And the bag is all done. Sewing through all the layers was a challenge, I won’t lie.
The end result is lovely, I’m very happy with this.
View from the top, you can see how those invisible magnets are holding the front pocket closed. I used a yellow zipper, but the only thing you can see is the pulls. It’s a zipper designed for bags, the dual pull is a very nice feature.
Side view.
I added a zipper pocket in the lining, with a bright pop of yellow. All the exterior pockets are nice. I’m thinking this can be travel and purse at the same time and I really like an interior zipper pocket.
Bag in action, yes, we do have ‘fall’ here in Southern CA, in December. 
From the frontFrom the back.
My only issue is that empty, the bag is very heavy. It has a lot of layers of cotton and any fabric made from plant material tends to be heavy – thanks to the cellulose in plant cells. Rayon and bamboo avoid this issues since the pulp is so fine and the yarn is extruded – like polyester. Although wool is warmer than cotton, cotton is a lot heavier.
If I ever make this again I will forgo the canvas, the batting (I could have used Polyester, but I had leftover cotton batting) and will use Soft and Stable by Annie, this is a wonderful product that gives real structure to a bag, can easily be used for quilt as you go and doesn’t add weight.
That said, I’m very happy with my bag, it’s going on vacation to Mexico with me and of course to Quiltcon in Austin in February.
Leah
I was wondering if the Soft and Stable would be a better alternative for the Peltex and canvas. I made this bag way back and would love to have another one.
I made another bag with soft and stable and I really like it. This weekender is heavy, a lighter bag would make more sense.
I LOVEEEEEE this so much! Did you find it difficult to sew? I’ve heard that her bag patterns have confusing directions.
I only made this because the LA MQG was making it as a group project. No, I don’t like Amy Butler’s patterns, I’m actually on the lookout for an easier pattern. There are so many bag patterns out there. I do like the way the bag looks, but to be honest, I’m a little concerned about the handles, not sure they will hold up with a lot of use.