PPC22: The 2nd Gorilla Sample

So…

in our last post of Purse Pattern Chronicles, I showed you the 1st “Gorilla Sample” for our next pattern design. And if you recall, there were some features I was very pleased with but there were also some pretty major changes to be made, hence this 2nd “gorilla sample”.

So let’s get to it! 

To kick it off, I thought I’d show you these two samples “side-by-side” so you could more easily see what a MAJOR change we made to the overall silhouette of this design and I’m SO much happier with this version!

And because this sample was destined to be a “gorilla sample” I was still experimenting a bit. I decided to try using 1 1/2″ wide webbing for the bag handle this time because I thought it might be easier to work with which it was… but I wasn’t at all happy with the look of it for this design. So going forward, I’ll be switching back to the 1″ wide webbing.

You might also remember that it was my intention to change the curvy form of the strap attachment area from our last sample to something more angular and easier to sew and while I was pleased for the most part you might have noticed and the zippered portion of the strap is oversized and hanging over beyond the side edges of the strap holder. I’ll fix this as we move forward.

I’m much more satisfied with how the backpack feels now though because I shortened this unit in a couple of key locations and it “rides” in a more appropriate spot on my back with even more adjustability available for those that prefer it higher on their back!

So… even though I have a couple of corrections yet to make, they are for the most part easy fixes so my plan is to press on and starting with the next post, we’ll begin showing you samples that could qualify as potential cover models! I’m excited about that and I hope you are as well!

But before I turn this post over to you, I thought there might be a few among you that could be interested in this fabric which was fun to work with! It’s called “Hey Diddle Diddle” and it was designed by Julie Paschkis for In The Beginning Fabrics.

And now…. it’s YOUR turn!

I’d love to hear what you have to say about this sample. Do you like this silhouette better and do you agree with the changes we’ve made? 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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Kat

8 Comments

  1. Jodie on July 11, 2020 at 7:37 am

    Kat! I love this now! It is more of a bag that can convert into a backpack and less of a backpack. I like the wider base and shorter height. It looks like a piece of paper (or bigger) would fit on its long edge without having an issue with the zipper. I also like where it rides on the back better. I love the Look with the panel!



    • Kat on July 11, 2020 at 7:51 am

      Glad to hear it! I’m much happier with this look as well and I must say, I’ve never been much of a backpack wearer, but I really enjoy wearing this bag because its to lightweight and comfortable! 🙂



    • Sue on July 13, 2020 at 8:39 pm

      I love the fabric but I just do not like back packs…. never made one and ptobsbly never will.. I like handbags, totes, wristlet, etc but not backpacks….



      • Kat on July 14, 2020 at 5:25 am

        I get it Sue. I’ve always felt the same myself, but I gotta say that I have really enjoyed carrying THIS backpack. 🙂



  2. Beth on July 11, 2020 at 3:16 pm

    I like your adjustments and your fabric is amazing.



    • Kat on July 12, 2020 at 5:42 am

      Thanks Beth! I can’t wait to show you MORE! 😉



  3. Susan H on July 12, 2020 at 6:36 am

    I am curious about how the raw edges of the open zipper that is used as the straps will feel on bare shoulders. Do you think it will be abrasive and uncomfortable once there is any real weight in the purse? Other than that question I love it and I love the cat fabric… can you share who makes that fabric please?



    • Kat on July 12, 2020 at 9:15 am

      Good questions Susan!
      First of all- please know that we NEVER recommend using zippers with metal teeth for our bags. Metal teeth very likely would cause some irritation but nylon teeth are smooth and so far I have not noticed any problem of this sort even though I’ve carried this sample for weeks fully loaded. Secondly the fabric info is all included at the end of this post. 🙂