I think I cut the fabric for this back in May, possibly April. I can’t say exactly why I let it fall behind on the wip pile, since I was very excited by it at the time, and since I decided to sit down and dig my teeth into it this weekend I’ve been very excited by it again. This is a slightly modified version of the mini messenger bag I took to Japan with me last year, a bag that I wore every day for two weeks, stuffed with maps, guide books and my travel journal.
It was perfect for the trip, but as a bag there were a couple of issues that needed to be ironed out. One thing that didn’t need adjusting is the strap length – when it’s as short as it can be, like it is above, then it’s a dinky shoulder bag, but at full stretch you can wear it easily across your body.
In honour of its origins I used the cherry print fabric I bought at Tomato in fabric town in Tokyo for the lining. I completely adore it, but sadly it’s now gone. Luckily Mr J asked me yesterday when I would like to go back to Japan, so that’s ok then.
I kept the back zip pocket since I found it so useful for my travel card and mobile phone. Not that anything helps my poor track record when it comes to hearing my phone and answering it when it rings. I’d get a cheaper tariff but it’s always me calling other people back…
I did simplify the way I make the dividing zip pocket for the interior, though I want to make another tweak.
I do so love compartments. A bag without compartments in my hands soon becomes so unruly that I fear putting my hands in, just in case new life forms have evolved among the receipts, loose change and scattered crumbs lurking at the very bottom. But in this bag purse, book, map, make-up, pens, keys are separated so that they’re much more easily located.
I’m going to crack on and make one from some of the suiting I got from Fabrics Galore way back when for this very purpose, but before I can make a start, I have to eat a hearty portion of Mr J’s apple and blackberry crumble. Isn’t it lovely when you can see Autumn approaching through the medium of puddings?
What a super gorgeous bag! And beautifully made. I wish I had someone to ask me when I wanted to go to Japan. The answer would be “this afternoon”. ;o) x Judy
This really looks elegant and fabulous.
Now you have made me curious what else is in your wip-heap.
It is lovely. I heartily agree regarding bags and pockets – pockets are a must.
Beautiful bag, so well finished. Are you going to do a tutorial? I made your crochet hook roll successfully.
Hi Jo! I’m glad i’m not the only one who has a Wip pile dating back months (sometimes years!!!) .. Nice bag and nifty lining. I can’t quite bring myself to crumble yet though. xx
That’s a beauty!
Lovely bag. I love the interior. I’m afriad I’ve succumbed to crumble… blackberry crumble as they’re ripening fast here at the moment.
What a gorgeous bag! The fabrics go so well. Isn’t it such a great idea to put a nice patterned fabric inside? I love it!
I like the sound of apple crumble. I fancy one now.
That’s lovely! The herringbone and the lining fabric are a perfect combination. The inside comparmentage looks so professional too.
I have so many projects cut out, you’d think I’d spend less time daydreaming about what to sew next and pulling out piles of uncut fabric to look at. x
Love this bag! Especially the lining. I am always a sucker for a bag with a lovely lining and more of a plain fabric on the outside. I would love to know how to do dividers like the one you have here. Or your way of doing them. I have a friend who loves these in her bags and hasn’t discovered the best way to add them to the patterns she has as of yet.