decordiva..I've used blankets for sewing before...and I just used a blanket stitch using yarn instead of thread..The blanket stitch is an embroidery stitch and if you need to, you can do an internet search to find directions for it..it's an easy stitch, and holds blanket material together very well. You could also use an overcast whip stitch using artificial sinew or crochet thread to match/contrast on the suede jackets to join them too. The stitches on both show on the outside of the finished project, but lend a quality handmade look to the pieces. Show us pix of your finished projects! and good luck!

Thanks everyone! Vicky--the bag is just a pattern I got at Walmart. It's a McCalls 3136. The bag was REALLY easy. Kate--I didn't mark the feathers, but then I've done so much FM quilting that I don't often mark patterns. As a beginner, go ahead and draw as many markings as you need. Drawing the center vein on a feather or vine is a good way to help you see where you need to go next. While I don't draw the vein, I do sew that first, make the loop at the end and then lay in the feathers along the line. When I get to the bottom, I go up the other side of the vein, then back down with the feathers. Annie

Here is the second bag. As you can see I embellished the design with tiny matching seed beads. Both bags are lined with coordinating materials.

I have organized storage in the trunk of my car and use a tote only to take samples to each client BTW if you are just starting out take my advice and keep choices to a min. for your clients or you will be crazy in no time. I have a tote that I carry my cell, a sketch pad and pencils , a measuring tape and that is all I take on a first visit. I also tape my conversations with permission so there is not confusion down the road. I use one sketch book and notebook for each client