This is part 4 in a 5 part series. Be sure to visit these earlier post: Part 1: Cutting Out The Bag and Stitching Up the Exterior Part 2: The Handles Part 3: Making It Stand On Its Own The lining. It’s like making a second bag but not having a second bag to use when […] Read more…
Part 3: Adding Structure to a Tote Bag
Up to this point the tote bag is flat. I do own a few totes that are flat and they’re fine, they just don’t hold much. This tote bag is meant to hold your lunch, your kindle, your small purse, a bottle of water, and of course, your sewing kit (just kidding). In order to […] Read more…
Custom Tote Bag Part 2: The Handles
With the outside of the tote bag done, it’s time to make the handles. Be sure to read Part 1 here to see how to construct the tote bag up to this point. Your tote bag is inside out and the handles are sticking out as four separate pieces. The top 3 1/2″ of the […] Read more…
Have it Your Way; How to Make a Classic Tote Bag
It took me years to admit I love those canvas tote bags from LL Bean. Except I don’t really. I love the shape and the size. I love that they’re well made. I love that is an everyday practical item with a smart design to it. I just didn’t care for the color choices. That’s […] Read more…
How to Turn Fabric Tubes
When I was in school I had a professor who always said that after you cut your fabric it’s all down hill, meaning the hard part is over. At first, I thought he was kidding but as the years went by I agreed with this bold statement until today that is when I had a […] Read more…
Toiletries Tutorial Mash Up
Sewing tutorials are abundant and then you lose the one you wanted to try and it’s like looking for a needle in a haystack to relocate it. This time I couldn’t find the tutorial I had printed off months ago for a rectangle shape toiletries bag. I searched and ended up finding a different tutorial […] Read more…
Easy to Make Drawstring Bag; Version 2
You know how the sequel is usually a disappointment? This second version of the drawstring bag is even easier to make than drawstring bag I just posted so I’m hoping you will not be disappointed. I’ve made this bag without a button hole. There is no figuring out the placement of the buttonhole or sewing the […] Read more…
Quick Draw String Bag
Drawstring bags are under appreciated. It’s probably the unglamorous, homey vibe they give off but let’s not judge a book by it’s cover. Drawstring bags are practical, versatile and can be “dressed-up” with fabric choice or even trim but most importantly they are very easy to make. When my kids were little I used them […] Read more…
Diaper Changing Pad Clutch, From Jordana Paige
The diaper bag I owned when I was a new mom came with a small removable changing pad. It was super handy and as my baby grew into a toddler and I didn’t need to bring the whole bag, I would still take that pad and a couple of diapers. So when I saw Jordana […] Read more…
Making a Purse From a Leather Skirt
My friend, Sheila, always looks great and when complimented her on her clothing she’ll tell you which thrift or consignment store it came from. She has the best of luck at such places but she says it’s not luck; it’s just being there too often. Apparently this must be true because her sisters threw her […] Read more…