I had the opportunity to test a new pattern for Delinda Boutique, the Liliane Buckle Hobo bag. The pattern is still in testing, but due to be released soon. The pattern is for an elegant pleated hobo bag, with a unique exterior front pocket and a decorative buckle magnetic snap tab closure. 

I really love the details in this bag. The pleats on the front and back add a really nice touch to the bag and turn a typically casual style into a nicer bag. The buckle from my bag and most of the other testers’ bags were upcycled from old belts; I love upcycling, but that story’s for another day. Actually, the pattern comes with a couple options, and Maria, the pattern designer, upcycled an old sweater for one of her bags. The unique pocket on the front of the bag with 2 open sides is such a neat design feature, and makes a great place for chapstick, notepad, pen and other quick access items.

The pattern includes instructions for interior zippered pocket and slip pocket. The technique to add this zippered pocket was a new way for me, and was a bit longer to do, but the results were worth it. It made for a very neat pocket, with no exposed zipper tape on the inside. I used my By Annie’s Zipper by the Yard with mutli-coloured zipper pulls, and was able to match the pull to my top panel and handle.

I chose the latest Cotton + Steel collection Tokyo Train Ride from Sarah Watts as the feature print on the front pocket. I used Charley Harper Feathers from the Nurture line for Birch and Cotton + Steel Basics xoxo in Night Owl both from Fabricspark.com as accent fabrics to pick up the navy and coral in the main print. The lining of the bag and front pocket is in a Free Spirit solid. 

If you’re looking for a new pattern for a special bag, consider the Liliane! I think this bag is best suited for an intermediate sewist, but a confident beginner could tackle it as well, since the instructions are very detailed.
Update: see my review of the final pattern and links to purchase here.