Wednesday 12 June 2013

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.)

22 comments:

  1. I had no idea you could laminate your own fabric. That's brilliant!

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  2. Fun bag! I never knew about the fusible laminate! I might totally have to try that now!

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  3. Great bag you made! Love your choice of fabrics !

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  4. Great bag, I love the choice of fabrics and also the handles - where do you buy them?

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    1. Just google 'jute upholstery webbing'. I got mine off EBay.

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  5. that is really cool, beautiful bag and I love that you made it work for you!

    I am stopping by from the WIP post, hop by if you get a chance! http://domesticdeficitdisorder.blogspot.com/2013/06/wip-wednesday-june-12th-edition.html

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  6. Ok...DIY laminate!? This is the most awesome new bit of info.

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  7. wow! it looks wonderful xx I was never a "bag person" however this year I have given it ago and now... oh yes! I may just be drawn towards having a go at this one too x VERY impressed with the self laminating x

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  8. So love your posts... almost done with my pinwheel quilt that I gave you credit for inspiring my design by :) Lots of hst's. Been looking for a good back and glad to know you can make your own laminate clear from cotton fabric that coordinates :) Love the quilted bag but the longer handles on the first one :) I am sure the recipient will LOVE it! Kathi

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  9. Both the bags are lovely. Didnt know you could laminate your own fabric...would request you put up a tutorial if u can spare teh time.
    Leena

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    Replies
    1. Errrr...put laminate on top of side of fabric you wish to laminate, cover with piece of fabric for protection and then press for about 5/6 seconds. End of tutorial ;-)

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  10. Love the tutorial - now make yourself a Super Tote!

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  11. Beautiful tote - love the lining!!

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  12. I love it! This is one of my favorite bag patterns. I have made . . . 5 of them? Ha ha. I still haven't made one for myself though so i have at least one more in my future.

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  13. Love love the clock bag (and the matte interior is great too!)

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  14. Love love! Also, I can't believe this is the second post I've read this week about DIY laminate fabric! I must try! ;)

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  15. The new bags looks great! I used Lamifix in the past until I had to wash an item and it came off (!!!) so beware, it is not washable, it can only be wiped with a damp cloth.
    Tx

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  16. The "bag" I meant - my typing sucks!

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  17. Congratulations on your new skills! I am getting a bag-making itch right now..

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  18. Bg looks great - never though of using lamifix for bags. Must give it a go some time. I LOVE making bags. I like the instant gratification.

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  19. Awesome bag!! Great fabrics and it looks just as good inside as out. I didn't even know that DIY laminate was available. It will be nice to know you have a bag that can withstand squashed bananas.

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