Last week I released the Fairport Purse & Pouch pattern. I had a great group of pattern testers this time around. They each provided valuable feedback and helped to clarify some sections of the pattern so that the rest of you can enjoy your sewing!

One of the fun things about sending patterns out to testers is seeing the variety of bags that they all make with the same pattern. And isn’t that what we all love about sewing? You get to make your bag with fabric you love. The Fairport Purse & Pouch has so many custom options that you can make a bag that really reflects your personal style.

Top left: Keri Top right: Krista of Marietta Glen Designs Bottom left: Allison of Allison Sews Bottom right: Margareth of Maggie Made Bags

Keri, inspired by Downton Abbey, used a lovely vintage inspired ribbon as a decorative accent and as her wrist strap. Krista added a pretty ruffle between the yoke and body of the bag. You could also add piping for a fun accent. Allison chose to make a zipper pouch with a snap flap, showing that you can combine the 2 closures to make the pouch functional and stylish! Margareth’s pretty bag has a zipper closure and looks perfect for Spring.

Top left: Maragaret Top right: Colleen of Fancy Foot Farm Center right: Donna of Stitched by Donna Bottom left: Maria of Mia Creates Bottom right: Daryl of Patchouli Moon Studio

I love the bright colors Margaret used for her purse. Apparently, so did her daughter, who loved the bag and claimed it for herself! Colleen’s little pouch looks lovely with a combination of linen and red. She also added an interior pocket, which you can see on her blog.

Donna’s black and purple bag is very classy, and she added a snap clip to the wristlet to make it removable. Maria always makes lovely bags with excellent skill. This version looks like it would be great as a cosmetics bag, and you can see more pictures on her blog. Daryl’s bright, springy bag is actually the larger sized purse. On her blog, you can see more pictures showing the interior with the pocket she added.

As you can see, there is a lot of variation in the bags and plenty of room for creativity. You can read more details about the pattern here.

Thanks again to my testers! Every one of you contributed something that made the pattern better. I am grateful for your help!