Bailey Island bag - question re batting
 

http://www.clotilde.com/images/produ...ps/16532_1.jpg
I have the pattern to make this bag and was wondering if any one here had made it? My question - is it helpful to use fusible batting vs regular? I have to cut into my batting stash,and as all of them are full batts, it doesn't really matter which one I cut a chunk out of.
Ideas? Thoughts?
Thanks in advance,
GEMRM

I don't see how the fusible would give you any benefit for this particular bag.
I'd cut regular batting.

My friend used some of the tips provided here:
http://grendelskin.blogspot.com/2012/09/bailey-island-hobo-pattern-review.html

I made a small version and I am in the proces of making the large one as we speak, and I picked up a few tricks along the way.
The pattern calls for 2.5" wide batting. It is actually better if you cut it narrower, say 2 1/4". You can either press it with iron or pin it. I am not a pinner but this time it worked for me. In a class I took after I finished my bag (I was impatient, what can I say) the instructor actually used that thin fleece product, I don't know how it is called exactly but it is much easier to work with.
Also, the pattern says to use strong thread to gather the bag on the top. Gathering is easy, sewing through it was impossible so I gave up on it all together. My handles gather the bag just fine.
I have to warn you though, you will get lots of compliments on your bag especially if you venture into LQS full of customers. Be prepared to be accosted ... I mean that in the most positive way. My small bag is planty big to fit a large wallet, iPhone, set of keys, small bottle of water and small totes umbrella without looking weirded. Very cool pattern. Good luck and enjoy. It is truly a fun project.

MTS and Tashana, thank you both for the help! I am quite eager to get sewing on this, once I get my current project off the table (well, at least get the pieced top off the table, quilting it will come a little later!)I will try and post a picture when I get it finished, just don't hold your breath, I take a long time to get things done.
GEMRM:thumbup:

Question? Are the handles on the larger bag just webbing? It appears so. Or maybe plastic rings?

I do love those fabrics.

They are webbing or batting. I made mine with batting for the small bag but used the large bag idea for handles. I did not like the original handles on the small bag.

Tashana, I've done the small bag, and am wondering how you got away with not sewing on the gathered part of the top edges of the purse. The strip of fabric that goes on that area to hide the edges and to run the handles through needs to be sewn on. Could you expand on your directions for that area? Thank you!

Did you ever get an answer to this question?

No, I did not. Have you done the bag?