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Peg

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It’s time for my annual New Year’s tradition—selecting a single word to work towards during the upcoming year.  My word for 2023 is “Discover”.  There are so many experiences and places yet to discover—from enjoying new activities, to learning new skills to visiting new destinations.  There are moments of beauty, both natural and hand-crafted, to be discovered and savored.  There are connections to discover and cherished relationships to rediscover and strengthen.  There are countless opportunities to discover the unknown in the familiar such as new maker projects and techniques.  I’m looking forward to a new year of discovery and sharing it here on the FanningSparks blog.
As a visual reminder, I’ve embroidered “Discover” on one of my favorite photos from 2022—an iconic view of five identical windmills on the Kinderdijk (see also Top 22 Photos from 2022).  I’ll hang the embellished photo in my studio to keep the thought top of mind during 2023.
Kinderdijk Windmills Stitched with Discover My Word for 2023  @FanningSparks

More Info

Previous posts featuring my word for the year include:
. Doubling Down on Hope: My Word for 2022
Hope: My Word for 2021
Savor: My Word for 2020
Harmony: My Word for 2019
Stitching on paper is surprisingly easy and satisfying—especially when stitching on your own favorite photos.   Check out the blog post, Hello Marvelous Photo Embroidery – DIY Tutorial, for step-by-step instructions.
My Paper Stitching Pinterest board is packed with over 350 ideas for embroidering photos and other forms of paper.

Today’s Takeaway

What will you discover in 2023?

Peg - FanningSparks Author

That’s a Kodak moment!  I wonder how many readers remember this popular saying.  The “Kodak moment” tagline came from a popular advertising campaign for Kodak cameras in the latter half of the twentieth century.  That was back in the heyday of film photography when the Kodak company dominated the market.  The expression evolved to mean “a moment in time that is so precious because of its sentimental value or its beauty, one wishes to preserve it on film” says Grammarist.com.
Sharp-eyed readers might notice a couple of personal Kodak moments in the featured photo, that’s me with my Dad, Mom and big brother, taken at a time when my Dad actually used a Kodak box camera similar to the Brownie Hawkeye shown.
Of course, nowadays with the ease and affordability of digital photography, it’s not necessary to be so choosy about the photos we take.  Instead, we simply decide which shots are worth keeping after the fact.  At least, that’s what I tried to do while selecting my favorite photos to include in this Top 22 Photos from 2022 blog post.
Top 22 Photos from 2022 with Kodak Brownie Hawkeye   @FanningSparks
About half of these photos are new to the blog while the other half have been shared previously.  I’ve included links to relevant blog posts in the photo descriptions and in the More Info section below.
The majority of my favorite photos for 2022 were taken while exploring places away from home.  I’m so grateful to have been able to travel again this past year.
In this first favorite, the historic facades along the Korenlei (Corn Quay) are reflected on the Leie River in Ghent, Belgium.  (See Expected and Unexpected Delights of Ghent)
Facades of Korenlei Reflected in River Leie in Ghent Belgium   @FanningSparks
Several of my favorite photos were taken during a visit to the Netherlands.  The windmills of the Kinderdijk are particularly photogenic.  There are 19 windmills—all nearly 300 years old—marking over seven centuries of water management on this outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Laundry on Clothesline in Front of Windmills at Kinderdijk @FanningSparks
This iconic view of five identical windmills was spectacular at sunrise.  (See Milling the Water of Kinderdijk)
Five Overwaard Windmills at Kinderdijk at Sunrise @FanningSparks
The gabled canal houses of Amsterdam’s historic Jordaan district are beautiful but, surprisingly, difficult to photograph.  I love how the stepped gables caught the afternoon sunlight in this shot.
Sunlight on Amsterdam Canal Houses   @FanningSparks
Another favorite shot from Amsterdam comes from this work in process by Dutch artist Tymon de Laat.  It was spotted at STRAAT: the museum for graffiti and street art.  (See Artworks as Big as Walls in Amsterdam)
