Like My Bag

2011-02-19T07:14:00.000-08:00

2011-02-04T11:54:00.000-08:00

Mandala bag

2011-02-04T11:47:00.000-08:00

This is my Goombay bag. African fabric I bought at the Goombay Festival

2011-02-04T10:52:00.000-08:00

These February days are cold, damp and long. My mind sometimes drifts to the warm market days I love so much. Then I'm back charged up and motivated to experiment with new patterns and fabrics. Lots of new fabrics coming into the mix. Just applied for LEAF and Crafty Feast in Columbia SC. I'm in the midst of opening up a store on ETSY and by next week my taxes will be done. Can't wait to get into the full production swing when all else is done.

Yes, yes. I'm still here and still sewing!

2009-11-16T19:04:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends. Thanks for being so loyal. You deserve an update. But there's so much that came out of a seed of potential, a wistful dream....I don't know if I can do justice to the events around here!

Fall flew in and blew in all sorts of changes. All good. Surprises galore. Some were hard at first but turned out great and others were too good to believe at first and turned out even better.

If you really want the scoop we'll have to get together.

Most of my stock right now is out with you all on your shoulders and on your heads. I enjoyed meeting friends old and new at the farmers market in Asheville and there's reports that you've been spotted around Asheville sporting those cool caps! So right now I'm sewing like crazy for the next craft shows.

My mom has been quietly creating her own artwork and lately she's been bringing her things to my shows and sales.
She brings from the "old world" the lace making art called tatting or in french "la frivolite".
Here with the shuttle you pass it through the loop.

Now tighten the knot. Ok, you're right. It's not that simple. But Mom's accomplished. Every Christmas for about 12 years she's made all her children (seven, I tell you!) a special snow flake for their Christmas tree. Friends and friends of friends have placed orders with her over the years. This year it's been snowing in her living room all summer:

Look how beautiful!These two are special with dangling beads in the center.These two are magical because it's as if she really caught a snowflake and figured out how to preserve it so you can hang one on your tree.

Her tatted lacework adorns these beautiful cards. Each card is a gift of the heart.

We don't often send anything in the mail anymore. When we do it's got to be special.
Here are some other pieces she's created:
The CrossA shimmering icicle with beads worked into the lace.A gold maple leaf.And this one: A TRIBUTE was a special order for a breast cancer awareness event. It is really beautiful!

Please keep checking in on me! I'll have my latest batch here in just a bit.

Peace

A real hot item....

2009-05-20T13:10:00.001-07:00

Cool Cap -- view from the top! That's Duncan underneath by the way.
Here's Grayson on percussion sporting his Cool Cap...

Cool Cat Duo--Duncan on the fiddle and Devin on the mandolin.Cousin Anne atop the Iron....
The whole cool gang at the Flat Iron in Asheville. Don't you think the caps bring it all together?
Warm sun, hungry tummies, hard playing and singing....C'mon Mom! Take us for ICE CREAM!!! There go the profits, right there.
These cool caps went like hotcakes at the LEAF---which, though we had a cloudburst or two of rain, was a really fun weekend.

2009-05-20T13:08:00.001-07:00

Cool Cats under Cool Caps

Sharing my how-to!

2009-05-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

Gettin' in the act

2009-05-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

Come on---Stitch these up, clip the seams, clip the threads, match carefully, don't get to close...I'm gonna work you for that college deposit!
I took these photos through the front screen!

More Stars in their eyes...

2009-05-01T13:49:00.000-07:00

Cache a Falling Star

Filled cushion, buttoned in the center.
Contrasting fabric on the sides and back.
Fun fabrics vary.

Cool Cats under Cool Caps

2009-05-01T13:37:00.000-07:00

Goofy, they are! But we like them like that around here.....

To Cap it off!

2009-04-27T06:28:00.000-07:00

Newest development! Cool Caps at Cache Bags!

Beethoven lends a head. I've cut out bunches of cap sections. These will keep the sun off your head and the hair out of your eyes. These were popular last summer too. There's even one sold to a collector up in Michigan!

Cool Cap
Sturdy brim, floppy on top
Lined and sturdy

Oh, yeah, see the Banjo? That's not been printed to fabric yet...just you wait! It's a beautiful Celtic knot.

2009-04-27T06:25:00.000-07:00

Couldn't wait to show you! LOOK!

Here's the first one to be sewn with Beanie's fiddle print. Isn't it beautiful? Actually right now it's strapless....I'll get that figured out really soon....needs to be sleek. So it's not finnished yet...yet.....yet.....And there's another distraction in the wings....Big event happenin' on Wednesday! Who's birthday? Who's going to be nine???? Isn't that fine! Two more days Grayson!

New Cache Comin'

2009-04-27T06:15:00.000-07:00

Oh, collaboration!!!

