The Fine and Dandy pouch........The Ultimate pouch to own and make

I can't tell you how exciting it is to be a pattern tester..........I know a lot of ladies that test for several designers.........I have just one...........

So here I am with my second test pattern for Liz at Moments.....

The Fine and Dandy pouch can be found on Craftsy http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/sewing/accessory/fine--dandy-pouch/193508?_ct=fhezusj-tujqyb-fqjjuhd-ydifyhqjyed&_ctp=193508

 

So lets talk Pouches.......lots of different patterns out there, so many to pick from, I've never been a massive fan of any of them if I'm honest but the Fine and Dandy is different. First you have two sizes, second you have detailed instructions for both faux

leather and fabric, third there are pockets.......and I mean pockets.........lots of pockets

 

 

The pattern doesn't have loads of pattern pieces to cut out, but it does give detailed measurements for each part you will need, and diagrams which I found really helpful.

there aren't too many pieces to cut so it doesn't feel like a chore not having pattern pieces.

 

I decided to make my first pouch from Faux leather as I like a bit of a challenge, but I've also made a fabric one and it was just as satisfying to create.

 

So many new skills to learn in this pouch, when you look at the photos you will see what looks like piping, but its faux piping........try googling it.....you wont find a single thing about it, I know I tried, get the pattern and learn how its done.......lol

 

 

Unlike a lot of bags the main outside of the pouch isn't the main attraction when it come to sewing, the lining is the star, that's where we find slip pockets and pleated pockets galore. I cant say I'm a massive fan of pleated pockets, I like the way they look but oh the time they take to do....lol...

These are worth the effort as they give a lovely deep pocket that's actually useful, you can fit several lipsticks in one pocket, or two spools of thread......

all the measurement's for folding and sewing the pockets are given in the pattern, stick with the pattern and its worth it.

Then we come to the putting together phase.......and this doesn't go together the way I was expecting, liz has a clever way of sewing the boxed corners that keeps the lining taught and ensures it fits really well and stays put...

 

As with all bags there is an epic battle to turn the bag once you have it all together, if you haven't ever made a bag, you may not understand, but a lot of people refer to it as birthing........and its not far wrong. The Fine and Dandy was a birth that needed patience and strong wrists........but slowly slowly and it does come right.

I made the larger pouch, and its a great size......ideal for make up, toiletries, sewing notions, small toys anything you want that you need stored safely and in an organised fashion.

 



Another great pattern from Liz at Moments, well worth a try. I would suggest if your unfamiliar with faux leather or don't feel confident, then make a fabric one first to get a feel for how it comes together, but do try it in Faux leather, its a great fun sew.

 

So........after all my waffle...........the pattern is well written, with Liz's usual touch of humour thrown in, lots of helpful tips and hints for embroidery placement and working with faux leather. Clear instructions and great diagrams ( I used these more than the written measurements as that's easier for me) lots of photos to help you through the instructions.

 

 You wont be disappointed with this one!

 

For more information about sewing with Faux leather pop over to the Moments blog at http://liz-moments.blogspot.co.uk/