A gift

One of the neighborhood “moms” that I grew up with was looking at my handbags I made recently, and was admiring them.  She is going through some tough times right now, as she has been dealing with a rare skin cancer.  At this point she is hoping for 4 years.

I wanted to make her something to lift her spirits.  I sent the bag off this week, so she has it now.

This is a nice dark brown leather with a cream leather for the reverse applique.  I think the brown is a cowhide based on the thickness.  It was another leather piece from the scrap leather bin at the fabric warehouse.

I made this one a little smaller than the regular bag pattern.  This is pretty similar to the one I made for my mom.  I used the same fabric for the interior.  It is so pretty, and goes so well with the leather.

There are two interior zipper pockets on either side, and a magnet to keep it closed.

I added some extra cuts of leather onto the handles.

Each side has a pocket that will fit sunglasses, a phone or keys.

I probably should have added some feet, too, but this is a pretty sturdy leather.

The interior of the purse is this foam, which works pretty well in giving it sturdy sides.  I got this in the interfacing section of the fabric store.

Her daughter said she cried and said it was absolutely beautiful. 🙂