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It's been a busy blogging week celebrating my favorite accessory, and I thought I would wrap it up with another tutorial. These bags made
me so happy, I had to share the pattern. These are great, for business or pleasure. They are a bit more work than your average project (at
least for me), so allow yourself about 3-4 hours to cut and complete. I think they are worth the effort!

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There are 2 sizes. The "regular" messenger finishes up around 15" wide by 10" high and is 3" deep. Perfect for binders, clipboards or laptops:

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When I have time.....

The "mini-messenger" is more purse-sized, measuring 9" wide, but is still 10" tall and 3" deep:

Orange and Italia


Bag Lady Week- Messenger Bag
Tutorial
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Mini-Messenger for Moi
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Bag
Bag Lady Week- Bias Tote Bag
Tutorial
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Messenger
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Pillowcase dress tutorial- Style
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Firsts
Riding the Wave
Worms!
Pillowcase dress tutorial- Style
1: "The Classic"
The Mckinley Quilt Pattern
How do you baste your quilts?

You will need:


For the "Regular Messenger":
2/3 yard outer fabric- such as wool, wool blends, suiting, canvas
2/3 yard of lining fabric- cotton quilting weight
2/3 yard of interfacing- I used fleece sew-in for a well padded heavier bag

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For the "Mini-Messenger":


1/2 yard each of above

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May (5)

For boththread color of choice


2 buttons of choice
hardware for adjustable shoulder strap- 1 slider and 2 rings as shown (size 39mm/1.5"):
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tutorial (26)

Cutting your pieces


"Regular Messenger":
Outer fabric pieces:
front and back panels- 15.5" by 10.5" (cut 2)
flap: 15.5" by 10" (cut 1)
back pockets: 15.5" by 9.5"
sides and bottom: 15.5" by 3.5" (cut 1 for back) and 10.5" by 3.5" (cut 2 for sides)
loops for rings : 3" by 2.5" (cut 2)
Lining fabric pieces:
front and back panels- 15.5" by 10.5" (cut 2)
flap: 15.5" by 10" (cut 1)
inner pockets: 15.5" by 6.5"
sides and bottom: 15.5" by 3.5" (cut 1 for back) and 10.5" by 3.5" (cut 2 for sides)
loops for rings : 3" by 2.5" (cut 2)
loops for buttons: 5" by 1.5" (cut 2)
Note- extend length of button loops if you are using very large buttons
Interfacing:
front and back panels- 15.5" by 10.5" (cut 2)
flap: 15.5" by 10" (cut 1)
sides and bottom: 15.5" by 3.5" (cut 1 for back) and 10.5" by 3.5" (cut 2 for sides)
Shoulder strap:
To make from fabric- cut 1 piece each of outer fabric and lining fabric
45" (or WOF) by 2.5"
OR
use 1-1/4" webbing (length 45")
OR
use a recycled belt, cut about 12" from where the strap attaches to the buckle
OR
get creative :-)
"Mini-Messenger":
Cut same pieces as above, but change all measurements that are 15.5" to 9.5"

Let's sew!
Note- all seams are sewn at 1/4", unless stated otherwise.
Additional note- please tolerate my sucky photos. I do most of my crafting in the wee hours of the night when my kids are in bed (no
more nap times at my house!) so there is no natural light to be found. These are kind of washed out, but hopefully clear enough!
One Last thing- the following photos show the assembly of the mini messenger. Same rules apply for the big guy, just watch during the
flap step that you put your button hoops on the long side of the flap fabric (not the short side).

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1. Preparing the flap of the bag:


Take 2 button loop pieces. Fold over one long end 1/4". Press.

Now roll it up, rolling 3 times, from the other end, until it looks like this:

Sew along the edge to close. Set aside.

Grab flap piece of lining fabric and set it right side up. On top, put the outer fabric, right side down. Put your interfacing on top.

Make a loop with the button loop pieces you just made, and insert them into the sandwich, loop inward, about 4" in from the outer corner
(1.5" in on the mini). Depending on the size of button you are using, allow more or less length for the loop- I think it looks best if the loop is
snug on the button. Pin loops in place. If you are adding a label to the flap as I have done, insert it as well, ensuring that the words are
facing towards the outer fabric and not the lining.

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Sew along the 2 side and bottom ends.

Clip corners, trim excess, and invert flap piece. Push out corners, and press. Do some top stitching to snaz it up. Set aside.

2. Preparing the lining:


Take pocket piece and fold over bottom 1/4'. Press. Fold over top length 1/4", press, then fold again 1/2" and press.

Sew along top only. I did 2 lines, one close to the folded edge and one 1/4' down.

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Add a label if you would like (if doing the mini like shown here, add the label to the lining body, not the pocket).
Pin the pocket piece to the lining back piece, about 4" from the top.
Sew along bottom edge now to close pocket, close to the fold.

Sew vertical lines (I did double lines at 1/4" apart again, simply for style) to separate into pockets of the sizes you would like. In the regular
messenger, I used 2 sets of lines equally spaced to make 3 pockets. For the mini, I divided it into 2 pockets, then added my label at this
point, just above the pockets. Take the bottom piece of lining, place with right sides facing, and sew along raw edges.

