Here we go again with a new pattern release! I've always wanted to make a mix 'n match style of pattern to allow an individual to make their own one-of-a-kind bag. This design was inspired by my best friend's son - he's just about to start pre-school and needs a bag to take on his walks with his snack in it, as well as a different bag that has a change of clothes for the day - therefore the Bailey Backpack in two sizes.
These Bailey Backpacks were made out of a custom fabric from Crookshanks Custom Textiles (FB page).
The Bailey Backpack (purchase it here) is designed in two different sizes, the small and the mini, then has two sizes of straps, one size for an adult, and another size for a toddler (don't accidentally make the toddler straps for someone older). Then there are three different front panel designs to make this exactly the way you want it to be - there is a plain front, perfect for Applique, embroidery or a panel; a Hidden Zipper Pocket front with a flat zipper compartment with an accent at the top, keeping the zipper from being the focal piece; And last but not least a Pop-Out Pocket front that's a little more challenging to sew, but gives a 3D pocket on the front of your bag.
Join my FB group to see all the testers and get support for your pattern! Sewing UhOh Creations Patterns. And after getting your pattern, you can sew-along with Di Scarrott on her YouTube channel as she has done a full tutorial of the Bailey Backpack!
The Pattern
The pattern for the Bailey Backpack includes diagrams for all the steps, pattern pieces for the curved pieces and cutting lists for the rectangles, allowing you to use a rotary cutter and ruler to cut accurately. I've also included Metric and Imperial measurements so you can use the one you are comfortable with.
If you are looking for a paper copy of the pattern - you can purchase it from Purple KATZ Quilting or Emmaline Bags.
The Tester Photos
My testers have created some awesome works of art! Check out the gallery of photos to hopefully inspire you as you work on your own Bailey Backpack!
I have recently added a few individuals to my testing team and one of them is a good friend of mine that I got to sew with recently in person - she has made FOUR of these backpacks already! These are two of Nancy's makes in the new Tula Pink Lineworks fabric.
Then, while we're talking about Tula Pink's new Lineworks fabric line - Tracy of Purple KATZ Quilting made up a glam version featuring the peacocks on this line, and then added some piping in a glitter fabric and dressed hers up beautifully!
As usual, Line is one of my pre-testers that always has the shortest timeline to accomplish the first test version - and she did amazing! Apparently the new owner is already loving their new backpack!
Abbe of Just an E Sewing (IG here) did up two versions of Bailey using two similar Christmas patterns!!! I love that she used these fun panels and even fit a panel in with that hidden zipper pocket!!!
Cheryl of Cheryl's Quilts and Crafts worked with a custom fabric that was so fun, and she even had her daughter do a bit of modeling for us, this is the Small version on her daughter - I can't say how much I appreciate this shot, and the beautifully made bag!
Cindy of Sweet Tea & Stitches did up this INCREDIBLY adorable Care Bear version and even had some stuffies to party with it. I love these Care Bears - they completely remind me of my childhood and make me want to do the Care Bear Stare!
Di Scarrott is a new tester to me, but not new to me at all in general - she has been busy making video tutorials for all of my patterns. This means you should definitely subscribe to her YouTube channel, she does this for a number of different designers! And look at this fun Small version she made!
And of course Michelle is one of my pre-testers and then she did up another - apparently this is quite a quick sew! You can see all the two different front pocket options - the Pop-Out and the Hidden Zipper.
And you are of course wondering about a cork or vinyl version, I know LOL And Sheri of MM Cork Supply does not disappoint!!! I love this Small version Sheri did up in all cork! It looks so organic with that amazing print!
And one last version from Tara of Mooi - she did up a very fun one with plaids and this adorable lumberjack fabric line. We had fun putting together different ideas with the fabrics from this line!
This new pattern is one that I have put a lot of work and thought into, trying to make sure that it can be made unique by each bagineer. I have always wanted to do some mix and match components and this is definitely right up that alley, allowing you to choose the style of the front you want to make and the size, and even the straps.
If you are looking for more inspiration, follow each of these makers as they will be showing off more of their versions throughout the Facebook Groups online and in my Facebook Group - Sewing UhOh Creations Patterns. Each of them have worked so hard to create unique and stunning Bailey Backpacks!