Simplicity: 2274 (clutch,overnight bag, and luggage tag)  - Type:Accessories  |
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| 5 more reviews |
Review rated Very Helpful by 5 people |
| Reviewed by: | helenl | 
 | | About helenl | | MA USA | | Member since: 5/30/10 | | Reviews written: 1 | | Sewing skills:Intermediate | | patterns reviewed: 1 | | Bio: more... |
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| Posted on: | 5/31/12 12:20 PM |
| Last Updated: | 4/24/13 4:27 PM |
| Pattern Size: | Plus-Sized |
| Project Photo: |  |
| Pattern Photo: | 
Simplicity Pattern Info |
| Pattern Rating: | Recommend, with Modifications |
| See other patterns in this category: Accessories Crafts |
Available for sale on PR: $16.95 (See envelope)  |
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| Fabric: | Cotton - Quilting [See other projects in this fabric] |
| Related Links | Click on  to add a link |
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I enjoyed sewing the overnight bag and would recommend this bag to others. It was fairly easy to put together and the zipper was not difficult. I did choose a zipper that closed in the center. double zipper head.
What I like about this bag: The size was what I wanted. Perfect for a weekend. Approximate dimensions ended up to be 20"wide x 13" high x 11"deep. Although Simplicity does not give the dimensions on the back of the package. Had to figure out how large the bag would be after fooling around with the pattern pieces.
Here are the problems I had with this pattern: After sewing the zippered pocket for one of the ends of the bag, the size was not the same as the other end of the bag. Both bag ends are cut from the same pattern piece and one of the ends eats up material after seams are stitched for pocket and zipper. In the future I will make a zippered pocket for both ends of the bag. It's not that noticeable, but I know it is not the same at both ends. This will also help with weight balance when pockets are filled with stuff. I didn't care for the way this bag is lined. Although extremely easy, there were unfinished edges showing batting and rough edges around the zippers. Pattern also calls for muslin and I didn't realize that would be the lining. I would have selected a coordinating material. Helpful to have lining in the same color family as the exterior or you will be changing bobbin threads a alot. I, too, opted not to do the jute strap. Couldn't find the jute in the stores and it was not suitable for the pretty fabric I selected. I sewed my own strap from coordinating fabric with batting inside and also doubled over at the top center of the strap to narrow it down. Easy on your hands and will end up crushing this way anyways. This method is used by Joan Hawley of LazyGirl Design and it works very well. I then sewed a little bit of velcro at the top/center of the handles to hold them together so one strap would not slip off my shoulder.
Recommendations: There should be directions for a cross body strap. This bag is quite heavy when full. I also recommend making a fabric covered, stiff cardboard bottom at the bottom of the bag (removable attached with velcro) to give it some structure when full. The bag sags too much without it. I actually used inexpensive plastic cutting boards (the thin kind). Helped a little. Another suggestion is Ebag or Eagle Creek shirt packer placed on the bottom.
I will make this bag again using the changes I made. I will add the extra pocket on the other end and I might add some pockets inside too. Externally, the bag looks very professionally made and I was happy with the results. I monogramed my initial on the pocket on the front of the bag. This bag is very pretty and sure is easy to store away when not in use. I wish I had a picture to show. It is a very pretty chocolate brown and metallic gold paisley print with coordinating handles and front pocket. Very dressy looking. |
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Would love to see a photo!
5/31/12 10:30 PM
Any photos if your bag yet?
3/21/13 0:56 AM
I finally downloaded photos of all my projects to my computer and I hope the photo of the duffle bag is OK. Not too good at this. Seems I can only get one shot of the bag on this site.
4/23/13 7:53 PM