When Sara at Sew Sweetness released new patterns a couple weeks back, I knew I wanted to try it. I’m slowly working up to doing the Amy Butler Weekender bag by trying other bags along the way. Y’know, break down my fear a little and figure out what works and what doesn’t before I get to the Mt. Everest of bag-sewing.
Originally I wanted to use some Kokka fabric I’ve been hoarding for the Aeroplane Bag, but after snagging a deal on Robert Kaufman’s Lorax strips from Missouri Star Quilt Company I decided to use it instead. Of course, it would have been easier if I didn’t decide to piece and quilt the fabric before cutting it out. But the easy route isn’t how I do things. It seems like I’m always taking the hard route without any real intention of doing so.
So instead of using the interfacing and Soft and Stable to give it body, I used old canvas I had with a layer of cotton batting and the patchwork fabric. I quilted over that and then cut out the pieces. post-quilting.
If you’ve made bags before you shouldn’t have any problem with this pattern, but if it is your first go slowly and be patient with yourself. Bags can be a PITA.
Pattern Name: Aeroplane Bag (short version)
Designer: Sara Lawson at Sew Sweetness
Time Required: 7 hours
Rating: Advanced Beginner
Would I Make It Again: Yes, maybe in the long version instead
What I Changed: I used canvas to give it a stiffer shape, used patchwork instead of solid fabric, cut out the inside lining 1/4″ smaller than outside (I would make it 3/8″ smaller if I did it again), tacked down lining to exterior at darts and bottom corners, used two fabric strips sewn together with 1/2″ seams for each strap.
