When I first dipped my toe into the world of bag making, it was equal parts exciting and overwhelming. There’s so much to learn, from understanding patterns to figuring out how to work with tricky fabrics. It’s easy to make mistakes when you’re just starting out, but trust me, a little preparation can save you a lot of frustration! That’s why I’ve put together my 10 must-know tips for beginner bag makers. These gems of wisdom will help you avoid some of the common pitfalls and set you up for success.
If you’re new to bag making, let me just say – welcome to the club! It’s such a rewarding hobby, and there’s nothing quite like carrying a bag you’ve made with your own hands. But starting out can be tricky, especially when you’re staring at a long list of instructions or struggling with fabric choices. That’s where these 10 tips come in handy.
First things first: read the pattern. I mean really read it, cover to cover. Trust me, skipping ahead can lead to wasted fabric and even more wasted time. I always recommend grabbing a highlighter and making notes as you go. Some patterns also come with video tutorials – definitely give these a watch before diving in.
Next, let’s talk fabric. Choosing the right fabric is so important, especially for beginners. Patterns usually have recommendations – follow them. Don’t be tempted to wing it on your first go, or you might end up battling with fabrics that are too bulky or delicate for your machine. And speaking of fabric, always steam press before you cut. It might feel like an extra chore, but it’ll prevent any nasty surprises later on, like shrinkage or puckered seams.
Another lifesaver? Press your seams as you sew. I know it’s tempting to skip this step when you’re excited to see your bag take shape, but pressing seams as you go makes a huge difference to the finish. You’ll thank yourself when your bag looks neat and professional.
When it comes to the technical side of things, don’t overlook seam allowances. Precision is key! If you’re not confident eyeballing it, use a seam guide or draw lines directly onto the fabric. It’s worth the extra effort to get those seams bang on. And while we’re talking about precision, let’s chat interfacing. Quality interfacing can make or break your bag – literally. It adds structure and durability, so it’s worth investing in the good stuff.
One thing I always stress to beginners is to get to know your sewing machine. Every machine has its quirks, and understanding what works best – whether it’s thread types or needle sizes – will save you so much hassle. Regular cleaning is a must, too! And when it comes to needles, keep a variety on hand. The right needle can make all the difference, especially when you’re working with tougher materials like vinyl or leather.
Finally, let’s debunk a common myth: you don’t need a tonne of fancy tools to get started. Sure, there are lots of tempting gadgets out there, but start with the basics. Build your collection slowly, based on what you actually need for your projects. Oh, and one last tip – when printing patterns, always check that your printer is set to 100% scale. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference.
These are just a few of the tips I wish someone had shared with me when I first started making bags. If you’re curious about how to put these into practice – and maybe pick up a few bonus tricks – make sure to watch the this video on being a better bagmaker. We’ll go into much more detail, and I’ll even share a few funny stories about my early bag-making mishaps.
Until next time happy sewing and may your bobbin always be full.
Deb x
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