image used with permission
Well, I sort of took a little blog break there. I needed to take a step away and get some things in order. Plus deal with some computer problems. Let's just say that hackers are not my favorite people! While I was on my blog break, I finally used a pattern received as part of my winnings from Purse Week - the Mini Flap Purse from Jen Giddens. I loved it so much that a pattern review is in order.
First of all, this is a small bag (5 3/4 x 10 1/2 inches). Small but not too small! Perfect for throwing your wallet, phone, chapstick, and a few other necessities in. Because it's small you don't need tons of yardage, which is good for me because it seems I never have a whole yard of anything.
The pattern calls for a medium weight fabric for the exterior. I used a remnant of a polka dot upholstery fabric for one and a heavy weight curtain linen for another. The lining is quilting cotton, and the interfacing calls for duck cloth. And let me just say, the duck cloth makes the whole thing keep it's shape! I love that feature.
The mini flap pattern is "designed for the beginning sewer" and the instructions are very straightforward and easy to follow. Jen includes a few illustrations for those of us "gotta see it" people. It comes together very quickly! Perfect if you need a last minute bag for a special weekend.
My favorite feature of the bag is the flap. I found it to be the perfect canvas for embellishment! On the first bag, I attached about 15 yo-yos to the flap. My favorite yo-yo tutorial here. Whimsical!
On the second bag I added some ruffle stripes. Tutorial coming soon! This bag looks a little more classy, but in a shabby frayed edge sort of way.
Good news, too! You have a chance to win a pattern for yourself! I asked Jen if she be willing to offer one her patterns as a giveaway, and she said yes! To enter the giveaway, visit Jen's Etsy shop and take a look at all her patterns. Then leave a comment on this post telling me which one is your favorite! Be sure to include your email address when commenting! Yep, that's it! I'll pick a winner on Friday, February 11th.
******This giveaway is closed!******
