Tuesday, 15 May 2012

Pocket Bag...

A pocket bag is SO easy to make and requires very little fabric. The bag itself is made from an old jacket. Make it with a long strap to wear across the body, or shorten the strap to wear as a shoulder bag. Depending on the fabric you use, the pocket bag could be made for either an adult, a teenager or a child. Here's how I made it...



Materials:
  • A jacket, pair of pants or jeans with a pocket.
  • Decide how large the bag will be and cut a rectangle that includes one of the pockets. Add extra for seams - bag front from old garment
  • Another rectangle the same size, but without a pocket - bag back from old garment
  • Two pieces the same size for the lining - contrast colour for the lining
  • 2 pieces 32 inches x 1.5 inches. This will depend on the length you want the strap to be - contrast colour for strap
  • 2 pieces 32 inches x 1.5 inches - interfacing for the strap
  • button

Instructions:
All seams are 3/8" (1cm), unless otherwise indicated.

Strap:
The length of the strap will be determined by whether the bag is being worn across the body or over the shoulder and on the size of the person who will be wearing the bag.
  1. Place the two pieces of fabric for the strap right sides together.
  2. Place one piece of interfacing on the wrong side of one of the strap pieces.
  3. Sew the long edges together.
  4. Neaten seams with an overlocker, zig zag stitch or pinking shears.
  5. With a safety pin, turn the strap to the right side.
  6. Iron the strap.
  7. Topstitch 1/8inch (3mm) from the edge of the seams. I increase the stitch length a little to topstitch. I use a stitch length of 2.6

Outside of bag - sew front to back:
  • With right sides together, sew the side and bottom seams.
  • Cut off the bottom corners being careful not to cut the stitching.
  • Neaten seam edges.
  • Turn right side out.

Sewing the lining:
  1. Sew the two side seams.
  2. Sew the bottom seam, leaving a gap of 3 inches.
  3. Neaten seam edges.

Join the strap to the bag:
  1. Place each end of the strap over the seam on the outside of the bag.
  2. The right side of the handle should be next to the right side of the bag.
  3. Baste (hand sew) into place.
  4. Machine sew the handle to the bag. I go back and forth a few times for added strength.

Attach the lining to the outside of the bag:
  1. Place the bag inside the lining. ie: the right side of the bag is next to the right side of the lining.
  2. Line up the top edges of the lining and the outside.
  3. Tuck the strap between the outside and the lining.
  4. Baste (hand sew) the top edges of the lining and the outside.
  5. Sew a 6/8inch (1.5cm) seam to join the top edges of the lining and the outside of the bag.
  6. Reinforce where the strap joins the bag, by going back and forth a few times.
  7. Neaten the seam.


Turn the bag right side out:
  1. Put your fingers through the hole in the bottom of the lining.
  2. Gently pull the right side of the bag out through the lining.
  3. Topstitch the gap in the lining.


Finishing off:
  1. Push the lining back into the bag.
  2. Iron the top edge of the bag.
  3. Topstitch 1/8inch (3mm) from the edge, around the top of the bag.


This is the second bag I've made using pockets from the same jacket. The first one I made in February. The strap for the first bag was made from the belt of the jacket. Although originally made for a girl, the bag is now being used by the mother of the girl.


Optional extras:
  • For adults, a magnetic catch could be added.
  • For children, velcro could be added to close the bag.
  • Change the button to match the lining.
A quick and easy little project, using pre-loved clothes and costing very little.

Because of the long strap, this bag is not suitable for young children.

I'll be adding the Pocket Bag to our Ongoing Bags and Totes link party. At last count, there were 165 fabulous bags linked up... lots of ideas, tutorials and inspiration.

... Pam

27 comments:

Sunday, 13 May 2012

Threading Your Way ~ Features

As you know, I'm hoping to make, or at least start, my first quilt this year. Thanks so much to everyone who linked up a quilt!!! I still don't know what sort of quilt I'll make, but I now have lots of ideas. I hope you'll continue to add lots of quilts (old or new), to help me decide what to make. I won't be starting this month, as I'll be busy with the I Will Wear It In Public Garment Sewing Challenge, but I'll have my thinking cap on.
    Our features for this week...


    According to Mr Linky, the most viewed quilting post was:
    And five more awesome quilting projects which also caught my eye:
    This very pretty top featuring beautiful lace detailing:
    And a fantastic apron that has been refashioned from a shorts jumpsuit:

    Head on over and visit these talented ladies. 

