Jetset Cinched Bags

I have had the bundle of minikins patterns by Sew Sweetness for a little while now and finally got round to making the Jetset Cinched Bag. 

Doing a little swap was just the excuse I needed, it's always better making for someone else! After receiving handmade socks from Sarah, I asked what she would like in return; she mentioned a bag to keep her yarn / knitting projects in. This seemed like just the thing, it's sturdy and a good size.

Of course I decided to do a test version to make sure I knew what I was doing. For my bag I used a couple of prints I'd been saving. A fat quarter of Wings, Gleaned by Carolyn Friedlander and the brilliant newspaper print from Story by Carrie Bloomston. I used a stripey print for the casing and a pop of pink with the parachute cord, which reminds me of 80s neon shoelaces!

 

Sewing the bags is pretty straightforward, even if you've never sewn a circular base, Sara's measurements are so good and the pattern walks you through it. After making one and being very pleased with it I went on to the real thing. I chose to use the navy Pattern Guides, Macrame by Rashida Coleman Hale on the outside and this herringbone style print for the lining. I think both of them have a nice knitting / sewing vibe.

For both bags I used oxide black toggles, a piece of hardware I don't think I've ever needed to use before but really like. They fit the cord well and I like the neutrality of the black. 

I couldn't help add a little bit of bling though. I used beads bought from eBay, for mine the stud looking spacer beads I used recently to make my keyring and on Sarah's these tube beads. It's a nice finishing touch, inspired by Laura.

In addition to the bag I also sent Sarah a Little Quilt needle case - find the tutorial here - and a scissor case. I made one of these for myself ages ago, it's made from Kraftex fabric paper and stamped using rubber alphabet stamps and ink pad. Mine has lasted so well (I wasn't sure it would but it's still going strong), it's a functional alternative to leather scissor holders. 

I'm certain I will make more of these bags, definitely one of those patterns you can make an assembly line for and knock out a few easily!

Do you have any projects that you've wanted to make for a while? I hope you get a chance to do some sewing this weekend and maybe make time for one of those stashed patterns!

And if you're sewing, you might like to join in with the Saturday Night Craft Along on instagram (details are on the IG posts) - look out for the new graphic!