Should I Trust the Instructions?

This past weekend I cut my next project Kwik Sew 3749.  I'm making view C, a lined bag that has long straps that tie. The lining shows on the straps.  I've chosen a orange home dec fabric, and lining it with a orange and cream quilting cotton.  The home dec fabic has a subtle tone on tone design woven into it.   I've been sewing for a long time and usually don't have any trouble visualizing what is happening in the instructions.  If I like the method I go with the instructions, if I don't then I pick something else. 

This time however, I'm having trouble visualizing what is happening in the instructions.  I'm OK until about halfway and then I just can't see the project coming together.    So, now I'm questioning the route I should take, should I use a tried an true method, or go with the flow of the instructions.  By going with the flow I could learn a totally new awesome method, or it could be a complete flop.   I tried searching patternreview.com  to see if anyone made this bag...no luck.   Decisions...decisions...

What about you, do you always trust the instructions?

New Look 6892 Completed & Pattern Review

After sitting in my sewing room as UFO (UnFinished Object) for several months,  I finally found the motivation to complete this top.   Here's my Pattern Review

Pattern Description: Misses easy to sew tops.


Pattern Sizing: Sizes 6-16

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy to follow

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Didn't like the bias tape for a casing along the neckline. Worked OK for me because I was able to get a reasonable colour match, but would consider self fabric if I couldn't.

Fabric Used: Embroidered cotton batiste/gauze

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: left out the ribbon tie because I want to wear it with a long necklace & pendant. The ribbon might make it too busy.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes

Conclusion: Great Pattern,  easy to sew.  Would make a great beginner project.  Thinking about making the short sleeve version for summer.   A longer version would make a great beach cover up.