Satchel Bag {Made!}

I've been sewing! Samantha's newest pattern is the Satchel handbag and - lucky me - I got to take it for a test run before it's debut in her etsy store! 

A medium-sized messenger bag, this pattern has lots of great details - both fun and functional. 

I made mine in a cotton duck, with a shabby rose print and lined it with a natural canvas to it's really sturdy.

I used antique brass hardware, but I was unable to find a tri-glide slider for the adjustable strap in the right color. No problem! I found a pretty belt buckle and just removed the prong with pliers!

I love how versatile this style bag is. You can see how although our bags are nearly identical, my version looks so different from Samantha's pattern cover just because of my fabric choices.

(can you tell I'm ready for spring?!)

One detail I love is the button-closed tabs on the sides. I used some carved wooden buttons, they were a tad pricey at $6 a pair, but they complemented the fabric so well I couldn't not use them.

The bag is fully lined with fusible fleece, and the bottom, sides and handle are all lined with buckram and/or a heavy fusible interfacing to give the bag it's crisp shape.

The bag is rated intermediate/advanced, but I think an experienced beginner could manage it with some patience - and an automatic button-holer.

Feel like taking this bag for a spin? 

I've already given the one I made to a friend - but you can make one for yourself!

Check out Mrs H patterns on Etsy - or better yet, click here for a giveaway and a chance to win it for free!

Tell us! Do you carry a different bag each season?

Trendsetting Hounds-tooth Shorts aka McCalls 6391 {Made!}

My daughter Kadence definitely has her own sense of style. 

She's a funky girl, with the confidence to wear what she likes, and she sometimes sets the trend.

I try to tell her imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but to a 6th grader trying to be unique it can get frustrating.

Sometimes a girl needs something original, and between her taste and my stitching skills these shorts are just what the doctor ordered!

We started with McCalls 6391, view D

Here's how we got the look:

I used a black and white twill hounds-tooth print for the shorts and lime green satin for the trim - both found at Hancock Fabrics this summer.

Lime green buttons also from Hancocks.

She requested a few design changes, including omitting the font pleat for a flat front finish.

I also cut several inches off the hem and left off the cuff. 

I trimmed out the pockets and flap using some lime satin, and although it looks like I went to the trouble to pipe them, all I really did was line them with the satin, and then rolled the facing out just a tad before stitching.

I used a flat fell seam to finish the sides, and inserted some more lime trim here.

Wonderfully easy technique to up the cool factor - check out my tutorial  for the How to's!

{click here}

I also used a double row of top-stitching on everything - hem, fly, pockets, waistband... The pattern only calls for traditional edge stitching, but  I think top-stitched this way it has a more RTW feel.

And lastly, a lime green zipper. No one but Kadence will see it - but it's way more fun than if we had just gone with plain ol' black or white.

 I will be making up this pattern again. (you can see my review at PatternReview.com here)

For the record, I did tissue fit these before I started, but I will make a few changes next go 'round.

I will raise the crotch a bit more, and the waistband gaps in the back.

I am wondering if the gaping is because this pattern is cut for a girl, but Kadence is starting to get curvy between her hips and waist??

I don't know - except to say I've never had to alter patterns for her until now!

 Any hoo, She loves them, because t hey look "store bought" (which for her is a must) but no one else will ever have a pair like them. And that's exactly what a reluctant trendsetter needs.

Tell us! Why do you sew for the kiddos?

Bow Pleat Bag {Made!}

I'm so lucky, I recently got to test a pattern for the Bow Pleat Bag by Mrs.H!

Here's how mine turned out, what do you think?

I love it!

I used a tan twill for the outer shell and a piece of Moda cotton for the lining.

The pattern has great instructions for the zipper and adjustable handle.

One of my favorite features is definitely the adjustable handle!

It just looks cool, doesn't it?

Want to make on of your own?

Mrs.H is offering a discount to all ASG in the SLC readers for 15% off at her Etsy store!

use code: BOWPLEAT15

Better yet - Check out our giveaway here and win a pattern for free!

Tell us! What have you made this week?