New Daytripper bags

I recently made the Daytripper bag pattern by Erin Erickson over at Dog Under My Desk's blog - this is simply a great pattern.  First I made the "mini" size that she gives some simple direction changes on her blog - its 85% of the full size pattern.  On the full size version (brown) I matched the print across the front, it was pretty easy with the big floral and I had plenty of fabric to do so, I did not match the print on the blue floral - didn't even think about it until I looked at some finished samples on Erin's Flicker site.  

 The print auto-magically matches across the back because of the way the zipper is installed.  

The top zipper is really easy to install and gives a really professional touch.  I did use a little different interfacing than she calls for in the pattern - specifically I used Pellon 926 instead of the Pellon 50 that she calls for (the 926 is a bit thicker -LOVE it!) I also used fusible fleece instead of batting, I fuse it on top of the woven fusible so I don't get any wrinkles.  I love the way these turned out - the brown bag will be gifted so I am trying to decide what fabric to make another full size one for ME!    

When I first started seeing PDF download patterns for sale at various places on the Internet I was hesitant to purchase, after all the price was the same as buying a pattern at the local quilt store and I have to use my own paper & printer ink for a PDF pattern....this was my though process anyway (cheap?) - I was VERY wrong!!  When you buy an independent bag pattern at a quilt shop you usually get a page or two of directions with some line drawings, they are not bad directions but many times I am left scratching my head and thinking to much, just trying to figure out what the pattern designer is talking about.  In a PDF download pattern (the good ones anyway!) you get pages and pages of full color photos with directions that leave nothing to question just follow along and the results are great!  I have only tried a few download pattern designers, have you had good luck too?  What are your favorites?

Have a wonderful day!!!