Clutchmates by Imazzpatterns

It was fun to test another pattern by Rahimah Othman of Imazzpatterns.  This pattern was just released and it is called Clutchmates.

What I like about Imazzpatterns is that the designs are relatively simple, have multiple options, are fast to sew and look great.  The Clutchmates pattern is a zippered clutch/wristlet that has 6 different flap designs that add to the fun.  You can also change the look by changing your interfacing and changing your closures.  The first one that I made was out of some left over dark purple and black plaid.  I combined it with some matching faux leather.  I used Pellon Decor Bond as my interfacing.  On this pouch, I used a snap closure.

I changed the flap design and closure for the second one.  I used a magnetic snap on this one which was a combination of quilting cotton and faux leather.  I used Pellon SF 101 as my interfacing.

 I did not put interior pockets in mine but there are directions to add one if you would like.

The other great things about this wristlet are that it has a recessed zipper and a boxed bottom.  This allows you to put more essentials in and makes sure they stay there.

The completed wristlet measures H 5.5" x L 8.5" with a base of 1.5".  If you hurry, you can get this pattern at 40% off the regular price but you have to act by Sept. 6.  You can find it on Craftsy here or on her Etsy site here.

The Layla Bag by Cozy Nest Designs

Wait until you see this one!  I was asked to test this new bag by Sarah at Cozy Nest Designs.  I fell in love with it the minute I saw it.  It is Layla. The pattern was released today.

Isn't this a beautiful design?  The thing is, it looks great in all fabrics.  If you don't believe me, you can check out Sarah's bags and all of the testers' bags here,

Layla has such a sleek and curvy shape.

It has a zippered closure. (Sorry this is such a bad picture).  Another great thing about this bag is that the depth starts out narrower at the top and gradually gets larger.  This gives you plenty of room to carry more than you think.

I used green polka dots for the lining to go with the red, black and green camillias on the outside. There is a zippered pocket on the inside.  I haven't even mentioned those fabulous handles yet.

Layla has these gorgeous oval handles and a removable shoulder strap. Sarah has made it easy for you to get these handles by teaming up with Janelle at Emmalline Bags.  You can get the handles here.  The silver handles do not have to be used...there is an alternate way of finishing the bag without them.

Layla is 14.5" wide, 6.75" high and 3.5" deep.  It is a great bag to showcase some fun fabric.  It only takes 1/2 yd of exterior fabric and 5/8 - 3/4 yds of lining/contrast.  The pattern calls for interfacing and foam stabilizer.  I used Pellon SF 101 and Pellon Flex Foam.

What are you waiting for?  Go get the pattern here.

Bella II, the Revamped Bella From Chris W Designs

First of all, let me tell you how much I loved the original Bella from Chris W Designs.  I have made many, at least a dozen of them, probably more.  I was sad that Christine decided to retire the pattern.  She later decided to revamp the pattern and just released it today as Bella II.  I was excited to test this one.

I decided to use coordinating quilting cottons ( Purrsnickitty by Terri Degenkolb of Whimsicals for Red Rooster Fabrics) and combine those with a green suede for one of the front pockets and straps. I used smaller grommets on the front of my bag than what was called for.  Christine suggested 13/32" ones and I used Dritz 1/4" large eyelets.  Instead of ribbon, I made a 1/4" wide strap from one of my fabrics and wove it through the opening.  Dritz also has 7/16" extra large eyelets that would work, too.

If you remember the original Bella, you will notice that the front of the bag is very different.  The side pockets are gone but the front of Bella II has 4 separate slip pockets.  The tab with the magnetic closure is gone, too.  The Bella II is now closed with a recessed zipper to keep all of your contents secure.

The back of the Bella II still has the large zippered pocket.

The bottom of the bag has new bag feet.  I ran out of washers to attach them and I had heard you could use plastic canvas.  I loved how that worked.  It gives them such support that I might try this with other closures.

 The inside of Bella II is loaded with pockets.  There is a large zippered pocket with a slip pocket behind it on one side.  When making this pocket, I questioned all of the interfacing on all of the pieces. It seemed like too much, but this pocket is substantial and will hold belongings in place.  I like the support it gives the bag, too.

The other side of the interior has 2 more slip pockets and a pen pocket.  My pictures don't show off the beautiful strap back so I am including this pic of all of my exterior pieces before assembly.  You can add a strap of one of your fabrics for that extra pizzazz.

There are so many possibilities for this bag.  Click here to see the testers pics.  You can purchase the pattern here.  If you already have the original Bella pattern, Christine will give you a coupon code for 50% off that is good until Sept. 30, 2015.  Just email her with the email address you used to purchase it and she will send you that code.  What a deal!!  You are going to love this one.