Friday, July 6, 2012

Art Student Tote

When I saw the pattern review of the Art Student Tote on Sew Sweetness' Purse Palooza, I finally found the pattern I had been searching for.  I had been on the lookout for a pattern that would be suitable as a diaper bag for my cousin, and this looked to fit the bill without looking too "diaper bag-ish."  I love how it came out.  But it is HUGE. I will definitely hold anything a baby could ever need while out and about.  But big bags are so IN!

Now for my modifications:

-I shortened up the straps by about 8 inches total.
-I added a 6-inch top-zip panel, similar to the extension panel in the pattern view B but much smaller.
-I added a removable, adjustable cross-body strap, since it's really frustrating to have a bag keep falling off your shoulder while carrying a baby.
-I used fusible fleece rather than interfacing on the outer panels.
-I used Decor Bond on the inside pockets since they will be getting a ton of use.


Fabrics from Hello Pilgrim by Lizzy House

D-ring adjustable side strap detail

Top zip panel will tuck down inside when unzipped if needed.

Hanging by the cross-body strap

Awesome zipper detail on the outside pockets

I just love these prints!
Thanks to a reader's comment, I realized that I didn't include any photos of the inside.  It is a bit tough to photograph because it's so big, but here's a peek.  There are 8 pockets inside, large enough to hold a travel baby wipes container, diapers, bottles, etc.  They are interfaced with Decor Bond to make them extra sturdy.

8 comments:

  1. That looks really great. I'm working on a diaper bag for myself right now.

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  2. Great. Are there any inside pockets?

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for asking! I forgot to include an inside photo. I added one above. There are 8 pockets inside.

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  3. I love the fabric choice. This is gorgeous, I wish I had had something like this when I had little ones. I know exactly what you mean about not wanting it to look too much like a nappy bag.

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  4. Hi,

    I love big bags with lots of pockets and this one is great! You use lovely fabrics.
    Have a look at my blog I’ll be glad :)

    Hugs from Portugal

    Ana Love Craft

    www.lovecraft2012.blogspot.com

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  5. hello-
    I know this is an old post, but I'm wondering how you did the cross-body strap? Just getting started on my own Art Student tote, and love the strap idea. Thanks!

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  6. I was thinking about adding a cross body strap as well, but I was wondering, does it work alright with the bag being so wide?

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