We are truly a staff of bag lovers. We love to make our handmade bags and wear them proudly wherever we go. As we feature travel related patterns this month, we thought it would be fun to feature some of our staff favorites for their personal adventures.
Check out some of our top choices from our team in their own words!
Kate Bashynski, Pattern Designer & Editor:
Bette Bag
“I had a medium sized travel tote, from a craft sample sale that I tried to make work for traveling and filming in our Sallie Tomato studio. I eventually disliked the outer fabric, preferring the interior fabric; and I really wanted more interior organization (it had only a slip pocket).
I had wanted to make a Bette bag for myself for a while and wished I had one for a trip to Baltimore over Christmas. I decided to deconstruct the old bag, bought a fun new zipper, pretty zipper pulls, airmesh, and found a coordinating solid fabric. In just one weekend, I had a new organizer for travel and filming! I like my new Bette bag so much better.”
The Bette bag is a powerhouse handmade project. It can be used as a travel organizer for toiletries, cosmetics, essential oils, art supplies, and so much more! It would also make a great lunch bag or small cooler without the organizer or bottle holders. The name of the Bette pattern was inspired by the classic movie actress, Bette Davis.
You can find the free full length YouTube tutorial for Bette here.
Renée Kapitanski, Buyer:
Ferris Fanny Pack
“Ferris is my favorite - what can I say? I love that it has a few pockets, but not too many. I might forget where I have things! I have taken it on a trip through 15 National Parks and National Monuments. It has been as far north as The Continental Divide in Glacier National Park and as far south as Machu Picchu in South America. I can wear it on my back, side or across the front. I find that it is comfortable for the amount of things I just need to carry. Be it traveling or working a show for Sallie Tomato. I can wear it all day and my shoulders don't hurt. I like that the strap is very adjustable to a length that suits me depending if I am wearing a t-shirt or a Parka. You can change it up if you want it in all solid colors or a mix with prints. The pattern also offers the ability to use different types of fabrics, from faux leather to canvas or cottons. On my next one, I plan to use some of our new webbing. I hope that you will give Ferris a try! It is easy to make and you can feature that favorite fabric you bought on your last trip - just like me.”
The Ferris is a useful fanny pack that comes in three sizes! This simple bag features a zipper pocket, zipper top closure, adjustable strap and is fully lined. The name and design of this pattern was inspired by one of my favorite 1980's comedies. Can you guess which one?
You can find the free full length YouTube tutorial for Ferris here.
Audra Hoy Chaimson, Marketing & Content Producer:
Fifth Avenue Sling Bag
“The Fifth Avenue bag is my go-to bag, whether home or traveling. Being an on-the-go mom with dance, theater and music commitments, I can wear this bag and hop in and out of the car without ever taking my bag off. I have worn it at QuiltCon for three days straight and was never uncomfortable. And I have trekked all over Manhattan in it and always felt secure with my bag around me. This bag is such a fun and simple sew and can be made in so many unique ways. The pattern is three pieces and can be made in an afternoon for any last minute sewing projects before a trip (which I am well known for). I love it, my daughter loves it and my mom loves it - it is great for all ages! I cannot recommend it enough for whatever adventures you have ahead.”
The Fifth Avenue’s convenient design is worn hands-free around the waist or over the shoulder. Secure the belt bag with the side release buckle or D-rings and swivel hooks. The crossbody strap is easily adjustable with the slider buckle. This pattern is beginner-friendly, with minimal sewing and has endless options for fabric choices, additional quilting or exterior accents.
You can find the free full length YouTube tutorial for Fifth Avenue here.
We would love to see where you take your handmade projects and why they are your favorites! Share them with us on social media using the hashtag #sallietomato.
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