August 2008: Bag #2

Based on the problems the first bag had (unraveling at exposed inner seams, doesn't hold its shape, not waterproof), I wanted to try out a different design:

• The same simple bag pattern (just a "T-shaped" fabric cutout, see image below)
• Thicker, water-resistance fabric (Cordura with a urethane coating on one side)
• Two layers of fabric, to make a stiffer, more structural bag
• A two-layer design (sew the layers together inside-out, then turn right-side-out through a small hole left unsewed along one seam), to hide stitches and protect edges from unraveling.
• Metal hardware
• Webbing shoulder strap

Because I was still just playing around, I decided to make a small model before I made a larger bag. However, it turned out pretty well as far as a tiny bag / pocketbook / purse / whatever goes, so I gave it to a friend who liked it.

What worked:

• The overall construction concept worked-- two layers, inside-out, etc
• The surcingles make a pretty neat fastener
• Using D-rings as the shoulder strap attachment point looks a bit cleaner than sewing the strap directly on, and would make it easier to change the strap later if I decide the length isn't good.
• The semicircle-shaped "sewn-border cutout" that I added at the last minute worked out okay.

What didn't:

• Feedback from the friend: As an actual bag, it could use interior pockets or at least a slim pocket for cards/money/coins, to keep them separate from everything else in the bag.

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