Elpis Backpack & Handbag!
I am happy to say these two are finally out! It’s been a rollercoaster but they’re finally here: The Elpis Convertible Backpack and The Elpis Handbag.
Elpis is the spirit of Hope in Greek Mythology, and Hope is something I’ve been struggling to find lately, as I know so many others are too, at this very moment. So I chose this name, to be a sign of Hope, for everything that is to come.
A small detail on how the Bundle thing happened… I was working on what was to be my next pattern, the Elpis Convertible Backpack. After finishing the pattern pieces, printing them out and working on the first prototype, I had assembled the exterior, not yet attached the flap. Of course, as it goes, I had to turn it out, to see what it looks like. And when I did, I fell in love with how it looked like as just a handbag. It was telling me it needed to be done! 😀
The first Elpis Convertible Backpack prototype. Open sides (no side connectors, that was added later)
So when I finished the backpack, and was happy with it (for the first version, of course), I decided to do the Handbag as well. Since the base for both is the same, they were given the same name and are now available also as a bundle, for a great price.
The first Elpis Handbag prototype. The Flap is now more rounded. I used a magnetic snap for the first one, then switched to locks, but the add-on at the end of the instructions explains how to position a magnetic snap
The Backpack has handles that go through the flap, adding security along with the goregous effect. The sides can be open, or cinched with magnetic snaps. The removable straps turn it into a beautiful handbag, and the pattern also has instructions for adding side connectors to the open sides, so it can also be a shoulder bag or crossbody bag (when combined with a longer strap). It comes in two sizes, so you can choose for yourself. You can never have too many options, is what I always say!
The exterior has a slip pocket in the front, securely tucked under the flap, and a zipper pocket in the back. The interior also has a zipper pocket and a wide slip pocket wich you can divide into sections as you please (options, options).
The Handbag has the same pockets as the Backpack, with cute Handles that can be attached to the bag (looks beautiful and saves a lot on hardware), or you can use connectors for some added bling. The Small size gives two options for handles, shorter, grab handles or a little longer so it can fit in your elbow. Side connectors for shoulder carrying, along with an adjustable straps (again, options!).
The Handbag pattern covers both the turning (birthing) method and the drop-in lining method, and there are add-ons at the end of the instructions file, for a different way to do the top zipper, and for using a magnetic snap for the small flap, if you don’t have a lock on hand.
The patterns come with detailed Instructions with over 250 photos, Printables (pattern pieces and cutting charts and labels for convenient printing) in LETTER SIZE and A4 formats, along with A0 files for copy shops and projectors. The listing also gives the option for SVG files, if you have a cutting machine.
They could both be considered intermediate patterns, but because of the detailed instructions and photos, an adventurous beginner can do them. Small tip…for the rounded sides…get a stapler! Any regular stapler will do. Trust me, it makes all the difference.
I hope you will enjoy the Elpis patterns.
