Compass bracelet

I’ve read somewhere in the web that Iolite stone was used in past times by mariners as a compass to guide their way to sea… apparently they noted that it would show different hues of blue-violet when held to the northern and southern skies. I didn’t know this before making this bracelet, but I think now it is a kind of a sign, as I’m leaving for a journey very soon… So, I’m definitely bringing this bracelet with me!

Along with iolite stone chips I used some bright light blue glass beads.

I’ve just realised that my subconscious probably guided me in making this bracelet since it has the colours of the sea I’m about to sail… (see here)

Iolite and glass

Iolite and glass

Crossbody travel bag

My latest addition to my bag collection is this crossbody bag I purposely made for my upcoming holidays…. I needed a small – but not too small – bag to keep my passport, cell-phone, boarding card, etc… at hand, that could also be easily put away in a bigger bag (see here). So I used some Ikea fabric for the outside while the lining is a reminder I bought at my local market some time ago. The shoulder strap is recycled from an old bag, but since it’s black and doesn’t match with the fabric enough, I will probably replace it with a strap made of the very same fabric.

I also added a zip, to keep the precious things safely inside, a big pocket in the front with a hidden magnetic button, and a smaller pocket in the back. There’s also a small pocket inside.

On a second thought I could have used a black zip to match the recycled strap… mmmhh…. 😕

Crossbody travelbag front

back

Inside

Starfish bracelet

Here is a very Summer-like bracelet I made with a red resin starfish, five cultured pearls, and two unidentified turquoise-blue stones (perhaps amazonite?)….

Starfish bracelet

Starfish bracelet

Paola’s bag

Next week is my friend Paola‘s birthday and since she once told me that she needs a Summer shoulder bag for when she goes motorbiking with her hubby I decided to make one as a present. This is actually my first chronologically serious attempt at fabric bags. Even before this one.

So, I found a tutorial on the web and make quite few changes according to my tastes, and I came out with this zipped lined bag, with a flap with magnetic buttons, a rear – always handy – small pocket and adjustable strap.  Anyway it has some minor imperfections but I think she’ll find it quite useful. Or at least, I hope so.  🙂

PS as we had an early celebration for her birthday yesterday, due to the forthcoming Summer holidays, she has already been given her present… so, no spoiler here. 😉

Paola’s bag

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Inside

Back

Front