The Carpet Bag "Love" ~ Monyan Forevermore Collection 2011 (NFS)

The Monyan Forevermore Collection is composed of 5 handbags, each individually unique in style, all of which are composed of fabric belonging to my client's grandmother. This collection was designed to recreate Monyan's avante garde style she eloquently and effortlessly modeled in her lifetime. Through photographs and long conversations with my client, she helped create an image for me of Monyan's character, that of which I personified in handbags with the use of her dresses, clothing Monyan made for her daughter, curtains and loose fabrics she owned. Each handbag evokes a different look at Monyan's colorful and original style. With this, I give you, "Monyan Forevermore."


This extraordinary handbag is based on a love story between Honora and Frank Wargo. While in Loraine, Ohio, the two met, found themselves in love, married and spent a lifetime together. It is thought that Frank learned of this lovely word "Monyan" (meaning 'my all') from a local of Lorain. From then on he referred to Honora, his beloved, as Monyan forevermore. The gorgeous rose, composed of lace from one of Monyan's dresses, is symbolic of love. This particular handbag, which was the first of five I designed, was an absolute joy to create, from the beginning of production, to the building of the piece, right down to the final stitching on of the vintage buttons.

The back side of the bag displays my signature cascade of fabric. The retro geometric print on the top sides of the handbag (silvery gray) is from the skirt that Monyan wore to her daughter's wedding (my client's mother). The pink and white retro daisy print was taken from a jumper that Monyan made for my clients mother. The black and white floral print, also seen on the large rose, was a flouncy ruffle on a dress.

Click on any of the images for a larger view.




The beauty of the Carpet Bag is that no matter what the fabric, the uniqueness of each textile shines through and reveals their beauty. With the exception of a few small pieces, every piece of fabric used on this bag belonged to Monyan.




The Hungarian print fabric I used for the lining is also drawn from Monyan's wonderful eclectic collection of fabrics.






"Monyan" ~ it means "my all." This eloquent term comes from the Michif language, which is a mixed language based on Cree. Cree is part of the Native American Algonquian language and also consists of the French language, that of which was spoken along the Canadian border and throughout the north central United States.

The Carpet Bag "Compass" $240

I have for several years been drawn to the imagery from Psalm 103: 11-12 "For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far he removes our transgressions from us." I've pondered how to put these words to fabric and not lose the depth of the scriptural meaning. The symbol I thought best to represent this idea is the compass, as it serves as a navigating tool for our guidance and direction when lost, or finding our way blindly, if you will. Spiritually we can fall into that category as well....lost. Let Christ be your compass in times like these, and allow the wind of the Spirit fill your sails. His steadfast love for you will never fail you, and your transgressions will be wiped clean. North, South, East or West, you will then, for sure, be heading in the right direction! Steady as she goes!

The scarlet clover is symbolic of the blood He shed for me and the blessed Trinity.

Two large pockets wrap around each side of this handbag to provide you with an ample supply of pocket room for your keys and mobile phone. This allows for quick and easy collection of those necessary items, as well as that lip gloss you'll need to put on your pout when you're meeting your "bo."




"Compass" is classic elegance, reminiscent of days by the ocean, boardwalks, salty air, sunshine, and sandy beaches.











This handbag is composed of linen, satin, cotton blends, bottomweight, and nickle plated hardware.











True to form, SCD handbags are always as pretty inside as they are out. The Carpet Bag works hard for you as it is equipped with three large compartments inside, along with two slip pockets, both designed to hold the writing pen and nail file, as well as the check book and your big sunglasses. This SCD handbag is the mack-daddy of organization!

The Carpet Bag "Love" ~ Monyan Forevermore Collection

"Monyan" ~ it means "my all." This eloquent term comes from the Michif language, which is a mixed language based on Cree. Cree is part of the Native American Algonquian language and also consists of the French language, that of which was spoken along the Canadian border and throughout the north central United States.






This extraordinary handbag is based on a love story between Honora and Frank Wargo. While in Loraine, Ohio, the two met, found themselves in love, married and spent a lifetime together. It is thought that Frank learned of this lovely word "Monyan" from a local of Lorain, as the usage of Michif was still a part of the local diction. From then on he referred to Honora, his beloved, as Monyan forevermore. The gorgeous rose, composed of lace from one of Monyan's dresses, is symbolic of love.

Click on any of the images to get a more detailed photograph.




I have the wonderful pleasure to create a series of handbags based solely on Monyan, the grandmother of my client. My client sent me a box chock full of material, all pieces that belonged to Monyan, one of which was the skirt that Monyan wore to her daughter's wedding (my client's mother). Given the charge and artistic liberties to do my "thing", I deconstructed several dresses, reworked some very old lace, employed the use of decorative pocket flaps on one dress as detail for the exterior pockets, cut up some major cool vintage curtains that Monyan had hanging in her house, and dipped into my massive vintage button collection. My-oh-my, this has been an exciting and invigorating project!

