I was and still am intimidated at making purses. I've made one from a pattern, a couple with no pattern. Want to do some more, but lacking the time at the moment.
Just give it a try - learn and go. Everything takes practice, so don't feel bad if you make mistakes. You may come up with a better way of doing it!

I just signed up to take a class this sunday for the Tulip Purse, (2 hour bag)..I'm excited, I hope making this will open a door of creativity and i will try to make more.

I am so glad I am not alone! I got the pattern for the Bow Tucks Tote weeks ago and also beautiful blue and purple batiks, but have been too nervous to start it. My poor sewing machine which I goofed up trying to make a quillow is due back from the repairman tomorrow so I guess I have no more excuses. Guess I will prewash the batiks tonight and start the purse this weekend. Wish me luck!!

I bought the Bow Tucks pattern also. Read the directions 4 times and couldn't get how to do the pocket. UP North helped me with this part and also boxing the corners. Never did that before. I did have some mistakes but nothing anyone could see but me. If anyone needs help just ask. The posters on this board are more then willing to help anyone out! It really is easy to make. My Husband was really impressed. And thats not easy.

I made the Amy Bauer Sling Purse, super, super easy, made it for my DGD in college and made it out of shade of orange/yellow batik and lined it with pin dpt yellow/white. It came out so neat. I didn't get a picture of it before I sent it to her...now she has decided I can sew after I have sewed for weddings etc for years, she never wanted me to sew for her...now she wants a quilt....maybe she is getting smarter...I did raise her, so she was exposed to sewing all the time...

Don't be intimidated. Just take a step at a time. I have made 4 bags and absolutely love them. Jump in and just do it. You'll be glad you did

I was at first and I ripped alot the first time. here is a sort of tute on the Bow tucks bag.

http://justenoughtime.wordpress.com/...6/01/ladybugs/

You are right. You have to read the directions about 4 times to understand the Bow Tuck instructions. But once you understand them you will be alright.

If you haven't ever sewn a garment I can understand being intimidated. I sewed all my kids clothes 45 yrs ago, but hadn't done much but quilt in 20 years. So I was somewhat intimidated too! I decided to get over the intimidation (but not the nerves) and made a messenger bag, a batik clutch, and a winter bag in 2009, and a tulip spring one in March! Of course they are all simple ones, no zippers or anything too complicated. Just take a deep breath and go for it. If you start with a cloth grocery bag you will learn the basics quickly! Good luck!

I'm ordering a bow tucks pattern from Connecting Threads. Wish me luck.