Lesson 1Threads, needles, and reinforcement supplies: thread weight, topstitch thread, needle sizes for domestic machines, rivets, bartacks, webbingSee how threads, needles, and reinforcements team up for strong seams. Learn to pick thread weights, topstitch thread, needle sizes, rivets, bartacks, and webbing for home machines and bag loads.
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 everyday outer fabrics for bags and how their weight, weave, and fibres affect shape and wear. Learn when to go for canvas, denim, twill, upholstery fabric, or leather-like options 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 interfacing with fabrics and bag shapes. You'll check stiffness, drape, fusible fit, and iron temps so bags hold form without bubbling, burning, or twisting.
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 to put interfacing in each bag part. You'll map body panels, straps, pockets, flaps, and openings, choosing where to add shape, where to keep soft, and avoid thick stiff seams.
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 fabrics by weight, steadiness, and feel to back the outer layer. Check cotton lawn, quilting cotton, and polyester linings for fraying, sewing ease, cleaning, and bag shape 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 duckOverview of main interfacing and stabilisers for bags. Compare woven and non-woven fusibles, sew-in canvas, hair canvas, foam, and cotton duck, and 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, buttonsCheck closure hardware options and how they affect safety, style, and use. Compare zipper types, magnetic snaps, clasps, toggles, and buttons, and pick sizes and spots for each bag design.
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 distributionSee how fabric strength, rub resistance, and seam design affect bag life. Check reinforcement stitches, stress supports, and interfacing plans to stop strap breaks, seam rips, and warping 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
