There was a time not so long ago that every time I sat down to write a post I was talking about a bag! I was truly on a mission and just kept making version after version trying to nail the perfect travel backpack! Not sure I am done with it, but for now I am pretty happy with the version that I have been using. (Although the travel has been severely cut back! 😒) BUT...the other day I got another bee in my bonnet about a "new" backpack idea. I probably should have ignored it and let it buzz off into the distance, but no, I ran right into my sewing room and started tinkering.
The basic idea is a version of a fold over style messenger bag. It has a lot of the same features that I was trying to incorporate into my travel backpack...zippered pockets that are concealed or inaccessible when worn as a backpack, some open pockets for quick "in and out" stuff (think sunglasses), a large compartment for big stuff that is out of the way most of the time and magically appears as needed.
So let me introduce you to my 'new' backpack....
The back side that rests against my back when worn has my favorite sideways phone pocket with a zipper of course.
The front side, or the side that is facing the public when worn, has another zipper pocket and two open pockets. These are concealed by the fold over of the top of the bag.
The top third of the bag folds over to keep it more compact most of the time...but a zipper across the top opens into a compartment that is the full depth of the bag. Lots of room for fabric shopping!!!
The handles are just long enough to slip comfortably over one shoulder if I don't want a backpack...example...there have been a few occasions that I have had to check my backpack at museums because it was not allowed. If it had looked more like a shoulder bag it would have been permitted to go with me.
The first round of my messenger cum backpack bag turned out pretty well. I like the size, although it is a bit larger than my first pack. There is a certain opening length to bag depth ratio that makes the inside compartment useable. I am not sure what it is exactly, but I recognize it when it is wrong!!! This one is workable. I am not completely happy with the 'bound buttonhole' type zipper installation, but I have some thoughts....I guess I will be making a few more versions! 😉 Here we go again!
Looks good looking forward to seeing the next ones.
ReplyDeleteI've already changed 3 things in my head....here we go again!
DeleteThat's quite a handsome bag. I bet lots of people would like to make one if you produced a pattern.
ReplyDeleteI was asked to "patternize" my first backpack, we even had a prototype session with my ASG friends. I have been stalled at the written instruction point. It is really difficult to get the process into written words that actually could help someone make a bag! This one is quite a bit simpler to put together so I might take a whack at it again. We'll see. I have a few more iterations before I commit it to paper, though! ;)
DeleteI appreciate your willingness to try! As for writing directions, maybe the advice in one of Anne Lamott's books would be helpful: just take it BIRD BY BIRD, which is the title of the book.
DeleteI like that! I might work on this one since it is simpler to assemble. There are a few tweaks that might even make it easier. Bird by Bird.
DeleteLove this one!
ReplyDeleteThanks Gayle! I think it's going to be in competition with my current favorite backpack.
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