Duffle Bag for the Birthday Boy
My boyfriend is the hardest person to shop for. It's because he never tells anyone what he wants, he just buys it himself. (And I'm over here dropping hints like crazy for every holiday under the sun). We went to the mall a few weeks ago and stopped in the Fossil store where Drew spotted a bag that he loved. He needed a good weekend duffle to use for business trips instead of his gym bag and he really liked this one. He said he was going to think about it before dropping $400 on it.
I forgot all about the bag until his birthday was fast approaching. I had a pattern for a duffle that I've always wanted to try (Simplicity 2600) and with a few adjustments, it could look pretty similar to the fossil bag! I started with two beautiful yards of faux leather from Joann's and an awesome clock face print for lining. Drew has a slight obsession with watches so this was perfect!
I had a general idea of the changes I wanted to make and how to construct them with the existing pattern. I cut out the body pieces but not the straps the way the pattern called for. I also didn't make any of the piping and added a flap over the front pocket which was one of the scariest parts to sew. I didn't know how my machine would handle the layers but everything went smooth! I did break about 3 needles when sewing on all the straps but they are on... and secure...I hope.
I finished the bag just in time for his birthday and it even accompanied him on his trip to Miami this past weekend, and it held up well! He was so cute when I gave it to him. He freaked out and asked where I got it. When I told him I made it-he flipped! He couldn't believe it! That is the greatest compliment a seamstress can get so I'm very happy with the result!
Fossil ain't got nothing on me!
(Just kidding, that fossil bag is gorgeous and it's my dream job to work for them. )
UPDATE:
I've gotten numerous questions about tutorials and where to find materials so I hope this post edit will help you lovely readers out!
Materials I used:
Pattern: Simplicity 2600
Fabric:
Exterior: Pecan Vinyl from JoAnn Fabrics
Interior: Timepiece in Taupe
Hardware:
This is everything I used:
1 turn lock
1 heavy jacket zipper
4 rectangular rings
2 D rings
2 swivel clips
1 adjustable strap slider
Most pieces were purchased through my wholesaler but everything can be found here:
Or here
Zipper: Coats & Clark Heavy Jacket Zipper. (You will need to read the pattern you choose for the right size zipper for your project but I love the look and feel of this zipper- even though it's for "jackets")
Tips to make your own:
Many people have asked for a template but since this is a sewing pattern, I cannot give you a template to follow. (I also don't want to get into any trouble providing you with the pattern pieces these pattern makers worked very hard to make!) There are a few online patterns that you can modify to get a similar result, but I would definitely invest in the true pattern (or a similar one) for this project.
I bought the fabric from JoAnn Fabrics because it is one of the closet stores to me. I used vinyl for a few reasons: It is cheaper than leather (and looks just as good) and I do not like using animal products, so vinyl is a great alternative.
Cotton lining is just regular quilting fabric, I did add a layer of very thick interfacing for strength.
The major changes I made to this bag:
Front Pocket: The front pocket is ultimately a large rectangle with a curved top. Before sewing the rectangle onto the bag it measures 26" x 10".
Straps: I completely omitted the straps on the original bag and added two shorter straps (19" long each) and one shoulder strap (45" long).
That's it! Personally, I think it is the fabric that makes the bag what it is. Taking any pattern you want and making it in a faux leather will probably get you great results.
I hope these tips and links help you to create your own bag!