    Each week, I will place a blog button, belonging to the blog which was most viewed, in my sidebar. This week, the most viewed link was the Real Scrappy Quilt Tutorial. Joy, look out for your blog button in my sidebar.

    Feel free to grab a button if you've been featured...


    You can find the Master list of ongoing link parties at Threading YOUR Way with Threading My Way 

    I look forward to seeing more of your creativity...


    ... Pam
    8 comments:

    Saturday, 12 May 2012

    Threading Your Way ~ Jackets and Coats ~ Link Party

    Welcome to the twentieth edition of Threading YOUR Way with Threading My Way. Each ongoing, themed link party is steadily growing into a resource full of ideas and inspiration.

     Remember, these linkys are ongoing, so you can continue to add projects throughout the year. Add as many projects as you would like.

    Our twentieth linky for 2012 is everything Jackets, Coats, Raincoats and Ponchos for kids and adults. If you have previously linked up a jacket in another category, feel free to link it up here again.

    Jackets, Coats, Raincoats and Ponchos
    Link up any family friendly posts that you have written on jackets, coats, raincoats or ponchos. Your posts might (but don't have to) include any of the following:
    • how you made it
    • tutorials
    • photos
    • pattern reviews
    • tips for making
    • what you learnt
    As long as YOU have made it, link it up and show it off. Link up as many posts on jackets, coats, raincoats or ponchos, as you would like. Come back through the year and add more.

    Guidelines for linking up:
    • Each post needs to be about jackets, coats, raincoats or ponchos.
    • Link to a specific post (not the home page of your blog).
    • No direct links to shops or giveaways.
    The fine print:
    • By linking up, you are giving me permission to use one of your photos in a feature. I will, of course, link back to your post, giving you full credit.
    • By linking up, you are giving me permission to pin your post to Pinterest. I pin all features to Pinterest, unless you specifically request me not to.
    • By linking up, you are giving me permission to share your post on social media - Facebook, Twitter, Google+
    If you'd like:
    • Subscribe to Threading My Way (GFC, RSS, Linky Followers, email), to keep up to date, to see if you've been featured and to know when the next themed party starts.
    • Grab a button to spread the word about Threading YOUR Way with Threading My Way and put it somewhere on your blog. 
    • Visit some of the other links. Everyone loves comments.
    I usually post Features each Saturday on Threading My Way. Features are chosen from all of the linkys, not just the most recent.




    I look forward to seeing your jackets, coats, raincoats and ponchos...

    Master list of ongoing link parties at Threading YOUR Way with Threading My Way 



    Master list of ongoing link parties at Threading YOUR Way with Threading My Way 
    1. Bags and Totes
    2. Dresses for Girls
    3. Dresses for Women
    4. Hair Accessories
    5. Pillows and Cushions
    6. Boys' Clothes
    7. Skirts for Girls
    8. Aprons and Art Smocks
    9. Purses, Clutches, Pouches
    10. Dolls' Clothes
    11. Women's Skirts
    12. Baby Clothes and Accessories
    13. Children's Tops and Shirts
    14. Women's Tops and Shirts
    15. Softies, Dolls, Toys
    16. Sewing Tips and Techniques
    17. Sewing with stretch fabric
    18. Quilting and Patchwork
    19. Embroidery, Stitching and Appliqué
    20. Jackets, Coats, Raincoats, Ponchos
    21. Hats, Bonnets, Beanies and Scarves
    22. Pants, Shorts, Trousers for Children
    23. Drawstring Bags and Fabric Baskets
    24. Pretend Dress Up Clothes
    25. Clothes for Men
    26. Kitchen Accessories
    27. Swimwear
    28. Sleepwear
    29. Gift Wrapping
    30. Electronic Gadget Covers and Cases
    31. Blog Tips
    32. Refashioning with Denim
    33. Pants for Women
    34. Sewing Accessories
    35. Home Decor
    36. Sewing Tutorials Pages
    37. Sewing Spaces
    38. Sewing for Charity
    39. Fabric Baskets
    40. Reusing Shirts & Ties
    ... Pam

    17 comments:

    Monday, 7 May 2012

    Fabric Basket Tutorial...

    Tutorial showing how to make a fabric basket ~ Threading My Way


    A couple of weeks ago, I made this little fabric basket for a baby shower. It's a quick and easy present to make. Does it look familiar? That's right. It's the same shape as the fabric basket I made for the Typography Challenge.


