How to Sew an Exclusive Bright Lined Summer Bag

Step 1

Some people sew cotton dresses, but I sew a bag. 😉 A bright, dressy summer bag!

Step 2

To sew this beauty, you need:

- sturdy fabric for the outer pieces;
- lightweight lining fabric;
- round cord for the handle;
- fusible interfacing;
- a magnetic clasp;
- sewing supplies.

Instructions

Sew the strips together, alternating them.

Step 3

Pin the pieces together, covering the narrow inserts.

Step 4

Reinforce with fusible interfacing. Secure the pleats at the center.

Step 5

Fold the edge pleats outward and stitch along the edges and centerline.

Step 6

Make another panel like this and sew the two together. Stitch the seams at the bottom.

Step 7

Reinforce the lining with fusible interfacing. Sew a pocket onto it.

Step 8

For the handle, cut a long strip. Make two opposing folds, press them, and stitch along the edges. Add a strip of fusible interfacing and press. Insert the cord in the center. Hand-sew the edges with blind stitches.

Step 9

Cover the top raw edges of the bag with a decorative facing. Cut strips to the required width and length. Sew them to the edges with their right sides against the wrong side of the lining. Stitch the ends of the two strips together. Turn the strips to the right side around the edges. Turn the facing edges inward and stitch.

Install the clasp.
Sew on the handles.
Decorate with a bow and a brooch.