Sorry this is sideways but it's just to give you an idea of what's developing here at Cache Bags. I happen to know an artist who's designing beautiful prints.......
Here's a shot of one of my new great fabrics. Great texture, lovely color. AND now! Silkscreened with a print that my sister, Beanie had created. Actually you see here 3 different prints. Two different fiddle designs and one really cool flute design. Wait till you see them for real....Just you wait till I get them on the perfect Cache Bag!
More fabrics draped around the living room, drying.
If you'd like to see more art by Beanie wander over to this link. She's got a banjo print coming. LEAF is gonna love this!

Howard Street Handmade sale:

2009-04-20T06:18:00.000-07:00

We're thanking our lucky stars! It was a nice day and folks made a steady stream through 227 Artspace and Gallery to see the artist's wares. It was great to get out and mingle. Some days I just sit and sew and forget even that it's spring! Well, not really...not really at all since there's Cache bags and now some new things.....all over the table. We've had to picnic outside rather than clear everything off...so yes: I noticed the lilacs, the spirea...and the kids have planted a little garden! Peas are up but so far only the spinach that we planted last fall is giving us anything to eat!
My mom joined me at the Howard Street Handmade sale. It's good to spend time with her. That's who taught me to sew, you know. She still looks closely at my seams...... I should get you a photo of her tatted work. She had a little display just above the table, you can almost see it in the photo above.
Here's a photo of my cache bags on my table. And now I set my sights on LEAF....it's coming soon. Soon. So very soon; and I have so many bags to make......

In a Flurry

2009-04-17T19:34:00.001-07:00

Wow, the bags are all over the place...

I've got my table ready, tags ready, coffee mug ready for my morning Short Street Cake cup of coffee....

Bittersweet....I'm saying goodbye to bags that will go home with wonderful people tomorrow. I can hardly wait for you to meet my bags in person!

I'll see you tomorrow (11-5) at the Howard Street Handmade craft market!

"A Bientot!"
Daniele

Well Suited.

2009-04-09T14:42:00.000-07:00

Tailored to suit. That says it all.

This one has curved front flap, main section zipper and one more zipped compartment inside.

For dressing down on Fridays--goes with khakis perfectly.

Sarah

Roomy, but slimming.
Cozy plaid with easy access front flap and 2 zippers.

Cache All

2009-04-09T11:02:00.000-07:00

Here's the bag for the job. Beautiful, practical, handmade (like all Cache Bags) and LOCAL too.

Slip this one over your shoulder and you'll know I have sewn love into the very seams. I made it for you. To carry your prosperity.Evie
Roomy, soft, (you'll want to crawl in...)
Front flap

To Honor Earthday Everyday.

2009-04-09T10:52:00.000-07:00

Gaia One (left) and Gaia Two (right)

Earthy colors, earthy textures. Stones to highlight and to keep you grounded.

Gaia
Front flap and Zipper too.
Real Stone Highlights.

Head in the clouds and feet on the ground.

The study of planetary habitability is partly based upon extrapolation from knowledge of the Earth's conditions, as the Earth is the only planet currently known to harbour life. The release of this image prompted the formulation of the proposition that the Earth was alive, and fostered acceptance of that proposition.

The Gaia hypothesis is an ecological hypothesis proposing that the biosphere and the physical components of the Earth (atmosphere, cryosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere) are closely integrated to form a complex interacting system that maintains the climatic and biogeochemical conditions on Earth in a preferred homeostasis.

from Wikipedia....take it in slowly.

High steppin' Bag!

2009-04-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

These two bags on the left are inspired by a commission. Our wonderful toe tappin' friend Ellie requested a new bag to replace her old bag that was approaching its complete expiration! I made several and she chose one....Ah ha! They are ONE OF A KIND! So you don't see hers here. But you'll see it if you're doing Cape Breton step dancing!
Ellie
Unique, hand matched, sewn with love.
A slick zip to close on top.

PS We love you Ellie! The dancing around this house is amazing!

Wild one!

2009-04-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

Here's one that's just FUN! These pictures are great but you've got to hold them, run your hand down inside, throw it over your shoulder...This one says "Ooooooooo~"
Lift the flap for the inside view.
Eleanor
Double strap, easy access front flap

2009-04-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

Practical, easy access front flap.
Zippered section in front.

A New Fav

2009-04-09T09:23:00.000-07:00

You'll hug this one close. It's sleek and cozy at the same time. A black that goes with anything and dresses up everything. Mina is lovely. I'll have a Merlot with that.
Mina
Elegant, posh.
Shoulder strap, easy access front flap.

Capture the Northern Lights in this bag

2009-04-08T20:21:00.000-07:00

This bag is full of imagination....and there's plenty of room!