Work in Process at STRAAT - Las Ultimas Ojas by Tymon De Laat   @FanningSparks
Undoubtedly, a springtime visit to the Netherlands wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the tulip fields.  In this photo a field of gorgeous blooming tulips in Noordwijkerhout sparkles in the evening light.
Field of Red Tulips in Evening at Noordwijkerhout   @FanningSparks
The magical golden light was equally beautiful close up.
Red Tulips in Evening Light in Noordwijkerhout   @FanningSparks
Speaking of tulips, this grouping of Sweetheart Fosteriana tulips reminds me of a Renaissance painting.  (See Come Tiptoe Through the Tulips)
Bunch of Sweetheart Fosteriana Tulips @FanningSparks
A summertime trip to the state of Kentucky, USA was educational and entertaining.  I spotted this old, weathered tobacco barn while chasing down barn quilts.  (See Have Barn Quilts Made a Comeback?)
Old Weathered Tobacco Barn in Kentucky   @FanningSparks
An extended visit to the Canadian Maritimes in the late summer/ early fall was the perfect opportunity to spend time with family and enjoy this beautiful part of the world.  One highlight of the trip was a 3-day walk along Prince Edward Island’s Island Walk.  This peaceful scene of a simple wooden bench tucked into a grove of birch trees is one of my favorite shots from that adventure.  (See 79,000 Steps and a Whole Lot of Apple Seeds)
Bench in Birch Grove Between Mt Stewart and Morell PEI @FanningSparks
Another highlight of my visit to the Maritimes was visiting Sable Island.  Flying by helicopter to this remote island, over 100 miles off the coast of Nova Scotia, and spending the day hiking and exploring was an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience.  It wasn’t easy to choose a few favorites from the hundreds of photos I took but, in the end, it was the wild horses and seals that stood out.  (See 6 Fascinating Facts about Sable Island and Wild and Free on Sable Island)
Wild Horses Standing in Water on Sable Island @FanningSparks
I could have photographed this young foal all day!
Sable Island Foal Facing Right @FanningSparks
Gray Seals (Halichoerus grypus) are common on Sable Island.  We got a good look at a few of them lounging on the beach.  This one put on quite a show with its flipper maneuvers!
Sable Island Grey Seal Front Flipper Maneuvers   @FanningSparks
Having patience, and lots of luck, is key to getting good photos of birds and animals.  I spent over an hour photographing Eurasian Coots (Fulica atra) on a visit to the Ghent University Botanical Garden.  The effort paid off with this delightful shot of a parent duck feeding its baby.   (See Expected and Unexpected Delights of Ghent)
Eurasian Coot Parent Feeding Duckling @FanningSparks
Good luck was the biggest factor in catching this shot of two magnificent Great Crested Glebes (Podiceps cristatus) showing off their fine plumage.  We were unbelievably fortunate to have witnessed their courtship dance.
Pair of Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus)   @FanningSparks
Luck wasn’t such a big factor in this next shot.  I was able to take this incredible photo of a Harris’s Hawk (Parabuteo unicinctus) at the Green Mountain Falconry School in Vermont, USA.  (See Eyes Like a Hawk)
Harris Hawk Closeup @FanningSparks
Domestic animals, such as these adorable lambs spotted in Delft, Netherlands, are also fun to photograph.  But, again, waiting for that one good shot is key.
Two Lambs in Delft Netherlands   @FanningSparks
I laugh every single time I look at this alpaca’s expression.  (See An Alpaca Photo Shoot)
Alpaca Adult Female with Sideways Mouth @FanningSparks
Many of my favorite photos feature ordinary subjects caught in an extraordinary way.  This flock of birds, resting in front of a stormy sky, are a case in point.
Birds on a Wire with Stormy Sky   @FanningSparks
The vibrant colors of sunrise turn these ordinary clouds into a work of art.
Skies in Sunrise at Lake Oconee   @FanningSparks
In this next shot, an unidentified man carries a recently-purchased vintage suitcase.
Unidentified Man Carries Vintage Suitcase   @FanningSparks
The final photo I selected for my Top 22 is this staged and styled shot of one of my clay projects.  The vase, featuring a cheongsam collar, is one of three collared vases I designed and made.  (See Clay Play Days)
Cheongsam Collar Vase with Ferns @FanningSparks
This brings me to the end of my top 22 photos selected from the hundreds of Kodak moments I chose to preserve on film this year.

