In our last post in this series, I shared our original sketch, and the first prototype that we created, and for a first effort, I was pretty happy with it.
But even so, there were changes that needed to be made!
So… let me show
you around!
First off–if you check the picture above, you’ll see that we beefed up the width of the Closure some. I didn’t feel it was proportionally correct in the prototype, but I like the size and width of it now.
At right is a good look at the Bag Back which is basically unchanged from the prototype.
I’ve purposely made this front Phone Pouch very generous. I have a large cell phone, but I’ve seen several that are larger at some of the shows I’ve been to recently. Either way, it’ll be secured by the mag-snap closure, (you might notice that I made the bulbous closure end much wider this time). And as you can easily see in the photo (above left), the BIG change I made for this sample was the side width. I added a panel alongside the zipper and made the Side Panels wider which will allow for MORE room in the main compartment. Now I can fit my wallet easily in there, (when placed on its end), and I like that. Maybe you do too?
And in response to many of you who have been yearning for a look at the interior of the zippered compartment, here ya go (at left).
The wallet you see in this photo is pretty much standard width, but it is probably a little “thicker” than is the norm, but as you can see, it fits quite comfortably in this sample!
And finally… as for this fabric, if you’re thinking I’ve used it before, my answer would be… Not Exactly, but Kinda. 🙂
Not long ago, in the 31st edition of Purse Pattern Chronicles, for the High Seas Convertible, I used another fabric from the same collection. This fabric is actually a “striped version” of the Shangri-La fabric, which I thought was PERFECT for this design!
So, please stay tuned for our next post in this series as we get closer & closer to our finished design!
And now…. it’s YOUR turn!
So… what are your thoughts about this design so far? Does this bag seem like one you might enjoy carrying? And if you have comments you’d like to share, suggestions you’d like to make, or questions you’d like to ask about this design in general or this sample in specific, please feel free to leave either or both in the space provided below.
Check out the best sewing pins with me on Pinterest, join in on discussions or show off your work in our FaceBook Group, or get your daily sewing fix on our Facebook Business Page or the behind the scenes scoops on Instagram! And don’t forget to check out our video tips & tricks on our You Tube Channel and be the 1st to know about new patterns, discount codes and sample sales by signing up for “Bag Making is Fun”, our bi-monthly newsletter.
28 Comments
Join Our Mailing List!
Click button below to get 15% off your 1st pattern!
Love this, I have a very plain bag that is similar and did not want to take it apart for pattern. When is this available??
Glad to hear that you like it Gale. Right now I’m thinking mid summer sounds reasonable. 🙂
Do you have dimensions decided on yet? Thanks
LIKE, LIKE, LIKE!
Yes- it will be 6″ wide by 9″ tall by 1-3/4″
Looks great!
Thanks Nancy! 🙂
I really like this one. It is big enough without being too big. Are there any pockets on the inside? I always have to have a small pocket to carry medicine with me that I may need. Not a large one, but I like a closure (like a zipper or velcro tab) to make sure nothing falls out of that pocket.
I’m not planning on pockets on the inside, but one could be added easily enough.
🙂
I’m looking forward to carrying this bag, plus I really like your fabric choice!
It’s very convenient when you want to be handsfree!
🙂 Thanks Beth
LOVE this bag! And the fabric. And how large the inside is. 🤗
Oh thank you Mea! I’ve enjoyed carrying it myself and can’t wait to publish it! 🙂
What a great design!
I can’t wait to get started on it.
I would love it if it could also be a hip pack. I can’t carry anything on my shoulders. Just an option to put the loops in a different way? Thanks.
Sure, thanks for asking about this. I think that could easily be arranged. But rather than do a redesign, I think I would prefer to keep the back slip pocket in place. I would think it would be a pretty easy fix for a customer to leave out the back pocket and simply place to loops on the bag back to slip thru a belt. 🙂
Love it. This looks perfect. Just what I’ve been looking for! Waiting patiently for release
I am working real hard toward this end. I’m so glad you’re interested in this new design! I’m thinking right now, it should be ready for release sometime in July? 🙂
Wow! The large closure tab is a great idea. Perfect for any phone. But my phone loves to sneak out of my bag and this is a beautiful solution. The size overall is great. I usually carry a good sized wallet with room for other stuff. That back zipper will be great for extras like lipstick, comb and some etceteras I particularly like the placement of the straps. It can easily be carried over the shoulder. As for inner pockets, I rarely use them, prefer exterior more. Maybe he panel could be wider, maybe 2”? I don’t think it would affect the proportions.
Looking forward to continuing progress and development.
Thanks for commenting Alma Lou- There really are no interior pockets, as there really wasnt room for them, But I’m glad you like the overall concept of this little bag!
This is a versatile bag that can be used everyday. I LOVE the fabric…..please say that you will be carrying it in your store. Can you advise what size hardware it takes? Need to order some if I don’t have them in my stash. Great bag can hardly wait to make one or two.
I’m glad you like it BarB, There really wont be that much hardware involved here. Definitely a couple of invisible sew-in magnets, and a couple little D-rings and snaphooks! 🙂
Would a small water bottle fit?
I’m glad you like it Elaine, but I’m afraid there wont be room for a water bottle here
🙂
This looks wonderful. I can see using a clear vinyl on the back outside pocket and using it to hold key cards. With the overall ability to also hold a wallet and phone, it’s a winner! . Thinking it would be great on a cruise where you want to keep those valuables close at hand and want your hands free.
Looks like you and I are thinking alike here Lynn! I’m so glad you like it! 🙂
Love this! I love purses like this. Getting excited!!
Just hearing that you like this new bag is making me excited, Kay! Thank you so much!
🙂