Skillz: Bag Construction (Part 1)

Admittedly, I've been terrible about following through on my first goal of the new year:  to "blog more regularly."  On the other hand, I've managed to challenge myself by learning a new skill (which is goal number four!).  More than one new skill, really. I both furthered my pattern making skills and learned a whole lot about bag construction (including the effects of different types of interfacing, how to sew in a neat and tidy zipper [stay tuned for installment part 2], and more).  My first project was to create a pattern for (and then construct) a messenger bag for a child.

The idea came from a sketch I drew over a year ago, and then found while looking back through my sketchbook.  I started by looking at all the messenger bags in our house, as well as at patterns of bags in my ever-growing sewing book collection (I clearly have an addiction!).  Then I made two muslins:  one with only a front and back panel and a gusseted bottom; the other with a separate bottom/side panel to connect the front and back.  I much preferred the second construction.  I also used the same muslin technique to try out different ways of constructing a pocket that would best hold a water bottle (see the final result below).

Next, I researched different types of interfacings (or stabilizer) and then tested several types on fabric scraps before settling on a woven interfacing for the main denim fabric of the bag and a light-weight non-woven for the cotton lining.  Before this project, standing in front of the bolts of interfacings at a fabric store made my head spin, and I certainly had no idea there was such a thing as woven interfacing.  Now, it's still a bit overwhelming, but not quite as much of a mystery.

So, as you may by now have gathered, the bag features a large appliqued letter which just happens (hee-hee) to be the first initial of my son's name.  Here he is showing off his new bag!  Coming later this week:  more bags, this time with zippers!