FO - High Street Messenger Bag

Pattern: High Street Messenger Bag by Amy Butler

Fabric: Heavy home decorator fabric

Project time: 20 hours between September 11th and September 23rd, 2007

Description: This is a messenger bag with a lot of different pockets; two pleated pockets in the front, one zippered pocket in the back, one zippered pocket in the front flap, and one interior hanging pocket. This pocket has one zippered part, one "open" pocket and also space for pens. It's lined and has an extra loose bottom to make the bag stand better.

Modifications: I didn't change much on this project. Partly because I'm not that advanced in sewing and didn't want to mess things up, and partly because I thought the design was clever to begin with. I did change the strap construction. The pattern tells you to put interfacing on the exterior fabric and then fold it altogether three times, making the strap four layers thick. I bought some "jute belt" and dressed it in fabric. I thought this would make the strap more comfortable against my shoulders and also a bit stronger. It also made the strap wider than the original design. I added a couple of inches to the length of the strap as well. I'm tall. :)

Comments: I love this bag!!!! The way it looks, the way it functions, the way it feels...

This pattern contains a loooot of pieces and when cutting them out you really have to pay attention as some pattern pieces are used more than once and have to be folded to produce different pieces. It helps to mark the pieces by their actual name as that is what they are referred to in the instructions.

The instructions were very clear and perfect for someone like me who isn't used to following sewing instructions (in any language). If you're more experienced in sewing than I am, you might find the instructions too wordy.

I have a good sewing machine and I think that is needed for this bag as you're going through quite a lot of layers in some of the seams. Had to walk my machine over some parts of the bag.

The pictures don't really show how big the bag is, eh? It's approximately 14in/35cm high, 12in/30cm wide and 3.5in/9cm deep. Today I carried one laptop, battery charger and mouse, a rain jacket, a shawl, my compact camera, two thin folders, a paperback, some chocolate, my wallet, keys, and cell phone in it... I couldn't close it with the magnetic button but still...

I would definately make this bag again as it's a fun sewing experience and I love the final product. Thinking about making one for my sister.

I highly recommend this pattern to anyone who's interested in making a bag that is perfect for everyday use!