Monday, April 26, 2010

My Big Buttercup

So, the purse I just got at Target wasn't working for me.  Not enough structure.  So, I found this free pattern for a Buttercup bag online (Made by Rae blog).  Not only that, someone had posted instructions on Craftster to make some alterations.  Score!


My alterations: enlarged pattern to be twice as big as the original, I made a longer strap, which I quilted and lined to make it more comfy, I added a zipper, and 2 interior pockets.  I used some vintage heavier weight home dec-type fabric for the lining, and I loved the stability it gave the bag without having to use interfacing.
I'll definitely use that trick again!

Now that I'm all into zippers, I was tickled to find the awesome tutorial that Michelle created to show how to alter the pattern to add the zip.  Here's an in-progress shot from my Buttercup for anyone who may need another visual to understand it.   It's all about how some stuff is upside down and other stuff is right side up- Michelle explains it better.  Very slick!
Thanks again to all the awesome crafters out there that continue to inspire us, and share their creativity with us - you all rock!
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5 comments:

free indeed said...

That altered bag is on my list of things to do; but the zip intimidates me....I will do it though, I know I can...yours turned out great!

Lynn said...

Very cute! I'm feelin' the need to make me a bag! Thanks for the inspiration.

Stephanie in Michigan said...

Great bag, Jean! I'm feelin' the need to make a bag, too! I want to participate in a bag exchange with Lynn.

Nicole said...

I have made this bag...I love it!

sílvia said...

Exactly what I was looking for, a bigger Buttercup bag! Do you feel that twice as big as the original is the right size? Does it feel comfortable? I can't wait to sew it! Thanks for sharing :)