Every single time we have published a pattern and passed it on to the testers, it never fails - we bust our butts proofing, correcting, proofing, tweaking, proofing "just one more time" - and then 30 minutes after it's handed off to them, we hear back about a mistake - usually on page 2 or 3! 

Those 10-12 extra pairs of eyes are what guarantees that we put out a pattern that the bagmaker can feel confident will not cause them unnecessary frustration, loss of money and time, or being unable to finish due to design issues. 

Hats off to the testers who take the time to help us ensure that we put out a quality product so you can have an enjoyable bag making experience. 

Ready for that sneak peek I promised last week? Be sure to check out Final Thoughts for a look and some teaser details. 

Note: Make sure you're getting all the news. In the upper right corner click on "view in browser" or at the bottom left corner click on "view entire message". 

Discount codes and special news will always be in the "Final Thoughts" section after the Facebook Shares.

Please forward the newsletter to friends. First-time reader?

Whether you are shipping for the holidays or you need supplies during the hectic holiday time, here are the major carriers' deadlines. 

Fed-Ex Holiday Shipping Deadlines - pdf to download

UPS Holiday Shipping Deadlines - pdf to download

DHL Christmas Delivery 2021/2022 - pdf to download

Last of all is the USPS. Here is a link to the dates listed on their main website. I personally would be a little dubious of the certainty of these dates. 

USPS Holiday Shipping Deadlines 

I mentioned in a previous newsletter that we use Pirate Ship. To date, only for USPS, but they added UPS on October 3rd. We have NEVER had a delivery delayed. I make the assumption it is because we are printing labels with commercial postage information and they process through the system faster. If you have lots to ship, I would recommend checking them out. We are not affiliated - just a satisfied customer. 

Melinda made all three sizes - Sm, med, large left to right. Well done!

Donna was raised in Africa (Congo) wearing the same type Kente prints as she used on this bag. Along with the Tandy leather, she has made a real beauty. 

Some advice on enlarging a pattern: "I made this for my sister at 117%. Learned a lot--mainly that the more you enlarge a pattern, the more adjustments need to be made. For example, the flap is way too long; the gusset needs to be tapered in more at the top, and the accordion piece needs to be shorter."

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Thank you to all the members who shared and offered their opinions on Kaya Papaya Design patterns!

When you're running a business from home and wear a lot of hats, the line between work and personal time gets real blurry. When we're developing a pattern, it gains a life of its own, and like a newborn, demands all of your attention in order for it to flourish. 

In looking at the calendar and scheduling our next - and last - pattern release of 2021 for late November, I was floored by how fast this year has gone. We are both looking forward to a long break over the holidays and getting some personal time for sewing and crafting - and not implementing new designs. 

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We love feedback! Keep the conversation going by sending us your thoughts and suggestions for the newsletter and blog. You'll be entered in a monthly drawing for a pattern of your choice. 

Send your email to KPDNews2021@gmail.com. 

Kaya Papaya Design's "Maker's Policy"

Our pattern designs are great for bagmakers who sell to others. Please keep the following in mind:

• Save your receipt as proof of purchase.
• Home production only by the purchaser.
• Credit to Kaya Papaya Design as the pattern designer within the product listing.
• If you make alterations, please link to the original pattern and give Kaya Papaya Design credit. 

We want to see your makes and read your stories behind them, have you share in the discussions, and be part of our community. Join us in the Facebook Pattern Group. And email us with suggestions, questions, or general comments at info@kayapapayadesign.com.