First bag in 2010

Can you believe it? We are at the end of the first decade of the 21st century.
Recently I'm busy making my second quilt.
I'm going slower than I expected.
I actually hand pieced the pinwheel blocks. Here's one:


As I finally finished one block and press the seams,
I found a little pinwheel at the center on the back side.
It's cute:


I learned from other quilters that when doing one big project, it's beneficial to get some easier projects going, to avoid that too-much-time-devoted-and-so-little-finished fatigue.

Because of this, I am making some bags for two of my friends who are going to have their first babies. I found this bag's tutorial on the following website:
http://tw.myblog.yahoo.com/kikimama168/article?mid=17262&prev=17279&next=17171&page=1&sc=1#yartcmt
It's a Chinese blog with lots of useful information for bag makers.
There are no patterns involved. Just cut out several rectangles, and you're ready to sew. The author claims that you can finish this bag within half a day.
I think she is right. It's really easy and gorgeous.

Take a look at my work:
The front:

Inside:


I sewed on two flower-shaped buttons on the sides. They match the background fabric's motif. I didn't realize they go together until I sew the buttons on. What a perfect match!

I made a solid base for the bag, so the bottom won't sag when carrying things.


I am absolutely satisfied. I spent some time choosing fabrics that match in color and value. This time it's successful. ^^
I'd call this a happy new year bag, or a happy motherhood bag.