Oh.Hi.Mr Heckles!
[Please note, this blog post includes my affiliate link for Sincerely Jen Patterns, indicated by an asterisk * after the link. I receive a small percentage from the seller if you purchase this sewing pattern using my affiliate link.]
My first pattern test for 2024, say hi to Mr Heckles' Handbag* from Sincerely Jen Patterns*! Quite the opposite from that frumpy and grumpy old man in Friends, Mr Heckles Handbag is pretty, stylish and has oodles of personality!
A generous size bag, there are plenty of pockets to store your daily essentials and more.
I chose water repellent fabrics for the exterior for practicality and durability: this pretty floral Wildfields organic laminated cotton from Cloud 9 fabrics, teamed up with indigo dry oilskin from Merchant & Mills. Both fabrics are eco friendly and a breeze to sew on my domestic machine. A stylish, angular shape, the bag has a wide, adjustable and detachable shoulder strap as well as carry handles.
In true Sincerely Jen style, you'll always find a few surprise construction methods in her patterns! One side of the exterior has a neat hidden slip pocket, perfect for storing your phone, sunglasses, tissues, etc.
The clever installation of the rectangular base achieved a perfectly neat finish and I used a faux Mora leather for added durability.
The top of the bag closes securely with a wide zipper encased in dry oilskin.
The spacious interior has plenty of pockets to organise smaller items. The lining fabric is a grapefruit red Peony Garland cotton for a lovely pop of colour.
And a wide zipped pocket on the other side for keeping important items extra secure. The pattern gives the option for a vinyl overlay around the zipper pocket.
All in all, a really fun bag pattern to kickstart the year and I see more Mr Heckles Handbags in my future! She's a beaut!
Bag maker friends, you can grab a copy of Mr Heckles Handbag pattern from Sincerely Jen's website and while you're at it, join her Facebook group for more amazing Mr Heckles Handbag creations and inspiration!
