PPC34: Sketches & a Prototype
So... It's that time again!
It's time to start yet another edition of Purse Pattern Chronicles (our XXth edition of this series)! So hard to believe that this is our XXth pattern! The thing I love best about starting a new pattern, is that all things are still possible on this day. Nothing is locked in yet and this is a really liberating feeling!
And as usual, I'm pretty excited about letting you in on what we have in mind for this new pattern, so let's get started!
To get started... you know I love making versatile bags with lots of features, but this new design may just be one of our most versatile yet!!!
In the drawings above, you can see (kinda), that the bag dimensions are ~7" tall X 10" wide X 1.5", & the fun part is... you might notice that there will be zipper that reaches from each side and completely around the bottom of the bag, and when it's unzipped... VOILA!!! the interior size increases DRAMATICALLY, which is terrific when traveling, or shopping etc.
Here's how our 1st prototype turned out (and I have to say I'm pretty happy with it, especially for a 1st try!... but there has to be some advantage to having created XX patterns, right?)
Above left- is a full front view of the new bag, with a brand new way to install a zipper pocket. Not sure I like it all that much yet, but it is fun to try a new way to think about making a pocket.
Above right- is a side view with the expansion zipper feature "activated"! Look at all that extra room!
Above left- A good look at the bag back which features a nice drop-in pocket secured with a mag-snap closure, the perfect spot to store a cellphone.
Above right- Another side view giving you a good view of the expansion feature.
At left- An interior view. Plenty of room for both mt full-sized wallet AND a case for my glasses... and this is how it looks PRIOR to opening the zipper & releasing all of that extra interior space!
As per this fabric- It's called "I Dream in Color" by Jason Yenter for In The Beginning Fabrics. I do not have in stock but I got mine at equilter.com.
So in closing... Was this prototype perfect? Certainly NOT! But... Most of the changes I need or intend to make, really do not affect the function of this bag. The zipper section along the bottom of the bag is a bit "ripply", but this is a pretty easy fix.
I'll get it right for the next sample, but in the meantime, I'll carry this for a bit just to make sure that the biggest thing I need to change!
When I first got this fabric in the mail, it didn't seem like my style at ALL, but now that I've used it in this sample, I now wish that I had bought a bolt or two of it to sell on my website, because I really like how it looks with our black with gold zips! Unfortunately though, it seems to be Sold Out everywhere! 🙁
And now.... it's YOUR turn!
I'd love to know what you think of this design thus far. Does this bag seem like one you might enjoy carrying, and are there any features in particular you'd like to see us include in this design?
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.
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I love the concept of this bag. Put my name in the ludy.
I think this bag is just what I need. I hope they reissue that fabric. It’s gorgeous!