burlap and buckets...

Have any of you been wondering what happened to the burlap buckets... or where is that shop update? I've been having so much fun making elf slippers and baking pretzels, that I've let January slip right by! Well, that's not quite true. I've been spending a lot of behind the scenes time working on new burlap designs and revamping my old patterns, so that I can make the most of each coffee sack. I created my original pattern with the loose weave of burlap as my guide. Now that I really understand this sturdy and unique material, I'm much more confident as I create patterns that will make the most of every inch of a coffee sack. You know how I loathe waste. I've held onto each scrap for future projects, but I'm excited to incorporate my "waste not, want not" mantra into each new bucket. I'll unveil the new and improved bucket later on this week. My shop update will include some original buckets, some new buckets, pin cushions, cork boards, and a few little surprises to be shared, as soon as they're ready. I think of my coffee sack cork board as my launching pad for working with burlap. It's still getting some attention, three months later.


I've refined the process by giving them a nicely finished back with mounting hardware already installed, perfect for hanging in your studio or office. These two were custom orders.

back view

Soon, I'll have some smaller ones ready for designs maya*made. Perfect for shipping!

Here are two other buckets I've made recently. Both in cotton. This one was a hand stenciled birthday gift for a very dear and close friend. Read her kind and generous words about it, here. (While you're over there, read her previous amazing post, too. No one writes like this brilliant woman!)


This next bucket is reversible with pockets in Amy Butler fabric ( a special request).


So that's the scoop! Mark your calendars for a shop update on Friday, February 6th. I'll give you a couple of reminders as the day approaches. I'd really love to take more special requests/custom orders, but I've learned that a limited schedule to craft/sew dictates my priorities. My biggest priority for maya*made is this blog. I absolutely love sharing my adventures in creative living. You make it so rewarding. Without this blog, I'd probably still be growing sprouts... but how fun to know lots of friends are joining in, too! What a wonderful community!