Most of what they say is true. This bag is not easy. I have made hundreds of bags and even worked extensively with Peltex, and I found the home stretch of making this bag to be tough. But the result is wonderful!!! The pink fabric is from Joel Dewberry's Heirloom Home Dec fabric. The lining and piping is made out of something cheap but just perfect on sale at Joanne's.
I added an extra long shoulder strap with some hardware to make carrying the bag extra easy.
I tucked the hoop that I connect the strap to, in to the side pocket. I would have to say that the hardest part about making this bag for me was getting all of the layers of fabric within the seam while trying to stitch next to the piping. I about killed myself doing it and then ripping it out and doing it all over again.
I also added a magnetic clasp inside of the outside pocket on one side for some added security. But I should have used a larger clasp because it is a little hard to get it to meet.
The inside is beautiful, but I will for sure add pockets to the inside next time.
My biggest advice is to follow the directions without variation if you want to make this as easy as possible. The biggest problems came when I tried to do things my own way. It was worth the hard work though. And I did have fun for the most part.
