So…
you might remember from our last post when we showed you the sketch for our new design for Spring 2020, that this out next post it would be time to make the 1st prototype of this new design… well two of them actually… because I wasn’t all that happy with the first one I made. Oh, don’t worry, I’ll show you both of them but please remember for the record, that the fabrics we use for our prototypes are ALWAYS made up in older, already used or otherwise cast off fabrics. So please don’t judge these results by the fabric they are wearing. Starting with the next post I’ll be sharing posts in new and fun fabrics!
So here’s the 1st prototype I created for this design. If gives you a pretty good idea of how I want it to function, but that’s about ALL I can say for it.
In terms of functionality, the idea behind this bag is that it hugs the side of your body while wearing it cross body style and in so doing, it’s “flatish” silhouette makes it almost undetectable under a jacket, coat or cardigan sweater.
But there’s MUCH that needs to be changed about this prototype!
So let me enumerate the needed changes! First off, overall I find this sample to be too wide and the back compartment, is too poofy. Next, the right-most zipper is too close to the bottom right curved section of the bag and this made this area VERY difficult to sew.
Additionally, I didn’t like the almost concave shape of the top area of the bag or the angle at which the straps proceed out of the bag. It’s unnatural and will produce wear & tear tugging in the long run. And finally, the flip over closure is too tall. So… let’s put this prototype aside and move on to the next!
So here’s prototype #2 and even though many of my objections were addressed, this bag still has a few issues to be corrected, but first, here’s what I liked about it.
First, I like the directionality of the straps this time. I like the way this strap is more angled upwards. (And please note that this strap is just a temporary strap, I have something special in mind that I think you’ll like, but you won’t see it until next time!)
I made this closure (which secures & covers the Phone Pocket) shorter and a bit fatter. Now it doesn’t interfere with the top edge of the bag nor does it potentially allow the phone to “sneek” out of the pocket.
And here’s your first view of the Bag Back. There is a zippered opening to what is a full width pocket, perfect for larger items like a wallet, or a small book or tablet.
Here’s how this new design looks when its snuggled underneath my velvet jacket. It’s very lightweight and easy to wear. It’s perfect for folks who prefer a hands-free lifestyle, including Mom’s, shoppers and even MEN!
So… even though I overall like this prototype much better, there’s STILL things to tweek and correct about this sample!
First off, that back pocket (on the left side of the bag) is the perfect degree of poofiness now, the pocket itself still seems too deep, making the middle pocket (from the right hand zipper to the left side of the bag almost the same depth. Additionally, that middle zipper is STILL too close to that angle corner of the bag so it was STILL difficult to sew thru all those layers and zipper teeth.
Secondly, even though I like the size of that Phone Pocket closure way better now, I do NOT like the way that right-hand side of the bag is angled downward so severely. This causes the phone within the Phone Pocket to be pushed too far over into the middle pocket area and that simply must be changed.
Once I correct these areas of concern, I should have a pretty good “Gorilla sample” to show you for next time, so please stay tuned for our next post in this the 21st edition of Purse Pattern Chronicles!
And now…. it’s YOUR turn!
I would LOVE to know what your reaction is to our new design so far! Does this seem like a bag you’d be interested in carrying or making? And remember, we love reading your comments and answering your questions too, so please feel free to leave either or both in the space provided below.
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I’m thinking this looks wonderful. Was the bag empty in the photos? Do you just envision holding passport, keys and wallet? How bulky can/will it become? Also, it looks comfortable for a right handed person, will you include instructions for a lefty?
Good questions Jane. I certainly don’t envision being able to carry EVERYTHING you would in a full-sized bag, but I regularly carry my wallet, my key fob, pens, lipstick and my phone with room to spare. I guess it all depends on how heavy and bulky you want it be on your side. And actually I am told that even though this is set up on the right side of the body, it easier to access it with your left hand if you can picture that, so yes, we will certainly have pattern pieces included for both right and left side carriers. 🙂
Like the concept very much for travel since the bag hugs the body. The card cozy will be perfect in this type of bag design because it is flatter than my wallet. I’m excited to see the next changes to the design.
