Tested a couple different thread and needle sizes. The Tulip size 10 big eye applique needles are extremely smooth, but not great for foam. Did not hold up to the thimble well. I may need to order some larger ones and leave the applique needles to the hexies. The binding is hardly perfect, but a passable first attempt and plenty good enough for the lining side. For what it is, not sure its worth all the extra effort – next time I may just whip stitch it.
Managed to hit the trifecta of rookie mistakes – the wobbles, tangled bobbin thread, and a scant 1/8″ seam where I undercut the lining fabric. Make that a quadfecta – I also forget to put red thread in the bobbin. Still looks OK from the front.
The instructions called for either a 1/4″ or 1/8″ seam on the handles. After seeing the 1/4″, I elected for both. Feeling pretty good about my fabric choices thus far, but I am still paying the price for my lack of followthru on the red bobbin thread.
Took a break. Had a meal. Still feeling intimidated by all the French seams. Waiting isn’t going to make it any better.
First pair down and they are not awesome; feeling some serious needle strain around the pocket binding, which is offset by an 1/16″. Shouldn’t be too noticeable once the corners are turned. Next time I square up after the pockets are in place. That just leaves the dividers.
