City backpack

I wanted to make a backpack, a small one, suitable to use as a handbag. I found this pattern which was brilliant, really easy to use, with good clear instructions.

I used up some fabric from my overly extensive stash, using a patterned piece for lining and detail, and orange for the rest. I changed the straps from the original, as I prefer a padded strap, and the handle on the top turned out a little longer than I wanted, but I'm still really pleased with it.

Here's some more photos.

The straps, padded with fleece, and with proper backpack buckles, which are hard to find other than online.

The interior, with an orange pocket, and one of my 'created by Jo Chorlton' labels. I used gold cord for my drawstring.

The front panel was chosen carefully to make good use of the design. I love frogs, so this is the bit I chose. I worked the rest of the pattern round cutting out this piece.

Finished bag and dress

Here's two projects that I've recently finished. The bag was seen in progress in my previous 2 posts. It now has its handles attached. The hardest part was working out how to attach the lining, which I just couldn't get my head round. I managed it in the end! I'm pleased with the pleats in the fabric at the handle, and also how much stuff I can fit in it!
The other project is the dress, which I made using a reprinted 1940s pattern. The hem still needs some work, and I needed some advice from Mum on fit, but as it's the first dressmaking I've done for ages I'm really pleased. I'm planning to wear it to a swing jive event, which will give me a chance to try out another newly acquired skill - lindy hop!

Nelson gets involved!

I put this down to have lunch and when I got back Nelson had decided to take a closer look! Perhaps this explains why everything I make has black cat hair on it!