Lola Domed Handbag

I was very excited to make the Lola Bag by Swoon! This bag is very retro looking, has a nice domed top and handles to hang from your arm crook (like a proper Mad Men character). I like making the Swoon bags that don't have a drop-in lining (still haven't figured out a pretty way to finish those seams). I saw a sew along on this with modified handle connectors and cute side accents so I wanted to make that version. The only wrinkle with that is that I like to make a pattern "by the book" the first time. I can always modify it later but I like to follow the designer's directions on the first go around. But the modified version looked cuter to me.

It took me a while to determine the pieces I needed. I downloaded the Alaine Handbag that Lauren used for her strap connectors and drew out my own pattern pieces for the side accents. I used the jeans cork from Sew Sweetness. I really like their cork - it’s supple yet strong and easy to work with. Lauren had the older Swoon pattern so it was difficult to determine the side accent placement. Also, Lauren's video was a recording of a livestream so it wasn't a step-by-step tutorial. I think it turned out good though. I followed Lauren's lead and skipped the outer pocket as the new handle connectors didn't leave space for it. I did add a zipper pocket to the interior though.

I chose some retro fabric from Allison Harris to really accent the retro vibe. This was a nice easy sew, even with the modifications. This is definitely one I will be adding to my product line!

The Details:

Pattern: Lola Domed Handbag by Swoon
Zipper: My Handmade Space #5 zippers by the yard in Navy with silver coil
Interfacing: Pellon Peltex, Pellon Flex Foam, Pellon SF101
Finished size: 13”w, 8”h, 6”d

Fabrics
Exterior: Plaid in Green by Allison Harris
Interior: Moda Grunge in Bachelor
Accents: Jeans Cork from Sew Sweetness

Lola Sew Along Video by Lauren Mormino of MoreMeKnow