More Info

I hope you’ve enjoyed my favorite photos from 2022.  You may also like these blog posts from previous years.
. Top 21 Photos from 2021
Top 20 Photos from 2020
Top 19 Photos from 2019
Many of the photos in the Top 22 Photos from 2022 were shared on the FanningSparks’ blog previously.  Here’s a summary of the blog posts mentioned.
. Expected and Unexpected Delights of Ghent
. Milling the Water of Kinderdijk
. Artworks as Big as Walls in Amsterdam
. Come Tiptoe Through the Tulips
. Have Barn Quilts Made a Comeback?
. 79,000 Steps and a Whole Lot of Apple Seeds
. 6 Fascinating Facts about Sable Island
. Wild and Free on Sable Island
. Eyes Like a Hawk
. An Alpaca Photo Shoot
. Clay Play Days

Today’s Takeaways

1. A Kodak moment is “a moment in time that is so precious because of its sentimental value or its beauty, one wishes to preserve it on film”.
2. The more photos you take, the more likely you are to get a great shot.
3. Reviewing your photos from the previous year can be a fun year-end activity.
Peg - FanningSparks Author

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

These famous words were written in 1863 by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his poem Christmas Bells.  They became more widely known, nearly a hundred years later, when Bing Crosby recorded them as a Christmas carol.
Church bells, such as this trio spotted in Rome Italy, are often associated with the holiday season.  But, as I learned while researching today’s blog post, there’s a lot more to this subject than a catchy tune.
Two-Level Bell Tower in Rome Italy   @FanningSparks
Ringing church bells to mark Christmas and New Year is a cherished custom in many parts of the world.  Church bells also bring to mind church services and weddings.  According to Wikipedia, “In AD 604, Pope Sabinian officially sanctioned the usage of bells to announce services and call worshippers.  By the early Middle Ages, church bells became common in Europe.”  Here’s another example—this single bell is from the island of Hydra in Greece.
Bell Tower on Island of Hydra Greece   @FanningSparks
It’s said that in Great Britain nearly everyone lives within hearing range of bells.  The bells, according to the Bell Ringing Organization, “call us to wake, to pray, to work, to arms, to feast and, in times of crisis, to come together. Above all, bells are the sound of freedom and peace as in World War II they hung silently until the day they could ring in the peace.”
I discovered this classic church bell tower in Fão Esposende in Portugal.
Church Steeple in Fão Esposende Portugal   @FanningSparks
In her book Bells, Bells, Bells, author Bernadine Bailey tells us “In olden times, people believed that bells had supernatural powers to drive out evil as well as to ward off danger.  It was commonly thought that demons and ghosts could be scared away by the sound of metal, such as the beating of gongs or the ringing of bells.  On Midsummer Eve, when witches were supposed to gather, church bells were rung all night long to drive them away.
The moon is just barely visible in this photo of a bell tower in Caminha, Portugal.
Bell Tower with Moon Rising in Caminha Portugal   @FanningSparks
Bailey goes on to explain “It was also believed that bells could have a great effect upon the weather, especially on thunder and lightning that were thought to be controlled by demons.  The people felt that these spirits would be frightened by any sound connected with Christian worship, so they rang church bells when a storm was approaching to scare them away.
I searched my archives for photos of bells and found a surprising variety from our travels in Europe.  This early morning shot of the bridge in Avignon, France is one of my all-time favorites but I didn’t realize, until just now, that there are bells on the bridge!
Early Morning Avignon Bridge France   @FanningSparks
Apparently, at one time there was an active chapel, the Saint Nicholas Chapel, on the bridge.
St Nichols Chapel on Avignon Bridge in France   @FanningSparks
The soft light of early morning adds a magical glow to the bell towers of this twelfth-century church, Santa Maria a Casavecchia, near Spedaletto in Tuscany Italy.
Santa Maria a Casavecchia Spedaletto Italy   @FanningSparks
It’s fascinating to examine the various bell towers.  Many of them, like this one in Oberhofen, Switzerland, hold clocks as well as bells.
Bell Tower with Clock in Oberhofen Switzerland   @FanningSparks
This elaborate bell tower on the Old Castle Tower in Caminha, Portugal also displays a simple clock face.
Clock and Bell on Old Castle Tower in Caminha Portugal    @FanningSparks
I learned about the connection between bells and clocks when visiting the Ghent Belfry, a well-known landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belgium, earlier this year (see the blog post Expected and Unexpected Delights of Ghent for a peek into the many charms of this historic city).
Top of Ghent Belfry in Ghent Belgium   @FanningSparks
The Ghent Belfry, which dates back to 1313, housed communal bells managed by tower guards.  In addition to standing guard to watch for fires, storms, attacks and other danger, the tower guards were bell-ringers.  They rang the bells on the hour and for work setting the rhythm of life in the medieval city.  Interestingly, because early clocks were wooden and did not track time accurately, the tower guards had to rely on sundials to correct the time several times a day.  (For more information about sundials check out the FanningSparks blog post Count Only Sunny Hours.)
“Through the centuries, the belfry served not only as a bell tower to announce the time and various warnings, but also as a fortified watchtower and the place where the documents evidencing the municipal privileges were kept.” says Wikipedia.  “The bells in the belfry originally only served a religious purpose. Gradually the bells got a secular role by regulating daily life in the growing medieval city. The hourly chime was preceded by warning signals on three smaller bells with various tones. This was the predecessor of the carillon.”
