Nancy Zieman’s Favorite Bag Sewing Techniques

NancyZieman RibbonTote MarketTote

Nancy Zieman’s Favorite Bag Sewing Techniques

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NancyZieman RibbonTote MarketTote

Handbags are more popular than ever! They are easy to sew and require far less fabric and time than quilts. They’re always the right size and fit perfectly—making them appealing to apparel sewists. I’ve been looking forward to sharing my Florida Bag design with you on today’s featured Sewing With Nancy Series. This is the first of two episodes of Nancy’s Favorite Handbag Sewing Techniques, that you can watch online anytime at NancyZieman.com.

Trace 'n Create Florida Bag Template by Nancy Zieman and Clover USA

What You’ll Learn in this Episode of Sewing With Nancy

Start with a Favorite Bag or Tote Pattern, or Template Set

During this two-part series, you’ll see five different handbag options all made using the Trace ‘n Create Bag Florida Tote Template.

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbag Sewing Techniques

It’s What’s Inside that Counts

The foundation for all bags and totes is what’s inside. Here’s how I give shape and support when sewing bags and totes.

  • Fuse interfacing to the back of the bag pieces. I like to use ShirTailor.
  • Cut another layer of interfacing, Peltex, and machine baste along the edges.
  • Finally add a layer of Create ‘n Shape, a bag and tote plastic stabilizer, to the base of the bag/tote. It stitches like a hot knife to butter, but must be held in place prior to sewing with double-sided basting tape.

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbag Sewing Techniques Use Ribbons for Classic Accents

A collection of Renaissance Ribbons that I designed inspired the first bag design. The ribbons make a statement as pocket accents and are also used to accent the designer handles.

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbags Sewing TechniquesI like to make visual decisions visually, a quote I’ll always remember from Sewing With Nancy guest, Lorraine Torrence. Some of the ribbons are reversible. Auditioning them on the fabric made the decision easy.

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbags Sewing Techniques

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbags Sewing Techniques

Apply Designer Straps

Checking out ready-made bags, I found straps that were 1″ wide at the base and sewn in the handle area. Nice! Learn how to use Create-a-Strap, D-Rings, and ribbon to copy brand-name designs.

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbags Sewing Techniques

Create a Market Tote

I mentioned earlier that sewing handbags is a frequently requested topic, specifically how to add a zipper to a pattern that doesn’t include one. The Market Tote addresses that need. It’s big, roomy, and most importantly, a secure bag with a recessed zipper closure.

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbags Sewing Techniques

  • You’ll learn how to custom-sew a recessed zipper to fit any tote or handbag.

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbags Sewing Techniques

 

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbags Sewing Techniques

  • Then, learn how to modify handles, making them arched!

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbags Sewing Techniques

Watch Nancy’s Favorite Handbag Sewing Techniques on Sewing With Nancy online.

Nancy Zieman's Favorite Handbag Sewing Techniques

For a chance to win a Florida Bag Template  from Clover, please leave a comment sharing, what style bag will you be making for spring?

Trace 'n Create Florida Bag Template by Nancy Zieman and Clover USA

Nancy Zieman's Giveaway Winner

The randomly selected winner of a Supersize 5-in-1 Sliding Gauge from Clover Needlecraft is Barb Abler.

Her comment was, “I have been a fan for several years. I started watching your program on PBS. I have VHS tapes, DVD’s, and go to all the Sewing Weekends in Beaver Dam to watch sewing experts in person. It is so nice with all the wonderful conveniences of technology that we have so many choices. If I can’t sleep or if I only have a few minutes or several hours I can choose how and when I want to watch. Thank you for always being the inspiration you are. Bye for now.”

Supersize 5-in-1 Sliding Gauge by Nancy Zieman

Bye for now,
Nancy Zieman The Blog

Content in this feed is © copyright 2017 by Nancy Zieman and may not be republished without written permission. You’re welcome to forward the email to a friend or colleague but it’s not okay to add the RSS feed automatically as content on a blog or other website.
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133 Comments

  • Merri Lynn
    February 23, 2017

    I think I would make the one with hidden zipper. It looks like a nice challenge to learn a new technique.

  • Marsha Dimond
    February 23, 2017

    I love all the bags. I would put a lovely floral embroidery on the front pocket.

  • Barb Tait
    February 23, 2017

    Nancy’s patterns have always been a great help to me as I create things for my friends and family. Every time Nancy comes out with a new template or pattern, “sewing life” just becomes easier. I am soooo looking forward to another sewing weekend.

