Hello, bag-making friends! In a recent podcast episode on The Bag Makers Sew-Ciety YouTube channel, I had the pleasure of chatting with Monika from All Sew Petite. If you’ve ever wondered about the journey behind a bag designer or how someone transitions from sewing garments to designing intricate bag patterns, this episode is for you! Monika shared her inspiring story, her love of teaching, and her creative process. Let me take you through some highlights of our conversation—you’re going to love her passion and approach!
From Petite Garments to Big Bag Dreams.
Monika’s journey into sewing started back in 2016 with a blog focused on garment making. Her petite stature inspired the name "All Sew Petite," combining her love for sewing with the unique challenges of designing clothes that fit well. But everything changed in 2018 when she made her first bag—a crossbody for her best friend’s daughter—and she was hooked!
The Leap to Bag Making.
While Monika loved sewing garments, bag making quickly became her true passion. There’s something about turning flat fabric into a functional, stylish bag that captured her imagination. Over time, her garment sewing took a backseat, and she began creating and designing bag patterns full-time.
Teaching Others to Create.
Monika’s love for teaching started with questions from fellow sewists. People were constantly asking her about designing their own bags or modifying patterns, so she decided to fill the gap by teaching bag pattern drafting. Today, she offers a membership where she works interactively with students, as well as a self-paced course for those who prefer to learn at their own speed.
Her Design Process.
Monika thrives on the creative parts of bag design—sketching ideas, drafting patterns, and bringing them to life. For her, it’s the perfect blend of creativity and practicality. Her designs range from quick and simple zipper pouches to more complex backpacks, each with thoughtful details and functionality.
The Challenges Behind the Scenes.
One of the trickiest parts of Monika’s work is writing clear instructions. As English is her second language, she finds it time-consuming, but she leans on tools like AI for grammar checks and her pattern testers for constructive feedback. It’s a team effort that ensures her patterns are accessible and easy to follow.
Quick Wins vs. Big Projects.
When it comes to sewing, Monika loves a good zipper pouch for its simplicity and instant gratification. But her heart lies in designing more intricate bags like backpacks, which challenge her skills and bring a huge sense of accomplishment once completed.
The Joy of Community.
What stood out during our chat was Monika’s love for the bag-making community. She spoke about the generosity of sewists, the friendships she’s formed, and the collaborative spirit of the craft. Whether it’s sharing ideas or supporting students, she finds the community endlessly inspiring.
Final Thoughts.
Talking to Monika from All Sew Petite was such an inspiring experience. Her journey from sewing garments to creating intricate bag designs shows how passion and curiosity can lead to amazing things. If you’re looking for creative inspiration or tips on designing your own bags, Monika is someone you’ll definitely want to learn from. Be sure to check out her patterns and classes—and don’t forget to watch the full podcast on The Bag Makers Sew-Ciety YouTube channel. Let’s keep learning and creating together!
Until next time happy sewing and may your bobbin always be full.
Deb x
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