I needed a new handbag to take overseas with me that looked good but was also big enough to fit my travel wallet and camera in, as well as my purse and the everyday paraphernalia that we all have to carry.
I wanted one that had a long strap so I could just pop it over my head and be hands free, very important when sight-seeing and shopping and also for security. The Rosie bag was just perfect. The zip top gave me added security and a greater feeling of freedom. Knowing it was zipped up against pick-pockets and over my shoulder to stop bag snatchers helped me to relax and enjoy my trip more.
he Rosie Bag is also very roomy, I had no trouble fitting in my maps and tourist guide as well as everything else, my biggest problem was resisting the temptation to fit ‘everything’ in and making it too heavy to carry!
I chose to do the patchwork version with a little green ribbon over-stripe on the grosgrain that crosses over the patchwork squares. I think it looks very smart and have received many compliments, even from strangers that have spoken to me in shops!
My Rosie bag is almost 6 months old now and still being used constantly (and I am still receiving compliments, yeah!).
I took Maree’s advice and did a Scotchguard spray before I used it so even though there is a lot of white in it it still looks very good. Another tip that Maree gave me was not to use black lining. I lined the bag with the bright green fabric similar to the colour of the ribbon. The bag is quite deep and as Maree explained with black lining it would be very difficult to find items at the bottom of the bag. With the bright green it is easy.
I highly recommend Maree's Rosie Bag Pattern it's fabulous!

MARILYN DAVIDSON - Geelong, Australia.

Maree’s wealth of knowledge is amazing and so practical and appreciated

Rose Nadile - Point Cook, Australia.

I feel very lucky indeed to be able to be part of Maree’s sewing classes – so enjoyable and informative, fun and companionable. It is a pleasure to come to Rosewood Cottage at Mount Duneed, as it is such a beautiful, peaceful setting. The best thing about Maree’s classes is her knowledge and enthusiasm! I feel that I am learning and I love sewing, the more I do it I gain confidence.

Jenni Wackett - South Geelong, Australia.

Maree is the best sewing teacher in the whole world!

Loren Dolphin – Ocean Grove, Australia.

Whatever you have come to learn, Maree will help you achieve and more! The best thing about Maree’s classes are the tips, tricks and belly aches from laughing! Thanks Maree.

Julie Armstrong – Barwon Heads, Australia.

Maree always makes you feel very welcome and has lots of time for everybody in class. She is a great teacher and explains very well so you can understand and doesn’t mind telling you again if you didn’t quite get it the first time –
Thank you Maree!

Betty Dunn – Newcomb, Australia.

I knew when I spoke to Maree on the phone for the first time, that I would love the sewing classes. I feel great to make something for myself. Thanks Maree!

Faye Mollenhauer – Grovedale, Australia.

I learnt an appreciation of fashion. Line, detail, fabric and what patterns would suit me.

Pamela Chandler – Highton, Australia.

I have sewn items with Maree that I didn’t think possible. From a formal dress to ballroom dancing outfit to magnificent patchwork bags. Maree is a teaching genius!

Tiffany Mc Intosh – Grovedale, Australia.

The best thing about Maree’s classes are the things we learn and friendships made - and a lot of help when we are feeling poorly!

Bebe Quick – Manifold Heights, Australia.

Maree is a wonderful, patient teacher who can solve any problem – and help out when students feel poorly!

Betty Redmond – Highton, Australia.

Maree’s sewing classes are excellent and you gain great friendships.

Pat Matthews – Waurn Ponds, Australia.

You can’t have better than the best!

Kay Oliver – Grovedale, Australia.

The best thing about Maree’s classes is that she gives you the confidence to ‘have a go’

Fran Cunningham – Belbrae, Australia.

Absolutely so much fun! A great group of people and learnt so much!

Amelia Ling – Newtown, Australia.

In Maree’s classes you learn to do things properly!

Sophie Day – Mount Duneed, Australia.

I love the various tricks and techniques that Maree is so experienced with... Maree knows everything! When I first started, Maree showed us different techniques which we put in a folder for future reference – I really liked that idea!!

Lucy Burke – Barwon Heads, Australia.

I have learned to be confident in the sewing challenges I have undertaken. At the same time the classes are always fun and it has been nice to meet like-minded ladies. I think Maree should do a couple of pages in the Woman’s Weekly re: her recycling ideas in these recessionary times.

Elaine Gorman – Torquay, Australia.

Maree is just great!

Margaret Guthrie – Grovedale, Australia.

The best thing about Maree’s classes are the friendships, confidence in my sewing skills and inspiration for new projects.

Glenda Breedveld – Highton, Australia.

I have learned to use the overlocker and heaps of other sewing tips.

Margaret Donovan – North Shore, Australia.

I have enjoyed being around people who like to sew, learning short cuts, tips and techniques.

Patricia Harries – Wallington, Australia.

The best thing about Maree’s sewing classes is you learn to make your own clothes - Great!

Margaret Martin – Grovedale, Australia.

Maree’s expertise has enabled me to make a variety of clothes from overcoats, frocks and children’s frocks. Maree’s influence and advice inspires each of her students to achieve success whatever their project in a comfortable, friendly atmosphere of Rosewood Cottage surrounded by beautiful fragrant roses.

Patricia Siddall – Torquay, Australia.

The best thing from attending Maree’s sewing classes is that my confidence is growing because techniques are explained.

Terri Lambert – Gherang, Australia.

Friendship – Advice – Nurturing

Marnie Jones – Lorne, Australia.

I love coming to sewing class every week. Attention to detail, learning extra techniques that are not explained in pattern instructions and my sewing skills have improved out of sight!

Jess Lewis

A fun and friendly atmosphere in which to learn expert tips on producing professionally finished garments.

Tanya Hollis

Maree is a Gun! And super Fun!

Carla Barrie

The best thing I have learnt is learning how to sew full stop – it’s been great I can now sew from a pattern.

Kylie Sobra

Even though I have had only one class so far, I have gained a lot. Maree is so patient which is good for a beginner.

Abbey Jones

Very enjoyable experience.

Jan Goodfellow

I so much look forward to every 2nd Tuesday when I have a full day of sewing classes. Seeing the wonderful friends made in class and knowing that I will learn something new. 2.5years ago, I couldn’t even thread a machine. Now I make most of my own and families clothes.

Denise Gun

I have gained confidence in the use of knits and similar friendly fabrics

Kath T

Maree’s Beginner Sewing Clinic was an excellent 2 days. Thank you so much for teaching me the skills that I can use for the future. I can’t wait to wear my beautiful clothes.

Emy McPhee

The Beginner Sewing Clinic with Maree was the funnest two days! Not only did I make a new top and skirt but I learned how to sew!

Eden Whittaker

A wonderful two day experience I had at Maree’s Beginner Sewing Clinic. Reached all expectations! Can’t wait to further enjoy classes with Maree!

Hannah Dowling

I have learnt so many skills over the past two days at Maree’s Beginner Sewing Clinic and developed a new love of sewing. Maree has inspired me to continue sewing and try new things.

Erin Littlewood