  • KayZee
    February 23, 2017

    I’ve never sewn a purse, but I really like the Market Tote. I’d give that a try.

  • Carol P
    February 23, 2017

    I like the market tote – great for spring farmer market shopping!

  • Annette Canonica
    February 23, 2017

    I love the Florida tote! Perfect for taking shop hopping this summer (in Fl) where the row by row experience will be in full swing.

  • Shaela
    February 23, 2017

    I truley enjoy making totes and handbags. You can never have enough. I want to make another though with the hidden zipper

  • Diane Q
    February 23, 2017

    I love making bags and totes, especially to donate to various organizations in my community as a fundraiser raffle item. These designs would be a wonderful addition for this purpose.

  • Lillian K
    February 23, 2017

    I like the Florida bag and the market rite. Love that hidden zipper!!

  • Anne Dirks
    February 23, 2017

    I love them all. And probably would try making each of them. I’ve been looking for a pattern.

  • Crystal
    February 23, 2017

    I love the Sqaureish bag with the zipper in some beautiful pale yellows and greens or purples. Thanks, Nancy!

  • Avis Cooper
    February 23, 2017

    As with all your instructions, these are easy to follow and the finished product looks professional. I love making bags and this variation would be a great addition to patterns I already use. Thanks, Nancy.

  • Peg G.
    February 23, 2017

    The market tote would surely appeal to my sewing students as it does to me. That zipper is truly a masterpiece in engineering.

  • nancy lewis
    February 23, 2017

    Your bags are truly beautiful!! I would make the Florida tote. I love the design of it.

  • Linda Weinberger
    February 23, 2017

    I love the bag with the hidden zipper. I been looking for a pattern to sew a bag for my mah jongg set.
    Linda

  • Clovis
    February 23, 2017

    I enjoy making bags. Thanks for giving me a chance to win a prize. I like the designer handbag look.

  • Patti
    February 23, 2017

    Can anyone ever have too many bags or totes???? Never!! This looks like a great way to make many variations using one pattern. Thanks for the tips.

  • Julie Kill
    February 23, 2017

    I would like to make the Fern print handbag! I can use an all purpose pattern like this.
    Also the shopping tote with the hidden Zipper! This is one techinque I would like to master.

  • Judy brekhus
    February 23, 2017

    Just bought your this template, already had another one. They are wonderful. Now instead of buy lots of bag patterns in search of the right one I can use these templates to make my perfect bag and theninstructions and videos are great.

  • Ellen
    February 23, 2017

    Love the style of yellow bag with the longer handles, will be heading to my favorite fabric shop to find a spring fabric!

  • Erma W
    February 23, 2017

    Handbags are one of my favorite things to make. I could make so many more and make them so much easier with your templates.

  • Dawn
    February 23, 2017

    I love all the bags for summer, but I especially like the zipper on the top. It offers a lot of protection.

  • Jean
    February 23, 2017

    Love the bag with the hidden zipper-I definitely need to learn how to do this!

  • Roberta A.
    February 23, 2017

    I’ve just started making bags a few months ago. Have sewn two so far. This template would be a wonderful addition to my sewing tools.

  • christina
    February 23, 2017

    I would love to make the green and orange bag, so pretty!!!!

  • Joyce West
    February 23, 2017

    Learning to use the stabilizers and inserting the zipper would new techniques for me to master . Having the templates would be an extra bonus. Thank you for this opportunity .

  • Trudy Lindemann
    February 23, 2017

    I love the market tote, including the fabrics! They’re all so unique, I’m not sure I could choose only one! I love the idea of taking different elements from different patterns and adding my own personal touch to suit my needs and tastes!

  • Debbie Darlington
    February 23, 2017

    I’m taking a class this summer to sew two purses, one is “use every day” size and the other is a large totebag. Choosing fabrics seems to be MOST daunting, particularly for the smaller one I hope to use most. I’m looking forward to learning all the techniques for attaching zippers and hardware.
    Thank you for the give-a-way opportunity!

  • Gwen Cannino
    February 23, 2017

    I really like your Market tote design, and I especially like that it can be done with a zipped top for security. I would make mine out of a linen fabric and would enjoy shopping for the perfect trim. I have returned to sewing now that my children have grown, so my skills are rusty. Installing the zipper would be something that I need to learn (again!).

