Pattern Review: The Kentucky Bag

I almost feel guilty writing a review for this pattern because it is no longer available and I've heard a lot of regret from my fellow sewers who were not able to buy it. This pattern is from Numbskull patterns and although they are no longer being sold, it is such a great bag that I wanted to review it regardless!

 

I've made 2 Kentucky bags so far and although they take a while to sew, they are worth it in the end! There are a total of 4 zippered pocket in this bag. There are 2 exterior pockets: 1 under the flap and 1 on the back.

Zippered pocket under the flap

Zippered pocket on the back exterior

 And 2 additional zippered pockets inside the bag.

The exterior and interior shells are constructed exactly the same way except for the twist lock you add on one exterior zippered pocket.

There are many pieces to cut, interface and assemble to put together all of these pockets. I really loved the accent strip on the bottom of the flap but I was not able to use faux leather as I wanted to with the first bag because it was way too bulky so I ended up using yarn dyed essex linen instead.

With the 2nd bag, I figured out how to use faux leather. I just cut one strip of non-fraying faux leather and removed what would be the 1/2 inch seam allowance on the pattern piece and topstitched it to the bottom of the flap. It worked great and there was no bulk at the seams.

The only thing I did not like about the bag is again the 1/2 inch seam allowance. This is a personal preference for me but I do not like having to watch that little mark on my sewing machine. I like to sew with a 3/8 inch seam allowance - which is essentially the edge of my presser foot - because I can then focus on the quality of my stitching.

This is also not an inexpensive bag to make. The cost of 4 zippers plus the twist lock and metal hardware for the strap and all of the interfacing used makes this a more expensive project. But again, the results are worth it!

New Pattern: The Rose Gathered Handbag

I've completely neglected this blog but with good reason - I've been busy! I had a little burst of popularity with my caravan totes so I was very busy sewing and then I got inspired to create a new pattern. This bag is a bit classier than my usual style but when I get an idea, I just have to create!

Introducing the Rose Gathered Handbag:

This bag is entirely made from woven fabrics with a focus center panel and coordinating side panels. Both sides of the bag look the same. There is a flap to which you can add either a magnetic snap or twist lock closure depending on your preference.

To give the bag some depth, I decided on a pleated bottom style with a total of 8 pleats.

On the sides of the bag, I created some channels and added some fabric ties which can be tied into bows or just knots - again, your personal preference!

On the inside, I included instructions for my favourite pocket configuration: 3 slip pockets and 1 zippered pocket.

There is no limit to what you can do in terms of fabric combinations, types of fabric. One of my testers, Rock Baby Scissors, decided to do a lovely rainbow patchwork for the center panel!

You can see more details about this new pattern in my Etsy pattern shop.