mama's got a brand new bag (or four)

After much procrastination, I finally took Sewing Basics I at Make on Friday night. My wonderfully encouraging boyfriend, Rod, won me a class card at the October Bazaar, and I finally got around to taking the class.

Now I am obsessed with sewing.

Including the one we made in class, I have made FOUR handbags this weekend. Since I'm not all too fast at it yet, that's pretty major! Here's the first one, from class:

For my next feat outside of class, I used this gorgeous cream quilted drapery fabric. It's much prettier in real life, and I love the contrast with the wooden handles/button. I came up with this pattern myself, and while I like it, I do wish the opening were bigger. Ah well, next time.

...and the lining, which is so cute!

The third bag I did I'm going to refrain from posting since it's a Christmas present. :) The final bag that I finished this morning is my very favorite. I was actually trying to work out a pattern for my friend Erin J who wants a bag inspired by this Gucci, but for <$2000:
I couldn't really figure out the pattern without making an actual bag for myself, so here is my version (I still need to add some big ass gold buttons):

It's not identical to the Gucci, but I'm really, REALLY proud of it. My pleats turned out pretty much perfect, which surprised me since I'm so new to this. I also am in love with the fabric. It's also a drapery fabric, designed by Cacharel, and has a velvety texture to it. Finally, the houndstooth lining is pretty swell. Alright, I'm done praising my own work! I'm just really pleased with how it came out.

I have plans for a clutch that I'll probably work on tomorrow. My next step is learning how to sew garments, and I don't think I'll ever leave the house once that happens!