It's done!
Sewing machine problems notwithstanding, the bag is done. I can relax now and go to Hay with my new bag on my arm.
In the end I used a small amount of boning between the handles, which keeps the main opening in shape – something that bugs me about bags sometimes. But I didn’t use a bag bottom in the end, partly because I didn’t have one long enough! If it all comes apart I’ll have learnt a good lesson.
The topstitching isn’t really as neat as I would have liked, and that’s possibly down to not having too much time and praying that the machine would make it.
And here is the interior, with the slip pocket for my mobile phone (I have no idea why – I never hear it ring most of the time and the rest of the time it has no battery). I’ve also attached a clip, because I think they’re so useful. Now if only I had enough time to make the little coin purse I want to attach to it…
Let's Imagine
...that the bag is finished, and that my sewing machine isn’t doing really weird things like missing out seven stitches in a row and eating its own thread.
So a number of things:
- Where to attach the boning? I’m currently leaning towards only the section between the handles to keep some movement in the sides, especially since I’m going to be using a bottom. Any other suggestions welcome.
- I think I’d rather attach the tabs inbetween the lining and exterior rather than sew them on after the thing is together. Make tabs now in other words.
- I may need to get my sewing machine serviced PDQ – anyone know where I can get that done in London? South London preferably…
- It’s perfectly okay to order pizza for supper, isn’t it?
Exterior completed
So, now I have more of an idea of the shape and finished size. I’m going to have to think about whether I use the boning or a bag bottom, or just let it flop.
Construction
Main panels attached to the bag bottom.
Trouble in John Lewis
Handles finally attached.
But John Lewis was rubbish – almost no interfacing by the roll, so I ended up with a tiny packet, and not a single reel of 502, so I had to make do with 501, which is not the colour of any mushroom I’ve ever eaten but that’s what it’s called. If I’d had time I would have gone across to M&W but I didn’t. Perhaps next time I’ll try there first.
Shopping List
- One reel of Sylko 502 Vanilla cotton
- Lightweight fusible interfacing
I just want to interface the lining. It’s some calico from my stash and it’s just too lightweight in itself without a bit of support (because it will have to carry books around after all). And my interfacing bag is full of heavy stuff anyway, so it will be good to have the choice.
I absolutely love having supplies at home so I can make whatever I like when the mood takes me. Don’t you? That’s why I’m the kind of girl who buys 96 buttons from ebay. I’m thinking of adding one of those buttons to the tab as well, because, well – pretty!
No shopping for me today though – that has to wait until tomorrow. Must read and write today, for dissertation synopsis waits for no one.
Empty Reels
So, lining sewn to outer fabric, one handle attached on one side. Dead bobbin. Refill half of bobbin and the reel runs out completely.
The Madison Bag Again
Handles sewn, pocket for the lining sewn up, fabric strip with clip sewn, heavy sew in pinned to exterior fabric.
