Windy City Bags

Windy City Bags
By: Sara Lawson
Gifted by: Martingale
www.martingale-pub.com
Reviewed by: Dana Byerwalter, Editor, AllFreeSewing.com


Windy City Bags is THE next pattern book to add to your stash. This beautiful collection from Martingale includes twelve stunning patterns for handbags and totes that are so stylish for your everyday use.

As a Chicagoan, I am partial to the title of this book as well as the patterns in it! These bags look store bought right down to the finishing details. From beautifully stitched handles to a bit of hardware for a fastener or clasp, the bags have professional-level detail that will amaze everyone!

All of the patterns in this book are considered intermediate, but don't be discouraged if you don't feel like you're quite at that level. The detailed instructions should help any sewist give the bags a try! In the introduction, author Sara Lawson suggests a few specific patterns that beginners should try. She also points out a few of the more advanced patterns for sewists who'd really like a challenge!

I love the first bag in the book, Hey Mercedes (page 6). It has an adjustable strap so it can wear like a shoulder bag or messenger style. For city living, a messenger bag is my personal preference, but I also love the flexibility of being able to wear it at the shoulder level from time to time. I also love the Sweet Talk pattern (page 21), although I may be partial because of the fabric pattern used in the example; it features vintage clocks and a beautiful bright red fabric to correlate! The book includes a duffle bag pattern and a laptop backpack pattern. The Shades Laptop Backpack (page 70) has an intriguing crisscrossed zipper pattern that adds interest! The backpack and duffle are both great unisex patterns, so there are projects great for everyone in this book.

The index includes additional information, tips, and tricks on the following topics: Bag Interfacing, Bag-Making Techniques, Choosing Fabric, and Resources. Don't miss some of Sara Lawson's great tips for creating stylish and professional designer bags. This collection is simply a must-have for any sewist. One can never have too many bags, and with Windy City Bags, you'll have a hard time resisting making more and more!