Book Review - Sew Easy Bags

Linda Lee’s new Sew Easy: Bags published by Sixth&Spring Books is actually a multi-project kit containing project cards and sewing booklet - mostly geared toward the novice sewer looking to try out sewing skills for oh-so-handy handbag sewing, yet containing ever so practical no-pattern-to-buy ideas for the long-time sewing enthusiast. The easy to read booklet in the project kit has info on sewing basics and descriptions of what sewing tools to have at hand that seemingly makes handbag assembly a breeze.

Sew Easy: Bags has 12 charming handbag pattern instructions printed on sturdy, colorful project cards complete with easy-to-follow directions and colorful photos. Take the handy project card to the fabric store with you to pick out the best fabric and notions you have in mind to make a bag sure to delight anyone.

The delightful handbag styles are easy to sew: a casual every day flat shopper, one-pattern-piece bucket style, perfect backpack style for hiking or strolling, drawstring pouch, handy hobo, mini tote, fun print satchel, sturdy oversized working tote, drawstring linen or laundry sack style, dainty wrist bag, a functional up-to-minute, fashionista-passing scrutiny big-buckle bag, and even a dainty wristlet. All are fun functional styles, great for work or school, grocery shopping, casual walking, or for on-the-town evening events.

Since fabric choice is what will make your bag unique - choose felled wool, real or faux suede, colorful prints either for a vintage or contemporary look, twills, brocades, tweeds, quilted cotton calico, any textiles really that will be appropriate for the type of handbag use. Choose luxe silky fabrics or fun cotton-blend prints for lining. Experiment with adapting the patterns in smaller or larger sizes. Add high quality glass beads, semi-precious stones, crystals, decorative lace and ribbon accents or embroidered designs for embellishments. Even unusual handles and clasps can make your handbags stand out in a crowd to be admired as truly unique works of fabric art.

You can never have too many handbags. Constructing unique beautiful handbags for you and or for gift giving will surely gratify the creative urge of any sewing enthusiast. Sew Easy: Bags can provide inspiration as well as how-tos. Who knows, you may become so adept at making distinctive bags, you might even turn such sewing skills into a home sewing business!

Happy sewing.

Editor Recommend Book

Content copyright © 2008 by Cheryl Ellex. All rights reserved.
This content was written by Cheryl Ellex. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission. Contact Cheryl Ellex for details.