Aura
Zippered pouch under the front flap.
Over the shoulder strap.

We're going places.......

Lotus Bag

2009-04-08T20:14:00.000-07:00

Lotus Bag
Variety of finished sizes.
Shoulder strap and front flap.
Beautiful fabrics.
Everyone is unique, like you.

Inside view of the Lotus Bag. I thought you'd like to see. I found many fabrics that I loved and patched them together. The arrangement was inspired by my son's desire to make a log cabin quilt. He's been cutting up fabric all over and has made 2 panels already....pictures coming soon.

A New Gig for my Bags!

2009-04-08T20:03:00.000-07:00

Here's the breaking news! I just received a call from the Howard Street Handmade! I'm in for the Saturday April 18th event! Yeah! You'll have first choice of the bags before LEAF now! I'm excited to be included in this collection of fine artisans. Come and check out the venue right next to Short Street Cakes on Haywood Road.
Check out the cakes too! (OK going to their website will not satisfy your craving for an Easter Carrot cake! You'll have to make the trip.)

Lovelies!

2009-04-08T19:47:00.000-07:00

Phoenix
Variety of finished sizes.
Shoulder strap and front flap.
Beautiful fabrics.
Everyone is unique, like you.

Phoenix has been sold!

Very beautiful.I am inspired by my shopping trips to my favorite local fabric stores. I say "Hey look at my new fabrics!" and the roll their eyes...then the touch the velvets, twills, courdoroys... and are swept away too.....

Yes, even more Bobbies!

2009-04-08T19:42:00.000-07:00

Aren't the new fabrics terrific? Some like this one are vintage...

Bobbie

Reversible
Fabrics vary

Way Cool.

OOODLES of new ones!

2009-04-08T17:58:00.000-07:00

Look what's hot off the sewing machine! Lot's of hot "Bobbie" Bags! If you'd like one speak up because we're going to LEAF and it's a hot style sure to sell out!

Bobbie

Over the shoulder, Reversible, Ready for FUN.
Fabrics vary

Everything is GREEN

2009-03-17T11:16:00.000-07:00

It's NOT listed on their website (and why not???) BUT the Red Wellies are playing tonight at Jack of the Wood here in Asheville!!!

And that's because (Our house is full!) Duncan is home for the week from Berkeley School of Music in Boston! (Brag, brag-----I've got rights!)

So put on your green and come hang out with the family.

I'm turning off the sewing machine for a day or two.....remember....people before things.

ps If you head downtown today you might see those leprechauns busking by the Flat Iron.

Passionate sales pitch:

2009-02-21T12:47:00.000-08:00

A major part of homeschooling is life itself. How could it be any other way? In our "school" there's a direct relationship between earning a living and living. Marketing 101 begins at an early age. So does professionalism. Dress to win. Use good grammar. Be informed. Believe in yourself. Make connections. Be a part of the process, be a good citizen. We're all in this together. Together we can. Grayson gets an "A" for today.

Y's bag

2009-02-21T12:26:00.000-08:00

Here we go! This bag I've named Y's Bag for my sister. She commissioned one and here's the preview.

Y's Bag $40

Heavy Duty, lots of room, practical. Gets the job done.

Be seen in something unique.

Soon

2009-02-16T20:05:00.000-08:00

I've got several laptop bags...hot off the sewing machine. I'll post the photos soon as I can get my photographer to get back to work.....you know how it is when you depend on the relatives for this!

Hmmmmmm.

2009-02-02T19:31:00.000-08:00

Been thinking. Been thinking of new designs. I'm coming up with a super laptop special bag. A really practical, useful bag. But unique. Not like all those other bags in the coffee shop! Wait till you see it.

Oh, yes, by the way...I'm getting ready for LEAF festival. So, SEW! So here we GO! I'll have lots of bags out for your perusal.

Oooooooo. Won't that be nice?

Work for Cache Bags

2008-12-05T09:17:00.000-08:00

Let's get down to business. You need a bag for what you think about. It's all in the bag--grab it and get to work.

DEVIN

Over the shoulder strap, organizing pouches inside.
Fabrics vary, Always businesslike.

Change for a Cache Bag?

2008-12-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

YES!!!

Small enough...Cache in your pocket! But big enough to fit your credit cards and those important items....

Zippy

Small, lined, zippered pouch
Fabric choices vary, Uniqueness you can count on.

Give it to me in a Cache Bag

2008-12-05T08:19:00.000-08:00

Carrie

Inside pocket organizers, shoulder straps.
Fabric choices vary.

Today and tomorrow I'm at a Craft Show in Brevard:
Winter Wonderland Art Party
TCArts Building on Caldwell St.
Fri. Dec. 5
6-9
Sat. Dec. 6
10-6

And in Asheville:
Wings and Roots presents
World Crafts Sale and Celebration
Sat. Dec. 6
11-5
Sun Dec 7
1-5
Riverview Station
191 Lyman St. Suite 101
In Asheville's River Arts District

Can you come and put your hands on some Cache bags?