  • Noreen
    February 23, 2017

    I like the market tote. The fabrics are pretty and the design details really add eye appeal.

  • Patti
    February 23, 2017

    I would like to make the Market Tote

  • Deb
    February 23, 2017

    The Market Tote or any of the other bags with a zipper in the top. I prefer zippers so that I don’t loose my contents. lol

  • Shelia Ward
    February 23, 2017

    Love the large orange and green one. I would make this one to take to the beach during vacation. Would hold all kinds of fun stuff for me and my grand babies.

  • Susan Spiers
    February 23, 2017

    Love the rennaisance ribbon add tote-what a grand idea!-thank you, Susan

  • Traci Y
    February 23, 2017

    I like the green and white bag. I would like to make it using recycled jeans. Thanks Nancy

  • Marcy M Chandler
    February 23, 2017

    I LOVE the market tote!!!!! I would love to make it bigger for a carry all.

  • Karyn
    February 23, 2017

    I would definitely make the Market Tote for spring!

  • DebbieW
    February 23, 2017

    Hi Nancy, I would make the South Beach style tote, it’s similar to a bag I now have that works for me perfectly. Love the yellow, off-white floral with green trim that you chose.

  • Virginia
    February 23, 2017

    I would make a few of the market totes. My daughters and I bring our own bags into stores to avoid throwing out the plastic bags stores use and we shop farmer’s markets. I would attempt to make the inner part (lining) from a wipe clean fabric to avoid having to wash it often. The zipper would keep a wallet handy for quick transactions.

  • Ann
    February 23, 2017

    I would LOVE to try the fern print bag. It looks so lovely and I especially love its shape. I would also like to try the market tote with the hidden zipper; I think it would be a great way to carry my craft projects (cross-stitch) with me ‘on the go’. Thanks so much for the chance to win. ‘bye for now 🙂

  • Bonnye
    February 23, 2017

    I love handbags with zippers. I make them for friends and family. I would make the market bag. Thanks for the inspiration.

  • Rebecca Christie
    February 23, 2017

    I love all the bags.. . I think I would have to make all of the options but probably the one with the fern print would be my first choice. I have been watching your program on PBS since I first found it. In fact my kids and husband all know that 1/2 hour is sacred. Now I am training my grandchildren to understand that concept as well. LOL

  • Grace Niederlehner
    February 23, 2017

    I think I would like to try the market bag. Actually I want to make them all but would start with the market bag.

  • Melinda Meehan
    February 23, 2017

    I keep a folder of different handle methods and another for all different pockets..these templates would be perfect for switching them up! Endless possibilities!

  • Cindy Hoover
    February 23, 2017

    I love the bag with the vertical coral/green stripes – the shape of it and the two different carrying straps make it unique and functional. I have made a couple of bags with zippers, etc., and I love the option of picking your own fabrics and trim. Thanks, Nancy, for your great inspirational ideas!

  • linda copas
    February 23, 2017

    I have never made a bag. I just bought an Amy Butler bag pattern that I am going to make for spring. Now I can use Nancy’s techniques to complete the project.

  • Peggy V
    February 23, 2017

    I love the style of the fern tote. That would be my first bag!! Thank your for the opportunity to win this great pattern.

  • Pat
    February 23, 2017

    I want to make the market tote in a nice spring floral. I need the pretty spring flowers to perk me up after a dull, drab winter. Since I have never made a bag before I would love to win template to guide me through it. Thanks for the chance to win.

  • Cheryl Leabo
    February 23, 2017

    I’ll be making farmer’s market totes this spring.

  • Jan C
    February 23, 2017

    I like the classic 50’s look of the green fern bag. I think that’s the one I’ll start with. Something to coordinate with an Easter dress.

  • Linda Machado
    February 23, 2017

    Like most everyone else I’ve been a fan of Sewing With Nancy for years and even met you once with the dealer I worked for at the time at a sewing convention. If my husband ever decides to check the yearly Visa statement he would flip at all the purchases I’ve made over the years. I even have a dedicated drawer and shelf in my sewing room for all my Sewing With Nancy books and patterns! As for the bags shown I want to make both of them. Never can have to many bags right?

  • Delores Peterson
    February 23, 2017

    Would like to make the market tote to take with me to AZ. I have watched you for many years. Even went to your store many years ago. You have a great show.

