It's all about choices

Ok, that about sums it up, choices- we've got lots of them and and each day we make even more. So, why not with  Flickr swaps too. First we choose to join a swap. Then the swap moderators choose to let us participate, or not. We receive our partners and then, secretly look through their choices (Mosaics, likes, dislikes……) For this swap, round 2 of the Goodie Bag Swap, is no different- more choices, 2 specifically. For me, both bags were "advanced" by my standards and my choice, (you could choose, simple, medium and advanced) and now that I have made 2, I will let my partner choose which bag she would like to have. (Which then saves me from choosing for her). Or, perhaps I'll let you readers choose which bag she should get- choices, choices…….. so MANY choices. I don't even know if my partner will find her way to this blog post. Or if she does, perhaps she will choose not to comment. I'm hoping she will, because she will have a hand then, in choosing which bag she will receive. I guess if she never finds her way here- well, then, dear readers- you will choose for her- so choose well!!


Choice #1- Sweet Harmony Bag by Amy Butler (all was not harmonious when making this bag- did she choose that name as a contradiction in terms or the sense of relief one felt upon completion). The sheer volume of pattern parts to cut out was phenominal. When pattern pieces were stacked on top of one another the pile was almost 3" tall. That Lady sure loves her interfacing.

pieced exterior pocket with piped cording
Kona coal and various yummy quilting cottons
13 x 9 x 4"

other side- also pieced exterior pocket

"secret" cell phone pocket

interior zippered and open pockets. Roomy central pocket. It's fall, so Alexander Henry's apple fabric used as the lining seemed very apropos. 

Choice#2: Cross body Bag, original design. I got real friendly with my seam ripper on this bag after I realized that I had included one too many pieces (did I mention there were lots of "pattern" pieces with this bag too) when sewing the lining and ended up with a zippered pocket without a back. I mean a project isn't a PROJECT without a lot bit of seam ripping it "seams". Being directionless and working from a sketch of-my-own-making often lends itself to considerable back-tracking. I had an end product in mind when I started, I just took the scenic route to get there.

One side with open (magnetic snap) pocket. Ikea decor weight fabric (grey) with chartreuse/ mustardy-yellow corded trim. Zippered main bag compartment (top). Teal strapping.
13 x 11.5 x 3"

reverse side, Ikea decor weight fabric, grey and white, zippered outside pocket. Ikea fabric fussy cut for front and back to maximize pattern layout and scale.

"hidden" cell phone pocket- borrowed that idea from the Sweet Harmony bag. 

close-up of cell phone pocket. The bag's main grey color is more "true" in this photo. The closure is velcro with a decorative button sewn over the top.

interior side pocket, with a space (far left) for a pen(cil).  Pockets  inside  big enough for a cell phone or small pad of paper.

Despite my whining about the (dis)harmoniousness of the Amy Butler bag and my seam ripping extravaganza with the cross body bag- I did really enjoy both the process and the final product- the journey, you might say.  I might even try to make the Sweet Harmony bag again- but this time I'll try a little meditation (ohm) before I tackle all that interfacing.

So dear followers/ partner/ partner who is also a blog-follower, which would you choose?  Let me know which one and why- remember, it's your choice.