Meet 'The Explorer Bag'

I made my first proper bag yesterday. A while back I purchased this pattern at our local fabric store and have been itching to get going on it. This fabulous lady, Nicole Mallalieu, the creator of the pattern, does some incredible work! I've been salivating for quite some time now. Quietly. In the sanctity my own home.

I just love the details and tips she shares. Very helpful! It might be a while before I reach a high level of expertise but I think I did a pretty good job first time around!

What I did for the Explorer Bag is reduce the size of the pattern, add a few extra pockets on the inside, and create a button loop. I figure buttoning is a good thing to practice if you are a 4 year old boy. I made the lining out of ripstop nylon (had it around the joint) so that it could be somewhat waterproof for all those wet sticks and squishy things that young explorers may wish to save. The straps are from an old bag I deconstructed. It's called 'upcycling' I hear. Sounds a little more fun and fashionable that 'recycling' don't you think?

The outer fabric is from my NYC stash.

The Bubster loves his bag. This is what he kept in it today:

I'm unsure as to how the pastry brush comes in handy when you are an explorer. But certainly, the felt daggers are essential and the plastic toast is necessary for when the munchies hit. I don't even have to explain the water pistol's position of importance in this collection, do I?

And we must not forget our map! Even if it is a map of Wellington, New Zealand!

I realized today, that the first time I tried to make a bag, I was in 9th grade. My teacher gave me a C- because she thought it was mostly made by my mother. Just goes to show you how powerful teachers can be!! And not always in a good way!

My impetus for making an Explorer Bag is the sad and lonely fact that young boys get the shaft when it comes to cool accessories. I'm sorry, but Thomas the Tank Engine bags are just not for us (me). So darn it, I guess I am required to take matters into my own hands, so to speak. I'm pleased though!

I'm hoping to make more of these in time. I'd love to give some away on my blog so I can get some feedback!