No more bag envy for me!
As soon as I saw the Haralson Belt Bag I knew I wanted to make it! My envy only grew with all the beautiful versions of this bag made by other sewers. So when the opportunity arose I grabbed it!
The Haralson Belt Bag is another amazing pattern by Noodlehead (Anna Graham). If you’ve been following me for a while you already know she’s my favourite bag designer. I’ve made so many of her bags in the past; the Buckthorn Backpack, Minimalist Wallet and Hillside Tote. (Just to name a few 😉).
Anna offers this pattern in both a paper and PDF version. Not only that but she has also included both Imperial and Metric measurements to cater for all sewers. The Haralson is aimed at Intermediate sewers. I think that’s pretty accurate. I even learnt a new technique whilst making it.
I’ve done darts in a few different ways before but this pattern surprised me with a new one. I even had a few issues visualising how to sew the darts. So in the end I made use of the video tutorial included. It’s actually quite a quick way of doing darts. Because you are dealing with the exterior and lining in one rather than doing separate darts for each.
I also struggled a bit with the top stitching. Mainly on the strap connectors (optional) and the flap. And you don’t have an option to admit the topstitching along the flap either. It’s the last step and getting a nice even stitch is hampered by getting your bag under the machine.
The Haralson Belt Bag is really practical. It’s got a zipper pocket at the back for easy access to a phone or wallet. There’s also an interior zipper pocket as well. The darts do a great job of giving this bag depth without needing a gusset. I also like the bag lock on the flap as it gives a bit of security.
Now, I no longer have to be jealous because I have my own Haralson Belt Bag! It’s a nice compact size so only just fits all my daily necessities. Next time I’ll try making it at 110% – because I do like a bigger bag. This is definitely not my last Haralson!
PS:
Sorry for my lack of posts lately… I lost one of my biggest supporters as well as a best friend (& mother-in-law ❤️) Kelly. The colourful Haralson bag you see here was actually my last handmade gift for her. Unfortunately she only got to use it for a couple of months but she absolutely loved it. It has now been given back to me and will forever remind me of her 🥰
