Lucky Project Bag Swap

Occasionally Seattle MQG has a made-item swap, and we just had one using Lee Monroe’s Lucky Project Bag tutorial. They finish at 11 1/2" x 10 1/2", with a clear window on the front and a handy tab that you can write on with a Frixion pens so it can easily be ironed off and a new project label written.



My first go was not without its frustrations, so I thought I'd jot down a few notes for future reference.

Step 2 - The instructions called for fusing the interfacing to fabric and then cutting out your exterior pieces, but I found it just as easy to cut my fabric and interfacing, then fuse them.

Step 4 - As you wonder clip the tab, it should be on top of the vinyl when the pouch is facing right-side up. That part was a little confusing to me. I don't use wonder clips much, but they are perfect for this project, and in fact pretty much indispensable.

Step 5 - If you want the zipper pull on the left in the finished pouch, which it pretty typical, place it opposite from the pattern photo during installation.

Step 6 - When positioning the final bag, make sure the zipper and vinyl are on the same side. And when you unzip the zipper, don't unzip outside the edge of the pouch to be sure you don't cut off the pull when trimming! (I had a very close call!)

Step 7 - Use fabric glue to secure the binding before stitching.



So I wasn't 100% happy with my first go, and to be honest, grandgirl laid claim to it, so I started in on another. Not a huge fan of fusible fleece, I used SF101 Shape-Flex on the lining, and quilted the exterior with a layer of cotton batt. I was really pleased with the result, and would go this route again, but it's totally personal choice.



I was much happier with the second bag, and considering I used some especial fabrics from the ole stash, it was a little hard to say goodbye to.



But! I received a splendid bag at the swap, and added to the fun was that I randomly received from my good buddy Sharon/@redapplestitches! Isn't it fun? Now to decide what project deserves to be stored in it!