Maranda Lee

Awe-mazing Gift Bows

2012-01-23T19:35:00.012-07:00

I adore anything handmade especially when it is given to me as a gift. There is something about receiving a gift that was made with you in mind. I cherish these gifts most as I think of the time and love put into that object.

Whether your gift is made by hand or not, you can add a little personal touch to every gift with one of these amazing fabric bows. It's good for the environment and your friend will probably love the bow almost as much as the gift itself!

Level: Super Easy

Time: 1/2 hour or less (make more than 1 at a time and save them in a small tote with your gift wrap)

Materials:

Scrap fabric 8-14" long at least 2"

Button

Pinking shears or rotary cutter with pinking blade

Hot Glue

Thread (you can hand sew this but I like to machine sew these-it's just faster)

Wonderunder double sided iron-on by Pellon (for bow #2)

Bow Option 1:

1. Using the pinking shears/rotary cutter cut fabric into strips 1" to 1 1/4" wide so the pinking cut is on each side of the fabric. Cut strips to the following lengths. You will need 2 of each size: 14", 12" 10" 8"

2. Fold each piece as follows: with piece horizontally in front of you, fold short edge to the middle and flip upside down, then take other side of the strip and fold to the middle and flip upside down. The turns on each side should be going opposite directions. Pin. Do this for the remaining 7 strips.

3. Stack the strips perpindicular by size (ie: place one 14" strip on top of the other 14" strip show they are shaped like a +) Tack in place by hand or with a forward and back stitch on your machine

4. Stack the + by size. Place the 14" set on bottom, then the 12" set on top of that, then the 10" set on top of that and then the 8" set on the top. Stitch through all layers making sure the ends of each set are secured.

5. Hot glue a button or other decorative center.

Bow Option 2:

1. Cut 4" strips of wonderunder by 14, 12, 10 and 8" Iron one piece between 2 pieces of fabric. Use pinking rotary cutter and cut strips to 1 or 1 1/4" wide.

2. You will want 2 pieces of each length when you are done. Continue as above from step 2

Bow Option 3:

1. Cut fabric scraps into 3" strips by 14", 12", 10" 8" - you will need 2 of each size.

2. Start with 1 strip. Fold in lengthwise bringing the edges to the center. Your strip will be 1 1/2" wide. Iron. Fold in half (it is now 3/4" wide) iron.

3. Topstitch along both long sides about 1/4" from the edge.

4. Fold as shown in step 2. Omit pinning and instead tack ends in place. Stack them into sets as in #3 and tack in place.

5. Using a hot glue gun stap the sets as follows: 14", top with 12", top with 10", top with 8"

6. Hot glue with buttons or other decorative items, gems, pearls, reclaimed jewelry pieces.

Gift Card Money Pouch

2012-01-21T14:10:00.009-07:00

This little pouch is perfect place to slip that birthday gift card or a little cash. I love to use mine for storing all those punch cards that accumulate in your wallet. Whenever I'm in a store, I pull out my card pouch and easily find the rewards card I need.

Level: Easy-Peezy

Time: about 45 minutes, less if you make more than 1 at a time

Materials: 2 pieces of Scrap fabric at least 6" x 10" each

Light weight (pellon 911FF) iron-on interfacing 6" x 10"

Snap Button and tool ( hammer and thread spool)

Coordinating thread

1. Cut a rectangle 6" x 10" out of 2 different pieces of scrap fabric. You can use 2 colors that coordinate or accent each other...don't feel limited here as I love a fun bag with a surprise on the inside!

2. Following manufacturers instructions, iron-on the interfacing to the fabric piece A (the fabric that will be on the outside).

3. With right sides together, match up short and long ends of both pieces of fabric. Stitch all 4 sides leave 3" on one short end open for turning. Be sure to back-stitch at the beginning and end as well as at each corner.

NOTE" when stitching across the opposite short end from the opening you will have the opportunity to either stitch straight across for a squared flap or as I have done here, angle your stitch to have a triangular flap. You could also use a soup can to mark a rounded flap....the skies the limit on this design!

4. Clip corners and turn right sides out. Press and then stitch across the bottom closing the opening at the same time.

5. Fold your pouch into thirds so that it is approximately 5" wide x 3.5" tall when folded. Stitch up one side, across the flap and then down the other side. You now have a pouch with a flap!