During this time, I also had at my workstation a photograph of Monyan, sitting there in a pretty frame ~ I truly felt like she has been there with me in spirit from the inception. This bag is the first of 5, and I pray that her spirit will continue to be with me.



"Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm; for love is strong as death, passion fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a raging flame. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it. If one offered for love all the wealth of his house, it would be utterly scorned." Song of Solomon 8: 6-7

All is a term that we use day in and day out, giving it no afterthought. Frank however, used it for the intent of completion. She was his all, his everything, the air he breathed, the light in his life. Love can conquer all.


Even the fabric inside the bag is taken from Monyan's fabrics. This handbag is Vintage Chic all the way ~ just the way Monyan would like it.

The Carpet Bag "Acacia Bush" $240

Shown here on the Carpet Bag, the symbol of the acacia bush, with its leaves resembling tongues of fire, is connected to the burning bush, in which the angel of God appeared to Moses (Exodus 3:2). Because the fire did not consume the bush and because of the durable nature of the wood, the acacia bush symbolizes immortality and permanence. This handbag is positively radiant, inside and out! Alva William Steffler, Symbols of the Christian Faith (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 2002), 103.


Detail of the "acacia bush". The two side pockets are perfect for stashing away your keys, phone or lipstick for a quick retrieval.











The back of the handbag features my signature cascade of fabrics. This bag employs cotton/poly blends, velvet, leatherette, and tapestry. All hardware is brass.







Detail of the cascade. Click on any of the photos to get a larger view.












The Carpet Bag offers plenty of options for organization. And, just as are all of Scarlet Clover handbags, "Acacia Bush" is just as pretty inside as she is out.

The Carpet Bag - "Momma Bee"

The Bee and the Hive have long been symbols of industry & regeneration, wisdom & obedience, with a place in Christian symbolism. The bee, a symbol of diligence & industry, also represents vigilance. $230 Alva William Steffler, Symbols of the Christian Faith (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 2002), 107, Symbols of Christian Art & Architecture. A Resource for Learning the Sign Language of the Faith (on the web).



A closer look reveals the honeycomb detail on the cascade, all too appropriate for "Momma Bee".











This lovely little bumble bee is made of blue corduroy, detailed with 22 Mother-of-Pearl buttons, turquoise ric-rac, and pale green iridescent wings. On each side of the Carpet Bag are two outside pockets that wrap from front to back. Just to the right of the Scarlet Clover logo is where I always stash my keys and cell phone for quick and easy access.

Click on any of the photos to get a closer view of the details.





The Carpet Bag is very popular among my clients due to it's ability to keep things very organized inside. I typically use the center compartment for items that I need quickly, i.e. wallet, change purse, business cards & check book, while the side compartments are for tissues, the girly things, lipsticks, receipts, shopping lists, etc.



I have incorporated many different fabrics and textures in this bag which lends it it's unique look. Chenille, tweed, silk, taffeta, mole skin, twill, corduroy, cotton and poly blends all help to create the boutique look.

The Carpet Bag - "All Dogs Go To Heaven"

The saying goes, "All Dogs Go To Heaven". That may be true for our canine companions, but what about the dogs of this world? Those that are lost? Throughout history, the dog has been linked to many things, good and bad. In allegory the dog is the attribute of fidelity personified. In old German art, three dogs represent Mercy, Truth, & Justice. In Scripture, the dog is not viewed favorably. However, Ecclesiastes sheds a different light on the dog, by not giving in to despair, and finding hope in those that are lost. "But whoever is joined with all the living has hope, for a living dog is better than a dead lion." 9:4 Alva William Steffler, Symbols of the Chrisian Faith (Grand rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 2002), 107. James Hall, Dictionary of Subjects & Symbols in Art Revised Edition (Harper & Row, NY:1974), 105. Hair by Dani at Salon Prive, Newtown Pa.


Dress this bag up, or dress it down, either way, it is very handsome!









The shoulder strap is additional, and can be purchased separately.

This attractive bag is composed of velvet, wool, cotton blends, silk, and poly blends.

Click on any of the images for a larger, more detailed view.







Detail of the back side with large chrome clasps.









Would you just look at how pretty that looks! Oh so very handsome indeed. All of the compartments on this bag are terrific for organizing your worldly goods and treasures. Two semi-circular compartments are on the outside of the bag, each side, wrapping around the ends. The two side pockets inside are just the right size for big sunglasses, Blackberry's, palm pilots, and check books. Two smaller pockets are equipped to hold writing pens, nail files, and lip gloss.

The Carpet Bag - "Dandelion" 09

"The Dandelion is a bitter herb used as a symbol of the Passion in early Flemish and German paintings of the Crucifixion. It also symbolizes grief, because it is assumed to be the herb that the Israelites ate on the night of the Passover (Exod 12:8)." Alva William Steffler, Symbols of the Christian Faith (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 2002), 106. Hair by Dani at Salon Prive, Newtown, Pa.








