Queen of Hearts Handbag

When I see a bag that somewhat resembles a bowling bag style...I get a childhood flash back.  It's a long story but perhaps my Mom and my Auntie N. might remember their bowling bag situation.  :) 
So, despite them, I was intrigued by this pattern.  There are two versions of this bag included in the pattern.  A bowling bag and a handbag (that fits over the shoulder).  I do have to say that my bag didn't really turn out like I thought it would.  I thought the front pleats would be different.  I guess it's a little difficult to tell from just the illustration that is on the pattern.  Queen of Hearts Bowling Bag and Handbag Pattern by Hot Patterns.
I also wasn't too happy with how the instructions have you construct the inside.  So, I changed it up a bit to have my seams on the inside of the bag vs showing on the inside of the bag.  It was tricky and involved some hand sewing.  I probably couldn't explain what I did either. 

The flower was just me playing around with fabric. 

inside

If this is your first time making a bag I strongly suggest that you DO NOT start with any of the Hot Pattern Bag Patterns.    I LOVE the style of almost all of the bags but I've found that many times instructions are left out or unclear.  I still continue to buy the patterns, even though they are on the expensive side, because of the great design.  You'll have to be able to take the pattern pieces and know how to construct the bag  by yourself.  I've spent many hours pulling out hair, near tears, with sores on my fingertips from pin pricks while sewing trying to follow the given instructions.  My seam ripper becomes my best friend/worst enemy.  When I'm finished, the bags are great! I almost always get compliments on the bags I make using a Hot Patterns-Pattern.  :)

Classic Pyramid Bag

This is a fun bag, but HUGE!  I used the Hot Pattern's Classic Pyramid Bag Pattern.    Here is a link to the pattern. 

There are two big pockets on the outside and on the inside there is a zippered pocket on one side and a cell phone/sunglasses pocket on the other.
What I love about Hot Pattern's Bag Patterns is that the designs of the bag patterns are original.  But the instructions aren't very clear.  Again, it is not a good idea to begin sewing bags using most Hot Patterns patterns.  You must be familiar with how to construct bags before you attempt making one.  Instructions are incomplete and lacking important information. 
The flower I made and added myself. 
Enjoy your day!

Courtesan Ribbon Tote and Shoulder Bag

I really love the style of this purse.  It reminds me of all those Juicy Couture purses...but better because it has a zipper closure.  Here is a link to the pattern. 

Now, I have to say again....I LOVE the style of Hot Pattern's Patterns but the instructions SUCK!  The zipper sizes stated on the pattern were too small.  Overall, this bag was very frustrating to put together!!!  But look how cute the bag is!  :) 

Inside there is a zippered pocket on one side and a sunglasses and cell phone pocket on the other. 

There are also instructions and pattern pieces included to add a cute pocket on the outside side.  I opted not to add it because of my level of frustration when making the bag.  I might attempt it, if I were to make this bag again.

Have a great day!

Cross Body Messenger Bag

Well, I had to make a purse for myself.  I was at the store the other day and the handle on my purse (store bought) broke.  SO, I needed to make a new bag for me...not that I have about 50 others sitting in my closet that I could use or anything.  :)

I decided I would make myself a cross body bag.  I've never been too big on cross body bags.   Actually,  on looks alone,  I tend to like the handbag style...with a short handle.  However, they aren't very easy to carry.   I have a few people that I sew bags for that love cross body bags.  So, I thought I'd give this one a try. 

I used the Hot Pattern's Cross Body Messenger Bag Pattern. 

Long cross body strap

I added this flower...not part of pattern

side view:  nice and thick strap

Inside:  zipper pocket on one side, cell phone/sunglasses pocket on other. 

 There are two magnetic closures on this bag.  One on the strap that wraps around the bag and one that is on the inside facing of the bag.  You could also use hook and loop closure instead of the magnetic snap. 

I'm kind of excited to use this bag...no more bag handles to slip off shoulder or have to hold on to.  This bag is pretty roomy. 

As for the instructions that are included in the pattern, I usually struggle with Hot Pattern's instructions.  They are somewhat lacking.  :)  While the previously mentioned is true with this pattern, I have to say that these are the best instructions I've come across with this company.  They are still lacking but better. 

Bijoux Baby Jewelry Roll

     I was so excited when I saw this pattern. I couldn't wait to make one.  I don't know why.  I've been wanting to make something like this for a while. 
     This Bijoux Baby Jewelry Roll pattern is offered exclusively at www.fabric.com for free. 
     It was really a quick project to make.  Only about 4 hours including cutting-out pieces and hand sewing the back of the bias binding. 

     The only part that was a little tricky is the inner part with the zippers.  When I placed the pattern pieces to see how they fit together, I sort of figured that when all parts--zippers, center and pocket pieces, were assembled it would be too long.  It was.  I ended up having to trim about an inch off of the center section.  I think this has to do with how wide the zipper is.  I also changed the button fastener on the ring holder to a snap...to make my life easier.  :)

     I don't think the instructions stated how wide of bias binding to purchase or make.  I guessed and made mine 2" wide.

     While I do LOVE many Hot Patterns patterns, instructions are minimal at best.  I have found that sometimes it is helpful to take the pattern pieces and place them together to have an understanding of how it all needs to be assembled. 

     Have a great one!