Handmade Bags In Natural Fabrics. Emiko Takahashi

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      The charm of self-cover buttons is that you can use whatever fabric you like!

      43. 44.

      Bag with Lace-trim Zipper (S, L)

      The shape of this bag allows it to fit perfectly to your body when worn on the shoulder. The well-formed gussets mean even the small version has room for everything you need to carry. Both inner and outer layers are linen, with fusible bag interfacing creating a sturdy finished product. Add buttons covered in check fabric or sequins and lines of stitching for a fashionable touch.

      Instructions on pages 71–73

      45. ~ 58.

      Vase-shaped Bag

      The curved lines of this bag are real attention-grabbers. The trick to creating an attractive silhouette is to cut the fusible quilt wadding to the bag’s finished size. The decorations are up to you: sequins, beads, embroidery, appliqué—let your imagination run wild.

      Instructions on pages 74–75

      59.

      Tucked Bag with Corsage

      Made from the same fabric as the bag, the corsage decoration is created by simply sewing all around a flower shape and drawing up the threads. Fusible interfacing allows it to retain a nice shape.

      Instructions on pages 76–77

      Cut a flower shape from scrap fabric, sew around it and gather stitches.

      60.

      Tucked Bag with Floral Embroidery

      The pale pink tones used in this bag seem to inspire kind, calm feelings. Floral embroidery is added as an accent. A magnet has been attached inside as a closure.

      Instructions on pages 78–79

      Lesson 1

      19. 20. Flat Bag

      Photo: page 15

      • MATERIALS FOR 19

      Gingham (for the outer fabric and handles)

      20 x 28 in (50 x 70cm)

      Fusible belt interfacing 1⅛ in wide x 22 in (3cm wide x 55cm)

      Hand sewing thread such as MOCO brand, brown

      Hand sewing thread such as Schappe Spun brand, beige

      • MATERIALS FOR 20

      Striped fabric (for the outer fabric and handles) 16 x 24 in (40 x 60cm)

      Fusible belt interfacing 1⅛ in wide x 16 in (3cm wide x 40cm)

      Hand sewing thread such as MOCO brand, brown

      Hand sewing thread such as Schappe Spun brand, beige

      • DRAFTING

      Measurements given in inches and centimeters

      Add figure in circle as seam allowance when drafting pattern

      ( ①cm = ⅜in; cm = ⅝in; ⑤cm = 2 in)

      • INSTRUCTIONS (the bag shown here is no. 20)

      CREATE BAG

      1 Cut out the fabric for the bag. Using a dry iron on a medium setting, bond the fusible belt interfacing to the opening edges of the bag.

      2 Fold fabric in half with wrong sides facing and sew sides using running stitch (see p41, 42 for sewing instructions).