The Carpet Bag is equipt with plenty of compartments, rather than lots of smaller pockets. The exterior of the handbag is host to two large semi-circular compartments that wrap around each end of the bag. I find that this spot is the perfect location for my keys, cell phone, and chap stick. It provides quick and easy access for things I need right away. My favorite place to put my phone and keys is directly under the signature SC tag, that way I always know which side they are on.







The colors of the "Dandelion" are just beautiful. The earthy hues are great for dressing up, and look just as fab with jeans, and oxford, and driving moc's. The handbag is made up of corduroy, silk, taffeta, mole skin, tweed, velvet, cotton, and poly blends.

Click on any of the images to get a larger, more detailed view.






SURPRISE! I've added a new touch to some of my handbags. I've had a great response to the Scarlet Clover in the center bottom. As always, SC bags are just a pretty inside as they are out. The compartments on the inside make organizing your prized possissions in this large bag a breeze. The two side pockets are just the right size for Blackberry's, and your Jackie O sunglasses. There are two smaller pockets for writing pens, nail files, and lip glosses.

The Carpet Bag - "Acacia Bush"

Shown here on the Carpet Bag, the symbol of the Acacia Bush, with its leaves resembeling tongues of fire, is connected to the burning bush, in which the angel of God appeared to Moses (Exod. 3:2). Because the fire did not consume the bush and because of the durable nature of the wood, the acacia bush symbolizes immortality and permanence. This handbag is positively radiant, inside and out! I have chosen a subtle, yet perfectly appropriate tapestry of paisley that appears to be tongues of fire, along with a faux leather, satin, taffeta, twill, and cordurory. This is a lovely combination. The faux leather will soften in color over time from the oils in your skin. Limited Edition (3) Alva William Steffler, Symbols of the Christian Faith (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 2002), 103.















A closer look at the golden colors inside. The Carpet Bag is designed for organization -- trust me, I am queen of organization, and I designed this bag just for that. The center compartment of the bag should hold your items that you would need immediately (the side pockets for your sunglasses, checkbook, lipsticks, cell phone), and the side compartments are for things that you need on occasion (ibuprofen, dental floss, tissues, etc.).

The Carpet Bag - "Raven" (Gold)

The Raven theme is presented here on the Carpet Bag. This lovely handbag has two exterior semi-circular pockets that hold items that are needed on the fly, and the inside lining is just perfect for the woman who likes organization! The story of the Raven comes from I Kings 17:1-6 where the prophet Elijah flees from the evil King Ahab to the brook of Cherith. It was here that the ravens fed Elijah "bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening", reminder of God's providence and hope. This handbag sold at a silent auction for a fundraiser in Cranbury, NJ.

The back of the Raven has crisp, clean lines, in a gradation of color from ivory to a rich gold taffeta. The buttons are new Vogue replicas. The gold on the front panel and sides are silk.

A detail of the inside.

The Carpet Bag - "Raven"

The Raven theme is presented here on the Carpet Bag. This lovely handbag has two exterior semi-circular pockets that hold items that are needed on the fly, and the inside lining is just perfect for the woman who likes organization! The story of the Raven comes from I Kings 17:1-6 where the prophet Elijah flees from the evil King Ahab to the brook of Cherith. It was here that the ravens fed Elijah "bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening", a reminder of God's providence and hope. Limited Edition (2). One of these handbags sold at a silent auction for a fundraiser in Cranbury, NJ.

This particular Carpet Bag is composed predominately of black fabric. I have used many different textures and patterns to bring flavor and variety. A closer look will reveal velvet, taffeta, a cotton blend with tan polka-dots, gingham, a raised flora print of black on black poly blend, and a confident black and tan paisley. The "cascade"



Detail of the Raven. I have used an old button I found in a box of treasures for the eye.







The inside detail presents large gingham pockets, some small, some large, to hold your big ole' sunglasses, your blackberry, pens, lipsticks, etc., and the two side pockets are perfect for items that aren't always needed right away.





Just another view.

The Carpet Bag - "Dandelion"

This large handbag, The Dandelion, is a beauty! The Dandelion is a Christian symbol for the Passion of Christ, as well as the assumed herb the Israelites ate the night of the Passover. This particular style of bag is the Carpet Bag. It has two large semi-circular pockets on each side, perfect for items that you want to grab quickly. Sturdy corduroy handles are supported by gold rings and hefty gold jean buttons. (The white tag is the label that comes with the purse and can be removed.) Limited Edition (3)


This is the back of The Dandelion Bag.








Detail of handmade "dandelion", with a bit o' bling in the middle.







The functional inside - a wide center pocket and convenient side sections to keep things organized.








The pockets are different sizes for different items (pens, checkbooks, sunglasses, cellphones, iPods, etc.). If you're going to take it with you, you might as well be able to quickly find it!