An Epic Bag of Holding

A while back I used this awesome tutorial to make a messenger bag and a smaller purse.  They were both a lot of fun to make and I decided that I needed to make a bag for myself!  But this wasn't going to be an ordinary bag... no.  It was going to be epic.

I mulled over the design for months.  I inventoried everything that I regularly carried in my old, too-small purse and made sure that I designed a spot for everything.  I caluculated the ideal dimensions for a bag that would be large enough to comfortably carry everything I needed, yet not be overly bulky.  I strategized ways of adding zippers and secret pockets so that I could maximize the interior space.  The easy part was finding the right fabric... I had plenty of the soft brown corderoy left over from the messenger bag I had made my sister and then I had two shades of a lovely leafy-green print in my stash that I had been saving for something special.

Once my plan was made and once I had the free time, my Epic Bag came together very quickly!

For the front flap I used a reverse applique technique to create a leafy twig design.  I had fun "sketching" the outline of the leaves and stem with machine sewing.  The slight fraying along the edges adds just enough texture and character.

I also added leaves in a vine-like pattern around the strap.

This vine pattern was also used to quilt the back and sides of the bag.

But the really fun part is on the inside!

I made custom pockets on the front that comfortably fit my phone, ipod and camera so that they are always within easy reach!

There is a zippered pouch on the front for more easily-accessible storage and then I added a large zipper over the main compartment too.  That way, important things like my keys and wallet won't go flying if I happen to drop my bag.  

The main compartment is divided into two sections.  The back section is specifically for a notebook for jotting down crafty ideas or inspiration... because I always seem to think of great things when I am out and about!

Then there is obviously a spot for a pen or pencil and another small zippered pouch for important but not always needed things like nail clippers and band-aids.

Well there you have it!  With my Bag of Awesomeness I always feel well prepared.  Even if we're just going to the park.