  • Ruth L
    February 23, 2017

    Dear Nancy,
    Your bags are the best – big and roomy with lots of pockets, stylish and well constructed! I like a mid to large tote style bag with lots of pockets (so things don’t get lost) with room to throw in whatever! I’ve been a huge fan for many years and never miss your program. Thanks for all the ways you have inspired me to be more creative!
    Warm regards,
    Ruth L

  • sue
    February 23, 2017

    i will love making the florida bag and use it all year round

  • Linda Buttera
    February 23, 2017

    I love making bags and must make my first “Trace’nCreatebag”. When attending baby showers, I love to gift tote bags made using techniques from Nancy’s “Designer Handbags” and “Handbags 2 – Designer Knockoffs”. The moms love the bags and the quilts, sheets, and bibs hidden within! What isn’t to love with the bags’ embroidered applique corners, gorgeous appliqued strap holders, and embellished grommets, and Airborne Pockets. I’ve learned so much from Nancy, and I’d love to learn the techniques of TraceNCreate by making the South Beach Plus bag.

  • Ennis A
    February 23, 2017

    I love all. Would like to start with the Key West style and then the South Beach convertible! Thanks for more inspiration!!!

  • Kathryn E
    February 23, 2017

    I would love to make the green fern bag. I would lengthen the handles so I could carry it as a cross body bag. I love cross body bags because they are more secure and I don’t have to put them down when shopping. The green fern bag looks like a convenient style.

  • Renae Walters
    February 23, 2017

    I actually like them all and would like to make one of each in different colors.

  • Mary Esser
    February 23, 2017

    Hi Nancy, I love your bags ! The Florida one, I have not tried to make yet, but I love it because of the size. I know this would make great gifts for family members. I love your easy directions on all your bags.

  • Loree
    February 23, 2017

    I’ve made 2 bags recently. I love the challenge and precision required. So far I’ve only used scrap fabric from Sailrite, both of which didn’t take to fusible interfacing. I used sew-in interfacing which is okay but made the handles look funky. I do enjoy the process though. Anyway, thanks for the drawing.

  • Nell
    February 23, 2017

    Hello Nancy, I have made a few bags just figuring them out as I go along (making LOTS of mistakes!) I would really like to have proper instructions – it would save a lot of time. Your Florida bags all look beautiful. I really don’t know which I would make first – probably the easiest one, and then go from there. Thanks for all you do.

  • Barbara M. Johnson
    February 23, 2017

    I like both bags but I think I would make the striped one first. Love watching your programs both on TV and on the Internet. Thanks for all the helpful hints.

  • Catherine L
    February 23, 2017

    I’m looking for ideas for a friend’s upcoming birthday. Just love the striped Florida bag! Thanks, too, Nancy, for the directions for adding a zipper to any bag. I like to feel safe when out & about w/a bag. I’ve been a fan for more than 30 years, and am grateful for so many sewing tips I’ve learned from your shows/blog over the years.

  • Donna Rothacher
    February 23, 2017

    I would like to make a purse with pockets to make it easy to find items. Also want purse to zip shut or close in some way.

  • Virginia
    February 23, 2017

    I make leather handbags for a living and enjoy them immensely. I love the colour palette of the orange and green striped one but I like parts of both bags. Because I work for someone else I can only customize a bag if I am buying it. Just about every bag I own I have put my own stamp on it.

  • Christine Warner
    February 23, 2017

    I am new to sewing, so I enjoy all of your tutorials and tv shows. You do an excellent job at explaining every detail! I am looking forward to creating my own travel bag for our upcoming anniversary trip to Disney. It’s always fun to share our love of Mickey Mouse with other Disney fans! Thanks for the chance!

  • Linda Edwards
    February 23, 2017

    I think I would start with a Market Bag for me and each of my daughters. Something bright and pretty for spring.

  • Kathe
    February 23, 2017

    I like the zipper feature in the market tote. I’d like to learn that technique.

  • CHARLOTTE KEY
    February 23, 2017

    I like this Florida bag, especially the zipper closing technique.

  • beth d.
    February 23, 2017

    I have made 3 bags, one for spring and summer and one for fall and winter. I hope to make another bag. I have some trace and create template at home, but have not started on that one. I will watch your show. I always get hints and tips from your shows.

  • Deborah. Ervin
    February 23, 2017

    Love making bags. Have made many. Would like to try the Florida bag. Enjoy watching your show, many great ideas and pointers!!

