I saw a pattern for a bag very similar to this. Well, it is in my very nature to try to re-create something I like by figuring it out myself. I just can't stand to pay for something unless I know I couldn't possibly make it myself. I was all set to buy this pattern because it was so darned cute and I thought it was going to be difficult. It just so happened that I saw an episode of Knitty Gritty and they were making a bikini, which used the same principles for the top as were used in the bag. I'm happy with it but would just change it a little bit next time.