Thoughts on bags

Aside from quilts, I like making bags.

They are the quick win of the sewing world - an instant shot of gratification.

I always seem to make this one.

But if truth be told, it kind of looks like a quick win bag.

And I felt the time had come to expand my bag-making repertoire.

Too many squashed bananas and leaky pens mean I always try to line bags with laminate fabric

So this time around, I decided to make the Perfect Quilted Tote by Oh Fransson.

It was, on the whole, a well-written pattern with some nice touches included that I had not come across before in my limited bag-making experience - like securing the lining and outer bag at the base as well as obviously round the top.

When it came to the lining I knew I wanted it laminated but I also knew I didn't have any laminates that would match so I decided to make my own.

You need Vilene Lamifix Fusible. I bought mine here. However, in my enthusiasm to buy it, I didn't see the all important word 'matt' when really I should have bought 'clear.'

Here you can see the difference it makes.

By this stage though I just decided to soldier on and remember for next time.

Linking up to WIP Wednesday

I made just a few minor tweaks to the original pattern: I lengthened the straps by about four inches and I used jute rather than fabric handles because I just prefer the look.

I think it produces a nice, sturdy, professional looking bag which is good enough to give as a gift.

Which I am.

(P.S. I meant to thank everyone who voted for my quilts in the recent Bloggers Quilt Festival. I was very touched. Thank you.)