  • Mary Ellen
    February 23, 2017

    I have learned so many great techniques from your shows over the years that have improved my sewing skills and saved me time. I am really excited to apply these tips and techniques to my next bag project. I love the Florida bag – it’s functional and attractive.

  • Janice Harski
    February 23, 2017

    I love all of the bags and would like to make them in different fabrics/colors. The one with the hidden zipper is a good technique to learn and to play with different fabrics/ribbons on the insert, etc.

  • Janice Harski
    February 23, 2017

    I like all of the bags and would try different fabrics/colors. The one with the hidden zipper is a good technique to learn and I would play with different fabrics/ribbons around the zipper, etc.

  • Angela
    February 23, 2017

    I discovered sewing with Nancy only recently, but it was a pleasant surprise. My way of sewing has improved a lot and is also increased my enjoyment. I love all the bags of Nancy Zieman, for the fantasy of the fabrics, for the beautiful design and the immaculate execution. I really admire Nancy Zieman. What is my favorite bag? All!
    Best regards,
    Angela from Novara (Italia)

  • Patricia
    February 23, 2017

    I like all things bags and totes. I have tried to make a few from patterns, the templates have to be an easier way. I would try the market tote first because of the zipper. I want to learn zippers for security. I like that you can make a bag with your choice of fabric and tweaks that stands out from all the others.

  • Sue
    February 23, 2017

    Just looking at and listening to your videos has helped me tremendously to change things up and try new ideas though I have been sewing for over 50 years. You keep things new and exciting. I would love to make shopping bags for sale to support the Alzheimer’s Association and would appreciate a Florida Bag pattern.

    Thank you.
    Sue

  • Susan Robbins
    February 23, 2017

    I love the bags with the curve at the top and pocket, any of the versions. I have several great pieces of fabric waiting to become bags

  • Melanie Eddy
    February 23, 2017

    I have made many purses but you always teach me something new! I am going to try the interfacings instead of the fusible fleece that I have been using. It is wonderful to be able to go to your website and order what I need because in my rural area supplies are hard to find.

  • Dorie Esquivel
    February 23, 2017

    I’m hoping to start a Charli bag by Lorali. I’m trying to arrive at a bag that doesn’t fit the kitchen sink, stays up on my shoulders and holds my essentials!

  • Judi M
    February 23, 2017

    Ahh thanks for the pattern, The zipper was the tricky part for me, very helpful.

  • Mary Brock
    February 23, 2017

    The market tote. I like the size but the recessed zipper is the best feature. Love being able to make in whatever materials, etc that I like. So many options!

  • Sharon Kirry
    February 23, 2017

    I think the Florida tote is great. I have some ribbons from Renaissance Ribbons that I’d like to use on one. Can’t wait to start!

  • Mary
    February 23, 2017

    I am planning to make a large tote with lots of pockets and a zip closure in the top. Love these templates and super easy instructions!

  • Sonia
    February 23, 2017

    Want to make a tote with a recessed zipper for sure.

  • Ina
    February 23, 2017

    I love making my handbags. Made one last year with a spring flower print. Would like to make one this year that would be good through the year — maybe some stripes. Love your striped bags.

  • Sandie G
    February 23, 2017

    I’ve made some bags but had no pattern. Would love to make the Florida bag with the hidden zipper. Love to watch Sewing with Nancy, always get new ideas & inspiration. Thanks

  • Mary C
    February 23, 2017

    I have been watching you forever and learn something every time. Since I’m trying to perfect zippers in bags right now I would probably make the one with the zipper. Thank you for your wonderful work and being you.

  • Simone P
    February 23, 2017

    As my daughter likes to say, LOVE LOVE LOVE this! I’d like to do a bag with the top zipper–I always worry about losing important things in an open bag.

  • Nancy Taylor
    February 23, 2017

    I have the Hobo Trace & Create Bag and Rectangles & Squares from your company and always get compliments when I carry them. I love making bags. It doesn’t matter what kind. I would like to have the Florida tote to fill out my “stash”.
    Thank you.
    Nancy Taylor.

  • Louise Johnson
    February 23, 2017

    I have made the saddlebags in several sizes and using table runners and tapestry fabrics. Every time I use them, I get compliments. I also have made the weekender and the clutch from squares and rectangles. The clutch is the perfect size for my IPad Mini. Mary Mulari’s travel trays keep my husband’s and my little stuff in control on hotel nightstands. Many of these things match: fun! Maybe I will make another weekender, tote, or jump into my favorite type of bag: a Hobo.

