Sandygirl

I am not enamored by Vera Bradley, esp since they are manufactured in China. With that said, when I put up to 8 hours of time and $40-$50 into the material to make a purse, suddenly Vera prices are cheap buys! But my purses are one of a kind. I get random compliments all of the time. Interestingly, the local Vera retailer complimented me on my "Vera" bag! LOL!! Even she was fooled! I felt vindicated.

Sandy

Onebyone

Well some brands are just better then others. So I look for that brand before buying another. I know I'll be getting what I expect. I have not found a tote or fabric purse with handles to stay standing or the sides not to collapse after washing. Even my oldest VB bag doesn't collapse or the handles fall down. I get annoyed when someone shopping with me say why by that when this looks the same but much cheaper. It's like they get put out because I buy the better one.

Judi in Ohio

A LQS had a class in bags and they gave hand outs and I made mine from this handout. It was the regular vb that was a rectangular bag. It turned out great and I made a bunch. It also gave me ideas how to change the pattern and still make the purse work.

Bree123

I'm ordering the materials to make these for Christmas gifts. Seem simple enough. Just need to buy one $10 Vera Bradley placemat.

Onebyone

I wish I had thought to buy VB placemats at the 75% off sale! I have used other quality placemats and the bags turn out great. You want good placemats that can be washed.

RedGarnet222

Check out this book. There are some really nice styles in it and you cold make a custom to your color favorite bag.

http://www.amazon.com/Big-City-Bags-...=big+city+bags

There are many more pictures of the other bags in the book if you click on the main book picture.

barking-rabbit

http://sportingnow.com/Vera_Bradley_Fabric/Fabric

docsmom

Hi, I am using a combination of 2 Simplicity patterns, plus some innovation of my own to copy a tote bag I purchased. They are Simplicity 1153, and 2201. I am using the one I bought for the details, and fabric I purchased.