zippered bags

Purchase Red Telephone Box Pattern

I had the idea of a Red Telephone Box quilt pattern for a long while. As you know, I love old architecture, and I fell in love with the vine- and plant-decked Oxford windows. So I added a Victorian street lamp along with a lit-up window – an Oxford window, if you will. Once I had designed and made the block, it became obvious to me that I wanted to make a travel bag with it.

I not only finished sewing the bag, I also managed to make good progress toward an architecture-influenced painting.

Gothich Architecture Drawing | Whims And Fancies

After meticulously drawing out the previous symmetrical design with drafting tools, I changed my mind and reordered the elements in an asymmetrical fashion. This is the planning sketch for the new drawing.

Gothic Architecture Drawing | Whims And Fancies

Now that the initial drawing is done, I will start adding shading and the ornamental details. Then I get to start painting it. Still a long way to go, but I enjoy getting lost inside a long project.

Red Telephone Box quilt pattern, British Telephone Box quilt pattern | Whims And Fancies

After the last two Wandering Camera posts full of Oxford photos and the drawing, I couldn’t ignore the Red Telephone Box block any more.

Red Telephone Box quilt pattern, British Telephone Box quilt pattern | Whims And Fancies

Last week I used my very own crossbody bag pattern to make this bag. I had all the materials at hand, even a fire-engine red zipper.

As this was my One Monthly Goal, I am linking up with Patty at Elm Street.

Red Telephone Box quilt pattern, British Telephone Box quilt pattern | Whims And Fancies

This blue fabric that I had been saving for a special project was perfect for the back. I love that it has “Destination Adventure” printed on it.

Red Telephone Box quilt pattern, British Telephone Box quilt pattern | Whims And Fancies

Purchase Red Telephone Box Pattern

I pieced the red grid on my telephone booth. However, for easier piecing, I also included pattern sections without the grid. The grid can be added afterwards via a thick-width machine stitch. The finished block is 12″, which I find to be a great size for fun projects. The Red Telephone Box quilt pattern is available in my shop, if you wish to make one.

Now when I travel, I am all set to walk around in old cities carrying my camera, my little travel journal / notebook, even a sketchbook and colour pencils. It’s even the perfect size for the day trips we love to take on weekends.

If you have missed the photos or want to revisit, here are the links for a few of my photos of Christ Church, Oxford –