Do You Like Big Purses?

I do, and the moment I clapped eyes on the Presidio Purse I knew it had to be mine! Camp was coming and I needed something I could drag all over and not worry about destroying. At the same time I decided it was time for a new purse. I combined both needs with some massive stash busting. I found a cache of old work jeans I’d been harboring for years and realized it would be perfect to drag all over the mountains!

My rough and ready pieced denim Presidio!

Since I was in a hurry I decided to eliminate all extra bits and just do a stripped down version of the purse. As I began to disassemble my jeans I decided to add pockets back in, with the jeans back pockets and the next thing I knew I was piecing the butt of one of my brother’s old pairs to the front for three pockets in one. It looked so cool!! I think my subconscious was so delighted with Carolyn’s jeans piecing that I had to give it a try.

Three pockets on the outside and two on the inside! Love how much junk you can throw in here! No cramming needed.

I topstitched it all in hot pink thread because it seemed like a fun idea. Doing both the outside and the lining in denim made for one heavy bag and my sewing machine wasn’t too happy in some spots but it powered through! I love my Necchi! 

Other notes: Loved the way the handle was constructed. I did a double take the first time I read  the instructions but the result is clever and clean. 

I was surprised at how quickly the purse came together but I intentionally didn’t fuss about the construction. I was coming off of the battle of the buttonholes and just wanted something simple to put together. Not having to worry about my stitching and free piecing this bag was very therapeutic. Slashing up a bunch of old jeans and getting to throw stuff away was cathartic as well. 

Just an fyi, there are small openings in the top of the purse at either end of
the zipper. I didn't know this and it puzzled me for a bit.

To sum up. I LOVE it! I can’t wait to make another in some pretty fabric with the amazing details in the fall! Have you tried the Presidio? Do you have a favorite bag pattern?