Yep… I made it all by myself :)

I started by picking some coordinating fabric in a simple cotton blend.

I decided I wanted to try something a little funky 🙂 And came up with the idea to do wide columns. I cut the fabric into 4 inch wide strips, and then cut the patterned fabric at random lengths. I measured the blue strips to match the patterned at 14 inches and sewed them together.
I played with the lay out a bit and then put the columns together.

I cut another strip of blue 4 inches wide and 2 inches longer than the sewn together columns (does that make sense? I’m beyond tired LOL). Next the 2 rectagles that make up the outside of the bag/purse got sewn to the 4 inch stip of blue to make the bottom of the bag.

To make the lining I took a piece of blue that matched the dimensions of the outside (can you tell I didn’t measure anything?) I had 2 left over pattern/blue columns that I didn’t use on the outside, and used those for the ends of the lining. The added a square piece of patterned fabric to the lining to make a pocket.

I tucked the lining inside, pinned it all te way around, leaving a gap on the “ends” to insert the strap. To make the strap I took 3 of the patterned fabrics, cut them into 3 inch wide x 4 foot long strips, and braided them together.

To make the strap I took 3 of the patterned fabrics, cut them into 3 inch wide x 4 foot long strips, and braided them together.

I sewed all the way around the outside, reinforcing over the straps.

And there you have it… my first successful sewing project 😀

Can you a tell I’m a little proud of this accomplishment? 🙂 I know its not perfect, but I learned a lot and I had fun. In the end thats what matters right?