Bugsy Backpack fun and other updates

I recently made the Bugsy Backpack by Sassafras Lane Designs for a class model. What a fun and easy project. Loved this off point cityscape fabric and chose a blue grunge for accent fabric. Luckily you can buy a hardware kit so no searching for the correct size and types of hardware.

2 pockets

 It starts out pretty simply and basically is a big duffel bag with the zipper on the top instead of the side.

 The straps are attached under this cool flap...I used my lining fabric for it.

 Interesting way to sew in the zipper. I have learned so many different ways to sew in zippers making different bags by different designers. I know a lot of people are afraid of zippers, but they really aren't that hard to put in as a rule.

 Birthing the bag...always fun as you know you are almost finished!

 View of the top of the bag, which folds down to be in the front.

 Very roomy bag with two ouside pockets and an inside key fob.

This one is at Cut Up and Quilt as the class display model....I made another version out of this gorgeous border fabric that I have been wanting to use in just the right project.

 I matched up the print on the pockets or they would've covered up too much of the border print.

 Another birth! who else thinks this is fun! You have to close the two sides of the top/zipper edge and attach the loop and the hardware clip in the last step.

 I have another bag started to use during class to show all of the steps. I can't wait to finish it after the class Sept. 9. It's hard to know if the students will finish a bag during class, as some bags have so many steps, but since I'm offering a 2 hour cutting party the night before I have high hopes that they will. Once this bag is cut and interfaced, it goes pretty quickly.

  I retired from the school district in June and am excited to have more sewing time. I've been busy catching up at home and getting projects made for fall classes. All the classes are updated on my Upcoming Classes page here on the blog so stay tuned to see what I'm working on next. (it really is fun being home doing this in the AM instead of going to work!)