Pattern Release: Odyssey Convertible Bag
I’m so happy to announce the release of my newest pattern, the Odyssey Convertible Bag. I’ve been working on this pattern since last year and took a break to create and release the Suburbanite Handbag. When I went to finish the Odyssey Bag, suddenly we were in the middle of pandemic and virtual learning for three of my four kids, and I was way too overwhelmed to finish. It’s been months now, but I’ve had time to rework the pattern and record and then re-record videos (I finally stopped worrying about recording with kid noises in the background).
The Odyssey Convertible Bag is a trendy fashion backpack. It comes in two sizes. The small converts back and forth easily from shoulder bag to crossbody to sling to backpack. It is compact and made to hold all the necessities. The large is designed as a backpack only and is large enough to fit a smaller laptop. You can see all the ways to wear the convertible bag here:
This bag is best for intermediate to experienced bag makers. There are two finishing methods, one using binding, and one that turns through a zipper pocket. The pattern has a full step by step video tutorial linked throughout the pattern so you can get help if you need it.
My testers chose between sewing the small size as a convertible bag, small size as a backpack, and the large size (which is a backpack only). Here are the small convertible bags.
Aren’t they gorgeous! Thanks to Andrea Götz, Jayne Plant, Denise Alonso, Aleisha Daniels, Rajyalaxmi Pradeep, Jean-Marie Sharp, and Julindah Ety.
Finally, the Large size.
So many fun bags. Thanks to Jayne Plant, Sandie Larsen (IG and web), Kim Burch (FB, IG, web), Melissa Uhler, Sara Duarte, Stacy Muth, and Rose McKeller.
One of my testers made both sizes and I love seeing them together. She did one with the binding method and one with the turn through the pocket method. Thank you Jayne Plant!
I asked my testers what they thought of the pattern and this is what they had to say:
“Not only do I love the shape of this bag, the included options to either bind the lining or birth the bag through a pocket makes this one of the most concise and simple backpacks I've sewn. “
“This Odyssey pattern is a great one to make. The finished back pack is sleek and simple with a range of options for pockets, straps and two ways to finish it off. I chose to make the large, first of all, using a thick canvas. This pattern came together very easily. The different steps have separate videos so you can jump through to what you need quickly and easily. The steps are well organised and flow from one step to the next. I enjoyed making this so much that I made a small version too. The large will be great when out and about with the family, whereas the small is a great size for the essentials, and they are both so comfy to wear.”
“I'm impressed with this bag, it's more spacious than it looks in the inside, this would make for a great on the go bag. “
“Love the shape of the pattern. I found the zipper installation technique was very smart. The bag is very practical in size and the features. Quite roomy for a small one. Love the convertible option too.”
“I loved seeing this bag! It was just enough of a challenge to excite me but not so much that I couldn’t do it. The finished bag is amazing and I’m already cutting out my next ones!”
“Great pattern. Add this one to your list of backpack pattern coz it’s so fun to sew.”
“The Odyssey bag has a fun and interesting shape. The pattern is very clear and concise which makes it easy to follow. I would sew this pattern again in a heartbeat!”
“What a beautiful pattern. I love the unique design and attention to detail. Easy to follow instructions, just take it step by step. Such an impressive finish!!”
“I enjoyed sewing this pattern and learned some new techniques in bag making.”
“This pattern has a lot of versatility for the creative bag maker. The large backpack style has a generous exterior that allowed me to highlight my gorgeous larger Alexander Henry print.
The Odyssey is deceptively roomy as well. The infinitely customizable interior makes it appropriate for a variety of uses from everyday shopper to back to school necessities.”
The pattern is on sale this weekend through Monday, August 24th. Feel free to join my Facebook group to share your finished products or on Instagram (@toriskabags #toriskaPDF #odysseyconvertiblebag).