As explained by author Rev. Dan McDowell, “a carillon is a musical instrument that is typically housed in the bell tower (or belfry) of a church. The instrument consists of at least 23 cast bronze, cup-shaped bells, which are serially played to produce a melody, or sounded together to play a chord. A traditional manual carillon is played by striking a keyboard to activate levers and wires that connect to metal clappers that strike the inside of the bells, allowing the performer on the bells to vary the intensity of the note according to the force applied to the key. … Most modern carillons … are operated electronically.”
It’s possible to view the bells at the top of the Ghent Belfry.
Bells in Ghent Belfry Belgium   @FanningSparks
Bells are, of course, not limited to bell towers.  In Asia, for instance, it’s common to see wind-bells attached to the eaves of temples and other special structures.  “Buddhists especially made use of wind-bells, attaching them profusely by the hundreds or even thousands to the eaves of temples, shrines, and pagodas, causing during breezy moments an almost overwhelming volume of tintinnabulation.” states the Encyclopedia Britannica.  “Tintinnabulation”, by the way, means the ringing or sounding of bells or a jingling or tinkling sound as if of bells.
Wind-bells are visible on the eaves of the Five-Storied Pagoda at the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan.
Five-Storied Pagoda at Sensoji Temple in Tokyo Japan   @FanningSparks
Interestingly, in 1996, Japan’s Ministry of Environment selected 100 Soundscapes of Japan as part of its efforts to combat noise pollution.  The 100 best sounds include 13 different bells (such as temple bells, time bells and tower bells) in addition to waterfalls, streams, vegetation, waves, singing sand and festivals.
I also spotted wind-bells on the Five-Storied Pagoda at the Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Japan.
Wind-Bell on Five-Storied Pagoda at Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Nikko Japan   @FanningSparks
Here’s another wind-bell sighting.  This splendid structure is Wat Lok Moli, a Buddhist temple, in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Wat Lok Moli in Chiang Mai Thailand    @FanningSparks
In addition to their roles in churches, watch towers and temples, bells serve a surprising number of functions in everyday life.  Their shape and size may vary but their ability to attract attention is consistent.  Shopkeeper’s bells, for instance, alert the shop owner of a customer’s entrance or exit.
Shopkeepers Bells at Madison Flea Market in Georgia USA   @FanningSparks
At one time, hand bells or tea bells were used to summon service—much like the privileged Crawleys did in the Downton Abbey TV series!  Handbells are still advertised as a great way to call guests to tea, get the family to the dinner table, or get attention from a sick bed.
Here’s an assortment of hand and tea bells from a local vintage shop.
Assortment of Vintage Tea and Hand Bells   @FanningSparks
Traditionally, bells are cast in bronze because, as author Elizabeth Starr Hill explains in her book Bells, the clearest and sweetest bell voice is produced by bronze”.  If I’d known that when I spotted this charming array of bronze hand bells at the El Rastro flea market in Madrid, Spain, I would surely have selected one or two to take home.
Selection of Brass Hand Bells at El Rastro Flea Market in Madrid Spain   @FanningSparks
Bells were also on offer at a flea market I visited in Tongeren, Belgium.  The variety of decorations on these wall-mounted bells, from roosters to horses to ducks to airplanes to motorcycles to cats, is amazing.
Selection of Mounted Bells at Flea Market in Tongeren Belgium   @FanningSparks
Another type of bell with a long history of important service is the ship’s bell.  “Used for signaling, keeping time, and sounding alarms, bells are an important part of a ship’s routine and readiness. Before the advent of the chronometer, time at sea was measured by the trickle of sand through a half-hour glass. One of the ship’s boys had the duty of watching the glass and turning it when the sand had run out. When he turned the glass, he struck the bell as a signal that he had performed this vital function. This age-old practice of sounding the bell on the hour and half hour still holds a place in the modern Navy.  The sounding of a ship’s bell can serve as a warning signal to other vessels in poor visibility and fog. In 1858, British naval regulations made this warning function mandatory. Today, maritime law requires all ships to carry an efficient bell.” reports the US Naval History and Heritage Command website.
This is the ship’s bell on the Bluenose II, Nova Scotia’s iconic racing schooner, which I had a chance to tour last fall.
Ships Bell on Nova Scotia Racing Schooner Bluenose II    @FanningSparks
In the same way a ship’s bell can be used to warn other ships of her approach, bicycle bells are used to warn other cyclists and pedestrians.  This striking bicycle bell was spotted in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Bicycle Bell and Bikes in Amsterdam Netherlands   @FanningSparks
Sleigh bells originated for the same purpose.  Wikipedia explains “In the winter in New England in pre-automobile days, it was common to adorn horses’ harnesses with straps bearing bells as a way to avoid collisions at blind intersections, since a horse-drawn sleigh in snow makes almost no noise.”  Interestingly, the rhythm of the ever-popular Christmas song Jingle Bells, “mimics that of the trotting horse’s bells”.
This vintage cow bell and strap of sleigh bells, complete with dust and spider webs, was spotted in an old barn.
Neglected Vintage Cow Bell and Sleigh Bells   @FanningSparks
Bells have a long and interesting story to tell.  Yet, they go mostly unnoticed until the holiday season.  At this time of year, from the ringing of church bells to the jingle of sleigh bells, the sweet sound of bells provides a beautiful, audible reminder of the season’s joy.
My Brass Sleigh Bell with Ribbons and Greenery   @FanningSparks