6. Add a snap! You can buy these snaps with a tool for attaching them but you can also use a thread spool and hammer as shown here. Mark where your snap will go by folding the flap down over the main part of the pouch then fold it up about 1/2". At the center (approx 2 1/2" from the edge) mark both the flap and the pouch where the snap will go.

7. Attach the top snap to the flap (this is the part of the snap with the decorative head). Then the opposite part of the snap to the pouch.

Voila! Fill with money or gift card for a fun reusable present!

IDEAS: Add a personal touch to your pouch by printing a message on fabric paper and stitching it to your pouch before assembly. You can also fold the fabric paper in half and stitch it into the side seam for a "tag" affect. Add the recipients name, a greeting or message, or words or inspiration for a truly unique and personal gift.

Fabric Clearance

2012-01-18T10:03:00.003-07:00

If you love fabric then now is the time to build that stash of yours and fill it with some gorgeous designer fabrics. Save 40% off already marked down prices in my fabric shop www.sparrowfabrics.etsy.com.

Use the coupon code at checkout - clearance40 - to save 40% off your entire purchase of fabric and patterns.

Need more than 1 yard, convo me and I'll set up a listing for you.

You must use the code for the discount. If you have trouble with the code, convo me BEFORE you complete checkout. Offer is good while inventory lasts.

HURRY!~ Oh and tell a friend! It's always more fun to save $$ with a friend ! !

Scrappy Lanyard

2012-01-13T16:04:00.014-07:00

Keep your keys or work id in a handy place, around your neck or simply find it in your bag of tricks.

Supplies:

Scrap fabric to be cut into 3" wide strips of various lengths

Thread

Snap bolt hardware and/or split key ring (checkout the purse hardware at your fabric store)

Time: about 1/2 hour-1 hour

Seam Allowance: 1/2"

1. Start by measuring the length you want your lanyard to be. I like mine to be 36-42" round so it lands about mid-torso. For this we will make a 38" round (19" long) lanyard

2. Cut scrap fabric to 3" wide x 6" long x 8 pieces

3. Stitch fabric pieces together at the short end so you will end up with one long strip 3" wide by approximately 40" long. Press open seams.

4. Fold wrong sides together working on the long sides. Iron. Fold again in half, iron. You should now have a 3/4" x 40" strip.

5. Top-stitch both edges of the strip approximately 1/4" from edge.

6. Slip snap bolt onto the strip. Taking care that the strip is not twisted, match up the raw ends then stitch and back-stitch 1/2" from the raw edges.

7. Place the snap bolt next to the loop closure stitch you just made. With the snap facing out (away from the loop), stitch and backstitch as close to the snap as possible and through both layers of the loop.

8. A split key ring can be used instead of or with the snap hook.

Tip: To lesson the bulky-ness of the lanyard you may consider lengthening your fabric pieces and stitching them together using this diagonal joining method.

{Copyright Info: I love to create and share ideas with you. All patterns and tutorials are for personal use and not for resale. If you find something here that you want to share on your blog, please do and note the tutorial is by Maranda Lee at http://www.marandalee.com/ Copyright 2011-2012 All Rights Reserved Maranda Lee Design Ltd}

Simply Emma

2012-01-12T16:52:00.005-07:00

There is something to be said for simplifying. With 2 boys under the age of 5, I try, though usually unsuccessfully, to simply our life, toys, clutter, toys, errands, toys....

So here you go, the Simply Emma is the same great style, quality construction and durability as the original however I've streamlined the interior to work as a purse with 3 slip pockets, magnetic snap closure, key hook and adjustable messenger strap.

Find it at www.marandalee.etsy.com

With the simpler design comes a simpler price too....available in numerous customizable fabrics.

Hats

2012-01-10T21:16:00.003-07:00

As the mother of two boys, this biz is my girly-fix. However, I still love to create for my little-men. My youngest LOVES hats which inspired me to create these classic newsboy-style hats with a bit of twist. Available locally at The Natural Baby Company in Bozeman

Maranda Lee - The Original Hot Mama Handbags

2009-07-17T23:12:00.181-06:00

CLEARANCE SALE going on now at http://www.marandalee.etsy.com

See the In Stock and Clearance Section for great discounts!

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VACATION NOTICE: I am on vacation December 30-January 6. Please email me with questions and custom orders. All items will be completed and mailed after my return.

