It was a really good pattern.
Two big sewing sessions were enough to get the job done. I did take a few liberties with the pattern as written, mainly because I was making the bag from leftovers and needed to improvise. I didn’t have quite enough of several things. So, for example, the lining has several seams in it, I made the drawstring instead of using cord, the straps are fitted to size rather than adjustable, and so on. The fact that I could do this within the parameters of the pattern was a mark of its versatility, in my opinion, and doesn’t compromise the end result.
So, we have a small, neat but capacious bag with three pockets: two internal and one external, two of them zipped, a flap with a magnetic clasp to cover the drawstring, straps attached to a D-ring which doubles as a hanging loop, and lastly, an opportunity to showcase a really pretty fabric.
It’s also very light, feels sturdy and sits comfortably on my back. I don’t think it’s firm enough to hold anything very heavy or bulky, but as this is essentially a handbag rather than an actual backpack, I feel that’s perfectly OK. Obviously, I ended up using the paisley straps, but this was because I simply didn’t have enough of the geometric. Some-times the universe makes decisions for us.
If I ever want a heavier version, I’ll make it in leather, oil cloth, canvas or decorator fabric. 
10/10 would recommend. #batala backpack #pinkponydesigns. The pattern is available to download on Etsy.
And because even sewing isn’t enough, I tried out a new bread recipe/process.
Four ingredients. Zero effort. 100% delicious.
Tender, open crumb, crust a combination of crispy and chewy. Can’t wait to see what it’s like as toast…
And now, on with the next thing.
talltalesfromchiconia 