More Info

Check out the following FanningSparks blog posts:
. Expected and Unexpected Delights of Ghent for lots of photos and a summary of my visit to Ghent Belgium
. Count Only Sunny Hours to learn about sun dials.
Several online resources were consulted for today’s blog post including:
. Wikipedia for various topics
. Bell Ringing Association website regarding the history of bell ringing
. Book: Bells, Bells, Bells by Bernadine Bailey which is available here on Archives.org
. The History and Significance of Church Bells by Rev. Dan McDowell, 2014 Olean Times Herald article
. Encyclopedia Britannica website regarding Wind-bells
. Book: Bells by Elizabeth Starr Hill which is available here on Archives.org
. US Naval History and Heritage Command website regarding Ships Bells.

Today’s Takeaways

1. Bells perform a wide variety of functions such as sounding alarms, keeping time, calling to worship, attracting attention, signaling and celebrating special events.
2. Ringing church bells to mark Christmas and New Year is a cherished custom in many parts of the world.
3. The sound of bells, from church bells to sleigh bells, is closely associated with the holiday season.
Peg - FanningSparks Author

Everyone knows eliminating single-use items is better for the environment and paper gift wrap is no exception.  There’s no shortage of online advice on how to wrap gifts in fabric instead of paper.  One option is to wrap gifts in flat, squares of fabric knotting the corners in the style of Japanese furoshiki.  Another option is to use gift bags made of fabric.  It seems to me, most people would find fabric gift bags more convenient and easier to use so I decided to focus on this option.
Ideally, a fabric gift bag would be fast and easy to make.  The simplest design I could find was a basic, rectangular bag with a drawstring closing.  To dress up the bag, I chose a festive fabric in a deep blue, snowflake pattern.  It turns out, the drawstring gift bag was indeed easy to make and it looks quite nice.  But, to my eye, it’s a little lackluster—it’s no match for those gorgeous paper-wrapped presents traditionally pictured under the Christmas tree!
So, I went back to the internet rabbit hole in search of a gift bag that’s made of fabric, easy to make AND beautiful.  I searched for hours and came up short.  In the end, I decided to design my own—a six-sided, elliptical-shaped bag topped with fabric petals—which I made in a simple, red and white floral print.  I’m quite pleased with the results!
Fabric Gift Bag – Fast or Fancy Version @FanningSparks
I’ve included step-by-step instructions for both fabric gift bags in today’s blog post.  First up, is the basic drawstring bag which I’ve dubbed a Fast Fabric Gift Bag.  Second is the Fancy Fabric Gift Bag with my one-of-a-kind design.
How To Make a Fast Fabric Gift Bag
Finished Fast Fabric Gift Bag @FanningSparks
Supplies Needed
The following supplies are needed to make ONE drawstring bag measuring 12” x 8 ½”.
. Fabric:  ONE fat quarter of cotton fabric.  This fabric is typically 42-45” wide so a fat quarter measures 21-22½” wide x 18” long.
. Thread: In a color matching the fabric.
. Cord: TWO 32” pieces.
Tools and Equipment Needed
. Ruler or Measuring Tape
. Scissors
. Straight Pins
. Sewing Machine
. Iron
. Large Safety Pin or Bodkin
Step 1  Cut Fabric   Cut TWO rectangles 13½” x 9” from the fabric.
Cutting Fabric for Fast Fabric Gift Bag    @FanningSparks
Step 2  Finish Top Edges  Select one of the 9-inch edges as the top for each rectangle.  Select an overcast stitch on the sewing machine.  Sew across the top edge and down each side for about 3”.  Repeat on second rectangle.
Finishing Top Edge for Fast Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Fold back 1” along the top edge and press.  Repeat on second rectangle.
TIP: Use a straight strip of light cardboard, such as a manila file folder, with a line drawn 1” from the edge.  My template is 11½” long by 1¼” wide and has lines at ¼”, ½”, ¾” and 1” from the top edge.  Simply fold the top edge of the fabric over the template and down to the 1” line.  Press fabric directly over the template.
Making Casing on Fast Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
With top edge folded over, stitch close to the overcast edge to form a casing for the drawstring.  Repeat on second rectangle.
Step 3  Sew Side Seams  Lay one rectangle on work surface with right side facing up.  Lay second rectangle on top, with right side facing down, aligning all edges. Pin.  Stitch along both sides and bottom.
Sewing Side Seams on Fast Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Turn right side out.  Smooth the seam and push out the corners.  Press.
Step 4  Insert Drawstring  Use TWO pieces of cord about 32” long.  Attach the large safety pin (or bodkin) to one end of one piece of cord.  Insert the safety pin into the opening on the left side of the bag, gently pull all the way around the casing and pull out the same opening.  Tie the ends of the cord together with a small knot.  Repeat on the right side with the other piece of cord.
Inserting Cord into Fast Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Step 5  Complete  Your Fast Fabric Gift Bag is ready to use.  Simply pull the two cords in opposite directions to tighten the drawstring.
Using Fast Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
How to Make a Fancy Fabric Gift Bag
Finished Fancy Fabric Gift Bag @FanningSparks
Supplies Needed
The following supplies are needed to make ONE fancy drawstring bag measuring about 8½” high (to top of casing) x 9” wide x 5” deep.
