Cork Evening Bag

Starting with a bit of cork fabric and an amazing pattern, I had a great time making this little evening bag for my sister for Christmas.

Some lining fabric, zips, a bit of bag hardware and I was off on a fun sewing adventure.

 A little zippy pocket for hiding things in.....  I had purchased some zips from a Japanese stall at a craft exhibition which had gorgeous little zipper pulls on them, adding to the sense of luxury in this bag.

Spots for credit and public transport cards....   and, because the main zipper extends past the end of the bag, you can open it right up to see what's inside.

An inner pocket.....   perfect for lipstick and tissues. 

And then the bag outer.  I used a very, very dark navy, which seems to be a bit blown out by the flash.

Yes, I will make this bag again.  I already have more cork fabric and hardware sets, ready to go.


Pattern used:   Trio Pocket Purse by Pattern Poole (Monica Poole).  See here

Fabulous Handbag - Sydney Satchel

When planning and then going on an overseas holiday, it's the perfect excuse to make a new handbag!  And it's also the perfect reason to use some wonderful textured European house print fabric.

For the flap and sides, I used vinyl for contrast.  A bit of playing around with the pattern layout and I managed to get the houses all with their roofs up when the flap is open.  I also love that this pattern allowed for an adjustable strap so that the bag can be worn cross body or from one shoulder.

A handy zippered pocket on the outside is great for keys and train tickets.

Not to mention, lots of useful pockets on the inside.  One zippered and the others for phone, pens and tissues.

This bag was a wonderful asset while I was travelling and now that I've been back home for a few weeks, I am still using it because it is such a good size and seems to fit me well. 

Just gotta love a really good hand-bag!

Pattern used:   Sydney Satchel by Monica Poole.