Feeling Domestic

So, I must be feeling a little domesic these days because today I did a craft of sorts and yesterday was strawberrry jam. And typically that just isn't me. Anyhow, back when I was getting the material for the window valance that I made, I came across a free pattern for a purse. And seeing as how I have been looking for a diaper bag/purse for some time (I still carry this monster diaper bag for a 2 1/2 year old...I think the time has come for something a bit smaller), I grabbed the pattern with the idea that someday I might have the inspiration to try it. We have been to a number of craft shows with the cutest purses, but they cost an arm and a leg. I figured, surely I could make something just as cute for half the cost!

The other day we were at Hobby Lobby, a favorite store of mine, when I noticed they had great looking fabrics. I decided, why not, let's get some fabric and I'll try making that bag. Of course, I didn't want to try making it for the first time and possibly not like my own product so I decided I better make a tester bag. And who better to test the product on but, my daughter. Kyra has been needing a bag to put her coloring book and crayons in for church anyway. And she was delighted to pick out her own fabric.

The project looked simple enough, but then again don't projects usually seem easier then they really are? After all you put two squares together and sew, right? Well maybe for sewing comes easy for some, but other than making my curtains, I haven't sewn in years (like since home ec), and even those weren't simple. Plus the pattern I had was from someone who hand wrote pictures and directions, and I'm thinking she left out a few steps. Anyhow, I ended up sewing the wrong pieces together and then had to rip the tiny stitch apart from hand (with out a seam ripper). So, this 2 hour project ended up really taking more like 8 hours.

Of course, now it's done and I am pleased with the results. Of course I missed the opportunity to put some cute ribbon across the middle of the bag, but all in all I thought it turned out well. And I had a very happy customer as well. I am really glad I did a sample bag first however, because that should make the next time a little easier. Plus, if I do it again I will probably make the bag a different size, add some pockets, and different embellishments. Look out Coach, here I come!