Zakka Style Sew-A-Long: Week 1

ZIGZAG TOTE

Well, here's my first project in the Sew-A-Long!

It was kinda fun to do!  Hadn't really done much quilt piecing before except for a few wonky blocks where precision isn't really a priority.  But this time, I had to take more care.  It still isn't perfect, but I'm pleased with it.

Since my zigzag strips weren't 100% precise, I decided that the quilting lines shouldn't be either!  So I overlapped some of the lines ... made some longer ... some shorter.  I just got crazy with it!

And on the back, too!

Ooo...check out the inside!

(Is that a big pocket or are you just happy to see me?!?!)

AND my first magnetic snap closure.
Really easy to insert.  I see more of these in my future.

By happy accident, I ended up with the "lining" side of the straps facing out.  I like the bright chartreuse on the outside.   I also wasn't going to interface the straps since I seldom feel the need, but since the body of the bag is so structured due to the quilting, I decided that "floppy" straps probably weren't the best choice.  Yeah, it added extra steps and time, but I think they look better with some body to them rather than just hanging limply.

So, that's week one of the Sew-A-Long!  Time to go upload the pics to my new Flickr account!  (Watch for a link on the sidebar ... I'll get around to adding it soon.  I swear!)