In the works: a new Junior Billie Bag, based on Billie Mahorney’s original design. I’ve had the pleasure of teaching this fabulous quilter’s tote for the last three years and will be heading to the Oregon coast next week to teach a two-day workshop for a quilt guild.
A new class necessitates a new Junior Billie Bag, and here’s a preview of the one I’m working on right now:
(My celadon green carpet isn’t the best backdrop to show off the front and back panels but it will have to do for now.)
My starting point was this gorgeous print from In the Beginning Fabrics that came out last spring. Designed by Jason Yenter, it’s called “Ajisai Hydrangea:”
For one of the front/back panels I made a windmill block, inserting a fussy cut blossom in the center with narrow trim around it:
For the other panel I made a kaleidoscope block of eight 45° degree triangles, converting it into a double inset circle:
I just happened to have the perfect button in my collection to put in the center of the circle. The button went on after the panel was quilted:
Now I’m preparing to make a plethora of pockets. Here’s my fabric pull, a pleasing mix of woven cottons and batiks — all from my stash:
Does anyone else love the combination of green and purple as much as I do?
Do I love the combo?? I should say so!
Another beautiful bag in process. Your colors are wonderful. I can’t wait to see the finished project.
Love it!!!! Sandy
What a yummy selection of fabrics. Your hydrangea print seems made for kaleidoscopes.
A trip to the coast! A bonus!
It’s a beautiful assortment of fabrics. Your color choices are perfect. I know Rachel in particular would love your choice of purples :).
Hi Dawn, I live in Australia and have loved the Billie Bag from afar for years. Is there a pattern available for purchase? Deb
Hi, Deb. No, there is no pattern available. Billie Mahorney, who created the design, never wanted to write a pattern. She preferred to teach her design in a class.
I love your color selection, focus fabric and first blocks! Fabulous!