Bulky seams can be a challenge when sewing bags. Reducing this bulk is important not only for smoother sewing but also for a cleaner, more professional finish.
While pressing seams open is often a go-to solution, bag sewing typically benefits from pressing the seam allowances to one side.
Here’s an easy and effective technique for minimizing bulk while allowing you to press the seam to one side—an approach that can be incredibly helpful in many situations. Don’t forget to save this technique for later review!
I’m working on a quilted bag, and although the panels aren’t particularly thick, I decided to use them to demonstrate this technique.
Here is the seam between the panels, stitched at 3/8” from the edges. Let’s assume you want to press the seam allowances toward the top layer.
Using scissors, trim the seam allowance of the top layer to about 1/8”.
Press/finger-press the seam allowances toward the top layer.
Topstitch at 1/4” from the seam (see the red marking line below), so you do not catch the trimmed seam allowance into the seam.
Here is the look on the back.
When I made the bag below, I wasn’t aware of this trick and ended up pressing all the seams open.
Using heavyweight fabric, folded blocks (lots of layers!), and fleece made the seams bulky, leaving me with no other option.
With this new technique, sewing this bag will be much easier! If you have this pattern, be sure to keep this tip in mind!
If you give this technique a try, I’d love to hear how it works for you!
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Happy sewing!
This technique also helps to reinforce the seam, which can be helpful if it’s a heavier bag that might end up holding heavier items, preventing it from coming apart over time.
Yes, indeed, the topstitching is not only for visual effect, it strengthens the seam as well. Thank you for mentioning this!
Do you do this with soft and stable as well please, as I use that for heavy duty bags.