How to Make a Simple Trendy Bag

There is nothing more satisfying than getting compliments on something you have created with your own two hands. Bags are so fun to make, because they're a blank canvas of sorts--you can start with a simple pattern and embellish it with a myriad of designs. Suddenly, a simple bag can become an ideal creative outlet, as well as a trendy fashion statement.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Lining fabric
• Thread
• Straight pins
• Safety pin
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Sewing machine
• Embellishments

Instructions

1. Purchase fabric and supplies for a simple trendy bag. You will need ½ yard cotton fabric for the exterior and ½ yard lining fabric. The lining can be a contrasting cotton fabric. Purchase thread to match.

2. Cut two square pieces, 10½ inches each, of the exterior fabric. Also, cut two pieces, the same size, of the lining fabric. Cut two strips of fabric 2½ inches wide and the length you prefer for the straps (adding 2½ inches).

3. Pin the two pieces of exterior fabric, right sides together, on three sides. Repeat the process with the lining fabric. Sew ¼ inch around the three sides on both pieces, back-stitching at each end, for extra strength. Remove the pins.

4. Place the lining bag inside the exterior bag. You will see the seams at the outside of the bag and also the lining seams when you look inside. Pin the tops of the bags together all the way around. Sew ¼ inch all around the top, except for a 3-inch opening. Remove the pins and turn the bag right sides out, through the 3-inch opening. Push the lining inside the bag and press it flat with your iron.

5. Make the straps. Fold the straps lengthwise and pin along the long side. Sew ¼ inch along both straps. Attach a safety pin to one edge of a strap, at one end, and work the pin through the inside of strap until the pin comes out the other side. Remove the safety pin. Repeat the process with the second strap. Press the straps flat with your iron.

6. Fold each strap 1/4 inch under at both ends, and press with your iron. Attach one strap on the inside of the bag with pins, just a bit more than 1 inch down from the top, and 2 inches from the sides. Repeat the process on the other side of the bag.

7. Sew around the top of the bag, 1 inch down, catching the bottom of the straps in the stitching. Sew around the top of the bag, ¼ inch down from the top, catching the straps in your stitches.

8. Embellish your bag with ribbon, lace, charms, buttons, fringe, beads or any trendy items. Make the look fresh by using two or more fabrics to construct the exterior of the bag. Make a patchwork, stripes or other patterns with the fabrics by cutting and sewing them together before cutting out your 10½-inch squares.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use matching trim for the straps rather than making your own.

References

• How to Make Bags