One time while waiting in line at the Columbia Employee Store, I saw some mini coolers and thought “I bet I could make one of those”, and then I found a pattern at Sallie Tomato and knew I had to try. This cooler has a slip pocket on the front and back exterior, as well as a pleated pocket with flap on each side. There’s a zipper pocket on the top flap, so I got a lot of practice on all different types of pockets with this pattern. I opted for velcro closures on the pleated pockets although the pattern calls for magnetic snaps. The interior is lined with a treated cotton that should be fairly waterproof.

This was a difficult pattern, especially the part including the top zipper. There are curves and multiple layers, plus foam as well as insulation. There are quite a few spots around the zipper that aren’t exactly (or even nearly) correct, but for my first attempt, I’m happy with the results. It will be a great cooler to take along to the golf course on those hot summer days, and will also come in handy going between Portland and the beach when I don’t want to lug around the big Yeti cooler.