Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Anatomy of a Tote Bag

Today I finished a bag for my friend Hannah. I think this is one of my best (certainly most complicated) works. It is special because Hannah is a sweet friend and I wanted to make it just to her specifications. This time I took photos of the process of making a bag. I thought some of you might find it interesting.

First I draw up a plan and figure out cutting lengths and widths.


There is always a lot of pressing at almost every step along the way.


Cutting pieces squarely is very important. I haven't ventured into creating my own rounded totes yet...


Sewing seams, one by one.


Several parts have been sewn together. But it doesn't look like a bag YET.


Sides sewn on... ok now looking like a bag. I added a water bottle holder as a surprise to Hannah!


Here we are sewing together the lining. I left out sewing on all the complicated pockets.


My ever shrinking stash of magnetic snaps... Easy to install!


The result!


Inside.


The famous water bottle pouch.


I missed photographing a FEW steps, but at least you get an idea.

2 ripples:

Anonymous said...

Oh you made it look so easy to do! I appreciate the step photos. I may have to try making one of these for oldest dd and myself. Thanks for sharing!





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Stephanie Kay said...

These bags look fabulous. They'd make great diaper bags, too!!

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