School Supplies

It is not even August yet, but we are preparing for school supplies!  I have seen my first "back-to-school" t.v. ads.  I have printed Simon's and Norah's school supply list.  I have purchased jeans and long sleeves, with great "new-to-me" prices; with knees in tact and room to grow!

AND -
One school supply item has been secured.   Rather, hand-made that is.  Yep, we are prepared to store pencils, markers, or whatever Simon decides to put into his shark supply pouch.  I secretly like that there will be a part of "Mom" in his desk every single school day, with love in every stitch.  I secretly hope that he is happy with his Mom-made shark pouch.  I bought the yarn one day, and the next day Simon asked if I was done.  Once I completed it, he put it on his bed.  I think he likes it.

The pattern was great, free, and easy to follow.  I used nylon crochet thread, in hopes that the pouch is more sturdy.  The pouch does not have that soft, fuzzy yarn feel.  I am hoping that it will not get fuzzy, pilled, or ripped as easily.  I really like the sheen and finished feel of the fabric - very shark-like.   I added a few touches for more embellishment.  I slip-stiched around the tail and fins to make them more sturdy and substantial. I single-crocheted around the whole jaw for a more finished look.  Each round I was supposed to chain one and turn.  I didn't like the look of the chain one, so I just turned.  This project was crocheted in the round, but joined and turned at the end of each row.  A bit trickier, but made for a consistent look since the jaw parts are crocheted back and forth.  The only thing I am not the most pleased with, are the teeth.  Mine seem to stick straight out and not point up.  Minor, but a small annoyance.  I don't think Simon even notices. The zipper was hand-sewn in with not much difficulty.  I, perhaps, am becoming a pro at zippers.

Of course Norah wants one, but school supplies in Kindergarten and first grade are community property.  She may have to wait until 2nd grade for her own.  She told me I could make one and stuff it to be a "furry friend".