This cork handbag is the first bag I made. I used a pattern from the Craftsy website called the Crossbody Bag by Mariah McPherson (Link to Craftsy site). The pattern suggests using waxed canvas, but I wasn’t able to find any in a color I liked, so I opted for blue cork. I would like to make this again in waxed canvas and will keep an eye out for the fabric. I used a blue daisy pattern quilt cotton for the lining.

Features: The bag has a flap over the top opening. The flap has a magnetic snap to secure it. There is a zipper pocket under the flap on the front exterior. The interior lining has a divided slip pocket. The bottom is boxed. A crossbody adjustable strap is connected to the bag on the sides with strap connectors and hardware.

Lessons Learned

• I thought the cork was very thick in places, and would probably modify some pieces to reduce bulk. For example, the flap could be lined with the lining fabric instead of doubled up with cork.
• Even with the magnetic snap closure, I feel the top opening isn’t very secure, so next time I will add a recessed zipper under the flap. I might have to increase the height of the bag a bit since this will reduce the interior space.
• The interior slip pocket isn’t quite deep enough, I would probably add at least ½” to the height.
• I used a nylon webbing for the strap, and prefer cotton. The nylon is slippery and can fray much more easily than cotton.
• I would add a pocket to the back exterior, probably just a slip pocket.
• The snap closure is so magnetic that it’s difficult to open, and I feel like the fabric is taking too much stress. Next time I’ll use either a twist lock or a sew-in snap.