Design Feature 1

The first element I want to add is an exterior zippered pouch. This pouch will be attached to the back panel of the back of the bag.

Taking a scrap of leather from where I cut out the main part of the bag, I am going to cut out a piece of leather approximately 11" x 10". I then choose a coordinating zipper for the bag. I chose an off white 10" zipper. I proceeded to make a pattern to ensure a proper fit for the zipper. After testing the zipper against the pattern, I lay the pattern on the leather using a weight to hold the template in place, I cut out the zipper opening, then dry fit the zipper.

Installing the zipper

Using double sided tape, place tape around the opening on the pocket panel. Lay the zipper face down in your opening temporarily securing it in place. Open and close the zipper a few times to ensure a smooth operation. Using stitching chisels, mark your holes around the zipper, approximately 1/8th inch from the edge of the zipper opening. Sew on the zipper using waxed leather hand sewing thread, and the saddle stitch technique. (The link is to an Instructable showing you how the saddle stitch is done.) After ensuring the zipper is installed properly, cut off the excess zipper tape from each end of the zipper, making it even with the leather pocket.

Attaching the Pocket to the Bag

Center the pocket on the back of the bag, ensuring proper orientation. Using double side tape, place tape on all four sides on the flesh side of the pocket. Place the pocket down on the bag ensuring it is appropriately aligned. Mark you stitching lines 1/4 " from the edge of the pocket using the stitching chisel. Using the saddle stitch technique, sew the pocket onto the rear of the main body of the bag.