My First Purse- The Layla Bag

I'm pretty sure I've discussed my general lack of sewing skills and downright fear of trying new things.  So, really, I don't know what I was thinking when I decided that I could make a purse.

I won a free pattern from Linda at Ruffled Begonia (better known as the blog author of Craftaholics Anonymous).  I chose the Layla Bag Pattern, which is available for purchase here.  It's pretty adorable, don't you think?

I decided to also be brave and order designer fabric for this project.  I had a vision in my head of what I wanted this purse to be, and regular old fabric from Joann wasn't going to cut it this time.  I found this Citron Gray Color Story from Michael Miller and fell in love.  It took me awhile to choose which fabrics I wanted the most.  It's just gorgeous.

Anyway, while I waited for my fabric to arrive, I decided to test out the pattern on some scraps.  I knew I would screw something up, and really didn't want to waste my "good" fabric.  Does anyone else do this or I am I just totally neurotic?  Anyway, I'm so glad I did, because my ruffles weren't sewed on evenly, I stitched my top strip on incorrectly, and I totally messed up the pocket (of all things).  (All user error, I assure you.  The pattern and directions are easy to follow).  When my fabric came, I took my time and made sure to correct all my mistakes.

Now, it is my second first attempt at a purse, so there are definitely some imperfections, but overall, I LOVE how it turned out.

 A little more Michael Miller for the inside:

The fabrics work perfectly with the pattern.  I get compliments every time I "take it out", which unfortunately, isn't often since I still usually have a toddler with me wherever I go.

Thanks so much for the pattern Linda.  I love my purse so much I'm linking up to Purse Week over at A Lemon Squeezy Home.    I'm also linking up to some of these parties.  I'm pretty proud of myself for making my first purse.

Now, which bag should I try next?