Upcycled Vintage Linen Tote

You know how sometimes you have an idea, a vision, but the method of making that idea blossom sometimes is a looooong time comin? Well, that is the truth of my wish to make some usable pretties out of upcycled embroidered linens. I want to make aprons, totes, make up bags, tissue protectors and many other things. I have collected a couple bushels of "cutter quality" dresser scarves, doilies, handkerchiefs, napkins, placemats etc. This knitting tote is the first of my new designs. Stay tuned for more.

The exterior base is new quilting fabric in a lovely butterfly print. The lining is made from a vintage pillow case, circa the early 70's, I think.  Half of a dresser scarf and a small doily were used, plus a selection of buttons old and new. And check out the yoyos-I learned to cover buttons! And covered them with bits of embroidered linen.  The handles are macrame hoops from the 60's. What patient housewife embroidered this lovely scarf? I like to think of the needlewomen who came before. Check my Etsy feed for future upcycled lovelies!