This is a small version of Cognac Briefcase, V.S. stands for "Very Small" :) I am not sure if it is a tiny briefcase or a big wallet, probably both. It can be a phone case too. You can wear it on a long strap as a crossbody and it also doubles as a belt bag - the small straps for the belt are also included with the pattern. This cute little bag holds essential items such as phone, cards, cash, keys, and other small items. It has 2 compartments and 2 pockets, one of them zippered. Fun little project!
Size: approx. 6.5" x 4.5" x 2"
Materials:
Because of the vintage style of this briefcase I recommend using veg tan - it will look its best, and also I highly recommend burnisning all the edges (all of them). Some other leathers also can be burnished like veg re-tan, and some combination tanned, so keep this in mind.
Also, there will be many layers to sew through, this is why I recommend choosing the leather wisely, especially for the back parts. So, when I recommend 3-4 oz, you’d better use something thinner than that, rather than thicker stuff. Also, this would also increase the weight of the finished briefcase. Therefore, choose wisely, and if you have doubts, contact me.
I also recommend skiving the end parts of the straps a little bit (the buckle strap where the buckle is attached, and at the end where they are sewn onto the bag; the shoulder strap ends where they are attached to swivel hooks; and the top D-ring holders at both ends as well because the thickness at these spots will be kinda insane if you don’t)
Main gussets: anything relatively soft, not too thick, but that depends on your preferences. Body (all three panels) - 4-5 oz, firm temper. I used medium, but it’s a bit too soft. Zipper patch, front pockets - 3 oz, medium to firm temper All straps (for closure, shoulder strap) and the top handle - 7-8 oz. Flap - something beautiful and firm, I’d say 5-7 oz. Zippered pocket backing - something thin like 3 oz.
Pattern is designed for hand stitching. Comes with written instructions and lots of pictures.
The pattern has stitching holes marked for 5 SPI stitching irons (5 stitches per inch, or approximately 5.2 mm). 5 mm stitching irons made by metric system sometimes fit, sometimes they don’t (depending on manufacturer). If you have 5 mm irons and the spacing seems a tad too large for them you can print the pattern at 96.2% scale. I advise to print one page and try your irons to see how they fit before printing the entire pattern.
Formats: A4 and USLetter.
Video about how to print the patterns and solve common printing problems if they happen: https://youtu.be/iBfn8cXseMY
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