Cosmo Convertible Handbag

Have you ever made your own handbags? Or wished you could find patterns that are beautiful and provide some challenge?

Then, you really should check out this post and see what inspired me to stitch up this unique project from: StudioKatDesigns.

My first bag (Lollapalooza) was made in 2010; and now I am back to share with you, my second bag. It is the Cosmo Convertible - and is three styles in one.

The Cosmo Convertible (on left) --- Lollapalozza (on right)

This is something that gets my interest; as I enjoy combining techniques, whenever possible. So, why not see what else I decided to add to make this new project exciting... and see how it came together.


FABRICS:
YELLOW: A light color works best for the interior of the bag as the lining fabric.
BLUE: A piece was embellished with "stupendous stitching"; and a piece was left plain for the exterior of the bag. (Appropriate pieces were cut from the embellished fabric.)
FLORAL: A decorative fabric for the exterior and handles.

Originally, it was the embellished blue that was to go on the sides; and the floral to be used for the inset pieces. However, that was changed at the last minute; and at first, was not sure if I had made the right decision. But, the combo grew on me; and by the time it was done, I loved the change.

MY HANDBAG FABRICS
Blues and Floral - exterior; Yellow - interior
Blue embellished with "Stupendous Stitching" a Craftsy class

HARDWARE:
ANTIQUE BRASS FINISH

At the time that I made this purchase, I was not certain what fabric colors I would use; so had to decide whether to go with a polished shiny nickel or a classic antique brass finish. Selecting the brass, would give my bag a more rustic look as the pieces were in a variety of brass tones. 

Also, I was trying to cut down on shipping costs; (don't we all) and found this closer-to-home shop that would fulfill this wish.  So if you need any zippers or hardware, check this one out.

MY HANDBAG HARDWARE
Hardware in antique brass from Emmalinebags

PATTERN PIECES:
EMBELLISHMENT

Once the decision was made on which pieces would use the embellished fabric, it was done. To give the edge between the blue and floral fabric a better separation, mock piping was added. 

Then... after a hard look at these results, made one more change. I found the back piece too plain; so I redid the top portion, (above the zippered pocket) in the embellished fabric. I was not going to redo the pocket, as I wanted the back side to be different from the front of the bag.

FRONT AND BACK PIECES (Before)

FRONT PATTERN PIECE
Center: embellished with fancy stitching and mock piping

BACK PATTERN PIECE (After)
Top: embellished with fancy stitching and mock piping

RESULTS:
HANDBAG

It is pretty safe to say, that I generally give my own twist to original patterns, and this one is no exception. Therefore, to see the original pattern, please visit the website. 

Several variations in fabric are made; and this was the one that inspired me to purchase this pattern, written about here: blog post.

FRONT VIEW OF BAG

BACK VIEW OF BAG

EXTRAS:
EZ eReader and AeroPac

Having the desire to make a cover for my Kindle; it was the perfect match for this bag. Using the leftover piece from the embellished fabric, I had just enough to make this cover. 

Both these are FREE patterns. 

MY COSMO SET

Time is ticking by... perhaps, in the next few moments, you'll find that next project that inspires you to take action. Happy stitching!!

Embellish your life.... with a creative project, soon!