    Today I'll show you how to make your own fabric basket, which measures 6" x 6" x 3".

    Materials:
    • 2 pieces 10 inches x 8 inches - main colour for the outside of the bag
    • 2 pieces 10 inches x 8 inches - contrast colour for the lining
    • 2 pieces 10 inches x 8 inches - interfacing
    I used a medium to heavy weight, woven sew-in interfacing, but you could substitute this with a different weight interfacing, with iron-on interfacing or with batting. It all depends on the look you are after. I wanted my basket to be able to stand up by itself.

    Instructions:
    All seams are 3/8" (1cm), unless otherwise indicated.


    Outside of bag - sew front to back:
    I sew the interfacing to the fabric, before I sew, to stop any movement. If you are using iron-on interfacing, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

    1. Sew the interfacing to the wrong side of each outside piece of fabric. Sew close to the edge of the fabric.
    2. With right sides of the main fabric together, sew the side and bottom seams.
    3. Make boxed corners.


    Making the box corner:

    1. Measure 1.5 inch from the corner seam (don't measure from the edge of the fabric) in both directions and on both sides of the fabric. 
    2. Put a mark to show where 1.5 inch is. You will have four marks.
    3. Pull out the sides of your bag.
    4. Place one seam on top of the other seam.
    5. Put your pin through the top mark. If the pin comes out through the mark on the other side, your boxed corner will line up. 
    6. If the pin is not coming out through the mark on the other side, reposition the fabric until it does.
    7. Face the seams in opposite directions to reduce bulk.
    8. Take the pin out and hold the fabric in place. If you would like, hand sew in place to hold.
    9. With a ruler, draw a line across the fabric.
    10. Sew across the line. I sew a couple of times for reinforcement.
    11. Cut the fabric and neaten.
    12. Repeat for the other side.




    Sewing the lining:

    1. Sew the two side seams.
    2. Sew the bottom seam, leaving a gap of 3 inches.
    3. Probably not necessary, but I neaten the edges.
    4. Make boxed corners as per the outside of the bag.


    Attach the lining to the outside of the bag:
    1. Place the bag inside the lining. ie: the right side of the bag is next to the right side of the lining.
    2. Line up the top edges of the lining and the outside.
    3. Baste (hand sew) the top edges of the lining and the outside.
    4. Sew a 3/8inch seam to join the top edges of the lining and the outside of the bag.
    5. Neaten the seam.





    Turn the bag right side out:
    1. Put your fingers through the hole in the bottom of the lining.
    2. Gently pull the right side of the bag out through the lining.
    3. Topstitch the gap in the lining.






    Finishing off:
    1. Push the lining back into the bag.
    2. Iron the top edge of the bag.
    3. Topstitch 1/8inch (3mm) from the edge, around the top of the bag.
    4. Fold over the top about 1.5".




    You have finished your fabric basket. It's now time to fill it with goodies.


    Yeah, I know the stripes don't line up. Hey, once it's filled no one will see it. If you are using striped fabric, positon the stripes so they line up, when you are cutting the fabric.


    I filled my basket with baby goodies from Little Ladybird and some books. The present went down well at the baby shower. 


    You can, of course, make the basket in different sizes and for different purposes. Just adjust the measurements and fabric.

    Leave me a link in the comments, to any fabric baskets you make using this tutorial. I'd love to have a look.

    ... Pam
    Fabric Basket Tutorial - how to make one by Threading My Way
    Edited to add: If you make a basket using this tutorial, I'd love you to add it to the newly formed Threading My Way ~ Sewn by YOU Flickr group. Feel free to add any projects made with Threading My Way tutorials.

    90 comments:

    Sunday, 6 May 2012

    Bits and Pieces...


    In March I took part in the Typography Challenge, with Rikka and Keren, from Ricochet and Away and Sew la Vie! It was a lot of fun!!! Those who are awarded a star, have bragging rights. Well.... I've been awarded the Bronze Star you can see below, so I'm allowed to brag... LOL!!!


    Third Place Typography Challenge!

    This month, I'm taking part in the next challenge...

    Garment Sewing Challenge: May 2012

    A very small component of the challenge is the competition at the end. But don't let that turn you off. The competitive bit is really only for fun and bragging rights. The month of the challenge is about:
    • meeting new people 
    • interacting and sharing with the other entrants
    • learning new skills
    • having fun
    You can read my first post here. I think I'm going to make myself a blouse. More on that later in the week.