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Skirts skirts skirts! Loving the skirts...add some tights or favorite leggings for a fall/winter look! Skirts for women and children!

Happy Holidays...this am we had our first "snow" of the season and with that the Holiday Specials have also arrived! Go to http://www.marandalee.etsy.com/ to shop the holiday specials and stock up on great gifts for every woman in your life!

The Madi...this big bag is perfect for use as a diaper bag but also ideal for travel, the gym, school, etc! Available in XLarge and Large with 2 straps or a messenger strap. Features 8 pockets (2 outside and 6 inside).

******************************************************************************* The Dropwaist Skirts are here and listed on Etsy! Perfect for every spring and summer occasion! Customize your skirt with the fabrics you love for a truly original garment! http://www.marandalee.etsy.com/

I am so excited to be offering a new line of products sporting the maranda lee label! My boys are growing up and so are my products! With maranda lee you will find bags and accessories beyond the diaper bag! Watch for new bag designs, messengers, totes, coin purses, Mini Mama bags and even video game pouches!

Introducing the MADI bag. This xl bag is perfect for the gym, traveling, a diaper bag, school tote and more! Comes standard with 2 long shoulder straps (messenger strap also available), 6 inside pockets, 2 outside pockets and a zipper closure! ! ! Stand on it's own and is available in all fabrics!

Same great designs, service, quality, durability and of course function!

There is something for every woman with bold and flirty fabrics to choose from, you too can have a custom bag to reflect your style and personality! Not only is your bag gorgeous, but each bag is designed to be amazingly functional!

While my original Emma-style Maranda Lee bags are designed to work as a diaper bag, complete with 6 pockets including pockets for bottles, diapers/wipes, these bags are perfect for use as a purse, tote, school bag, laptop bag, beach bag, and so many other purposes! There is a place for everything and you'll find it easy to stay organized!

Customize your bag fabrics, add features such as the cell phone zipper pocket, zipper closure or recessed zipper pocket so that your bag is as unique as you are!

Email me hotmamahandbags@gmail.com with your custom order!

This is a big transition/addition and I am busy adding items to my new etsy shop, and updating my new Facebook page!

Please take a look at my various designs, fabrics, and of course accessories! Order a matching clutch, coin purse, wipee dipee clutch, nursing cover, changing pad, keychain, etc!

At the moment I have 2 etsy shops. My original shop featuring all the fabulous mom-gear you've come to love is at http://www.babyeverafter.etsy.com/

My new shop http://www.marandalee.etsy.com/ offers my newest bag designs, the Kate, Ava, Lilly and Sling bag along with the newest clutches, coin purses and more!

Please contact me with any questions or your custom order! Thank you!

Contact Us

2009-07-17T17:11:00.000-06:00

Contact Me: maranda_lee@hotmail.com Etsy shop: http://www.marandalee.etsy.com/ Facebook: http://facebook.com/marandaleedesigns

Hi! I'm Maranda the designer and creator. For the past few years my products have been known as Hot Mama Handbags! My boys are growing up and so are my products! In 2011 I began offering products beyond the diaper bag and introduced my new line "Maranda Lee".

I am the mother of two beautiful boys, Warren 4 and Wayde 2 who certainly keep me busy and on my toes at all times! We live in the mountains of Montana with our horses, dogs and cat. It is a beautiful place to raise our boys as I can see them riding their bikes, building tree forts and in general getting dirty while being boys!

After my first child was born, I wore my diaper bag proudly slung over my shoulder like a badge of membership into my new club of mommyhood. After 2 years, I found myself longing for a smaller bag that was stylish and expressed my personality. I longing drooled over my non-mommy friends cute little purses and wished I could carry something similar but I still needed a place to put a few diapers and a sippy cup. So after the birth of my second son, I stitched up a bag with lots of pockets and since then have been pleasantly surprised by the overwhelmingly warm reception I've received from mommies and non-mommies around the world!

Watch for new products such as the coin purse, lanyard and patterns! Please contact me with any questions or for placing custom orders!

