OK first, can I just say that this bag needs a better name? If anyone has a suggestion, please leave a comment! This bag is loosely based on one of my favorite bags. I love cross body bags for the grocery store, running errands, walking the dogs or any task where I need my hands free. I love not leaving my bag in the shopping cart or worrying about it falling off my shoulder, while having my phone, list, coupons, etc. right there in easy reach. I’ve made several of these and I’ve actually made three sets of pattern pieces now, but each time I get stuck. Working on these bags is actually how I figured out the zipper technique, but then I ended up making the Quick Zip Lunch Bag instead and put this on hold. With summer in full swing (we went from 50° to 90° overnight) I no longer have jacket pockets to shove my phone, keys and wallet into so it was time for a new bag. I love this final size and I’ve been carrying it for almost a week and I really like it. I just need to tackle this pattern piece problem.
Today I’m going to fix the pattern pieces and then make a final prototype. Then I need some light colored fabric (why is 90% of my stash dark colors?) so I can take the pictures and write the instructions. Hopefully I can get it ready to test by early next week!
I would LOVE to test this pattern for you. I have been looking for something EXACTLY like this to make for myself because I hate dragging around a diaper bag, but my wallet and keys have just become chew toys for my 9 month old son. I do lots of different sewing projects, so I have a decent amount of experience, but am by no means a pro so I would be totally fair and honest in letting you know how easy it was to follow. Also, my best friend and I are starting a sewing blog of our own and I could feature the test as my first entry (after our intro, of course). Let me know!
Kelly
I’m the bff of Kelly! I’d love to test the pattern as well. Double the fun! Looks like a great bag and I love zippers.
I would love to pattern test! I am very attracted to this kind of cross-wearing bag, and I’m particular about construction. :) Oh, maybe you can have people create pattern pieces by cutting paper on the fold? Then those who would rather have smaller pattern pieces can cut fabric on the fold, and those who want full pieces have that option as well.
I love this bag! I have a Vera Bradley bag that is very similar in design and I was just looking at it the other day thinking, “I wish I had a pattern to make one of these” and also knowing that I’d never develop a pattern.
I’m not sure how many testers you need, but I wouldn’t mind doing it. I’ll be out of town until next Tues. so I’m not sure how that would fit with your needs.
P.S. I bought your notebook pattern last week (or maybe twoo weeks ago?) and I’ve already made three of them and need to make two more tonight. They go together very quickly and your directions are great. (Honestly!)
Wow thanks for all the offers! I emailed all of you!
Maybe the best name is it easy reach . Look for “free hands bag”.
Hi – looks like you have the testers you need, but I’d be happy to do it, too. And the ZipIt store on Etsy is the best!
p.s. Is this name too stupid? The “Zipster”.
I would to test this pattern for you.I love this bag.you make beautiful pieces.
Gorgeous!!!!! I want to be a tester too :)
maomaocrafts.blogspot.com
Well if you still don’t have enough testers you can count me in too. Love the looks of the bag. How about the name “Zippy Bag”.
I would love to test this pattern for you. I love to create my own patterns as well so it is easy for me to think outside of the box and figure out a way if I get stuck. So. if you haven’t picked yet I would be happy to help out just let me know. Good luck!
Hi everyone! Thanks for all the comments. I’m all set for volunteers, but check back because I have plans for lots more patterns!
Looks perfect for me. It’s 105+ degrees, and I have a minimum of 9-10 dog walks every day. And I really need to get decently priced poop bags, but am currently carrying those big plastic grocery bags. They’re not very attractive waving out of your pocket. This bag will be perfect for the cell phone, obligatory candies, dog treats, and enormous plastic bags!
It sounds like you totally need this! It’s not too big so if you don’t load it up with stuff it won’t be heavy but you could slip a water bottle in for when you are out walking. I’ve made a bunch of doggie leash bags that clip on and those are great but probably not big enough for all the bags you have to carry. My favorite cleanup bags are called Mutt Mitts and I know you can get them wholesale or at least cheap in bulk online because they use them in those cleanup stations at dog parks.
I’m almost done. I have to finish taking some pictures in the morning. I have had every setback in the world while trying to finish this pattern but it is going to be fantastic when it’s all finished! :) I appreciate everyone’s patience!
[...] in love with and I like the comfort level of fabric straps. I pieced the straps on this bag and this bag and they have held up fine. It's just like piecing binding, so you quilters will already know how [...]
How can i get a pattern for this cross body bag? I absolutely love it. Been searching online for days. I’ve been looking for a bag with a zipper that is tucked in like yours. Pls. let me know how i can get this pattern. Thank you!
Hi Tricia! The pattern is available here: http://erinerickson.com/store/patterns/two-zip-hipster-pdf-pattern/
Thanks!
Erin
Tricia, the link is here: http://erinerickson.com/store/patterns/two-zip-hipster-pdf-pattern/ Thanks!