Today, I'm super excited to walk you through one of my absolute favourite projects: the Mabel bag by Swoon. This chic, vintage-inspired handbag is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of retro elegance to their wardrobe. I'll be sharing all the juicy details, tips, and tricks you need to make your very own Mabel bag, just like in my video.
The Mabel bag is a stunning piece, and I chose a fabulous metallic green fabric to give it a modern twist. Trust me, this color really makes the vintage design pop. To make it even more functional, I added a crossbody strap with D-rings and rivets. It's both stylish and practical—what more could you want in a handbag?
Materials and Preparation.
Before we get started, let's talk materials. You'll need:
Fabric: I went with a metallic green, but feel free to choose any fabric that suits your style.
Hardware: D-rings, rivets, magnetic snaps.
Stabilizers: To keep the bag sturdy and in shape.
Pattern Pieces: Make sure you have the exterior, lining, and gusset pieces ready to go.
Prepping your materials is key to a smooth sewing process, so take your time to get everything organized.
Magnetic Snap Installation
First things first, we need to install the magnetic snap. This is crucial for the bag's closure. I like to use a bit of glue along with stabilizers to make sure everything stays put. Here's a quick tip: mark your snap placement carefully to avoid any wonky closures later on.
Flap Assembly
Next up, the flap. Assemble it by layering your fabric, stabilizer, and lining, then topstitching around the edges. This step is all about precision—make sure your pieces are perfectly aligned to achieve that professional finish.
Handle Construction.
Handles can be a bit tricky, especially with vinyl. I used double-sided tape to hold everything in place before topstitching. This helps manage the vinyl and reduces bulk in the seams, making the handle more comfortable to carry.
Attaching the Handle and D-rings.
Now, let's attach the handle to the flap using rivets and D-rings. This part is all about alignment—ensure everything lines up perfectly to avoid any lopsidedness. Take your time with the rivets; they add both strength and a lovely decorative touch.
Gusset Attachment.
Attaching the gusset can be a bit of a challenge, especially around the curves. My advice? Pin generously and sew slowly to avoid any tucks. This will help you achieve a smooth, seamless look.
Exterior and Lining Assembly.
Once the gusset is attached, it's time to sew the exterior and lining together. Leave a turning gap at the top so you can pull everything right side out later. Reinforce your seams to ensure the bag holds up well with use.
Topstitching.
Topstitching around the top of the bag is the final major step. This not only secures the lining but also gives the bag a polished, finished look. Be mindful of the lining rolling out—take it slow and steady.
Final Touches.
Finally, pull the bag through the turning gap, smooth out all the seams, and complete any remaining topstitching. And voila! You've got yourself a gorgeous, vintage-inspired Mabel bag.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any fabric for the Mabel bag? A: Absolutely! While I chose a metallic green, you can pick any fabric that suits your style. Just make sure it's sturdy enough for a handbag.
Q: How difficult is this project? A: If you're comfortable with basic sewing techniques and have some experience with bag making, you'll find this project manageable. The video tutorial breaks down each step clearly.
Q: Where can I find the pattern? A: The pattern is available for free from Swoon Patterns. Check their website for the download.
In Conclusion
Creating the Mabel bag by Swoon is such a rewarding project. Not only do you end up with a beautiful, vintage-style handbag, but you also get to hone your sewing skills. I hope this sew-along inspires you to tackle your own Mabel bag.
Until next time, Happy sewing and may your bobbin always be full
Deb x
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