Email: maranda_lee@hotmail.com

(photo by http://www.zomakphotography.com/) Blog review requests: Thank you so much for interest in Hot Mama Handbags. I enjoy working with bloggeres and learning about each of your unique sites! Since each bag is custom made by me, I can accept a limited number of invitations for blog review/giveaways each month in order to keep my completion time prompt. Please send your information to hotmamahandbags@gmail.com with the subject Blog Review Giveaway. Thank you! Caring for your Hot Mama Handbag and Accessories! Hot Mama Handbags are washable. I suggest spot cleaning whenever possible with machine washing when necessary. To help retain the shape and color, I recommend washing with care. Place item in a lingerie bag, wash on a handwash (very gentle) cycle in cool water. Hang or lay flat to dry. Iron with medium heat if necessary. Exchanges and Returns I guarantee your satisfaction. If you would like to exchange your handbag/accessories for another size or item or are not satisfied and would like to return your purchase, please contact me within 3 days of receiving your items. Handbags/accessories must be shipped within 3 days of receipt in new, unused, unstained, unbent and otherwise resellable condition. For returns, I will refund the purchase price (less shipping charges). When shipping PLEASE DO NOT bend the top band of the handbags. You may reuse the packaging the items were shipped in. USPS Priority Mail boxes size 12x15x3 work great! Thank you for understanding that a great deal of time and attention goes into the creation of each bag. I try to make sure every bag is received in the best possible condition. You may contact me at maranda_lee@hotmail.com regarding exchanges/returns. Thank you!

Testimonials

2009-07-16T17:28:00.000-06:00

Thank you to all my fabulous clients! You are the most amazing women and I love your encourangement and support!

See what other's have to say about Hot Mama Handbags! Read more reviews at my etsy shop http://www.babyeverafter.etsy.com/ , click on "Feedback"!

My beautiful sis, Michelle, with her bag! She's a petite little thing. This is the size small bag.

"I love it so much. It is incredibly perfect! ...I have checked out every diaper bag possible and I think yours is up there with the best-in my opinion, better than those...bags that retail for an insane price of over $200. Your stuff is top quality...you could be be "in" major retailers...I appreciate your craftsmanship and I thought you should know!" Nicky, CA "I just received my bag today. I was so excited. I love it. Thank you so much for the speedy shipment. I can't wait to fill it and use it. The size is perfect for an infant and toddler." Miranda in PA (size medium bag) "I'm so pleased!!! You did such a WONDERFUL job and I love it!! It's like Christmas in May for me today...I'll keep an eye out for other "must haves" inu your shop!" Stephanie, OH "I sent my sister in Los Angeles, CA one of your bags and she LOVES it and so do all her friends...and they all want your info!" Theresa, MT "Just letting you know I got the diaper bag and it is even more fabulous than I expected!!!! Thank you SOO much!!! I can't wait to use it!" Fanchesca, Small Bird Studio

"We took a trip..., and I used the bag as a diaper bag and ended up using it as a purse too because there was so much room! I am in love with it!" Megan, http://www.newlywednewlybred.com/

" Oh my goodness!! I LOVE !!!!!!!!!!!!! it! I got it in the mail today and had to rip the box open immediately and then email you to let you know how super adorable it is!! I'm so excited to use it!!! Thanks so much again!!! Love it!! I can't wait to review it on my blog and to let someone else go shopping with the gc! Thanks again!! Amanda, http://www.aproudmommyof4.blogspot.com/

"Thank you so much! It is the perfect size. Your sewing is perfect and the bag is beautiful...thank you!" Tina, Florida

"The diaper bag came today and I love it!!!! It's so perfect. Makes me wish our baby was here already so I can use it right now. My 4 yerar old and I had fun poking rhough the pockets and opeing everything up. Thanks so much again and when I get back to Etsy soon, I'll be sure to leave a stellar review." Heather, http://www.clothdiaperoutlet.com/

"Maranda, I got the purse today! I. LOVE. IT!!!! It is GORGEOUS! I am going to be able to put a ton of stuff in there! The colors are soooo pretty. I am just thrilled with it and all the details you put into it! THANK YOU! Megan, http://www.newleywednewlybred.com/

"I LOVE EVERYTHING!!! I've already filled it up and have showing it off everywhere. ... Ok, now it's time for me to run to the store so I can show off the bag some more!!!!" Melissa, http://www.chaoticmommyreviews.info/

"Got the bag today, it's even better in person!!! The color is so great, love the desing, the inside pockets, super durable. Thanks so much." Liane, California

"I've just got the bag...it's absolutely awesomeeeeee*-*" - Irene, from Spain