I’ve been making more of the “Sew Together ” bags I posted about here and here. And I still have more to make. Some I’m gifting now, and I have a whole list of people I should make them for for Christmas gifts! Anyway, some of the tips I’d like to share today apply to any small bag sewing project.
First, just a couple of things about the Sew Together Bags. They have lots of pockets–perfect for all of your sewing supplies, make-up, jewelry or even electrical cords and chargers. This really is a great pattern.
I tried to use really fun fabrics for all of the little pockets. That way I’ll get to see them every time I open the bag!
You can’t really tell from the photos, but I LOVE the way the Fig Tree version turned out (right side in top photo) the best. The reason is I stabilized the outside with Shape Flex before I added Fusible Fleece and did my machine quilting. It made such a difference. I will use layers of both from now on in small bags (if you’re using a thicker stabilizer like Soft & Stable I don’t think the Shape Flex is as important). The Matryoshka Doll pouch is actually more of a heavy fabric, so I thought it would be fine without the Shape Flex, but I really wish I’d added that in.
I also have some thoughts on zippers. I wanted a zipper with a larger pull tab for the outside zipper…but…the zipper I chose was a heavy duty bag zipper and also wider than a regular zipper. I had to adjust some things when attaching the final binding. Next time I will look for a regular sized zipper with just the larger pull tab and not use a heavy duty zipper that is also wider.
You can find the Sew Together Bag pattern here (disclosure: this is an affiliate link).
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Margaret says
Thanks so much for the tips, Sherri. They are going to be very helpful!
Hildy says
Thanks for the tips and your bags are wonderful! Perhaps you can add a little tab to the zipper to make it easier to open and close the bag? Just a thought:-)
Have a wonderful weekend!
Nedra says
Thanks for the tips Sherri. My girlfriend and I are getting ready to make this bag. So cute!
Lynne Tilley says
Thanks for the great tips, Sherri!
Michele says
Great tips Sherri! Thank you!
glassbylindi.blogspot.com says
I love to make bags. Thanx for the tips, I will have to try these.
D.G. L
Joan says
Thanks for the tips. Your bags are lovely. I have the pattern so I must get started on mine.
Slowpoke says
Love the bags Sherri! Thank you for the tips but I am lousy with zippers. Gave up making clothing because of zippers. Really, really love the Fig Tree bag! SO beautiful!! Lucky recipient! Always, Luba
Joy says
Such adorable bags! I appreciate the tips for this particular bag. I would love your insight on travel bags. I want to make one for my oldest DD for her birthday and trip to CA. I admit…I am chicken! LOL Thanks in advance!
Charo says
They are lovely, Sherry. I made one but it won't be the last! Very useful for quilting tools with so many pockets!
threadbear says
Are these bags a good use for mini-charm squares? Before I buy the pattern I wanted to check that they are the correct size for the pieced front bag. Thank you for your helpful hints! These look sooooo useful!
Jeanna says
Those are great bags Sherri!
Bari Jo says
Thank you for the tips. I have the pattern and have been a little intimidated to try it… just one quick question – only use the Shape Flex on the outside of the bag – not each individual pocket? Is that correct? :O) THANK YOU for the help! :O)
Thimbleanna says
Thanks for the great tips Sherri! Add some great zipper pulls to those little zippers and you'll never notice that they're little. Sewing charms would be adorable!!!
kshackabq says
Hi Sherri – Have you seen the latest newsletter from "By Annie" ? She is selling large, colorful zipper pulls. She has 48 colors available, to be exact. I think you use her stabilizers, so check these out! They may be just what you're looking for.