Crafting Pendleton bags at the Hibulb Cultural Center
Article and photo by Jeannie Briones
Admirers of the bright and colorful patterns of Pendleton wool were in for a treat at the Tulalip Hibulb Cultural Center on January 26th. Marilyn Sheldon, a Tulalip tribal member and artisan, shared her inspiration for making unique Pendleton bags with community members attending the Hibulb’s Cultural Series.
Taught how to sew by her mother, Marilyn turns second hand fabric scraps into gorgeous purses, pillows, backpacks, and more. “Recycle, utilize every piece you can. Don’t throw anything away, even your scraps. Pieces you get from the thrift shop can turn into to amazing beautiful gifts,” said Marilyn.
Sharing over ten years of experience in bag making, Marilyn gave a step-by-step demonstration on how to sew a small handbag, beginning with the layout, basic construction and measuring of the bag.
“You can’t make anything overnight; your best piece will take months. I really think about what I want to do. What would make them happy, what is something unique they don’t have, what is something they would use – and bring it to reality,” said Marilyn.
She also offered helpful tips on ways to save time and to save money by shopping at thrift stores and using handles from old purses. One example shown by Marilyn was a bag made from a second hand skirt, which comes with lining already sewn in.
Marilyn created her first personalized bag for herself last year – a vibrant pink golf bag, complete with her initials “M.S.” and “Golf Girl” inscribed on it. She is also planning on making her first Pendleton coat.
These gorgeous bags cannot be found in any stores, because Marilyn has no intentions of ever selling them, instead she simple enjoys making people happy through gifting her handmade items.
Marilyn has fun making these special bags and encourages others to learn. “This is a good way for people to utilize hands, heart, and mind,” explained Marilyn.