Every quilter loves a great bag!!

Every quilter loves a great bag!  When I first started quilting not only did I take every quilt class I could, I also took every bag making class I could.  Each pattern had its own techiniques and now when I make a bag, I use the best of all of the techniques I have learned to create awesome bags. ​​

I found this great pattern from WhistlePig Creek Productions.  The reason I chose it was because it had a separating zipper, and a way to close the bag on the sides so that it could be stuffed full.  And if not stuffed full, the sides could be "collapsed" so that the bag retained its shape.  Below is a picture of the pattern I used.  The pattern says this is a bag that un-buttons, unsnaps and unzips to fit all your needs! And boy- does it ever!!!!

I think that the secret to a hand made bag not looking hand made is to use the right purse hardware.  I found a Fendi Spy bag knock off in a thrift store and knew that I had great hardware to make The Big Easy Bag.  I usually use upholstery fabric for my bags and I always make sure that they are lined with either Decor-Bond, or that foam so that they have some sort of shape.  For this bag, I fused the interfacing to the lining because the outer fabric I used was vinyl.   

And last but not least, I always have purse feet on the bottom.  My secret is to cut a piece of plastic needlepoint canvas slightly smaller than the pattern piece of the bag bottom.  So it lies within the seam lines.  And then the pokey things that keep the purse feet in place just poke through the holes.  Easy Peasy. 

Here is a picture of the bag I made.  What do you think?  I think it is perhaps the best looking bag I have made.  And the pattern was very easy.  I did take the purse to the shoe repair store so they could sew on the handles.  But other than that- it was all done by me!

Here is a peek at the bottom of the bag, so you can see where I placed the feet.

Summer is great time to check out garage sales and thrift stores for bags with great hardware.  You would be surprised at what you can rip out or what pieces of the hardware come apart with a screw driver! 

Here's to joyful bag making!

Barb

Disclaimer: I do not endorse or receive compensation for product mentions.