Tuesday, November 22, 2016

compass bag

I'm not normally a bag maker, but I do love carrying a handmade bag, so once in awhile I make an exception. :) This pattern is called the Compass Bag, by the amazing and talented Anna of Noodlehead. It's a very detailed and well written pattern--I was impressed! I started the bag on Saturday, took Sunday off, and finished it on Monday.
There was a lot of cutting right off the bat, and there are a lot of steps involved in the construction, but it's broken down into bite sized pieces, which makes it much less intimidating.  It was my first time using rivets, which add a nice finish to the exterior pockets. I pulled out a lot of tools for this one! It was fun!
I love the finished details on this bag. All the hardware (not to mention the zippered pocket) make it look so polished!
The pattern has a lot of room for customization: two size options, two strap options and two exterior pocket options. This is the large size with an adjustable strap and slip pockets.
The exterior print is a Japanese fabric I picked up on clearance at Bear Patch Quilting about a year ago. The accent and interior fabric is Sketch Screen by Timeless Treasures. Hardware was purchased at Hobby Lobby.

I can see this bag getting a LOT of use!

34 comments:

Jan @Cocoa Quilts said...

Amanda what an awesome job. This bag looks beautiful. All the hardware gives it such a professional finish.

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

I keep telling myself I need to get those tools for the rivets as I do not have it and so do not make bags that use them but can see how nice it looks. The bag is bigger than I would use but so very nice - you did a really great job on it.

Chris said...

Very nice! The hardware definitely takes it up a notch.

Debbie said...

This is gorgeous! I made need to make this one...

DianeF said...

What a beautiful bag! I'm so impressed with your skills and choice of colors.

Melissa Corry said...

Love that bag!!! It looks amazing ;) Just beautiful and the hardware is the perfect finish!

Sherrill said...

Very, very nice but no way I'd even begin a project like that. It would get MAYBE half-way finished and then thrown in the UFO corner. Just looking at the strap gives me the heebie jeebies! LOL

Di~ said...

Oh Wow! Lovely lovely, really! Excellent work there.

Amy said...

That is really stunning. It is always fun to see your finished projects.

Tamie said...

Love this bag and your fabric choices!

Tracybug Creative said...

You are clearly a natural bag maker!

Colleen said...

I have been eyeing that pattern as well - you did a great job

Dar said...

That really is a classy looking bag. You should be very proud to carry it often. I love the fabrics that you used too.

Annie said...

Nice work

Lyndsey said...

A beautiful bag, expertly made. It will look stunning in use.

Anonymous said...

Nice job! Great fabric choice too because it will go with just about everything but especially jeans. I have several patterns from Noodlehead and I agree they are so easy to put together. The trick is to get them done in enough time to use for a trip! It "seams" like you are ready! LOL

Unknown said...

I love this bag! Beautiful! Nice job!

FlashinScissors said...

A very classy bag! The hardware certainly gives the bag that professional look!
It is so stunning!
Hugs, Barbara xx

Judy in Michigan said...

Gorgeous bag and it looks so professional (which it is cause you made it)!! Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Judy Cooper Textile Artist said...

That's a beautiful bag! Love the fabric.

Needled Mom said...

That is a great looking bag. I love the finishing on it too.

Dakotamom said...

Love love love this bag!! I love making bags and can't wait to make this one! I really like the fabrics you chose... I am inspired!

Sam said...

Love this. Your hardware really kicked it up a notch! Very good work and choice of fabric!!!!

pennylanequilts said...

Wow! Love the details. That zippered pocket is the best!

Diane Beavers said...

Beautiful job!
I'm all on hands on deck w/Anna's patterns.

Mary Marcotte said...

First, I love your fabric choices. The fabrics alone really give it some zing. Second, you didn't mention, but I noticed that all of the hardware is the same shiny silver color which really gives it a professional look. It shows that there are times when we need to rethink using just what's on hand. Certainly it has a place in frugal living, but there are projects that call for a carefully considered accessories to achieve the look we want. You got it perfectly right!

Unknown said...

The bag is wonderful and your fabric is gorgeous. I have a local teacher who is always looking to teach advanced bags. I think I will try show this to her. I love it.

Julie Bagamary said...

Very nice-
The Japanese is perfect.

Marsha L said...

Great looking bag!

naurispelto said...

Gorgeous! I would need one too, but I never seem to have time to make one.

ChezVies said...

such pretty bag. I always love noodlehead patterns and my fave is the supertote.

Pattypiecer said...

What a great job you did. It looks terrific. Looks like it would have a lot of room to carry everything you need.

Bernie Kringel said...

This is just gorgeous. You are absolutely correct that the finishing details give the bag a very polished look. It is lovely. Thanks for sharing this!

Anonymous said...

It looks sturdy and cute - a winning combination