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This was a great leather (OAO knock Iron from OA Leather) to work with! A larger bag that fits the work laptop and a ton of other stuff. I made the strap so it can be adjusted between crossbody and just on the shoulder. All handstitched with Ritza thread. The only hardware is zipper on top and two 1 inch buckles.
That looks so fantastic! I love the zip top - so many bags have flaps, which look nice but are inconvenient. The external pocket - also common - always goes unused on my bags, and it's just more bulk. I like this idea of a smaller pocket, juuust the right size for an e-reader.
Did you do anything on the inside for organization? Again, all the little pen slots and pouches are usually just bulk, but then, a couple of pockets like you did on the outside to put odds and ends would be handy. I've never really seen the purpose of dividers.
Anyway, I love the wabi-sabi of this! I'm a sucker for a leather messenger bag, especially one that has some form to it.
Thanks. I agree with flaps being impractical. I have only made one bag with a flap and for a reason. They are in the way most of the time. I added the one pocket because I have a smaller handbag with one for a smartphone and I actually use it! Quick in and out.
The larger bag (no dividers, pockets etc inside) would make it a lengthier search for the phone. So a pocket made sense to me.
Regarding dividers and pockets: I honestly don’t like them. I never add anything because I prefer to have a couple of pouches for smaller things instead. I transfer EDC items often from bag to bag and it’s a hassle if not portable but in x pocket in each bag. Also dividers often flop around and stuff gets caught.
One thing I always add my bags to the inside is a D-ring close to the zipper front. I use S -carabiners to hook my keys. I hate searching for keys!
I also learned I don’t like floppy bags. Always prefer structured bags that hold shape. And a clean, uncluttered outside. I often use minimal hardware and definitely no decorative rivets etc. The simple styles showcase good leather best.
Well, great job on this one, anyway. I really like it!
That looks absolutely stunning! Simple, elegant, beautiful, functional. Love it!
Thank you! Exactly what I was going for!
That looks really great, love it! I'm dreading to think how long the stitching on the strap took...
Thanks. I can’t really say how long it took me but assembly always pales to design. It takes me forever to come up with what I want and actually design the bag and select heardware. Essentially feom concept to cutting pieces. If I had to guess it was probably 2 days after cutting to finished bag.