Lesson 1Threads, needles, and reinforcement supplies: thread weight, topstitch thread, needle sizes for domestic machines, rivets, bartacks, webbingKnow how threads, needles, and strengtheners work as one for firm joins. Learn to select thread sizes, topstitch thread, needle fits, rivets, bartacks, and webbing for home machines and bag weights.
Comparing all-purpose and heavy threadTopstitch thread for visible seamsNeedle sizes for thick bag layersUsing rivets at high-stress pointsBartacks for strap and pocket securitySelecting webbing types and widthsLesson 2Fabric selection: characteristics of common outer fabrics (canvas, cotton drill, denim, twill, upholstery, leather alternatives) and recommended usesCompare usual outer cloths for bag making and how their weight, weave, and fibre affect form and use. Learn when to pick canvas, denim, twill, seat cloth, or leather stand-ins for style and strength.
Canvas weights and ideal bag projectsCotton drill and twill for structured totesDenim for casual, durable everyday bagsUpholstery fabrics for firm, dressy bagsLeather alternatives and vegan optionsPrewashing and grain alignment for outersLesson 3How to match interfacing to fabric and structure: stiffness levels, fusible compatibility, heat settingsLearn to pair backing with different cloths and wanted bag forms. You will check firmness levels, flow, stick-on fit, and iron heat so your bags keep shape without bubbles, burns, or twists.
Reading interfacing weight and stiffnessTesting fusible adhesion on fabric scrapsHeat, steam, and pressing time settingsCombining layers for custom structurePreventing bubbling and print show-throughAdjusting structure for bag size and useLesson 4Where to apply interfacing by component: body panels, straps, pocket facings, flaps, top edgesKnow where and how to place backing in each bag part. You will map body parts, straps, pockets, covers, and openings, choosing which spots need form, which need flow, and how to skip thick, hard joins.
Interfacing full vs partial body panelsReinforcing strap and handle attachment zonesStabilizing pocket facings and openingsSupporting flaps, closures, and lidsStrengthening top edges and zipper areasLayering interfacing without excess bulkLesson 5Lining fabrics: lightweight vs stable linings (cotton lawn, quilting cotton, polyester lining) and pros/consCompare lining cloths by weight, steadiness, and touch to back the outer layer. Check cotton lawn, quilting cotton, and polyester linings, thinking of fray, easy stitching, cleaning, and bag form and use.
Roles of linings in different bag stylesCotton lawn for light, flexible liningsQuilting cotton for easy, stable liningsPolyester lining for slick interiorsManaging fraying and seam finishesColor, print, and opacity considerationsLesson 6Interfacing types and functions: woven fusible, non-woven fusible, sew-in canvas, hair canvas, foam stabilizer, sew-in cotton duckGet a view of main backing and steady types for bags. Compare woven and non-woven stick-ons, stitch-in canvas, hair canvas, foam, and cotton duck, and learn when each best holds shape, corners, and fittings.
Woven fusible for stable, natural drapeNon-woven fusible for quick stabilizationSew-in canvas and hair canvas usesFoam stabilizer for structured bagsSew-in cotton duck for heavy totesMixing stabilizers within one projectLesson 7Selecting closure hardware: zippers (nylon vs metal, separating vs closed-end), magnetic snaps, metal clasps, toggles, buttonsLook at closing fittings choices and how they shape safety, style, and ease. Compare zipper kinds, magnetic snaps, clasps, toggles, and buttons, and learn to pick sizes and spots for each bag plan.
Nylon vs metal zippers and ideal usesSeparating vs closed-end zipper selectionSizing and placing magnetic snaps safelyUsing clasps, toggles, and gate ringsButtons, loops, and decorative closuresReinforcing fabric under closuresLesson 8Durability and wear considerations: abrasion resistance, seam reinforcement methods, interfacing for stress distributionLearn how cloth strength, rub resistance, and join design affect bag life. Look at strength stitches, strain-spot backs, and backing plans that stop strap breaks, join splits, and twists over time.
Assessing abrasion zones on common bag stylesChoosing durable fabrics for high-wear areasReinforcing seams with stitching and tapeInterfacing straps, handles, and anchor pointsDistributing load at D-rings and hardwareTesting durability before full production
