b is for book
We have a new nephew (two actually, but only one gift is ready!). His name is Lincoln and he just came for a visit (my sister and her family live a few states away). I have loved seeing his big cheeks and sweet smile all week.
When our son C was born, my husband's family put together a bag full of favorite children's books. Each person in the family chose a book, and wrote a little note explaining why they had picked it and what they hoped C would learn from it. It was such a thoughtful gift, and almost five years later, many of those books are my son's favorites.
I made this bag for Lincoln, following the directions from this book. Now that I sew, I understand why people make bags. Quick. Frustration free. Totally satisfying. I used canvas for the bag itself, and cotton fabric for the bottom and handles. The bottom fabric lays over the canvas, so I know the bag will be nice and strong. And I always add a strip of canvas to the handles too, since books can get heavy. To make it a little more special, grab a needle and thread and add an embroidered name.
My mom, sister in law and I all picked a few of our favorite books to include, below are a few of my favorites. Happy reading Lincoln! Please come and visit your Aunt Brooke again soon.. We miss seeing your sweet smile already. (especially Bee and C, so sad to see their new cousin leave. "But how will he get on the plane by himself, Mom?" asked Bee.)
04.1.2009
Reader Comments (37)
So sweet! I love the idea of giving a book bag! What could last longer than books? Looking at the selection of books it occurs to me that classics are classics because of their universal appeal. We have each one of those books on our bookshelves!
I think it is two fabulous ideas....May I take them ???
That is soooo adorable! I love it.
That is such a lovely idea. I love books inscribed with a message - makes it such a timeless gift. Thanks for sharing.
Great idea! I especially love baby showers were guests are asked to bring a favorite picture book to start baby's library. I LOVE many of these titles, especially Leonardo. My daugther's name is Eleanor and she thinks that page is pretty funny stuff :)
This is such a great idea. I really love the bag, and the fabrics you chose for it.
what a fantastic idea! can't wait for someone to have a baby now! :)
what a wonderful gift idea...or even one to add to my growing list of birthday presents for my own boys. books are a huge part of our lives and i can see them excitedly carrying their bags into the library.
and the book is already in my library, so very perfect!
"Is Your Mama a Llama?" is a great book, so fun and happy.
I am sure Lincoln will love his library bag. That is a fantastic idea that I may have to adopt for future babies that I see brought into the world. Thank you so much for sharing!
wonderful, wonderful idea! so thoughtful and enjoyable!
I'll echo most everyone else -- What a great idea! and a beautiful gift.
Once again...SO creative!! You totally inspire me. I'm going to have to steal that idea too! Perfect timing, i was still trying to figure out what to make our new little nephew...this might just be the perfect thing! Thanks Brooke!
Mo Willems is an incredible author. My first graders love him. Especially, Edwina the Dinosaur who didn't know she was extinct! Incredible
What a fantastic idea. My nephew and his wife just had their second child-a boy-so I may use your idea of a bag of books. Thank you.
It just doesn't get better than "Make Way For Ducklings." I can't wait to move to Boston this fall and see the duck statues for myself!
Simple and stunning. I love the colour combination and the simple name. What a lucky baby.
What a neat gift idea! And what a cute nephew. Is Your Mama A Llama is one of our favorites, too!
What a fantastic idea!
This may very well be the perfect baby gift.
I've been ignoring my sewing machine for too long, but now I'm excited to make a tote bag!
Great gift! I'm planning something similiar for my neice when her new brother is born - a bag of books about being a sister and some about a new baby in the family. I am thinking of including some bookplates - this is a great site with beautiful free plates - http://www.myhomelibrary.org/bookplates.html