S&J bag with a twist

I have used the pattern for the S&J bag to make a shoulder bag with two handles attached to the bag with eyelets and hooks. The fabrics I used are faux suede and cotton with printed dots. This is the first time I am using this system for two handles and this is what the prototype looks like - without words:

New series and prototype

I have an order for two commissions of the same bag in different colour combinations. So I made a prototype and have started on the second one in a different size.

This is the wanted model but the commissioned bags should be smaller!

But the size should be smaller.

As there is quite a difference in size, I plan to make another bag, sized between these two. I have sorted the fabrics already and my fingers are itching to start cutting and sewing!

Something new!

I have finished a new model shoulder bag/rucksack/backpack. I found this through Pinterest and came to this Rumanian blog and thought I might try to do something similar. It is made of vegan suede and handwoven wool. The lining is a sturdy cotton with small flowers.

And here is my prototype:

Another pattern, another prototype

I received a request for a bag that I had not made before. Well, I made one but only a very small one - a fold-over bag.

Here is the result for a prototype which seems to be just as the customer wants:

For fabrics I used handwoven wool for the main body, Upholstery fabric for the bottom and sides and linen for the handles

There are four metal feet

There is a large slip pocket at the back with small slits for end, pencils, etc.

Behind the zip is a very large pocket for all the valuable things

For the lining I used yellow cotton. It has 3 slip pockets for easy access to mobile, glasses, etc. and it also has a key clip, just visible on the righthand side

The fold-over part stays in place when the handles at the front are used. The main part of the bag is large and the bag can still be carried by the handles when the fold-over part is straightened.

Prototype Marit - FINISHED

Today I finished the bag. However, I am sure there is an easier way to put all the parts together and I have therefore ordered the pattern of a travel bag. A vintage inspired bowling style carry all (yes, I was thinking of you Undine!). What I want to find out is exactly how this one is assembled so before starting on Marit's proper bag, I will make this travel bag. So, watch this place.

The prototype looks fine though and the pictures also show what brilliant weather we are having at the moment!

Prototype bag Marit III

We are slowly getting there. I am still trying to find out (in my head, which caused some sleepless nights) how to attache the lining.

I have attached the gusset to the front and back part and have also attached the feet.

Looks good already!

I like the fabric combination.

I think I now know how to attach the lining. This also meant that I had to take the top part off again.

I have fitted the zipper part to the top of the bag

and cut the lining.

Top looks certainly good.

The lining is also attached to the zipper part.

Looks all right! Just have to put it together now.

Strap looks also great!

Prototype Marit II

I am ever so pleased with myself: I managed the sew the front pocket! I always wondered how this was done, but it is really quite simple as long as you know that you have to sew the back of the pocket with the right side on the bag panel where you want it before you make the whole pocket. Of course I followed the instructions from a bag pattern that I bought a while ago from http://chriswdesigns.com/shop.htm (the Lombard Street bag, which I still have to make, but at least I now know how to make that particular pocket). Thanks Chris, very easy to follow instructions!

The pocket on the bottom part of the front panel-

The whole front panel with pocket.

Front and back panels. I made a large slip pocket on the back panel.

Now I will have to start with the gusset and the top zipper closure. This is the first time I am making some sort of messenger bag and I have not tried this sort of closure before but I am quite confident that I can handle this.

Prototype

Today I have started designing and cutting the prototype for my latest commission.

I have chosen the fabrics and colours, cut fabric on the bias to make the piping.

Drew the shape of the bag and cut the panels in paper and freezer paper (love using this, makes everything so much easier!).

Pinned the piping unto the back part of the front pocket.

Sewed the piping and the pocket zipper onto the pocket panel that will be sewn onto the front of the bag. I have never made this sort of pocket before so I hope that with the help of the internet it will work out all right.

Pinned the second zipper part onto the front of the front pocket.

With this bag I have to use technics I have not used before so it is quite exciting to see how it will turn out!