I was happy to once again be able to test a new bag pattern by Erin Gilbey of Dog Under My Desk. This one is called the Unflappable Messenger Bag, because it's messenger bag size but obviously doesn't have the usual flap that most(all?) of the others do. I'd also say it's an "unflappable sew" in that you won't be apt to get perturbed or frustrated when making it. It goes together very smoothly, and it sews without problems on a domestic sewing machine.
Here is my version, front view:
Back view:
The pocket on the back is a slip pocket, but you could optionally divide it or even add a magnetic snap closure.
One of my favorite features is the front pocket with a hidden zipper for extra security:
The bottom of that pocket also has darts to give just a little bit of extra room.
The inside has a divided slip pocket on one side...
... and a zippered pocket on the other. The pattern also includes a water bottle sleeve at one end of the inside, but I chose to leave that off.
There's a zipper across the top, too, to keep all your things from falling out.
It's a good sized bag that'll hold lots of stuff, and even big enough for a small laptop in the outside pockets. Here's a selfie for size reference. However, I would normally carry it crossbody, since it's such a large bag.
The solid fabric I used on the outside is a lightweight canvas, and the crazy print is an African wax block print that I got in a fabric grab bag and wondered what in the world I'd use it for. :) I think it made a great accent for this bag! The lining fabric is a twill.
The pattern was just released today, and it's on sale through Tuesday, April 5th. (The discount price will apply automatically at checkout.) So if you're looking for a big bag to carry 'all the things', or just a pleasant pattern to sew, head on over and grab this pattern while it's on sale: Unflappable Messenger Bag.
