Monday, November 4, 2019

Break Dance Bag

In July while at my annual quilting retreat at Gruber's, I purchased a kit for the Break Dance Bag. The first thing that caught my eye was the luscious hand dyed orange wool. And the cute ribbon with the sheep. And the awesome black and white striped zipper.

The pattern shows three cute wool applique' sheep, but I decided just to use the ribbon as embellishment.

I also loved the bright striped lining that was included.
Although I sewed countless zippers into garments when I used to make my own clothes in high school and college, for some reason zippers in pouches intimidate me. Which is weird because they are pretty easy to install. Also, I have a love-hate relationship with my zipper foot. Let's be honest--mostly I hate it. I never feel like it has enough pressure to keep the fabric from slipping, and also I don't like that one side of the needle is exposed. So when I saw someone rave about a Juki zipper foot I ordered it immediately from Amazon.
Life changing! At least when it comes to zipper installation--ha!
PATTERN: Break Dance Bag by Tracy Trevethan.
The zipper (which was included in the kit as well) is from Studio Kat Designs (12" separating zipper), and for sure I want to purchase a few more of them.

REVIEW: The construction was easy and straightforward, although when it came to boxing the corners, I felt like you needed some previous experience. You cut a piece out of each corner, and there is a photograph showing that. However, there was no dimension given, so I kind of eyeballed it and cut a 1" square out of each corner.
 Also, I wish I had added some fusible interfacing to the lining to give it a bit more structure.
And now I'm off to order some more of those amazing black and white striped zippers. :)

3 comments:

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Anne / Springleaf Studios said... #

Cute! That zipper is so cool. I rarely sew things like bags etc. but have been thinking about making a few things for family gifts this year. Maybe.

Danette said... #

I have boxed quite a few corners and the pattern should give you the dimensions. Although, some patterns that I have used did not. I did not like those patterns either. It is very frustrating because you don't want to take off too much. Your zipper pouch turned out wonderful!

OPQuilt said... #

That tote looks like a great size--and that zipper is terrific. Thanks for the pattern review.