CLASSIC Mini Messenger Bag

I remember hearing it on Oprah, in one of the makeover shows. They were discussing about bags and one of the fashion experts said that a printed bag for everyday use is a big 'no-no'. I'm no fashion-conscious person and have definitely been using printed bags that do not even match my clothes.

When the zipper on my everyday bag broke a couple of weeks ago, I knew I had to replace it with a solid/neutral-coloured bag. I didn't have any fabric on hand and put off making a new bag until I saw this fabric yesterday, on sale at $4 for a 2 meter bundle.

Black with CLASSIC written all over it.  The colour is actually a much deeper black in person.

Classic...but you might also say, boring.  I didn't even know what kind of fabric it was.  It's silky smooth but thick. I was also unsure if it was appropriate material.  But I had a bag idea in my mind and so went ahead and purchased it just the same.  A few hours later, I proudly had this...

My mini messenger bag!

Front view, flap open, showing zip top closure and two pockets

Inside, with pre-quilted lining (leftover from this project)

The difference with this design and the original mini messenger bag is that I used an all-purpose zipper instead of an open-end one. The zipper is 10" long and the end is just covered with a fabric tab. I didn't have to make a new strap...the long strap here was saved from an old bag.

Close-up of tab

The great thing about using black (aside from the fact that it will match anything) is that all my sewing imperfections are not obvious! It's been a long time since I last made a messenger bag so my skills are definitely a little rusty. Overall though, I am really happy with what I've accomplished. And since there's a lot of this fabric left, I can foresee more bags to come. Yay!

Have a good weekend!