Denim Sidekick Tote

I decided that I wanted a new bag for our Vietnam holiday, and I had a list of features that I wanted incorporated into the design. Originally I thought I'd probably just have to sew something up myself, but luckily the Noodlehead Sidekick Tote pattern had all the features I was after.

 My requirements were:

• Single adjustable strap for both over the shoulder and cross body wearing.
• Zipper closure for additional security
• Not too big - I just need to fit a wallet, water bottle, tube of sunscreen, keys, phone.

This pattern had all that, so I was relieved as I'm certain I couldn't have done as good a job trying to come up with a design myself. I certainly would have struggled with inserting the zipper into the lining.

For my bag, I wanted it to be fairly sturdy so I used denim for the exterior. Only problem was that I couldn't find a denim that was the right shade. Emma from For My Little Monster shared a trick with me back when we had the Winter Sewing Day - denim may be ugly on the front, but make sure you check out the wrong side of the denim too as that might be the shade you are after! Success! The denim I used is actually a really dark blue on the right side, but I used the wrong side which is a lovely mottled look and not too dark. Perfect.

 The recessed zipper was a success and I used the same purple polka dot on the zipper tab as I used on the interior of the front pocket. I could have used the aqua herringbone but I thought it was fun to have a little polka dot tab.

The interior fabric is Herringbone in Pond from Modern Meadow by Joel Dewberry. I really love it, I need to buy some more! The aqua colour coordinates nicely with the front pocket fabric.

 For the front pocket I used some Melody Miller Viewfinder fabric which I've been hoarding for ages, waiting for the right project. One thing I've learned about my fabric stash is that the right project DOES eventually come along, so if you love it, buy it! Even if it's just a fat quarter.

The only thing I regret is that I didn't pay too much attention when I cut the pocket so the viewfinders aren't centred. Never mind, they still look good and the randomness of the fabric placement is fine.

I found this really pretty bag hardware at my local quilting store. They were a couple of dollars more expensive than some of the other hardware pieces but I think they add a professional look to the bag and I'm really pleased I chose them.

Why did I need the cross body strap? Because I will be zooming around on motorbikes in Ho Chi Minh City on a couple of tours. How awesome! I'm looking forward to reporting back and sharing some pics of our trip!