sure of what you are buying. The product was not made for this purpose and this is one of the way’s it is showing that.

We have to label PUL fabric as UNSAFE for reusable sandwich bags and wraps.

There are some other UNSAFE practices going on out there: using old vinyl shower curtains, using vinyl tablecloths, modern version of “oil cloth”

More Choices:
SAFE: Home made oil cloth, or beeswax cloth, are useful for this purpose. Modern “oil cloth” is really just a nasty vinyl product. You can find instructions online for the oil cloth as well as the beeswax. I am partial toward the beeswax cloth for all the healthy things associated with it, and I love the smell of beeswax!

SAFE: Plain cotton material is available. Here, know where your fabric is coming from and what hazards to look for. There have been many issues of late with foreign made fabric being printed with high levels of metal. Buy only the best fabrics, from reputable shops. Some prefer only the organic cotton, inside and out. That is considered safe, however, you lose the waterproof capabilities of other materials. That means your sandwich may leak onto what is around the bag, or your bread may get dried out. It is a safe choice however.

SAFE: Polyurethane coated nylon is water, stain-, mildew-, abrasion- and rot- resistant.
We know that to be internationally marketed these products had to be carefully tested and we see they are both using the polyurethane coated nylon material. This material meets the demands of the consumer: water-, stain-, mildew-, abrasion-. rot-resistant, free of heavy metals and phthalates, PBBs, and PBDEs. It is also widely available to crafters .

Snack Taxis (formerly Happy Sacks) recently featured on Oprah: SnackTAXIs are lined with a waterproof material that consists of nylon with a polyurethane coating. After talking to many manufacturers of this product, we understand that this type of coated nylon is free of heavy metals and phthalates. The tests revealed that the nylon is free of heavy metals (including lead), phthalates, PBBs, and PBDEs.
WallabyBags They're laminated on the inside with polyurethane, which is food safe and widely used in the food industry from food manufacturing and packaging to food storage. They are water proof, so they're perfect for keeping your sandwich fresh, as well as packing messier take-alongs like fruit….they are machine washable and dry-able.
GO GREEN POUCHES : The sandwich size pouch will neatly fit your large sandwich, bagel or wrap. Dimensions 7.5"W x 6.0"H Material 100% cotton, lining 100% nylon.

I am not a scientist. All I can do is gather as much information as possible and make a reasonable conclusion based on the facts I find. Based on my preliminary study, and now confirmed with these results, I have chosen polyurethane coated nylon (with the coated side as the underside, so the coating is not touching the food) and cotton. I chose cotton because of all the beautiful fabric choices available. I already had the nylon for other projects and love it’s durability and it’s use for holding food and water. It has been tested, and it is an FDA approved material. You can purchase several different styles of bags and wraps from me. I also sell cotton napkins to go with them. I have a fold-over design that is based on the style of sandwich bags I grew up with, and it is VELCRO free. It is also quiet! So if you have little ones that still need a snack in church, or a quiet meeting, get this one. I also sell the bags with VELCRO across the top opening. If you need a special size, send me a message. I can do a limited amount of custom work. I am very excited about my newest product a Wrap ‘n Tray : you wrap your sandwich in and when you sit down to eat it, just open up the sides and it forms a tray, with sides! I even have special Happy Birthday bags

Please visit my etsy store (www.4girlsdesigns.etsy.com) and see the variety available.

Let’s educate our children on the most eco-friendly ways and invite them to be a part of it. They can pick the style, fabric, shape, etc. with my store items. I also get them to you much faster! You can get a multi-item discount, as well as low combined shipping. I seek to supply you with the best materials for a safe lunch, and also the best fabric for a fun lunch, and faster service for your immediate lunch needs. I offer 100% cotton, inside and out, if you prefer that. I am a Mom and have the exciting privilege of raising my kids, and the blessing of time they give me to sew!

Please check out this site: Environmental Working Group for some great kid-friendly menu suggestions and eco friendly lunch-packing tips.

