This post is part of Purse Palooza 2013.
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Amy of Diary of a Quilter is a super-talented quilter. Visit her blog and you can see it right away, or check out her pattern shop!
Hello fellow sewing-lovers! I am Amy, and I’m mostly a quilter, but I was so excited when Sara asked me to contribute to Purse Palooza because I knew it would force me to finally sit down and make a bag I’ve had on my list for a long time. I know that it’s not technically a “purse” but I chose Anna of Noodlehead’s Divided Basket. I have love the look of this fabric basket.
I tend to migrate when I sew, bringing all my fabric and supplies with me, so having something pretty to keep it looking tidy while also being portable has been a needful thing for a long time.
This size of this basket is wonderful. Just the right size to carry around, but it can hold SO much stuff in there, with the added pocket for extra organization.
While I have some experience with making bags, I definitely consider my skills more in the beginner range, so I knew this project would test me a little bit – I’d never done anything similar to putting in the divider, for example. For that reason, I would recommend this pattern to more intermediate sewers, after you’ve made a few basic bags.
I have made a few of Anna’s other bag patterns which were excellent, so that gave me courage to try something farther outside my comfort zone. I used the PDF version of this pattern. Anna’s diagrams and instructions are so clear. I printed the pattern pieces easily from my printer and had my fabric cut out quickly.
One modification I made was using Peltex 71F (fusible heavy-weight Peltex) mainly because that is what I had on hand and I like the stability and shape it gives. I also used heavier-weight fabrics including canvas for the divider and handles, and light denim for the lining. (Visit my blog for fabric resources.)
I made this bag for myself. Definitely not perfect, but I’m still super-pleased with the results. I learned so much from the process that I feel like I could easily make a bunch more quickly – and they would be such great gifts!
Thanks again, Sara, for inviting me to play along with Purse Palooza!
It’s gorgeous Amy. It looks great!
I seen many pretty versions of this basket and I finally got my copy of the pattern 🙂
Great job! I love that pattern!
I’ve admired that pattern for several months. You did a great job!
Love that divided basket!! Cute colors too!
Great Job!
I love Anna’s patterns – I’ve made several of them! this I will do someday – thanks for sharing
This is so cute. And perfect for carrying things from room to room.
Thanks for your sweet comments everyone! I am LOVING my basket!
I need to make that basket. I tend to spread out when I get working on things. I lovebaskets to keep stuff contained, but the divider…that is what I need. Gotta organize all that stuff that I might neede.