Random Things I've Made

Every once in a while I get inspired to make things out of random objects.  Here's a sampling of some of the things I've made over the years.  I thought it would be fun for you to see how things can be transformed out of nothing.

I made this skirt out of an old pair of worn out jeans, and a couple of knit shirts that either were stained or torn.  I cut the top part of the jeans off and opened the middle seam.  I took the legs of the jeans and cut them in to squares and then cut the t-shirts in to random squares as well.  I pieced them all together and then stitched them to the bottom of the jean I had cut off.  Depending on how much fabric you have, you can make this skirt as long or short as you desire.

I had some t-shirt fabric and denim left over so I made a Cross pattern and used 'wonder-under' to adhere it to another t-shirt I had on hand.  I then did a zig-zag top stitch to attach it permanently and then glued some little beads along the edges.

 

Here's the whole outfit.  So fun and easy to make.  It sure made a pair of jeans go a lot further with a whole new look.

 

Here's a little 'evening' purse I made out of a cute cigar box.  You should walk in to a specialty cigar store sometime and check out all the wonderful boxes they sell.  They come in all shapes and sizes and are great quality.  I'm sure there are lots of things you can make with them.  This one was fully lined with felt.  All I did was attach a handle I purchased from a craft store. It's great for carrying a cell phone and lipstick for a night out.  It actually still has the aroma of cigars, but it's faint so it's not offensive.

I experimented with another old pair of jeans and upholstery fabric I had on hand to make this shoulder bag. I kind of made it up as I went and will probably go back and tweak it a little bit but you get the idea. It was super easy and fun to make.

 

I need to think of a way to add to the back side a bit.  It's a little 'plain' for me.  I guess I could add another pocket.  Any suggestions?

I got the idea for these shoes out of one of the tons of craft books I have on hand.  I had to cut out the sides, and tongue of the shoe and then line the inside with a coordinating fabric.  I just started adding things as I went.  I hot glued the beads on the toes of the shoes, but they didn't stick like they should.  Right now they're just sitting on top. Instead of shoe laces, I added animal print wired ribbon.  The shoes are awfully cute, but not sure where or if I would wear them.  They were just fun to make.  I get such a kick out of 're-designing' things.

Here are a few of the books I get my inspirations from.  I have lots more, but these are my favorites.  It's amazing what you can make from stuff that's just lying around in your closet.  If you have other ideas or things you've made, please share with me.  I'm always looking for new challenges.

Have a great day!