Your bag or mine?

2008-12-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

Perfect for just those things you need. Keeps you organized....
just grab that
Cache Bag...

Brett

Shoulder Strap, front pocket, fits your lesson books.
Colors vary, always durable.

A Cache of stars

2008-12-05T07:59:00.000-08:00

Here's wishing on a star! These firm pillows dreamy. You can put one on the couch or have a stack of stars available for propping you up just right. They are so comfy and even work great in the car.

Cache a Falling Star

Filled cushion, buttoned in the center.
Contrasting fabric on the sides and back.
Fun fabrics vary.

Grabbing CACHE BAGS

2008-12-01T17:42:00.000-08:00

Smaller bags, just exactly the right size. Fits only what you need to grab and go.

Grayson

Two zippered pouches, over the shoulder strap.
Fabrics vary, quality is standard

Goes Perfectly CACHE BAG

2008-12-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

See how lovely? Ooooooooo! I had so much fun with this one. It's feminine but frolicsome. C'mon, let's go~

Christie

Fabrics vary, but artistic character is standard.

CACHE for Shopping

2008-12-01T17:10:00.000-08:00

I hear plasic bags will no longer be gratis at the local grocery store (Ingles) starting January 2009. Way to get green Asheville!!!

I've been trying to shop with my own bags... reusing plastic bags (those have a short life span and produce holes in the bottom just when I need them most! Canvas bags are good but, Hey! I might as well have style too! Try this!

Jimmy

Lined, shoulder strap, shopping bag. Inside pockets to keep things upright.
Fabrics vary.

CACHE BAGS to go

2008-12-01T17:02:00.001-08:00

Bobbie

Reversible
Fabrics vary

Shopping sack or fashion bag....go anywhere....this is hip. (They are all over Asheville.)

Laptop CACHE BAGS

2008-12-01T16:44:00.000-08:00

Stylish, practical, it's you.

Kris

Large compartment with added zippered compartment. Easily fits your laptop and business papers.
Fabrics vary

CACHE BAGS

2008-12-01T16:36:00.001-08:00

Glenda

fabrics vary

Princess Anne

fabrics vary

She who dies with the most fabric wins....

2008-12-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

I LOVE to dive into bolts of fabric....colors, textures...ideas, ideas, ideas!!!!!
Possibilities galore.....
Meet my partner, the sewing machine............It's me and my machine!

and the kids and the schedules, and laundry, and practicing for the violin lessons, and dance class....oh dear what time is it? What's for dinner?

CACHE for YOUR CACHE

2008-12-01T06:19:00.000-08:00

Got an idea? Send it my way. You can email me at dhiira@charter.net. We'll see what transforms.

The CACHE Troop

2008-11-30T17:50:00.000-08:00

Ok, ok. Here's and insider peek at a couple of those who entertain me daily. Grayson is my son. He's 8, homeschooled, plays violin, guitar, accordian, legos, and "animals". His great goals this month are to build a log cabin addition to the house, make popcorn balls and get a cat.
Anne is my niece. She's 12, homeschooled and plays cello. Well, she also plays legos, "animals" and whatever else they conjure up. Her goals this month are to practice her French, paint a lovely picture, and do more sewing!

Grayson and Anne also sing in the Asheville Symphony children's Chorus. Their concert with the Asheville Symphony is December 20. They sing like angels. And sometimes like chipmunks.

Holiday Pops: Decking the Hall

Saturday, December 20, 2008 8:00 pm

Asheville Local

2008-11-29T19:24:00.000-08:00

Cosmic Vision is a cool shop in downtown Asheville. They sell a wide variety of hip stuff....incense, women's apparel, books on enlightenment, music, gifts and of course

CACHE Bags!

Pictures of these bags are coming soon.....come back and see. Right now I gotta go pick up Devin......

Cache

2008-11-29T19:08:00.000-08:00

Whirrrrrrrrrrrrrr. ZZZZZZZip. Snip, snip, whirrrrrrrrrrr.
What's for lunch? Whirrrrrrrr. Whirrrrrrrrr. When will you practice Grayson? ZZZZZZZZip, clip, clip. Who's picking you up for play rehearsal Devin?

"Whatcha makin' mom? You've been at the sewing machine a lot lately."

"These are my newest design. What do you think? Zippered pockets inside..." Whirrrrrrrrrr, whirrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

"What are they for?"

"They're for a cache." Snip, snip, whirrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

"What's a cache?"

CACHE: hand made bags, each one unique!!
By Asheville textile seamstress artist:
Daniele