Stitch Lab Pattern Friday – Perfect Zip Bags Part 1

Project Name: Elizabeth Hartman Perfect Zip Bags – Downloadable Pattern

Dimensions: The pattern offers 3 different bag designs in 2 sizes each.

Sewists: Kathy, Cindy, Tracy, Diana, Janis and Carrie

A pattern for beautiful zip bags with options galore set the creative wheels in motion at Pink Chalk Fabrics. Each sewist selected a bag, or more, of their choice and let their creativity flow. Multiple options for straps and embellishment give the sewist unlimited possibilities. Elizabeth Hartman does an excellent job with step by step photo and written instructions. They inspire and guide to create a simple project that’s full of personality.

Carrie’s favorite part was creating the patchwork. She discovered seam allowance accuracy was important to obtain the 6 1/2″ finished square required in the pattern. The bag is for a friend who loves mushrooms. The Perfect Zip Bag was a fun place to use her collection of mushroom fabric.

The patchwork is surrounded by Kokka Trefle Mushrooms Blue a Japanese import fabric that has more body than quilting cotton. A heavy twill interlining and quilting cotton interior complete the large Style C bag. Carrie did not use interfacing.

The back of the mushroom bag features a favorite print with mushrooms and hedgehogs, another treasure from Carrie’s stash.

Sweetwater Hometown has inspired Janis since its arrival. She found the patchwork Style A bag a perfect way to use the little bits and pieces she saved from earlier projects. She even pieced the lining! Iron on interfacing was used to assure the piecing was stable. Janis’ tip is to follow the directions carefully and not get ahead of yourself. A little back tracking and this darling bag is done.

In constructing her bags Kathy used both correctly sized zippers and ones she cut down to size. Both worked great. Keep in mind the 7” and 9” measurements refer to the distance between the zipper head and the metal piece on the end (not the tails). If cutting down the zipper measure from the zipper head to where you’ll cut it off. Zipper tabs were made from both canvas and quilting cotton.  Quilting cotton was easier to work because it was less bulky. This large Style A bag features a Glossy Nickel Swivel Latch from Nancy Zieman. Jessica Jones Outside Oslo Home Decor fabrics are part of the fun combination of prints.

Tracy found the instructions clearly written and easy to follow with the photos. She found the zipper application great for close stitching and seeing it as you sew. Elizabeth Hartman’s description of choosing interfacing and interlining is helpful. Always good to know the options!

Kathy’s clean and simple small Style C bag is perfect for sewing notions. Pop little scissors and a measuring tape inside and you’re set for stitching on the go!

Check-in tomorrow for Perfect Zip Bags Part 2 where we share tips on making bags with laminated cotton, wool suiting and pearl cotton embellishment. Happy Sewing!