Welcome back to the 2025 Bag Challenge! Each month, we’re diving into a fresh design that celebrates creativity, functionality, and craftsmanship. April brought us sunshine and inspiration — and with it, Bag No. 4: the “Bloom & Go” Floral Cotton Crossbody Bag was made.
Previous bag challenges are here: 1, 2, 3!
✂️ The Inspiration
“Bloom & Go” was inspired by the transition into spring — a time for shedding layers, embracing nature, and simplifying routines. I wanted to sew a bag that felt like a garden walk: light, joyful, and effortless. Think wildflower fields, weekend markets, and impromptu coffee dates.
🧵 Materials & Features
- Bag Pattern: Ainsley Crossbody Bag by Sotak Patterns (you can buy her pattern from Etsy)
- Main Fabric: floral-printed cotton with stabilizer (makes it soft yet structured)
- Lining: Peach and silver polka dot cotton
- Strap: Adjustable pink nylon webbing strap (fits comfortably across the body)
- Closure: Top zipper to keep everything secure on the go
- Pockets: One exterior zipper pocket, one exterior slip pocket and one interior zipper pocket for essentials like keys, lip balms or cards.
- Sewing Machines Used: Brother CS6000i (domestic) for most of the sewing, Sailrite LS1 (semi-industrial) for topstitching
The beauty of using cotton? It’s breathable, washable, and wears beautifully over time.
🧶 Challenge Reflection
Creating this bag was a gentle reminder that style doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s about letting the fabric speak and picking the right pattern simply works.
📸 Behind the Scenes
I had to swap out the strap hardware for a thicker set — the original ones turned out to be too snug for the webbing strap! 😄
From fabric selection to sewing, this bag reminded me how small, simple creations can still carry big joy. It’s not just about making something new — it’s about making something useful, beautiful, and full of heart.
💬 What’s Next?
Bag No. 5 is already in the works — hint: think “ocean breeze.” Until then, I’d love to know what you’d pack in your “Bloom & Go.” Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram with your favorite spring spots to wear it!