    If you'd like to join in, head on over to the Challenge home page and sign up.

    Another win...
    I forgot to tell you, last month, over at Tales of a Trophy Wife, I won three Lily Bird Studio patterns. Yay!!! Thanks Tara and Cecilia. I'm looking forward to using my new patterns. These are the ones I've chosen:

    Onging Themed Link Parties...
    Have you read this post about our ongoing themed link parties? There's a link party to suit everyone. Our last two linkys are:
    I know I said I'm doing away with To Do lists, but, making a quilt is something I really want to do this year. Kelli, from Seriously I Think It Needs Stitches, has linked up a fabulous I Spy quilt. I'm thinking I'd either like to attempt an I Spy quilt, or a quilt made from the kids' clothes. I know I'm not in Kelli's league when it comes to quilting and I almost certainly won't be hand quilting, but it's great to get ideas and inspiration from others. Hmmm... I only have 8 months till the end of the year. 

    I'm linking up with Thursday Think Tank over at Making Rebecca Lynne.

    ... Pam
    13 comments:

    One more dress...


    One more dress to show you for the Hopeful Threads sew-along to support Dress A Girl Around the World. This dress isn't mine. It's the first dress my daughter has ever sewn. It was about time I helped her with sewing.

    She's been asking me to teach her to sew, since she was a kid and she's now an adult. She used to suggest we could have some quality mother and daughter time together teaching her to sew. In an ideal world, I would have stopped everything and spent the time with her. This was, however, during the period when I was only doing repairs, taking up hems and sewing dancing costumes. Any sewing I did, I wanted done quickly. I was working full time, the kids had extra curricular activities on every day after school and Mr TMW worked long hours. Yeah, I know, excuses, excuses, excuses!!! Anyway, it didn't happen.

    This week, however, we did spend some quality mother and daughter time together sewing. There are some advantages to teaching an adult to sew, as opposed to teaching a young person:
    • There's no need to hover over them to ensure they don't hurt themselves.
    • You only have to show them once.
    Tash's dress is heading off to the Australian representative for Dress A Girl Around the World. 

    The day after Tash did this dress, she sent me a message to say she had sewn another dress, the same as this one, by herself. Adults learn quickly!!!

    Kristy was aiming for 100 dresses in the month's sew-along. Can you believe it? Over 300 dresses were made!!! You can see them all over at the Flickr group. Congrats, Kristy, on organising such a successful sew-along.

    I am thrilled that so Threading My Way readers helped with this very worthwhile project:
    If I've left anyone off the list, please let me know, so I can add your name.

    I know a couple of other girls were going to join in the sew-along, but sometimes we can't do all we plan to. Life gets in the way. I've stopped trying to stick to my To Do lists, so I don't stress so much... LOL!!!

    Dress A Girl Around the World will always accept dresses that you make. You can find the details on their website. I had so much fun sewing girlie dresses, I'll sew for Dress A Girl in the future, but not this month. As I said in a previous post, this month is for ME!!!

    ... Pam
    4 comments:

    Threading Your Way ~ Features

    There's been lots of fabulous posts linked up this week. I love checking out all the links that have been added to each of the different parties. Don't forget, all of our link parties are ONGOING and will remain open all year. You can add links to any party at any time.
      Our features for this week...


      According to Mr Linky, the most viewed stretch fabric post was:
      And two more fabulous stretch fabric projects which also caught my eye; these awesome kanzashi butterflies and a super quick and comfy child's shirt:
      These awesome dolls dressed in the most amazing fabric:
      An ever so pretty top refashioned from men's shirts. I'd like a top like this for myself:
      A gorgeous ballet bag. If you have a budding ballerina, you'll want to check this out:
      A super cute doll's outfit:
      And these fabulous boy's pants:
      Head on over and visit these talented ladies. 

      Each week, I will place a blog button, belonging to the blog which was most viewed, in my sidebar. This week, the most viewed link was the T-shirt to Hat. Christie, look out for your blog button in my sidebar.

      Feel free to grab a button if you've been featured...


      You can find the Master list of ongoing link parties at Threading YOUR Way with Threading My Way 

      I look forward to seeing more of your creativity...


      ... Pam
      8 comments:
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