I finally sewed my neck tie bag. I followed a lot of the other examples on Craftster.org but made it a lot more simple. I haven’t really sewed before, but this project was pretty easy. I used black thread and the zig zag stitch. The top has a zipper. I didn’t line it or do anything fancy. I’ve been using it for about 6 months now and been putting all my school folders, books, etc. in it (it is a large bag). So far it has held up really well, despite all the heavy stuff in it. I got all the neck ties from the Freecycle community (McLean branch). Thanks to all the retired gentlemen who gave me their ties and could contribute.

UPDATE: Since this I have been commissioned to make a similar bag for a woman who works at my school out of her father’s ties (who recently passed away). I think this is such a great idea and such a nice way to remember someone. Something to keep in mind if you sew!

I just got these nifty old Star Wars curtains from Yesterday’s Rose Thrift Store in Fairfax for $4. I believe they will be either a Star Wars dress, skirt, or tote bag. Maybe all three since I have two large panels. I just have to find the right pattern.

I have noticed a zipper trend this season and I am really excited about it. I saw it at both Urban Outfitters and Forever 21. Really easy to duplicate with a $2 brass zipper. They simply pulled the zipper apart and sewed the cloth (non zippered side) down to the shirt. Urban Outfitters’ has zippers all around the collar but Forever 21 has their zipper spirals on one side. This vindicates the neatness of the zipper necklace I made http://www.retoldstory.com/detail-necklaces.php?ItemID=28.

The shirts are both around $20 at both stores at Tysons since Urban Outfitters has them on sale. They also have zipper head bands.