Elegant Travel Duffle

Don't you just love the internet!  You can just brouse and browse until you happen upon something you've just got to have; and the internet is so accommodating that you can order in real time......and if its a PDF pattern or other data, you can have it in minutes or just a few days for regular stuff.

Browsing Etsy.com last week I found this cute duffle bag pattern.  Not that I travel a lot; I'm just bored with the same pieces of luggage I've had since 2000.  Thought I would try my hand at this one:


A Travel Duffle

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This pattern from an independent pattern maker was purchased on the Etsy site and is "A Travel Duffle By Studio Cherie'

My version is as follows:

The instructions were very easy to follow especially since, with the exception of one beginner quilting class, I only sew with paper patterns.  I took my time and made sure I understood the instructions and it worked out well; don't you think?  The instructions call for quilting the body of the bag.  I chose not to because of the weight of this wonderful piece of upholstery fabric.  I used 60" felt and quilter's spray to add body.  The instructions do not recommend lining the bag, but my OCD (lol) insisted that I line it.  I also added pockets to the lining as well.

My plan was to use it as a really upscale health club bag, but upon completion it may be a bit too large (20" x 12"), however it is perfect for a weekend trip.

I almost omitted the pull rings (shown in middle picture) and I'm glad I didn't.  They help in zipping up the bag (I used double slider zippers) and the puills would be perfect if you wanted to add a shoulder strap.  I was really annoyed because I could not find dark brown double slider zippers anywhere not even online.  Consequently, I used black.  The side pockets have pleats and a zipper and should prove to be very useful.  See picture below:

And finally the straps.  The Jute Webbing adds strength as well as a great design detail to the straps.