Some years ago, my husband bought several fabric gift bags to wrap my gifts. That gave me an idea, and I began making them myself, in all sizes. For years we haven't used any paper. It is so nice… when you are done unwrapping gifts, you don't have any waste… only fabric bags and satin ribbons that you can fold and put in the drawer for next year.
Once every few years I need to replenish these bags because we tend to give them away with the gifts we give. This year I've made 56 bags, of all different colors and sizes. Here is a glimpse of what I now have (that little blue and white one on the right is one of the originals David gave me):
Yesterday when I was sending out book orders, I decided to include a free gift bag with each order. And then I realized that I can offer that to everyone. There is still time for people to receive books before Christmas. So, here is what I'm offering:
With each order, you will receive a free bag and satin ribbon. As always, I will inscribe the books to whomever you like. Also, you pay shipping only on the first book… it is free on any additional books you buy. Here is an example of what the bags will look like (the one tied with a white ribbon or the one to the left of that one):
I can send both Why I Left the Amish and Bonnet Strings out the same day I receive the orders for them. That means that ordering online is your best bet to receive the books before Christmas.
This offer is good until December 31.
Also, don't forget that each of my publishers are offering my books on sale at their online stores. Herald Press is offering free shipping until December 20. For all ordering options, you can go to my purchase page.
I hope your holidays are filled with peace, joy, warmth, love, and good cheer!
What lovely tradition! I recall back when LPs were the main mode of recorded music, our family had 4-5 artistic wrappings for LPs (my sister and I loved making elaborate wrappings). We were always very careful in taking the record out of the wrapping so it could be used again.
Yes, I like these traditions. I once read how many tons of waste go to the landfills from Christmas waste, and it was absolutely astounding. I like to do my own small part. And it sounds like you have been doing that for years. Good for you!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
What a lovely idea! I’ve always hated the waste of wrapping paper, not to mention the expense. I may have to break out my neglected Singer and give these a try. Thank you for sharing.
Oh, the reliable old Singers… that’s what I have. I know it’s more than 100 years old, and if I care for it properly, it carries on.
Have fun! And it’s my pleasure to share the idea… you’re most welcome.
That is such a wonderful idea!
Michelle, you are welcome to it! It really makes gift-giving fun…
This is a great idea. I am considering to do it as my christmas 2015 project, :-) Thank you for sharing it.
Merry christmas.
Miriam, you are quite welcome for this idea. Merry Christmas to you and your family as well!
The bags in colorful prints look so pretty laid on the table. Almost like a patchwork quilt!
Thank you, Julie.
Believe it or not, I have never put together a patchwork quilt. I’ve been thinking about quilting lately, though. I have a small quilting project in the works for years… I’m thinking of going back to that. At the moment I’m still braiding rugs.
Have a wonderful weekend, Julie.
Oh, my goodness! I just watched the 2nd documentary on PBS today, & I thought, I wish I could get something about Saloma, she looks like someone I’d like, & when I googled, here you are!!
Just ordered both your books, I would like them signed to me please, I am excited to think I will be able to read your story in your own words.
Bless you & yours always.
Celia, I am so glad you found me! I will be sending your books out first thing tomorrow. You’ll get a free fabric gift bag with the order. I hope you’ll enjoy reading my books.
Happy Holidays to you!
Love this idea, Saloma.
I don’t have a sewing machine, but this post makes me wish I did.
Love the pictures of the fabrics on the table.
Merry Christmas,
Shirley
Merry Christmas to you, too, Shirley! The gift bags are so easy to make… perhaps you can borrow someone’s sewing machine for an afternoon or two. You’ll never need to buy gift wrap again!