Lesson 1Threads, needles, and reinforcement supplies: thread weight, topstitch thread, needle sizes for domestic machines, rivets, bartacks, webbingLearn how threads, needles, and reinforcements team up for strong joins. Choose thread weights, topstitching threads, needle sizes, rivets, bartacks, and webbing that work well with home machines and bag weights in everyday sewing.
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 bag making and how their weight, weave, and fibres affect form and wear. Learn when to pick canvas, denim, twill, upholstery cloth, or leather substitutes for style and performance in Namibian conditions.
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 interfacings with fabrics and bag forms. You will check stiffness, drape, fusible fit, and iron temperatures so bags keep shape without bubbles, burns, or twists during sewing.
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 interfacings in bag parts. You will map body panels, straps, pockets, flaps, and openings, choosing areas for support, drape, and avoiding thick, stiff seams in your work.
Interfacing full vs partial body panelsReinforcing strap and handle attachment zonesStabilising 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, stability, and feel to back the outer layer. Check cotton lawn, quilting cotton, and polyester linings for fraying, sewing ease, cleaning, and impact on 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 finishesColour, 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 interfacings 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 stabilisationSew-in canvas and hair canvas usesFoam stabiliser for structured bagsSew-in cotton duck for heavy totesMixing stabilisers within one projectLesson 7Selecting closure hardware: zippers (nylon vs metal, separating vs closed-end), magnetic snaps, metal clasps, toggles, buttonsLook at closure fittings and how they affect safety, style, and ease. Compare zipper types, magnetic snaps, clasps, toggles, and buttons, choosing sizes and spots for each bag design in practical sewing.
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 fabric strength, rub resistance, and seam design impact bag life. Explore strong stitches, stress supports, and interfacing plans to stop strap breaks, seam rips, and shape loss 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
