In not-so-typical Mrs H fashion, The Classic Handbag is very low on hardware. Only two rivets? What was Mrs H thinking? Of course, as is always the case with our designs, you can easily add more rivets or extra bag bling to help your super sew sparkle! Laura's fantastic Hope Handbag is a super example of how to use a larger print feature fabric for the outer panels! Laura told us, "[The Hope Handbag is] more spacious than I thought it’d be!" We agree! We think it's the perfect size for every day use. We are sew excited to finally be able to talk about the February Bag of the Month Club sewing pattern - The Hope Handbag! In our earlier blog we looked at some of the features of our petite pretty purse. In this edition of the blog, you'll find inspiration for your sew from some of the many many marvellous makes by our team of testers!

Known Errata: At step 36, the instructions call for you to repeat steps 33-34. The tapered seam allowance in steps 33-34 is for the lining ONLY. At step 36 please sew the exterior at 3/8ths all around. The exterior does not need to be tapered. In typical Mrs H fashion, The Classic Handbag has a LOT of skillbuilding techniques, including side gussets, top boxed corners, installing a bag base and bag feet, and using zippers as piping. Hope is a lovely size for a carry style bag and the name is just perfect right now." ~ Lynne. Talking about feature fabrics, we think Lynne's pattern placement is perfect! The simplicity and aesthetic of this bag is fabulous. I adore the fact that this bag is budget friendly and that Hope has a elegant and timeless shape." ~ Nova. Nova's model has already claimed this wonderful Hope Handbag, and we totally understand why!Please note that vinyl is not recommended except for very strong machines. You will be sewing through 8 layers in total during the final stages. The Classic Handbag sewing pattern was designed especially for our March Bag Retreaters, and is Mrs H's new favourite everyday bag! Please note: We do not recommend using vinyl for The Classic Handbag as you will be sewing through 8 layers in total during the final stages. Hope anchors the soul." We absolutely love this amazing embroidered Hope Handbag, made by Elizabeth. And, a big thank you to Elizabeth, too, for braving the cold to take photos! The Classic Handbag is classified as a confident beginner bag sewing pattern. It is written in UK English and has been thoroughly tested by a team of expert pattern testers

There is! Sew with Mrs H on YouTube: The Classic Handbag Sew Along with Sewing Patterns by Mrs H. You'll also want to watch Mrs H's Masterclass video on how to use piping in bagmaking: How to use piping in bagmaking Anyone else feeling a bit of fabric envy? This bright and colourful Hope Handbag was made by Katherine, who told us this eyecatching fabric came from Joann's!