messenger bag

While I'm busy finishing up a jazzy slideshow for Nicey Jane, I thought I'd pop in and share another bit of news.  Who recognizes this photo above? It's from the cover of Mary Engelbreit's Home Companion back in May 2008. 

I hadn't originally planned to publish a pattern for this book bag. 
However, after hundreds of requests for it, I finally got a clue and
did the work. The Smarty Girl book bag mini pattern arrives at the studio on Monday and will start shipping out on Tuesday. 

I
use my Smarty Girl to carry a sketchbook and pencils. Charlotte has a
Smarty Girl for her coloring and activity books. It's a simple sew,
perfect for holiday gifts and birthday presents. You could make one for
your child for Christmas and fill it with activity books.  With a
coordinating baby quilt folded up inside, it makes a great shower gift.
Then, of course, you could do a sketchbook & pencils — my personal
favorite.

(Pattern cover features my new collection, Nicey Jane!)