. Template:  Download Fancy Fabric Gift Bag – Complimentary Download to print the template.
. Paper:  A few sheets of white paper for printing template.
. Fabric: Approximately TWO ½ yards of cotton fabric—ONE for main body and ONE for lining.
. Thin Cardboard: SIX 7¼” x 3½” pieces of thin cardboard such as manila file folders or cereal boxes.
. Foam Core Board: 9” x 5”
. Thread: In a color(s) matching the fabric.
. Fabric Glue
. Ribbon – 5/8” wide TWO pieces 54” long
. Adhesive Tape: Short pieces to temporarily reinforce ends of ribbon.
. Decorative Beads (Optional): Beads, with holes big enough to accommodate ribbon, to decorate ends of ribbon.  I used inexpensive, small plastic beads—2 round beads and 1 disc-shaped bead—on each ribbon end.
Equipment and Tools Needed
. Computer and Printer: To print templates.
. Scissors: For paper and for fabric.
. Ruler
. Straight Pins
. Clips (Optional)
. Fabric Pen: I recommend the Pilot FriXion marker because markings can be removed with the heat of an iron.
. Sewing Machine
. Iron
. Large Safety Pin or Bodkin
Step 1  Prepare Templates  Download the Fancy Fabric Gift Bag – Complimentary Download and print the templates. Take care to ensure the scale is accurate on your printed version.  See specifics in the download document.
Step 2  Cut Fabric   Use the Petal Section template to cut SIX petals from the decorative outside fabric and SIX petals from the lining fabric.  Use the Ellipse template to cut ONE ellipse from the decorative fabric and ONE ellipse from the lining fabric.  Cut TWO strips of fabric measuring 1½” x 13” from the lining fabric for the casing.
Fabric Needed for Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Step 3  Cut Supports  Use the Petal Support template to cut SIX petal supports from thin cardboard. Use the Ellipse template to cut ONE ellipse from foam core board.
Step 4  Sew Outside Petals Together  Prepare to sew the fabric petals into a long, flat row.  Lay one of the decorative fabric petals on the work surface with right side up.  Position a second one, with right side facing down, on top and align the edges.  Clip or pin along one long side.  Use the template and the fabric pen to mark the stop point (shown as x on the template).  Select the setting to stitch and overcast woven fabric on the sewing machine.  Stitch from the bottom edge up to the top edge taking care to stop precisely at the stop point and lock in the final stitch.  Repeat with two more pairs of petals.
Sewing Petals Together for Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Lay one of the pairs of stitched petals on the work surface with right sides up.  Position a second pair, with right side facing down, on top and align the edges.  Sew the side seam in the same way as before.  Repeat with the final pair of petals.  This will result in a row of six petals stitched together.  Press seams.
Six Petals Sewn Together for Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Step 5  Sew Lining Petals Together  Follow the process described in Step 4 to sew the six lining fabric petals together.
Step 6  Attach Lining  Lay the decorative fabric petals on the work surface with right side facing up.  Position the lining fabric petals on top, with right side facing down, and align the edges and seams.  Clip or pin together along the top edges of the petals aka the peaks and valleys of the petals.  Use template, aligned with the bottom edges, and fabric pen to re-mark the stop points (shown as x on the template).
Select straight stitch on sewing machine.  The photos show an overcast straight stitch but, in hindsight, I recommend using a straight stitch instead.  It’s easier to sew the tips of the peaks and the dips of the valleys accurately with a straight stitch.  The trick is to sew from the tip of the peak down to the stop point in the valley.  Stop precisely at the stop point, lock in the final stitch and cut off.  Then repeat for all the peak-to-valley sections.
Attaching Lining on Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Turn the assembled piece right side out.  Take care to open the seams, push out the peaks and smooth open the valleys.  If the peaks or valleys pucker and don’t turn smoothly, it may be necessary to go back and adjust the stitching.  Press.  The assembled piece should look like this.
Lining Attached to Petals for Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Step 7  Attach Casing  Overcast all four edges of the two casing strips.  Fold back and press under ¼” along all edges.  Stitch casing edges in place with a straight stitch.
Lay the assembled piece, with lining facing up, flat on work surface.  Use template, fabric pen and ruler to mark stitching lines across the petal sections.
Marking for Casing on Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Prepare sewing machine with matching thread—lining fabric will be on top and decorative fabric will be on bottom.  There will be two openings left in the casing—one opening will be between the third and fourth stitched petals and the other opening will be at the side seam which remains unstitched at this time.
Place the casings on top of the assembled piece, aligning the long edges with the markings.  Pin.  Stitch close to edge from center to about 3” from the unfinished side edge.  Leaving the end of the casing free at this point will make it easier to sew the side seam later.  Attach the second casing in the same way.
Attaching Casing on Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Step 8  Attach Lining at Vertical Seams  Lay assembled piece on work surface with decorative fabric facing up.  Carefully position each petal so the seam in the decorative fabric lines up with the matching seam in the lining.  Pin.  Prepare sewing machine with matching thread— decorative fabric will be on top and lining fabric will be on bottom.
