Kindy Bag!
So last week my oldest started kindergarten. The school requested we make them a two handled, open, shoulder bag. A little curious, I thought, as I was all set to make her a cute back pack like this one by Made-by-Rae. Still I went along with it. A friend of mine suggested it might be easier for them to get their stuff in and out of. Plus, she had all these gigantic school supplies that would never fit in that cute little pack.
Her bag, next to her best-friends bag, cute!!
I ordered some cute fabric online but it was slow in coming and I still might make her one, so I kind of wanted to keep it for its original purpose! Instead, I set my self a challenge, only use fabric I already had. It was a great idea! Sometimes I find putting boundaries on your creativity is a good thing.
Babushka Doll for the Center Panel
A big rectangular bag can be a bit dull. So I thought a bit of fabric piecing would add interest as well give me a way to include some of her favourite fabrics and colours. She’s pretty keen on Babushka Dolls at the moment. So I thought using that idea as a motif would be fun. I also thought I could make a collection of bags one day (when I find the time) in various sizes. School bag, lunch bag, pencil case… see where I’m going?
Babushka Bag
I used a ‘cheats turned-applique’ technique I just sort of invented in my brain but I’m sure I’m not the first. Its where you sew together two pieces of fabric the shape of what you want, right sides together. Carefully cut into one layer and turn right side out. After you’ve ironed it you’ll have a fray-less object to applique! I used the same technique for her name.
Non Fraying Name Applique
Finally, I stitched the front panel onto a yellow backing to make the rest of the bag and then lined it. Making sure I included some box pockets for lunch and pencils.
Box Pleat Pockets
She looked super cute with her bag getting ready for Kindy, and there was lots of playing with it before she actually started school. I do think I’ll end up carrying it most of the time! Isn’t it always the way!
Kindy Bag
