PPC34: Steampunking it
So... in our last post in this, our 34th edition of Purse Pattern Chronicles, I revealed our original sketches & ideas for this new design, as well as pictures of our 1st prototype.
And even though I indicated that I was pretty pleased with our 1st effort, there were definitely some things that I wanted or needed to change about this design!
But you know what? These changes did not come about without CONSIDERABLE heartburn on my part! As a matter of fact, I can't remember a time when I've used a seam ripper more than I did on THIS sample! But let me give you a quick tour of this sample!
Because the truth is... this design is equipped with a secret weapon!
It may LOOK like a messenger-type bag w/a front zippered pocket... but behind that wraparound zipper on the side edge of this bag, is...
a whole 'nother level of storage!
Because just when you think there's NO ROOM for one more item in your bag... looks what happens when that wraparound zipper is opened!
WOW!!!
Just imagine what a relief & conveniece this expandable feature would be when you're on an all-day travel excursion, or shopping your way through a quilt show!
Because you never really know when you might need
just a little more storage space, right?
Here's a quick look at the back side of this sample, which features a drop-in pocket secured with a magnetic snap.
And what do you think about this "SteamPunk" sewing machine fabric which I found at equilter.com. It's fun and almost tailor-made for this design, right?!
So... what areas do I need to address b4 I make the next sample of this new design?
- a total redesign of the interior lining, complete with a zippered pocket.
- a stream-lining of the D-ring tab, because right now it seems a little "clunky".
- and the fabric in the "expanded area" seems a little weak, that is, I think it needs a bit of reinforcing so it can hold up to the extra weight & wear-and-tear over time.
So do stick around for the next post in this series, to see how we address these areas.
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 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 think it looks really nice and something I might like to make, despite the closet full of your designs, LOL. I unfortunately, find this fabric a bit distracting, making it hard for me to see the exact details of the design. I definitely agree with you that the inside should have a zippered pocket. Looking forward to the next iteration. How wide will the base be when fully opened? Happy Designing!
Great comments Charlene! I can’t wait to show you what’s coming! 🙂
I really like it and love the fabric. The unzipped part could be made of Batik; that would be a sturdier fabric. I would make the unzipped part closer in color tone as the outside fabric.
Thanks Jo Lacy. So glad to hear you like this sample and I think you may like some of the upcoming samples even more!
🙂
I like it. Not sure I like the expandable zippered portion but it would probably come in handy. I’d like a pattern with a secret compartment for concealed carry. But I like the overall look and I think size even though you didn’t give the measurements. I have Steampunk cat fabric from eQuilter that I would probably use!
WThanks Suzanne. We have 2-3 patterns that would definitely qualify for concealed carry if youre interested and do stay tuned for more posts in this series for our new pattern, which would not be used for concealed carry, but would be GREAT for traveling and shopping.
🙂
I love the design and fabric. I would love to be a tester!!
Thanks for commenting Misty. I’m so glad you like this idea and please do stay tuned as we fine-tune this design. I appreciate your offer to become a tester, although we pretty much have all the testers we need right now. But that could change at a moments notice. 🙁 However, you might want to read thru this post to see how we go about recruiting a new tester when we need one? 🙂
I LOVE the expandable bottom! Please consider a zipper for the outside pocket – makes items in it nice and secure.
Oops! saw that one side does have a zipper! Yes!
Thanks for commenting Juanita, and I’m thrilled that you like where we’re going with this design. Please stay tuned as we further refine this design?
🙂
I love it and really hope to make this one!
So glad to hear this Jeri! Thanks for commenting!
Lovely idea for a new bag to expand as needed.
Regarding ypur concern about placement of the D-rings. Perhaps place lower and use triangle connectors instead of D-rings reducing excess movement.
Thanks for commenting Ann and please do stay tuned for our next post in this series to see how we resolved this issue! 🙂