Hand Stitched Wallets

If you’re familiar with my book, The Dutiful Daughter’s Guide to Caregiving you know my love for big purses (leather life support systems) that hold everything one could possibly need, even in an emergency. Recently, though, I’ve discovered the simple pleasure of only carrying basics like keys, a phone, a credit card, a little bit of cash, and maybe a lipstick. Seriously, it is so freeing. I also don’t wear a watch anymore, but that’s a whole other blog post.

In sync with this, I’ve been doing a great deal of hand-sewing lately, combining basic stitches with textiles I’ve recycled like cloth napkins, dish towels, old shirts, and my mom’s vintage hankies. From these calm, soothing  “time outs” have come a collection of pieces – my interpretation of Buddhist Prayer Flags, and most recently some unique hand-stitched fabric wallets, just the right size for holding only what’s needed in the moment. Perfect for carrying on a walk, a quick run to the grocery store, meandering through an art show, or taking to a party, they’ll “zhuzh” up any outfit, from blue jeans to cocktail dress. And, if you can’t quite give up that big purse look, you can just tuck a wallet inside.

Sizes range from approximately 6x4 to 7x5 and I may do some larger pieces down the road.  Check out what’s available now in my Stitchery Gallery.