Thanks Janice. I’m excited to show you as well as my next post will include the sample I’ve been carrying for weeks. 🙂
I love the concept.
The phone pocket doesn’t look like it would hold my Samsung S9plus.
Hard to see detail with the print of the dress form and the print of the sample.
I like being able to wear it under a jacket like that…added security.
I’m still checking all the phones I can find so I’ll be on the lookout for a Samsung S9plus.
Are there card slots inside?
Good question. We are not at this time including card slots on the inside, simply because its hard to SEE them on the inside of these openings. I would recommend something along the lines of a Card Cozy if you have LOTS of cards to carry. 🙂
I love the idea of it too. When I travel by plane or go to events or things where I will be around a lot of people and do a lot of walking, I don’t like to carry my regular purse. I am always on the look out for something that will hold my phone, keys, cash, cards and a lipstick and tissues. I would definitely give this pattern a try.
Music to my ears Kristine!
I just love to see how you work. So much experience. That’s what makes your product top shelf.
Thank you Thank you Don. I’ve missed hearing from you by the way! 🙂
Absolutely LOVE how this bag is shaping up! Watching your progress in design make me appreciate your designs even more 💜. Thanks Kathy!
I love the way it looks under a jacket. It holds just what you need for shopping. I do believe I will like it very much.
Thanks Diane! I can’t wait to show you MORE! 🙂
I like the way this is developing. I also like that the Phone pocket isn’t completely closed, so my headphones can plug in while the Phone is secure. I would guess that the larger of the two front pockets can hold a passport or two.
I worry that the hugging Form won’t work as well with a tablet in the back pocket, but who knows! While i love my sling along, this may need to join my repertoire as a better Option for flying alone (or with the kids)!
I would like to add – you could also make the final pattern available for left handed people ( I know its just flipping the pattern) I noticed the final strap will be revealed later – if would be great if it was made of seatbelt strapping because it very hard to cut or slash.
I know that sounds like an easy solution to the problem, but its really not that easy. For example, I am right-handed, but always carry my bags on my right side, but MOST right-handed individuals carry their bags on their left side. This also applied in reverse to left-handed individuals. What we will be doing is providing templates that are specific for side-side carrying and also separate templates for those desiring to carry on their left side. Is this expensive, yes it is, but in the end, its less expensive than going to market with two completely separate patterns. 🙂
It looks like a holster! Too bad I don’t have my sidearm anymore. I do think it’s cute tho’. Right now I am still struggling with the Sling-a-Long. Got over the worst of it, now it will be smooth sailing to finish.
Thanks Roberta! I’m glad youre interested! 🙂
I really like this design. It should be comfortable to carry since it hugs the body. Is there a way to add hooks or something to secure the zipper pulls? Similar to the expensive travel purses.
I have seen special locking zippers on the market and I’m sure those could be substituted, but since it can be worn under a jacket or sweater, I’m thinking that would be more of a personal choice.
🙂
I really like this design. When I was at Houston, i hated having to carry my big purse and a few packages. I could probably slip a few fold up nylon bags in one of the pockets.
Im glad you’re pleased and i can’t wait to show you more! 🙂
I love this bag. I am confined to a wheelchair after losing my leg. I have been looking for a bag that would be less bulky. This bag looks like it will work. Thanks you have read my mind. ❤️
I hope this is the ticket for you! 🙂
I have a bag similar to this one, and the placement of the zipper at the bottom makes my wallet fall out, can the zipper be placed at the top of the bag?
I think you’ll be pleased with the changes we have made since this post was published. Please check out those? 🙂
Do you think the back zippered pocket (intended for Kindle) would be suitable for concealed carry?
Yes I do. 🙂