Fairfax Sling

I was already thinking about making a new bag/purse when I saw a sneak peek of Svetlana Sotak's @sotakhandmade new Fairfax Sling pattern a few weeks ago, and I've been impatiently waiting for it to be released.  Finally, last week it was, and I began gathering supplies.

I used all fabrics from my stash - Anna Graham's Riverbend Big Sur Canvas Loops in Sienna for the exterior; Carolyn Friedlander's Kept Abstract Ovals in Eggshell for the lining; and a Carolyn Friedlander Harriot Scallop in Roasted Pecan for the interior pocket lining and bias tape. For the two zippers, I used #5 nylon coil zipper tape in what I think is Stripe Khaki Silver, as well as fun zipper pulls, from Sullivans Trim.

The pattern itself is unique and the construction very unlike any bag I've made before. But as always, it was easy to follow, and Svetlana even provides a video, which unfortunately I forgot about until I was nearly done. I made the small version, and there are just a few things I want to remember in case there's a next time:

• use matching thread even for construction; with the canvas, there's a place or two where a stitch actually shows 
• not sure why, but the handmade bias tape was a little wide for my seams, so consider making it slightly smaller next time
• really make sure all the seams are lined up well in the tab area during final piecing; I had one place I had to unstitch and resew to get it right (maker error!)
• trim seams in tab area a little closer to make a neater finish when turned right-side out

All in all, though, the bag went together easily, and I'm definitely looking forward to using it this spring and summer. I tried it out this morning, and it felt just right.