This is my first project that I'm pleased with, that I think actually turned out pretty well. It's simple but I'm happy with it. It's all handstitched. Unfortunately I didn't take a bunch of good pics before I gave it to my aunt.
That’s really nice! What kind of leather did you use? I’ll have to try make handles like that sometime!
Did you attach the bottom at the end? That looks really good!
I am super interested in bags right now and always try to figure out construction. So much to learn!
I stitched the bottom piece to the side panels first so all the pieces were attached and laid flat. The last step was stitching the sides up. I really like the handle style. I'd never tried that before this bag. There's a piece of rope running through inside the handle to help keep the shape. The leather is a chromexcel second I got from Maverick.
I dunno about time wise but I only made 2 wallets and 2 basic tote bags before I tried this. Granted there was a bit of trial and error involved where I'd make a mistake and have to recut a piece etc on those first bags. Good learning experience though! I don't think you need a ton of practice to make something like this. Just take it slow and make sure you have all the pieces cut out properly before you start sewing. This was made from a free pattern I found online if you'd like the link.