Genevieve Bag Project

Genevieve by ChrisW Designs...

Christine just keeps pumping out the fabulous designs! At the end of March 2013, I got a sneak preview of her new messenger bag pattern called Genevieve. This is a versatile bag, with an adjustable strap that can be used crossbody style. I like that it's stylishly shaped, instead of being merely rectangular as so many messenger bags tend to be. (This one will not be mistaken for a man-purse... ha, ha.)

Since I had a slider and a couple of rings from my discarded purse that were just begging to be put to new use, I dove in a few weeks later and sewed up the simple version (i.e., no piping, with a standard shaped flap) of the bag. The bottom gusset of this bag features some interesting "quilted topstiching" that was great fun to do.

It was the first time that I had sewn straps with tabs that were embedded (for lack of a better term) into the lining of the bag, so I must admit I had my issues with that part. But I have since made a few other bags whose entire straps are constructed that way and it's now second nature.

I do believe that certain concepts, during the first go-around, may be confusing just because it's the first time. As I gained experience, I did see a gradual uptick in my understanding of "how to" just by looking closely at a finished product.

Which sort of leads into a future post. I have a bag that I have carried on most vacations since 2007. But alas, its striking black and white floral exterior no longer looks new. (Yes, the pattern was what drew me to the bag.) After I finished making Genevieve, it occurred to me that I should try to "reinvent" the best parts of this bag and turn it into my own creation; i.e., design my own bag.

But before that, I have a wallet to show you next week...