Style Stitches Monthly Bag Challenge

My new Silver Bella friend Jemellia is hosting a monthly bag challenge on her blog.  I signed up hoping it would inspire me to actually finish a bag, since I have one cut out that's been in my closet for over a year with not a stitch sewn. 

We're using Amy Butler's Style Stitches book.  The first pattern was the Cosmo, an oversize tote.  After cutting out all the outside and lining pieces and the interfacing for every one of those pieces, I remembered why my other bag was never completed.  It's so much easier - and less expensive in many cases - to buy a purse or tote.  However, once I started sewing it was fairly enjoyable and I loved having the opportunity to pick the fabric and to embellish a bit.  I used three fabrics from Alexander Henry's June Bug line. 

It was inspiring to see other participants' bags.  There were so many beautiful fabric choices and creative additions and embellishments. 

My bag was done by the January 31 deadline - barely.  I made it for a friend, but it turned out so well that now I'm going to have to make one for myself...well, maybe after I finish the year-old bag in my closet!

The next bag is a reversible daily shopper.  It looks easier than the Cosmo, but February is going by quickly and I've yet to start on this one.  I'm torn between using fabrics I already have (what I NEED to do) and buying new fabric (what I WANT to do).  I'll keep you posted!