You can't sew bags without pockets and zippered pockets are the best. You can sew zipper pockets in a few different ways, here is one that I think is the quickest and easiest one. You need a zipper (I used an 8'' zipper- this is the length between the stops of the zippers, not the length of the tape) and fabric for pocket. If you use quilt weight fabric, add interfacing to the back. I like to … [Read more...]
Batting, interfacing and foam scraps – what to do with them?
Batting and interfacing are bulky so shipping is VERY expensive (especially for those who order them from abroad, like me!). This makes every little scrap of it valuable. So, what can we do with these small scraps? Small bags, pouches, boxes and bowls are a few options. BATTING SCRAPS I use scraps when I have to make larger pieces, too. I join the batting scraps into bigger pieces and I am … [Read more...]
Laminate fabric- tips for sewing pouches
I made a new pouch and I laminated fabric myself. It is such a cool thing to be able to laminate the fabric you want. I LOVE rainbows and pencils so much that some time ago I purchased some pencil images and I printed them on fabric, using Spoonflower's service. A few years ago I made this pouch in a generous size; I used this easy pattern. For laminating I used a product called Pellon … [Read more...]
How to sew a drawstring bag- tutorial
I needed a BIG drawstring bag and wanted to sew it quickly so I remembered this technique and thought to take some pictures to share with you. There are other ways to sew drawstrings bags, I found this one is the easiest and quickest one. These drawstrings bags are useful, I needed a few for the small children in our family that started kindergarten a few days ago. I made a few in different … [Read more...]
How to sew pockets for bags- welt pockets
We all love to sew quick and easy things; in this way, we sew more and share more of what we sew with the loved ones. But sometimes you choose another path: you choose to make it better instead of making it faster. I just did this last week and I can't describe the amazing feeling that I had once the project was finished. I was so proud that I allowed myself to spend more time doing a better … [Read more...]
The best interfacing for bags
Are you still looking for the best interfacing for bags? Maybe you already know that I love to sew quilted bags? There are a few reasons for this: Sometimes you don't have the proper interfacing at hand. If you are a quilter, you probably have batting scraps. With batting and a backing (or no backing), you can make any fabric work for bags. If you are a bag maker, you know how to press a … [Read more...]
10 Minute Drawstring Bag Tutorial
If you are in need of a gift bag and you have only 10 minutes to stitch it, this drawstring bag tutorial is exactly what you need! These bags are so much fun to stitch and you can sew them from fabric pieces in any size. Once you learn the technique, just check your stash, pair fabric rectangles and start sewing drawstring bags. Drawstring bag size: 5 3/4'' x 8 1/2'' Let's … [Read more...]
Good Habits, Great Bags – 30 Tips for better handmade bags
Sewing bags should not be difficult and frustrating. You don't have to be an expert seamstress to make a bag. If you make a habit in following some little tips, you will improve your bag sewing skills, you will sew beautiful and long-lasting bags and you will enjoy your sewing experience. GOOD HABITS, GREAT BAGS Click here to read 30 Tips for better handmade bags … [Read more...]
Improve your handmade bags with this zippered pocket
The zippered pockets of our bags keep our belongings safe inside the bag so here is a way to add a zippered pocket to your lining (a slip pocket comes as a bonus, too!). It is actually a simple pouch attached to the lining. Maybe some of you will find this technique easier than other techniques for zippered pockets on the lining. You need two pieces of fabric, for the exterior pocket and … [Read more...]
How to press bags and pouches
A few days ago I wanted to sew a gift for a friend, but what to sew in 3 hours? A few pouches, of course! You know I am a HUGE fan of quilted bags and pouches; if you quilt them properly, after washing, the pressing needs are minimal. If you gift them, that's good news for the new owner of you bags or pouches! Since it wasn't enough time for quilting, just fusing fusible fleece or fusible … [Read more...]