Eco Friendly Light and Durable Reusable Produce Bags Made With No-See-Um Netting

2009-04-24T22:01:00.000-07:00

Using these is a great way to be eco friendly. Go green with these bags made of super strong fine mesh polyester with stabilizing cross weave called No-See-Um Netting. Approximately 3,700+ holes per square inch.It is stronger than those plastic bags at the grocery store and you can reuse them to help save the environment. Ties with a secured drawstring cord. All seams are triple stitched for strength. The bags are very lightweight so as to not add additional weight. They weigh less than half an ounce.This fine mesh is easy to see through so produce can be scanned at the grocery store without removing it from the bag.(zoom in photo of label and you can see how easy it is to see through it!) It will also not harm even the tenderest produce. You can take your filled bags home, wash the produce right in the bag, wash them in the bag, and put them into the refrigerator, still in the bag! The bags are machine washable cold, hang dry. This material is much stronger than a layer or two of tulle or regular netting that simply will not hold up to the test of time and weight. Buy these with confidence that you are getting the best (see through, lightweight, durable) you can and you are helping the environment. My Reusable Produce Bags are made from the highest quality mosquito netting which provides a chemical-free way of carrying and protecting your fruit, vegetables and other bulk food items. I ALWAYS use no-see-um mosquito netting for these bags, never weaker fabrics such as crinoline, stiff nylon tulle or other netting. If you want a bag that will last, and not harm your food, this is it!

LIVE GREEN USE REUSABLE ITEMS STOP PUTTING MORE PLASTIC INTO OUR LANDFILLS FIND ECO FRIENDLY WAYS TO SHOP REUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS REUSABLE PRODUCE BAGS REUSABLE SANDWICH WRAP ‘n TRAYS REUSABLE SANDWICH AND SNACK BAGS
Why use my No-See-Um fabric for Reusable Produce Bags?
· Lightweight (to not tip the scale like heavier materials)
· Virtually see-through (no bruised produce because they had to be removed from the bag to get scanned)
· You can fill, purchase, wash and store your produce in the same bag! No need to remove food for check out!
· This material keeps out the tiniest pests (no-see-ums) and bigger ones.
· Chemical-free way to protect your food from pests
· Never have to use those plastic grocery store bags again
· Very Fine Mesh that won’t harm your tender produce
· Fold up very small so they are easy to carry with you
· Nice drawstring to close the top
· Handmade in USA
The other netting bags on the market look like they would break, or make mesh-marks on the produce. The organic cotton bags look very “green”, and who doesn’t want that, but you have to remove the food from them at so many stages of the process from selecting to storing --and the cotton will tip the scales more than the no-see-um netting will. Please visit my etsy store for these any many other Green Living products.

ETSY DAY 2009!

2009-04-24T07:01:00.001-07:00

The Etsy Forums have united and declared Friday, April 24th, 2009, Etsy Day! Hurrah! We here at Etsy love you for working together to create a really exciting opportunity for us all. We will be reporting the guerilla marketing on Friday and we challenge YOU, buyer, seller or fan, to shout "Etsy!" from the rooftops. Get the Etsy name out there in the brightest, sparkly-est, boldest way you can think of! Make sure to record your efforts with video or photos (if you upload photos to flickr, making sure to tag them "Etsy Day 2009"). We'll be highlighting the funniest, weirdest, most attention grabbing efforts here on Etsy's Blog and on our social networks (like our Facebook page and Twitter), and we'll make sure to link back to you.
To learn more about Etsy Day, check out the latest forum post by Shugirl here.
Here are some ideas from the Etsy Admin:
If you get people to sign up for Etsy on Friday make sure they mention your Etsy username in the Referrer Username box at sign up! If we see a user who really rocks this, we'll automatically include you in our Etsy Day follow up post. So if you print out flyers, get on the news, or get Ashton Kutcher to tweet about Etsy, make sure you get your username in there, too!
Tweet your endeavors via Twitter and make sure to add the hash tag #EtsyDay. (And send it to @aplusk. Let's get Ashton Kutcher's attention on Etsy Day. Ha! Mr. Most Twitter Followers.)
Support a new seller on Etsy Day! Buy an item from someone with no sales (you can find them on Pounce Undiscovered), and wish them a "Happy Etsy Day" in the Message to Seller field when you check out.
Print out schugirl's Etsy sign to stick in your car window or download and print out the design Anda made for Etsy Day!
Get an Etsy tattoo!
Dress your family in all orange. When you get weird looks, whisper "Etsy".
One final clarification..."Etsy" is pronounced like "Betsy" with no B.
Ok, we're getting silly now. Let's hear your own Etsy Day guerilla marketing ideas! Post them in the comments below. And don't forget to post photos of your wildest Etsy Day promotions to Flickr and tag them "Etsy Day 2009"!