Flip bottom piece aside, align 2 side pieces with right sides facing, sew.

Align corners. Sew.

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Repeat to add front piece of lining. LEAVE A 6" SEGMENT OF THE BOTTOM OPEN IN THE LINING AS SHOWN. You will need this hole to invert
your bag as one of the final steps. Set your lining aside.

3. Preparing the outer body:


Take pocket piece and fold over top 1/4", press, then fold 1/2" and press again (note- with some of the heavier wools, this may not press
well). Stitch along fold, and again at 1/4".

Align on back body piece such that bottoms are in line. Pin in place. If doing regular messenger, mark center and stitch to make 2 pockets,
and stitch in place. (Note- the mini is shown here with 2 pockets, but I found them too narrow to stick your hand down...for the mini, one
pocket works best, so skip this step!).

Assemble the outer bag much like you did the lining, only include the layer of interfacing on the wrong side of your outer fabric. Also, do
not leave a hole- close all seams. Be aware that sewing through 2 layers of wool and 2 layers of interfacing is one mighty thick sandwich!!

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Invert your outer bag.

4. Putting it all together


Make the loops for your shoulder strap rings by aligning pieces, right sides facing, and sewing along long sides.

Invert, press, and top stitch along long sides. Set aside.

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Now it is time to attach the flap to the outer bag. Align prepared flap with outer side facing the back (pocketed) side of the outer bag, raw
edges aligned. Pin, then sew. (Note- if you want to have the external pockets on the front under the flap, instead of on the back, then pin
flap on opposite side. To-may-to, to-mat-o. You choose.)

Thread rings over loops:

Center loops (with rings inside) to sides of bag, on outside of bag with raw edges aligned. Pin and sew.

Grab your lining and invert. Slip over outer bag so that right sides are facing and the lining pocket is on the same side as the flap. Tuck flap
and ring loops inside lining:

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Sew all around top to close:

Remember that hole you left in the lining? Stick your hand through it and yank to invert this puppy!

Tuck the open edges of the lining in on itself and sew it closed.

Tuck all the lining nicely into the outer bag and press the seams. Top stitch around the top to help it stay nice and flat.

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Line up your button loops and hand sew on your buttons To finish the main body of the bag. You are almost done! Let's put on a strap.
5. Adding an adjustable shoulder strap:
Your strap can be made of the bag fabric, a recycled belt, or made of webbing. It you are making it from fabric, align pieces so right sides
are facing, and stitch along length on both sides, leaving ends open. Invert the tube by attaching a safety pin to the lining fabric on one
end, and snaking the pin through to the opposite end, working it with your fingers through the tube and pushing fabric back until the safety
pin emerges on the other side:

Press, then top stitch along length at 1/4".


Take your strap and loop through the center portion of your slider. Sew into place as shown:

Take the other end and thread it through the ring (left side, if looking at bag from the front) as shown:

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Loop it up and in one end of the slider from underneath:

Loop it back over the other side and pull:

Bring the other end to the right loop and thread around as shown:

Tuck end in on itself and sew to secure as shown:

You did it! You are done! Let me hear you say "Oh yah!" And maybe just a little happy dance.....

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I hope you have enjoyed the Messenger Bag Tutorial! I would love to see your beautiful bags, so please email me a photo or add one to my
Flickr group! As always, my tutorials are intended for personal use only. Feel free to blog about your creations, but please be courteous and
link back to this site so I can get credit for all my hard work and ideas. Happy sewing!
Posted by Kristie at 7:00 AM
Labels: Amy Butler, Bag Lady Week, handmade purse, messenger bag, suiting, tutorial, wool

quiltilicious said...
Great tutorial thank you. Where did you get your OCD labels from?
August 27, 2010 at 7:42 AM

Nicole said...
Look at that finished product! It's gorgeous. The buttons are the coolest thing I've seen all day, too. :)
August 27, 2010 at 11:15 AM

Amy - Amy's Creative Side said...


Cute bags! and great tute too :)
August 29, 2010 at 5:40 PM

Beverly @ FlamingoToes.com said...


What a great tutorial!! I love your messenger bags. And those fabrics are great too!!
August 31, 2010 at 11:53 PM

Quiltstory said...
These are soo cute! Thanks so much for sharing how to make it, love that. Thanks for linking up, we'll see you next week!
September 1, 2010 at 10:15 PM

Jen said...
I like that you've included where to add the label as I often forget when I'm following instructions and then end up having to attach it after
I've put stuff together.
I've been looking for a bag to make for my friend. He wanted it wide enough to hold records and not feminine looking, just a normal 14" wide
(or so) messenger. I thought I'd find a pattern easily but turns out NO! I'm so glad I stumbled onto this because I think it may be perfect.
September 5, 2010 at 11:03 AM

Karen said...
Wow! Super cute bags! The fabrics are gorgeous too. I am a new follower. Love your blog! stop by if you get the chance:
www.karismaheartsavannah.blogspot.com
September 9, 2010 at 9:37 AM

sewtara said...
Thanks for sharing!
I'm going to stitch rip the one I made myself, following my own ideas on how to make a messenger bag, and re-do it using this! :)
September 15, 2010 at 9:00 AM

