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The last time I sat at my sewing machine was June last year.
I had just finished my second garment ever—a dress that didn't fit quite right but taught me more than any tutorial could. 8 months passed before I pulled the machine back out.
My mom needed a bag for work and I wanted to make a bag. I'd been eyeing the Odessa Satchel from Sotak Handmade; it looked manageable, interesting enough to keep me engaged, and practical enough that I'd actually use the result if it didn’t fit her needs. So I committed. Ordered the pattern, pulled fabric from my stash and started cutting.
© The Inlay.
The Making—
It took me about a week, working off and on, skipping a couple of days when life demanded it. The pattern is listed as intermediate with no video tutorial, which I actually loved. I personally find it important to be able to read and follow a pattern without the visual demonstration.
I encountered several firsts: placing a snap button, creating a zippered interior pocket, and constructing a zipper casing. The zipper casing in particular felt like a win. The result was clean and professional, the kind of detail that makes a project look finished rather than homemade.
What surprises me each time I come back to my sewing machine after some time, is that it’s almost like riding a bike. Every technique I’ve learned thus far has stuck with me. Techniques that used to require concentration and multiple attempts came easier this time. My hands remembered things I was afraid my mind had forgotten. The pattern itself was the perfect dust-off-your-skills-and-introduce-new-concepts project. Challenging enough to keep me engaged, clear enough that I didn't get stuck.
I didn't make any modifications. Just followed the instructions and trusted the process. However, if I could change anything it would have been my choice in webbing color for the handles and strap; I didn’t love the the navy blue and felt a natural color would have been more fitting for this fabric pairing.
The exterior of the bag was constructed with an outdoor cotton canvas fabric I had purchased a while back. The interior, a chambray blue cotton.
Top-Front View
Interior View
The Pattern—
The Odessa is exactly what it promises: a well-structured, intermediate-level bag pattern that teaches as much as it builds. No video tutorial, just solid instruction and clear diagrams.
If you're an advance beginner sewist, comfortable reading patterns and want something that will push your skills without overwhelming you, this is it. The construction is logical, the finished bag is genuinely usable, and the process itself reminded me why I love making things.
I'll be making more from Sotak. The Margot Mini tote is next on my list. It’s a smaller, summer-ready bag that feels perfect for the season ahead.
The Win—
I finished it. After some time away from the machine, I followed a pattern, learned a couple of new techniques, and ended up with a bag I'm genuinely proud of.
The Margot Mini is already queued up. I look forward to sharing it here, with you.
— G.