Pages

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:

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

    ReplyDelete
  2. 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.

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

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

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

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

    ReplyDelete
  7. 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

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

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

    ReplyDelete
  10. Love this bag and your fabric choices!

    ReplyDelete
  11. You are clearly a natural bag maker!

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

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

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

    ReplyDelete
  15. Anonymous5:11 AM

    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

    ReplyDelete
  16. I love this bag! Beautiful! Nice job!

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

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

    ReplyDelete
  19. That's a beautiful bag! Love the fabric.

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

    ReplyDelete
  21. 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!

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

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

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

    ReplyDelete
  25. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  26. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Very nice-
    The Japanese is perfect.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Great looking bag!

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

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

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

    ReplyDelete
  32. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  33. Anonymous10:37 AM

    It looks sturdy and cute - a winning combination

    ReplyDelete