This is Belle.  Isn’t she a beauty?

When Nicole Mallalieu from You Sew Girl puts a call out for pattern testers, I must confess that I rearrange my life so I can put my hand up.  Nicole has just revamped her Belle Pattern and released it as a pdf download and you guessed it, I was a pattern tester.

This little “puff-ball” handbag is surprisingly roomy.  It accommodates my purse, phone, sunglasses and keys with room to spare.

The combination of the small magnetic snap tab at each end, and the magnetic clasp on the side panels, ensures that the contents can’t escape.

I love sewing You Sew Girl patterns.  The instructions are detailed, they include lots of diagrams and photographs (appropriate levels of hand holding in my opinion) and all those tips, tricks and streamlined ways of doing things that give you a superior finish.

It’s the little things that can make a big difference.  For example, the handles on this bag are placed so that the folded edge (as opposed to the one where the two edges meet) is on the more visible side of the strap when your using the bag.  And check out how the top stitching means every second piece of the pie on the base is highlighted.

I always feel as proud as punch when I finish one of You Sew Girl’s patterns.  It’s almost like I can’t believe I made it!  And I of course just want to make more.  How about you?  Do you fancy making yourself a “puff-ball” handbag?

Pattern:  You Sew Girl’s Belle Pattern (pdf download)
Fabric Outer:  Heather Ross’ Faraway Collection II – Linen/Cotton Blend purchased as a remnant from Kelani Fabric Obsession
Fabric Lining:  Cotton Poplin from Spotlight (from the stash)
Fabric Handles & Snap Tabs:  Cotton Drill from Tessuti (purchased in Melbourne)
Alterations:  None
Bag Size: 25cm diameter circular base x 17cm height