I choose the fabric I’m going to work with. I love the woodland creatures fabric, I picked it up for twenty four pounds a meter, quite pricey, but it is almost two and a half meters wide!

then I measure out and cut the calico I use to line the outer fabric.

I then plan where I want my pattern pieces and lay the calico on the fabric to use as a template. I pin the calico to the fabric and cut out

You’ll see I’ve tried to match the pattern pieces as best I can, to get continuity.

I then sew the calico to the back of the fabric, it makes the fabric a bit sturdier i feel.

these are the pieces for the lining, I don’t use the calico on the lining.

After marking out the seam allowance I can now start putting the bag together. I attach the sides to the base.

another view of the attached sides and base.

pin one of the front or back panels to the base and sides….

then sew.

starting to get an idea of shape now.

pin the other panel to the base & sides and sew that, now we have the lining

Do the same with the outer bag, trying carefully to match the pattern pieces.

this is going to be a messenger bag, but with added handles for versatility. I’m making these. Once I’ve made the straps its time to put the lining into the outer bag attach with pins. Then add the messenger strap, pin in place and add the handles, pin in place. sew carefully around the top of  the bag about  two inches from the top and again about a quarter of an inch from the top. and ta da! It’s done.

Finished.

love the trees.

and the owl, love the snail too. This is such a fun, cute bag.

the lining.

See how I attempted to align the pattern. Mostly works.

Love it! Very versatile with two different types of straps.