  • Mary Green
    February 23, 2017

    I was fascinated to see you make that sunken zipper panel and I would love to make the market tote to give it a go for myself. I’ve watched you for 20 years when we moved to Fort Worth and I saw you on PBS KERA here. I’ve learned so much from you, Nancy, Thank you and God bless…

  • Phyliss Booe
    February 23, 2017

    I love the shape of the green bag. It looks like a great bag. Zippers are really great to have in any bag. I just love to make all kinds of purses.

  • Peggy Sego
    February 23, 2017

    The Florida bag with the zipper is my new favorite. You make sewing so easy and fun. I watch you every Saturday on PBS and enjo every show. Thank you.

  • Pat O.
    February 23, 2017

    I love making your bags as gifts and for myself. Your “Florida” bag template would be a great addition to my pattern collection. I would love to make one.

  • Donna Foltz
    February 23, 2017

    I just bought some MLB fabric with the idea of making a purse. The Key West bag looks like it would be perfect.

  • Susan T
    February 23, 2017

    This Spring I will be making a bag using your embroidery DVD Knock Off Handbags. The Florida Bag template would be a great addition to my sewing library. Thanks for showing beautiful fabric combinations to inspire my own purse making.

  • Jan Smith
    February 23, 2017

    I usually work in computer in software for my machines and embroidery projects. I haven’t made very many tote bags so I went online to see what information I could find for putting a zipper in the top of my tote bag. I am just creating a basic tote bag with straps and lining. In viewing YouTube videos for adding the zipper, I think I need to put a recessed zipper in the top and the method you use for the Florida tote bag seems the best way to go. I am not sure how to make my own template, but I think I can use the bottom of the bag with the corners cut out and duplicate that for the top. I appreciate your expertise and video. Thank you.

  • Edna Marks
    February 23, 2017

    Think I would make the key west bag,

  • Linda
    February 23, 2017

    AMarket bag always comes in handy.

  • Margaret Williams
    February 23, 2017

    I would make the market bag, I love all the bags pictured with the pattern.

  • A States
    February 23, 2017

    I Like the South Beach Convertible style. I really like making purses and totes, so this pattern would be a great addition.

  • Gail Beam
    February 24, 2017

    Your bags are awesome and I love any bag with zippers, as I tend to carry everything but the kitchen sink in any purse or bag that I use. All of your bags are fantastic, but if I can only choose one, I will go with the Florida tote. Thanks for another great video!

  • Michelle Hall
    February 24, 2017

    would love to try the Florida tote with zipper

  • Jennifer Reinke
    February 24, 2017

    What Inspiration! Love all these bags, but the one I keep coming back to is the Market Tote. And I think I have just the right fabric in my “stash” —

  • Joan Davidson
    February 24, 2017

    You make bag making so EASY. I love to make bags and I use your templates frequently. I have watched your shows since I was a “youngin” -it has been many years and I have learned SEW much from you, your books, patterns and shows.

  • DIANA MILLER
    February 24, 2017

    The market tote is the one for me. I appreciate the instructions on Seewng with Nancy segments on these beautiful bags. I have always been scared…yes scared to try anything involving interfacing and using iron on stàbilizers…..years ago I tried and I only created bubbles on my fabric. Nancy has made it so easy, both with the templates and videos. Thank you for giving me the confidence to try again. Great assembly instructions on the videos.

  • Linda
    February 24, 2017

    I am a “bag sewing addict” and I love the style of the Florida bag. I find sewing bags is a great way to use up stash and make great gifts at the same time. I like to “gift” myself too!

  • Maria R
    February 24, 2017

    What great totes. I like the market tote. They are all great. Keeping my fingers crossed

  • Michele Kolodij
    February 24, 2017

    I am a huge fan of your handbags. My next planned bag will be the Florida Tote bag with zippered top. I love how well you supply directions as well as the necessary notions to complete a professional looking project. I think the Florida bag will be a nice challenge for me and a welcome new Spring bag. Thank you.

  • Ann
    February 24, 2017

    All of the bags are beautiful, but I think the first bag for me is the Market Tote!

  • Patricia Hersl
    February 24, 2017

    I really hadn’t planned on a new spring bag but now you have me thinking. Can I tell you later?

  • Diane S.
    February 24, 2017

    I think I will be making the Market Bag first. I want to learn how to insert the zipper closure. I also need more market bags as I live in California where the new law requires stores to charge for grocery bags.

