The Serena Saddle Bag, revisited

One of my first patterns, I wrote the Serena Saddle Bag pattern back in 2020 and it's always been a popular choice with it's timeless, classic design. I decided it was time to revisit the pattern and give it a little facelift (or baglift)!

So I've created a brand new pattern piece, along with the instructions, to add a full width, pleated pocket to the front of the bag. If you already have the original pattern, you can grab the add-on pocket tutorial here.

Instead of adding the magnetic snap to the front body of the bag, it is added to the pocket. The addition of pleats adds volume to the deep pocket and complements the curvy design while still remaining flat at the top. So now, Serena has three useful pockets, not two!

The flap has a unique, curvy shape with piped edging for a neat, professional finish. It closes with a magnetic snap and covers the entire front of the bag. 

The Serena Saddle Bag pattern features in my October bag project for my new Busy Bagmaker themed subscription box. Every other month, you receive a box packed with all the fabrics, interfacings, hardware and pattern plus a step-by-step video to make a beautiful bag or other accessories. No more hunting around for all the supplies, it's all right there ready for you to get creating!

For the October box, I went with an autumnal theme, inspired by the delicate florals and rich tones of the Florence Collection by Katarina Roccella for Art Gallery Fabrics.

I added a second box option in sky blue, just to give another option for those who prefer a cooler colour palette.

Which makes an equally beautiful Serena Saddle Bag! Here is one that I made last year in the blue fabric.

I hope you love the added front pocket to Serena! Along with this bonus pattern piece, I have also created a full-length video tutorial to make the Serena Saddle Bag pattern from start to finish. So now you can sew along with me right by your side, every step of the way!