My first bag from "The Bag Making Bible by Lisa Lam"

I FINALLY received The Bag Making Bible that I ordered back in October. It's a long story... Anyway, I really like this book. You can make eight different bags with many variations. I love the explanations that go with each pattern: insert a zipper, make piped handles, darts, gussets, etc... This is information I could have gleaned from the Internet, but is great to have in one place!

After perusing the book for a few days, I decided to jump straight to the Great Getaway Bag (section 6). I made a "prototype" out of cheap cotton to gauge the size of the bag (finished bag dimensions are not included in the directions). Wow, it's huge! Love it!
So I looked for possible fabric combinations in my stash and this is what I came up with:

The pink and green home decoration weight fabric is for the exterior, the green canvas is the lining.

The pattern pieces are full size and very easy to handle. I first traced them onto wax paper, and then onto posterboard- it lasts longer and is easier to trace around.

Of course, I had to alter the design a bit: I did not like the handles as they were described in the book, so I made two 1 1/2" wide handles long enough to wear over the shoulder. I also modified the closure on the front pocket and added a double pocket in the back.

With Lisa's great explanations and tips, the zipper top was a BREEZE to put together - and it looks great...at least  I think so :)

I haven't put the lining together yet, but it shouldn't be too hard.

Here are some more pictures:

The front

The front pocket



The back

Oh, and did I mention that I am making this bag for my best friend? It's a surprise :)

I can't wait to see her face when I give her the bag.

I have other fabric combination ideas that I can't wait to try for this pattern. I will try to post one in my Etsy shop within the next two weeks. Check it out at bagdujour.etsy.com

Thanks for reading and let me know what you think of the bag...

New Year's Resolutions

Well, better late than never... I have been thinking about my new year resolutions this past week. Mine are not about weight, eating habits, or more exercise. They have more to do with finding balance, and inner peace. Hopefully this will lead to more joy in and around me.
Here we go:
1. I will be more patient at home, at work, on the road- so what if people don't use their signals, don't stop at stop signs, or drift in my lane at 20mph  less than I am doing...
2. I will not worry about things that are beyond my control - I can't carry the weight of the world on my shoulders....
3. I will give fewer lectures, more hugs
4. I will develop a thicker skin - it's not about me...
5. I will laugh more, cry less - better for wrinkles
6. I will not take it personally - see # 4
7. I will get back into yoga - breaaaaathe
8. I will continue my eco friendly efforts- YAY for natural  and organic food, cleaning products, sheets, and fabrics.
9. I will focus on the positive people around me, not the negative ones (OK, I'll TRY really hard)
10. I will be a better mom, wife, friend (last but certainly not least)

Ooooo, it looks like I'll be busy... It does feel good to have it written down.
Now, what are YOUR resolutions?