And as I went to make my bag look as much like the cover as I could, I realized that my handles.looked.funny. That's right, I sewed the handles on completely the wrong way. This might actually be funny, if I hadn't already made, oh, 2-3 other HUGE mistakes. (Look at the funky curve on the front of my bag vs. the bag on the cover of the book).
I didn't attach the side pockets when I put the outer bag together...they are still on my cutting table. As are the other two interior pockets. Still on my sewing table. The pattern was very good, it was clear, it had plenty of steps. I just didn't really follow them very well.
This is what Amy calls an "easy" pattern. Sweet Baby Jesus. What are the Expert patterns like??
This experience was very humbling. I thought "they're big pieces, the directions are only 14 steps, how hard can it be?" Of course, that doesn't even begin to contemplate that I used my gorgeous Echo fabric and now it's gone (insert sobbing here).
But I am an eternal optimist...and so here is what I am taking away from this massive blow to my sewing ego...
1). It's got a huge inside, that looks wonderful and can hold a lot of stuff.
2.) It is still very usable, although not a polished as the one in the book. I will absolutely carry this bag this summer and proudly say "yes, I made it".
3.) If I ever get up the guts to make another one, I'll know exactly how to make it next time.
What's the worst sewing mess you've ever made with a pattern?
3 comments:
It is SO much easier the second time around!!! I LOVE the fabrics and you made a great HUGE handbag. Also, the second go - when you put your pockets on the inside run a seam halfway so they don't flop open - that was one of the issues I had with my first attempt. xoxoxoxoxoxoxo Make another. It really is easier the second go. I PROMISE!!! (Ive made six)
I've made 3 of these bags now and it is a very challenging project. I put the side pockets on the inside on the first one, don't even ask me why. It is a favorite with many of my friends because it is sooooo big. One of my friends calls it her Mary Poppins bag. If you try it again, it will be much easier, I promise. Yours looks good though, and no one will notice the mistakes, even though they scream out to you.
I laughed so hard reading your post only because I had the same experience with this bag/pattern. My bag is in pieces waiting for me to put it back together again!! I think I get it now (for the most part), but I had the same thoughts...if this is what Amy calls easy, what are the expert patterns like?!
Post a Comment