Stitch with the decorative fabric facing up.  Start sewing at the top just below the casing.  Take care to sew along the same path as the previously sewn seam.
Step 9  Sew Final Side Seam  Prepare to sew the assembled piece into a tube.  Fold under and press ¼” along the side edges of the lining fabric.  With right sides together, align the two side edges of the decorative fabric only.  Take care to pull the lining fabric and casings out of the way.  Pin.  Use template, aligned with the bottom edges, and fabric pen to re-mark the stop points, if needed.  Stitch side seam from stop point down to bottom edge.  As noted above, accuracy is important—stop precisely at the stop point, lock in the final stitch and cut off.
Closing Side Seam on Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Press seam open.  Prepare to sew lining fabric in place.  Carefully align the previously pressed edges of the lining side edges with the side seam in the decorative fabric.  Pin.  Prepare sewing machine with matching thread—lining fabric will be on top and decorative fabric will be on bottom.  Take care to pull other fabric and casings out of the way. Stitch as close as possible to the folded edge of the lining fabric.  Repeat with second lining edge.
Closing Lining Side Seam on Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Step 10  Finish Casing  Prepare to stitch the loose ends of the casings into place.  Pull end of casing over the closed side seam and mark ¼” beyond the side seam.  Cut at marking.  Repeat on other casing.  Fold under ⅜” and press.  Pin casing into place.  Sew final section of casings into place leaving the short, folded ends unsewn.
Finishing Casing on Fancy Fabric Gift Bag    @FanningSparks
Step 11  Insert Supports  Prepare to insert the thin cardboard petal supports.  Slide a support into each petal. They should lay flat and fit snuggly.  Trim the support, if needed.   Push the petal supports as far to the top as possible to clear space for the next step.
Step 12  Attach Bottom  Prepare to attach the elliptical piece to the bottom by marking center points.  Use the template and the fabric pen to mark the four center points on the decorative fabric ellipse.  Fold assembled piece at side seams to lay flat.  Take care to ensure the ends of the casings are positioned at the folds.  Mark the side seams at the bottom edge.  Use a ruler to find and mark the center of the front and the back.
At this point, there should be 4 markings along the bottom edge of the assembled piece (2 at the side seams, 1 at center front and 1 at center back).  These markings will align with the 4 markings on the fabric ellipse.  The long, thin ends of the ellipse will be positioned at the side seams to align with the ends of the casings.
Turn assembled piece inside out so the lining is on the outside.  Position on work surface with bottom edges standing up.  Insert fabric ellipse on top of the opening with the right side facing down.  Align a pair of markings at one side seam—aligning the side seam of the assembled piece with one of the long, thin ends of the fabric ellipse.  Ensure the right sides of the fabrics are facing each other and the outside raw edges are even.  Pin in place.  Align and pin the remaining 3 center point markings.   Work around the entire opening, aligning edges and pinning fabric into place.
Attaching Bottom to Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Prepare to sew the bottom seam with a straight stitch.  Working slowly around the entire opening, carefully feed fabric into the sewing machine while keeping the edges aligned and wrinkle-free.  Check for any puckers along the stitched seam.  Adjust, if necessary.  Select an overcast setting on the sewing machine.  Overcast edges to finish the seam.
Turn the assembled piece right side out taking care to gently bend, not fold or crease, the petal supports.  Smooth and push out seam with fingers.  Slide the petal supports as far down to the bottom edge as possible.
Insert the foam core board ellipse into the bottom of the assembled piece to test fit.  Trim support, if needed.  Use fabric glue to attach the lining fabric ellipse to the top of the foam core board ellipse.  Allow to dry.  Trim fabric edges, if needed.  Slip finished bottom support into place.  The bottom support can be removed later so the gift bag can be stored flat.
Inserting Reinforced Bottom Lining into Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Step 13  Insert Ribbon Ties  Prepare to insert ribbon ties into the casings.  Use TWO pieces of ribbon about 54” long.  Attach the large safety pin (or bodkin) to one end of one piece of ribbon.  Insert the safety pin into the opening on the left side of the bag, gently pull all the way around the casing and pull out the same opening.  Repeat on the right side with the other piece of ribbon.  If decorating the ends of the ribbons with beads, wrap a small piece of adhesive tape around the end of the ribbon and roll tightly.  This makes it easier to insert the end of the ribbon into the beads.  Tie a small knot at the end of each ribbon.
Adding Ribbon Ties to Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks
Step 14  Complete  Your Fancy Fabric Gift Bag is ready to use.  Simply pull the two sets of ribbons in opposite directions to tighten and close.
Using Fancy Fabric Gift   @FanningSparks
Tie ribbon into a pretty double bow.
Closeup of Finished Fancy Fabric Gift Bag   @FanningSparks

