Some More Projects!

I can't believe I am actually saying this, but I think it is true:  I think I am officially done sewing both the Blossom Bag and the Necessary Clutch Wallet.  Both are fantastic patterns;  there is absolutely no question that I adore the designs of both!  I thoroughly enjoy the complexity of both projects.  I have made both patterns multiple times, and I actually think I've reached a point where they're just not that much fun anymore.  The proof is in how long it took me to complete this project:  I started it about a year ago, and had just the last three steps to do to the Blossom Bag, and just kept postponing it, as I somehow wasn't motivated to finish it.  The difficult parts were done, so the challenge was over, and I was consequently bored with the project.  Finally, I took a deep breath, and finished the last three steps (in less than half an hour).  

So, here they are;  this is probably the last Amy Butler Blossom Bag that I'm going to make (for a long time, at least).  Fittingly, this one is made of blossom-print fabric.  I fell in love with this fabric about two years ago, and bought a chunk (can't remember how much of it now!), knowing that it would ultimately become a bag of some kind.  And it did!  

As for all the previous Blossom Bags that I have made, I did the usual strap attachment modification (which is just neater than the intended version), as well as the alternate attachment of the purse flap, which I explained more thoroughly in a previous post about the same pattern).  In addition, I think this one is made at a different size to my usual reduced size versions;  I believe this one is at 90% of the original size.  Despite the fact that this is the FOURTH time I've made this pattern already, it still took HOURS to complete.  There's just no getting around it:  this pattern has a LOT of pieces, and is fairly fiddly to assemble.  

I included two additional modifications.  This purse includes two zippered compartments, rather than just one.  I found that the single zipper just looks a bit unfinished, whereas the double zipper looks better.  (Personal preference).  

I also included a very neat (if I do say so myself!) welt pocket in the back of the purse.  I had intended to include a welt pocket, and hadn't yet decided on the size.  Surprisingly, this measurement was ultimately "dictated" to me, as I used the last remaining pieces of the lining fabric to make it.  Well, that was an easy decision!  I am truly chuffed with how it came out.

The closing mechanism on this purse is different to the recommended magnetic snap:  I used a twist-lock instead, because that works best on the NCW, and I did want them to match. 

The last difference is that this bag is finished with gold top stitching.  I used a fine zig-zag stitch (buttonhole setting) to accomplish the row of golden top stitching on the front flap's border.  In addition, there's a single row of golden top-stitching around the handle attachments.  I selected the gold because the fabric has quite a bit of gold in it:  each flower is outlined in a thin line of gold!

Here they are together:  Blossom bag at the bottom, and Necessary Clutch Wallet on top.

And finally,  here's the Necessary Clutch Wallet on its own.  I do love this pattern.  I adore every feature of this design, because it's just SO perfect!  I installed a matching twist lock onto the purse.  In the same way that I top-stitched certain features in gold on the Blossom Bag, I did the same for the NCW.  I think it adds to the purse, and makes it look that much better!  

I'm really impressed with this pair.  They're going to be gifts for someone;  I hope she appreciates them :)