Bailey's "going to school" bag

One of my nieces is starting school this year, so I made her a fun school bag.

It is a tradition of mine to give a "going to school" package when one of our nephews or nieces starts school. I wanted to make Bailey a bag and fill it with some fun school things. The bag measures 14" x 12 1/2" and is made using two fabrics. The green fabric is a lightweight knit that you would use to make a t-shirt. I fell in love with the pink paisley print so I put the two together.

I used a blanket stitch on my machine to place her initial on the bag. 

This was the first time I used rick-rack for a sewing project. Besides stitching some on the bottom of the bag, the handles show it off as well.

So you want to know what's in the bag? Lots of goodies, including pencils, a pen, stickers, books, ruler, window clings, and a learning CD-rom game. In the past, I've also put in a writing tablet and science or math activities. I know Bailey will love this handmade gift to start off her kindergarten year.

What fun things have you done for kids when they start school? I would love to hear your ideas!