The second pattern in the Aurora series, the Aurora 3D crossbody pouch has just been released. I have categorized this as an intermediate pattern because of the different techniques introduced and because there is a separate base piece. If you are a beginner start with the Aurora Essentials Pouch so that you are comfortable sewing up the top curved zipper before you attempt this project. But hey if you are like me and would like to jump in and try different techniques, try the Aurora 3D pattern today!!
Are you wondering why I have named it the 3D pouch?? It is because of the unique, slightly raised style of the zippered pocket that juts out from the back of the pouch. Since I am introducing a new technique to make such 3D zippered pockets, I decided to keep it as a simple horizontal pocket. Once you make this style you’ll be ready for the next pattern in the Aurora series, which will have the same 3D style zippered pocket but sewn on a curve!! So start tuning up your 3D zipper sewing skills now!!
The Aurora 3D pouch is a medium sized yet very spacious pouch that can be used as a crossbody bag as well. It measures about 10.5″ long, 7″ tall and is about 4″ wide. Isn’t that a nice decent medium sized multipurpose pouch? The Aurora is a very versatile pattern which can be made using different types of fabrics, for example, quilting weight cotton, vinyl, cork, etc., or a combination of these.
The exterior front of the Aurora has been designed in two styles: a color blocked style and a pocket style. The pocket style features a front slip pocket for those items you need quick access to. The exterior back 3D zippered pocket is perfect to store your large mobile phone.
You can also add a little contrast piping detail to the front pocket (not in pattern) if you are comfortable making and sewing piping. The base on the Aurora is a pretty wide rectangular base with rounded edges. You can add the piping detail to the base as well.
The interior of the Aurora 3D pouch features multifunction pockets to keep your essentials organized and close at hand. The lining is constructed using simple boxed corners and it fits perfectly inside the exterior. The spacious interior has two types of slip pockets: a simple slip pocket and a slip pocket with a pen slot and 3 credit card slots that doubles up as a slim glasses pocket. If you use a contrast backing fabric, you can make the pen slot stand out.
The Aurora features a detachable strap for shoulder or crossbody wear and a wristlet strap for a more casual look. The crossbody strap and the wristlet strap hook onto D-rings which are attached on side strap anchors. If you are going to be using the Aurora as a pouch and making only the wristlet strap, then add just one strap anchor to the pouch. You can skip the strap anchor near the tail end of the zipper.
Multiple options have been provided for the strap anchors based on the size of hardware and material you are using. I personally prefer using 1/2″ wide D-rings but you can also use 3/4″ ones if they are what you have on hand. The strap anchors can be made using cotton fabric or with fabrics such as vinyl or cork which can be sewn with raw edges. The fabric strap anchors are sewn into the top seam and the vinyl strap anchors are rivetted on. If you are sewing on a domestic machine then the vinyl strap anchor might be a better option for you.
The crossbody strap is a two toned or double sided and adjustable crossbody strap. This type of strap is not only pretty but it is also a great way to reduce thickness of a vinyl strap by pairing it with another lighter weight fabric, such as, quilting weight cotton. It also creates a small contrast border on the right side of the strap.
A couple of my testers have also used a chain strap on the Aurora 3D pouch. If you have the Infinity Crossbody bag pattern, you can refer to the instructions in there to make a chain strap with a shoulder strip option.
Not too big, not too small, the Aurora is the perfect go-anywhere crossbody bag with space for all of your day-to-day essentials. My testers have done an incredible job, testing this pattern for me. Check out their pretty Aurora 3D pouches:
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