Evelyn Bag - Chris W Designs

A new pattern company for purse patterns was introduced to me, Chris W. Designs and the pattern designer contacted me to make a pattern of my choice and review the pattern on my blog.  After a hard decision,  I chosed the Evelyn Bag and I was not disappointed.  My finished bag is the best purse I have made with very RTW looking finishes, plus the pattern instructions are superb.

Now for a detailed pattern review.

Pattern Description: (from the website) The Evelyn is not only practical BUT stylish too Complete with two zippered pockets (One exterior and one inside)to keep your valuables secure. Two elasticized exterior pockets for your phone or keys, 3 additional inside pockets as well as a pen pocket.With a little patience it is easy to make! Dress it up with some nice shiny rivets & bag feet or keep it simple! The choice is yours.  Finished size 13" x 8" x 4"

The pdf pattern for Evelyn has 38 pages of instructions which include 67 step by step colour photos. There are 6 photos of the finished bag, printing instructions and a ruler to check scale. 10 Pattern pieces are included as are measurements for both Metric and Imperial!PLUS a TEXT ONLY version of the instructions (8 pages) comes bundled with your pattern for printing purposes, should you not need or wish to print all of the photos! Simply refer to your electronic versions for photos if needed! Saves on ink


Did it look like the pattern envelope:  Except for my fabric changes, the finished purse looked exactly like the pattern picture.  I ordered the hardware from Chris W. Design's suggested retailer, 3D Hardwares and the order came very quickly. 

Instructions:  Did you see the information from above?  38 pages of instructions with thorough step-by-step directions and pictures to show almost every step of the way.  I had not trouble following any of the steps and they were so helpful in completing my purse.  I especially liked all the pockets, Christine added to this bag.  The bag is s





Likes/Dislikes:  I liked the look of the Evelyn bag and wanted to recreate the look of this purse.  I am so happy I took the time to order the hardware to make this purse. The hardware takes this bag to over the top.  I appreciated the fact the designer, Christine, took the time to design the hardware into the purse and explains how to use the hardware.  Here is a picture of the rings and rivets

The extra tips and steps in the instructions are well-thought out and articulated wonderfully.  I liked the extra topstitchings, the order of steps, the RTW look

Check out Christine's blog for many tips and tutorials in purse making. Just more to help us make a very professional purse.


No dislikes for this pattern. 

Changes:  None, I made it just as instructed. 

Fabric:  I had an idea to do a color block type but used a print for one of the fabrics.  The body of the purse is osnaburg fabric and the straps, pockets and flap are from a quilting cotton.  I chose the osnaburg for the look of linen without the wrinkle factor.

Conclusion:  I worked on this bag over 3 days and took particular care in each step.  All of this extra care really paid off in my finished garment.  I couldn't have made this purse without the thorough instructions and excellent design.  So if you are looking for a new pattern line for purses, check out Chris W Designs

A bit blurry but shows detail

Great outside pocket with zipper - one of my favorite features

inside view, zipper pocket

purse feet

Note:  I was given this pattern by Christine for my honest review.  I was thrilled for the opportunity and really enjoyed making this purse