Variation(s) on a theme (or two)

It's winter... not really beach-going weather (not that I saw anything vaguely beach-like during the Summer...). However, I made a Beach Bag last week....
In mock-croc pvc from Rathdowne Remnants with antique brass o-rings in the straps. Perfect for winter. My last-minute decision to add a twist-lock was a small stroke of bag-making genius. It MAKES the bag!

Large antique brass purse feet protect the bottom....

And world map (I believe from a Wizard of Oz range of fabrics) lining gives the bag that go-anywhere-seasoned-world-traveller kind of feel.... The Tulip Dress pattern got a wintery makeover, as well. I used a kind of stretch terry-towelling/fleece hybrid (?!) fabric (a remnant from Rathdowne Remnants), and cut the bodice with both centre-front and centre-back on the fold.

I extended the sleeve length and topstitched the neck facing down. I overlocked the top edge of the skirt, pleated it and topstitched it to the outside of the bodice.... sort of deconstructionist style... The wee girl loves that it's comfy-wumfy and withstands all manner of hopping and jumping and general 5-year-old backyard activity.

And it was made in the obligitory 2-sizes-too-big... just the way she likes it!

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EDITED TO ADD: I used my industrial machine for the bag and then decided to try the Bernina 440 with a walking foot for the straps. It sewed through those layers of PVC as if they were butter. I could have sewn the whole bag with the Bernina.

The lining fabric was bought from the Theme From Jak garage sale.
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Stay tuned, folks! There are more variations on other themes in the works as we speak.