More Info

You can download the project template here: Fancy Fabric Gift Bag – Complimentary Download.
Please pin this image to share or save for future reference.
Fabric Gift Bag – Fast or Fancy – DIY Tutorial pin   @FanningSparks

Today’s Takeaways

1. Eliminating single-use items is better for the environment and paper gift wrap is no exception.
2. Fabric gift bags are convenient and easy to use.
3. Consider making your own fabric gift bags.
Peg - FanningSparks Author

Making this super simple, Make & Give project was easier than deciding what to call it.  Is it a buff, tube scarf, neck gaiter, neck warmer, turtleneck scarf, versa-wrap or multiclava?  After a little research, I settled on a “Buff-Style Tube Scarf”.  Buff is the name used most frequently but BUFF® is actually the trademarked product name from the Original Buff S.A. Spain company.  It’s a very popular product and “Buff” has morphed into common usage much like Kleenex® has for facial tissues and Xerox has for photo copies.
Regardless of its name, the project featured in today’s blog post is simply a tube of stretchy fabric typically worn to protect the neck from cold and wind.  When sewn from a pretty fabric, the Buff-Style Tube Scarf can add a little style while keeping the wearer warm.
A quick note about my model: Willow was a digital stamp from Pink Gem Designs and, to my knowledge, this is her first modeling gig!  See More Info below.
DIY Buff-Style Tube Scarf Modelled by Willow from Pink Gem Designs   @FanningSparks
The fascinating thing about the Buff-Style Tube Scarf is the number of ways in which it can be worn and the myriad of purposes it can serve.  The most obvious is as a neck gaiter or neck warmer to help keep the wearer warm in cold temperatures.
Buff-Style Tube Scarf - Neck Gaiter with Jacket  @FanningSparks
After pulling it around the neck, the ends of the Buff-Style Tube Scarf can be positioned in a variety of ways.  A face mask is made by pulling one end up over the mouth and nose.  A hood is formed by pulling one end up over the head.  A balaclava can be fashioned by pulling both openings around the head—one end is pulled up over the head like a hood while the other end is pulled up over the mouth and nose like a face mask.
Buff-Style Tube Scarf - Face Mask Hood Balaclava   @FanningSparks
Alternatively, the Buff-Style Tube Scarf can be worn around the head instead of around the neck.  It can be scrunched into a simple headband or sweat band, twisted into a beanie cap, knotted into a doo-rag, or fashioned into a sun guard with one end covering the back of the neck.  These techniques can be combined with ball caps, hats, cycling helmets and protective headgear for even more options.
Buff-Style Tube Scarf - Headband to Sun Guard   @FanningSparks
The Buff-Style Tube Scarf can also be used to manage hair as a hairband, hair tie or scrunchie.  It can be twisted onto a wrist as a wrist sweat band or pulled over the head to cover the eyes as a sleep mask.  It can be soaked in cold water to help keep the wearer cool in hot temperatures.  In a pinch, it can even be used as a rag, towel or carrying pouch.
The Buff-Style Tube Scarf may just be handier than a pocket on a shirt!  In fact, it may be the ideal gift for someone special this holiday season.  It’s a fast, easy project requiring only basic sewing skills. Best of all, it can be personalized by selecting fabric in a style, pattern and color that matches the recipient’s interests and preferences.
Fabric is available from a number of sources but my go-to source is Spoonflower.  As noted on their website “The Spoonflower community has grown to over 3.3 million creatives who use the Marketplace of more than one million designs”.  I love how Spoonflower enables independent designers and creatives to offer their designs to the world.  Check out my previous blog post, DIY Personalized Fabric-Covered Journal Tutorial Part 1, for a closer look at Spoonflower along with tips for choosing the perfect fabric.  The below image references a personalized fabric-covered journal but it’s equally relevant to this project.
What's Their Passion? Selecting the Perfect Fabric for DIY Personalized Fabric-Covered Journals. @FanningSparks
After finding the ideal fabric, it’s time to begin.  Here are the step-by-step instructions to make a personalized Buff-Style Tube Scarf.
Supplies Needed
. Fabric: ONE fat quarter of lightweight knit fabric. I chose “Bright Rainbow Watercolor Scale Pattern 3” by Clarissa Hughes of Raccoon Girl in Performance Piqué from Spoonflower.  This fabric has 1-way stretch with moisture wicking and wrinkle-resistance properties.  The fabric is 56” wide so a fat quarter measures 28” wide x 18” long.
. Thread: In a color matching the fabric.
Tools Needed
. Ruler or Measuring Tape
. Scissors
. Pins
. Sewing Machine with Stretch Stitch
Instructions
Step 1 Cut Fabric  Place fabric on flat surface with stretch running side-to-side.  Trim off any selvages and un-printed sections.  Measure 20 ½” from one side edge, across the stretch, and cut.  Ensure length is 18”.
Cutting Fabric for Buff-Style Tube Scarf with Measurements   @FanningSparks
Step 2 Pin Fabric  With right sides together, fold the fabric in half bringing the two 18” edges together.  Align side edges and pin.  The folded rectangle should measure 18” long x 10 ¼” wide.
Preparing to Stitch the Buff-Style Tube Scarf   @FanningSparks
Step 3 Sew Side Seam  Select setting to stitch and overcast stretch fabric on the sewing machine.  Sew the side edges together turning the rectangle into a tube.
Stitching the Buff-Style Tube Scarf   @FanningSparks
Step 4 Finish Edges    Select setting to overcast stretch fabric on the sewing machine.  Finish the top and bottom edges of the tube with an overcast stitch.
Finishing Edges of the Buff-Style Tube Scarf   @FanningSparks
Step 5 Turn Right Side Out  Simply turn the tube right side out to finish.
Finished Buff-Style Tube Scarf   @FanningSparks
The Buff-Style Tube Scarf is so easy to make, I couldn’t resist making another one in red and green plaid for the upcoming holidays.  I chose the same knit fabric from Spoonflower in a design called “Custom Christmas Red and Green Apple Plaid”  by Hialeah Florida of Eclectic House.
Buff-Style Tube Scarf in Christmas Colors   @FanningSparks

More Info

Please pin this image to share or save for future reference.
DIY Buff-Style Tube Scarf Modelled by Willow from Pink Gem Designs   @FanningSparks
The following unique products are featured in this post:
. Willow Digital Stamp by Janet Roberts of Pink Gem Designs on Etsy
. Bright Rainbow Watercolor Scale Pattern 3 fabric design by Clarissa Hughes of Raccoon Girl on Spoonflower
. Custom Christmas Red and Green Apple Plaid fabric design by Hialeah Florida of Eclectic House on Spoonflower.
Thank you all for your lovely work.  And special thanks to Marian for inspiring this project and blog post.
Check out the Spoonflower website for more information about their print-on-demand fabrics.  As noted, I’m a big fan—I even have a little FanningSparks shop on Spoonflower which offers a few cut-and-sew pillows.  There are 6 designs with coordinating stripes—3 photos of flowers in the Floral World Tour Collection and 3 photos of ferns in the Bring in the Outdoors – Fern Collection.
You can learn more in the FanningSparks blog posts:
. Bring in the Outdoors – Fern Collection
. Basic Pillow DIY Tutorial
. Announcing the Floral World Tour Collection.

Today’s Takeaways

1. A Buff-Style Tube Scarf is a very versatile accessory.
2. Sometimes, the simplest things are the most useful.
3. Consider a Buff-Style Tube Scarf to make and give this holiday season.
Peg - FanningSparks Author