I DID IT!

Well, shocking I know, but I actually made my bag right and it is awesome. It's better than I even dared to hope, and I LOVE it!

For those who may be interested in making this bag for themselves, the Pattern is: Professional Tote by The Creative Thimble. If you like bags, you surely won't be disappointed with this one. It's a lot of work to make, but well worth the time.

I really love everything about it, especially the drawstring end pockets that will easily carry our water bottles, and even pull tight enough to contain other stuff. It's a little larger than a purse, but certainly something I can carry every day with ease while on vacation.

I did follow all of the instructions and I have to say, many times I had to read them over and over before I fully understood what was meant. I did not make any changes to the actual construction of the bag, it is perfect just the way it is designed.

I did however make a few small adjustments to accommodate some of the things I know I will need in our travels.

One inside pocket was supposed to be pleated but I left it flat and that made the other pockets reach right to the seams. I didn't want the bulk I knew would come with being able to stuff a pleated pocket! lol

The pattern called for one small vinyl pocket for a business card; I instead added two of those and made them the size to fit a driver's license or credit card and then two more, the size to fit passports- these are all inside the middle zippered section for security.

I added an extra couple of hooks instead of just the one D ring called for; these can hang outside or go inside each respective pocket.

I added some beaded ribbon to cover the outside of the magnetic snap on the back side of the bag.

I added some grosgrain ribbon loops- one on each side and one front and back- they are big enough to loop a snap-on strap through to hold the bag firmly on my roller suitcase. Plus that gives me the option to lock the bag with either a split ring or a small lock by using the zipper and the loop together.

I am really happy with it and can't wait to try it out! What do you think?