PPC5- Build it YOUR way!

(This post is part of a continuing series focusing on the development of a new handbag pattern from its initial conception to it's release.)

So... in our last post in this series, we were relatively happy with our design, but there were still had a few details to tidy up, notably:

• a slightly different placement of the Insert Connector zippers.
• a re-design of the darted area of the Envelope theory.
• adding an elastic stay-strap to the Credit Card Caddy to provide more security for credit cards.
• finding an upgraded, easy to use spring clasp for keys.

So here's our new sample all dressed up in some of Laurel Burch's "Basics" line for Spring (from Clothworks).

As we've already shown you, each of these insert sizes can actually be used very effectively as a separate, stand-alone insert, but what we haven't shown you as of yet....

is that you can combine any two of these inserts and utilize them as a duo if you prefer.

In this picture, we paired a tall insert with our main unit. (This particular combination is what I have been using for weeks now in my Boho Baguette.)

But depending on the bag we're carrying on another day, we may prefer to combine a thin insert with our tall unit like we have in this example.

This overhead view of the tall/thin duo gives us a chance to show off the partitioned interior of the thin insert, a feature I have REALLY enjoyed!

And here's our main insert zipped up with the thin unit, but in a side-by-side configuration, which is perfect for use in totebag.

We also resolved a few troublesome design issues with this sample.

There's more daylight under the zipped connector between these two units now, which facilitated the stitching process some, but there's still some work to be done on the connectors themselves for next time to make the installation process quicker and easier.

This picture also provides a good look at the redesign of the gusseted pockets (on BOTH units), which is an improvement over the last sample, BUT... and this is a big but... the construction process was a NIGHTMARE, so some modifications are in order for next time.

And as promised, I changed the installation of the elastic so that it's no longer extending out into the side seam and I'm now locating the fabulous little spring-loaded clamp for keys in between the pen holders, and which I like a LOT.

And finally, we added fusible interfacing to both Credit Card Caddy's which will improve the durability & functionality of the slots, AND more importantly, we added a wraparound piece of elastic to provide additional credit card security. I LOVE the elastic and it was easy to install.



I still need to improve the inner structure of the Caddy. It feels a little flimsy on each end. 

Here's the smaller Caddy in the Thin Insert. (Same design as it's larger cousin shown above.)

SO..... in conclusion,

let me give you the details about this wonderful fabric, which was provided courtesy of Clothworks.

Except for the pale yellow fabric, which was something I already had, these fabrics are ALL from Laurel Burch's Basics line. I would recommend you first check availability at your local quilt/fabric store.

Basics #90331-1M Stripe
Basics #Y0841-27M Lavender Triangles
Basics #Y0841-40M Coral Triangles

And here's the REALLY BIG news! I decided on a name for this new design at last! Were calling it, the

PortaPocketsPLUS

So there you have it. There's still got a few little modifications to make, but overall I'm pretty happy with the design. So stay tuned my friends, because next up is some simply spectacular fabric from Jane Sassaman.  I know you'll flip when you see it!

Any thoughts or suggestions?

Feel free to share them below!

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