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One Bag, Three Ways | BAG WEEK | Gini Scanlan Variation

Quick Links: What you'll need Project steps

A great option for beginner bag makers, see Gini's special variations on this quick & easy sewing pattern which can be adapted to make three different bags!

Last summer I released a fabulous bag pattern which could be adapted into three different styles! Now you have the pleasure of seeing two additional variations made by designer Gini Scanlan!

Here Gini has made up bags 1 and 3, if you’d like to find how to make bag 2 (which is quilted and features inside pockets and a flap closure) visit this page. Bag 1 is a simple lined bag with a magnetic snap closure, and bag 3 has a smart contrast trim and closes with a zip panel. Bag 3 is the most complicated, so if you need further guidance refer to the video.

Gini’s first bag has been made using a lovely patchwork fabric, featuring some eye-catching blues, pinks and purples. This is fun and would be great when paired with a plainer outfit, as you could use the bag to inject a bit of colour into your overall look!

Whereas Gini’s second bag utilizes this beautiful and more traditional floral fabric which is contrasted by this calming duck egg blue canvas. I’d imagine this bag would be a gorgeous accessory to use in the summer, perhaps when out for dinner!

The steps below show how to make bags 1 and 3, and are taken from the original project.

Some words from Gini

‘I really enjoyed making this bag. The three-in-one pattern was very easy to follow and the step-by-step photos made each stage of the construction really clear. I’m absolutely delighted with the result, and I’ll definitely be making more for gifts in the future.’

Techniques used

1. Magnetic clasps
2. Using printed pattern
3. How to make bag straps
4. Sewing with perfect tension

Bag 1 includes a magnetic clasp on the inside of the bag in order to close it.

This project also includes templates to print and use. Remember to initially print the first page of the pattern and measure the test square to ensure everything is to scale. For guidance on printing, turn to the FAQs.

Do you struggle with getting your tension right? If so, refer to my technique to get this perfected.

Expert help

Magnetic clasps annoyingly don’t come with instructions on how to fit them. Follow these tips to add the clasps so they don't pull and ruin your bag.

• When making your incisions into your fabric to fit the clasps, don’t cut them too big. You want the holders of the clasps to be stabilized snugly.
• I sandwich a piece of scrap fabric in between when attaching the clasp to its backing plate. This prevents the clasp from pulling.

Also keep in mind...

• Use a separate pair of scissors for cutting out your printed patterns – paper will blunt your fabric scissors!
• If you’re new to bag-making, try using a patterned cotton fabric for your outer fabric as you’ll find it more forgiving than a plain – the odd wobbly stitch is easily disguised in the print!
• If using faux leather, you may need a non-stick presser foot to help the fabric glide under the foot smoothly.

Adding alternative embellishments

Why not add some embroidered details? I have some tips on how to complete stem and lazy daisy stitching as well as French knots.

Add keyrings for a little bit of extra personalization. If you’d like to upcycle some old denim, why not make the Denim Feather Keyring?

If you want to make adjustable bag straps with sliders, rings or lobster clasps, turn to my methods of making bag straps.

Difficulty

This project is ranked as moderate, with bag 3 being the most complex. If you’re a beginner when it comes to bag making, I’d recommend trying bag 1 first before attempting the other design with the zipped panel. Another more beginner-friendly project would be the Large Portable Craft Bag.

Note: Use a ¼in (5mm) seam allowance.

Finished size (including handles): 13 x 17 x 4½in (33 x 43 x 11.5cm)

If you'd like to chat with other members about making one of the bags, remember to go to the forum or the Half Yard Sewing Club Facebook page.

For further bag inspo, you can also check out the Half Yard Sewing Club Pinterest.

MEMBERS ONLY: To gain full access to the Half Yard Club projects please login or sign up

You will need:

Equipment

• Sewing machine with optional zip foot and a non-stick foot if using faux leather 
• Fabric glue pen 
• Erasable marking pen for bag 3: I used a heat-erasable pen 
• Repositionable basting spray for bag 3: I used 505 
• Optional: glue stick if using faux leather for bag 3 
• Optional: spray starch if using cotton fabric – I use Best Press 

Materials

• 44 x 14in (112 x 35.5cm) of outer fabric for the sides and base  
• 36 x 4½in (91.5 x 11.5cm) of fabric for the handles, or 36in (91.5cm) of 1¼in (3cm) wide webbing – 1in (2.5cm) wide webbing can also be used but you will need to increase the seam allowance at the top of the bag slightly to allow a snug fit against the handles, as explained in the steps 
• 44 x 14in (112 x 35.5cm) of lining fabric 
• 44 x 9in (112 x 23cm) of fabric for the contrast trim of bag 3 
• 11 x 10in (28 x 25.5cm) of fabric for the zip panel of bag 3 
• 36 x 17in (91.5 x 43cm) of fusible fleece  
• 16in (40in) zip for the zip panel of bag 3  

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