I was working on a bag design and wanted to create a particular type of handle. Not the usual bag handle where you simply fold the fabric into 4 and topstitch. I wanted a ‘nicer’ handle, one with two different fabrics so it would be reversible and feature both of … Continue reading
This convertible tote bag turns into a backpack and a cross body bag. I have been thinking about a convertible tote bag that can answer some of the needs I have when I travel and because I just got a new computer. I only change my equipment when things don’t … Continue reading
One easy way to adapt any bag pattern is to add your own pockets to the design, and the slip pocket is the easiest way to add some extra storage and organisation space inside your bag. What is a slip pocket? A slip pocket is a basic open pocket, usually … Continue reading
Today, a free pattern with a difference – there’s no pattern! Well, and it’s not actually free. Other than that – it’s a free pattern! What on earth am I talking about? Well, I’m not making any sense because I’m just over-the-top-super-excited. You see, I made my own fabric and … Continue reading
Over the last few months, I’ve had several readers write and ask about how I design and produce my sewing patterns. I thought it might be interesting to see how a pattern is developed right from the early stages of first idea through to pattern development, testing, and the production … Continue reading
The belted pouch has been on the catwalk nonstop since the Summer of 2012 and will continue to be seen throughout the year. Just about every designer or ready-to-wear label has had a version of it. From $1,500 for a Gucci to just a few dollars at H&M you can find … Continue reading
Hi, Stephanie from Swoodson Says – a new year brings renewed organizing and decluttering energy, so I have the perfect tutorial for you –a simple drawstring bag with a view! The older my son gets, the more small toys we have building up, so I sewed up a drawstring bag … Continue reading
My own makeup bag was in need of some attention. I don’t wear a lot of makeup, hardly ever and a quick look inside my bag reveals congealed mascara, eyeshadow colors that haven’t changed since the early 90’s and some supermarket brand lipsticks. I do have a couple of … Continue reading
I’m happy to share this new simple project and free pattern for the Small Crossbody Wallet. It can be made using fabric, leather or vinyl and is suitable for intermediate sewists or advanced beginners. First, let me share with you the backstory for the design. I had a disagreeable little … Continue reading
It’s that time of year when you might be taking a bottle of wine to a party or giving a nice bottle of wine or brandy to a neighbor for Christmas. But how to wrap it? This quick-to-sew padded wine bag pattern will protect the precious contents, and keep them … Continue reading
This is the first part of a tutorial using the burlap shopping bag pattern. You’ll be able to make the complete bag in the first part, but in the second part, I will show you how to create the print for this type of fabric. On my recent trip to … Continue reading
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