  • Kati Falk
    February 24, 2017

    I am going to make a handbag for a friend of mine in Alaska who is a Green Bay Packers fan – I have the material and now I would love to have your template for the pattern. I absolutely love your program – you are always so detailed on the how to side of things – a great teacher and always sharing with the world. I adore ordering things from you because you are a give back person.

  • Anne Z.
    February 24, 2017

    I would love to learn the recessed zipper technique.

    Thanks for all the inspirtaion.

  • BevM
    February 24, 2017

    Since I am short, I prefer small to medium bags. Large bags are the wrong proportion for me.

  • Peg Sullivan
    February 24, 2017

    I make lots of bags. I even paid for some of my college years sewing and selling totes. But Nancy you come up with so many ideas and tips, I always learn somethng. Thanks for your great newsletter.
    An avid fan

  • Carol
    February 24, 2017

    I love the Florida bag for summer. It’s perfect for all the events that I attend and casual enough for everyday. I can’t wait to follow your easy directions and choose fabric and embellishments

  • Nancy Southard
    February 24, 2017

    I think I would want to make the market tote first, but I also want to learn the recessed zipper because I could use it so many different ways.

  • Donna W
    February 25, 2017

    Love to make bags. I think a new “Florida” bag would be in order.

  • barbara J
    February 25, 2017

    My girlfriend and I had a recent sew in weekend and made what was listed as a tote which became a duffle bag. Turned out great, but oh the size and a little intimidating for my friend’s first “purse”. This would be much easier for her to tackle.

  • PamB
    February 25, 2017

    I like the market tote with the recessed zipper opening. I’d probably add a cross body option for the handle as that is what I prefer now versus handles. Thanks!

  • Dina Lee
    February 25, 2017

    I want the market tote bag to learn about the zipper, but the Florida bag will be next….love your patterns and info….thanks

  • Gayle Bryant
    February 26, 2017

    I love all these tips. I have lots of vintage ribbons crying out for something special. Am torn between the market and Florida bags but the Florida bag speaks to me more. Am looking forward to more bags this year!

  • Karen R
    February 26, 2017

    Love your easy lessons. Would love to make the bag.

  • Debbie
    February 26, 2017

    I made the Valentino Bag kit from Nancy’s Notion’s. Reversed the colors and added Peacock embroidery on the band.

  • Helen Jaroslawski
    February 26, 2017

    Love your handbag design! I plan to make one like it for my next trip. Thanks for the nifty zipper tutorial.

  • Becky Hournbuckle
    February 26, 2017

    I like the bag that uses ribbons for accents. What a great way to use beautiful ribbon that I’ve not found the right use for!

  • deb w
    February 27, 2017

    I have been a follower of yours since way back when – I think the first book I bought was 10-20-30 minutes to sew which was a great help in my working years! now I watch all your shows on PBS, and must say “thanks” many times over for your tips and inspiration!

  • Doreen Linehan
    February 27, 2017

    I’d like to make the zippered market tote. Hopefully I would then use it if I made something pretty. I get so annoyed with myself when I forget to bring the reusable bags into the store.

  • Cyndy Lacey
    February 28, 2017

    I love this tote pattern. I recently bought the hobo bag templates and they are amazing.I would love to make the open market tote. I love the depth and design.

  • Cyndy from The Funny Farm
    March 6, 2017

    A few years ago I made nearly 20 of the Hobo Tote as part of a fundraiser for victims of Typhoon Haiyan. I got really good at making them to say the least. 🙂 Last year I made another version using donated upholstery weight fabric and custom painted (by me) Kraftex which was donated to my guild’s auction for a fund raiser. That version was heavily modified as I included a zippered top enclosure and pintucked the upholstery fabric. I even used piping in lieu of narrow strips between the top and bottom fabric, as I’d done on many of the 20 I’d made before. It’s a really nice look. That bag was such a hit at the auction, I was just asked to make another bag for this year. It will be a barrel style purse with some imported Yoko Saito fabric outside and some repurposed sari silk purchased this weekend at Sew Expo (in Puyallup) from a woman raising funds to keep her efforts going with working with survivors of the sex traffic trade in Nepal. Will be a very meaningful bag for me!

  • Cheryl Feyen
    March 7, 2017

    I’ve been using several patterns that I have modified using many of the techniques on your show. I watch on PBS as well as on utube. I have been sewing for over 50 years and am still learning great tips and new techniques from your shows. Thanks.

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