Malia said...
this is a great tute and i want to try it. i'd love to have you link up tomorrow at my "a crafty soiree" party. big hug! malia
ps i'm your newest follower
September 15, 2010 at 7:02 PM

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inday_adin said...
Those are some lovely bags. I love it and thanks for the tutorial. :) So easy to follow! :)
Adin B
November 8, 2010 at 8:02 PM

Anonymous said...
Any suggestions on how to use belts as straps? How would you attach them - rivets? sew on and how?
November 24, 2010 at 4:24 PM

Kristie said...
To answer Anonymous regarding belts as straps, I simply threw the belt over my shoulder to position how I would like the buckle portion to
sit, then cut the belt at the bottom of the loop from that position. I then just inserted these cut edges right into the seams where the loops
would have been when attaching the outer bag to the lining- loops aren't necessary as all the adjustablity will be possible with the belt loop
and holes!
Hope that helps, if you would like further clarification, be sure to leave me your email address so I can contact you directly!
November 24, 2010 at 5:14 PM

Amber said...
I just made your wonderful bag and it looks amazing! Thank you so much for sharing your talents!
December 17, 2010 at 8:47 AM

Anonymous said...
I finally made it to your site, when I should be sleeping, oops. You're an amazing woman and I love my bag, too :)
Woods
January 23, 2011 at 1:22 AM

Anonymous said...
Oh my...... it's 02:25 Thursday morning and iv'e just finished making my messenger bag. Your's is the best tutorial EVER!!! Please keep on
posting, i'm gonna tell all my crafty friends about your site, you're amazingly talented!
February 9, 2011 at 8:30 PM

Mem said...
Thank you for your wonderful tutorial. I sewed a beautiful bag but is a gift and then, still hidden.
Ciao Laura
March 22, 2011 at 4:31 PM

Megan said...
So, I've been stumped for a few days on this - and I'd love an answer, so I can finish my messenger bag (which is looking amazing - thank-you!)
You say to buy 1 1/2" strap hardware but then to cut our straps at 2.5" - so with 1/4" seam allowances I'll have straps that are finished at 2" 1/2" bigger than my hardware...
I'm new at sewing so maybe the answer is simple.
Thanks again for this awesome tutorial.
Megan
March 26, 2011 at 2:00 PM

Elizabeth D. said...
Hey there, Kristie, I bookmarked this tute a million years ago when I first found your blog, and am finally thinking about starting it this
week...but I'm wondering - do you have a PDF of it you could email me? I like working from a printed pattern, whenever I can. If not, no
worries, just thought it was worth asking :)
March 27, 2011 at 5:35 PM

~ Regan said...
Thank you, thank you, thank youuuu!!!!
I have been looking for a totally awesome (and free) messenger bag pattern. Yours is beautiful, so functional, and thank goodness you have
beginner-proof pictures for newbies like me! :P I think I like the smaller size better, too, for just going around town. (Though, because I'm a
'bag' addict, I will probably make both sizes!)
I hope to make a few of these soon, just have to get some fabric together.. I'm your newest follower~
April 2, 2011 at 10:26 PM

Anonymous said...
I've been looking to make a toddler bag similar to this. http://www.etsy.com/listing/51115404/last-few-left-toddler-messenger-bag Could I
take your's and make it even smaller than the mini, any suggestions and use the type of straps being shown here as well. thanks.
April 14, 2011 at 11:01 AM

lawanna said...
I love the bag! I've got one question for you. Where did you get your hardware? I can't seem to find a nice slider anywhere! Thanks!

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May 18, 2011 at 11:49 AM

Kristie said...
Hi guys, to answer a few of the above questions:
Iawanna- I bought the hardware at Fabricland up in Canada, but many can be found on etsy.com if you search "bag hardware" or "strap
sliders."
Anonymous- Certainly, you can adjust the size of the bag for toddlers! You just need to take the finished size you want and cut your fabric to
allow about 1 inch for seams :-)
Megan- you are right, the straps finish up at (technically) 2" and the hardware is listed at 1.5" I found that mine tend to finish a little smaller
(I guess I don't sew straight!) and I like to have the straps slightly wider as it prevents the hardware from being loose. Just my preference,
but feel free to modify!
I am happy to answer your questions, but PLEASE- leave me your email address so I can reach you!! Thanks for your feedback :-)
Have fun!
Kristie
May 19, 2011 at 8:40 AM

Lovely Soaps said...


Thank you so very much. I was looking for a diaper bag that didn't HAVE to be a diaper ag and this is my pick I will be making matching wipes
pouch, diaper pouch, phone slip, and a cosmetics case. I'm so excited feel free to email and I will send you pick of the final products if you
want. :)
Awesome Tute!
June 26, 2011 at 9:40 AM

cindyvoldseth said...
Oh my gosh...I totally want one!! Sometime soon I will attempt to make these amazing bags! Thank you for sharing this!! Great job! (:
July 8, 2011 at 6:47 PM

Linda L. said...
Thank you for this! I've been looking for a good messenger bag tutorial too, like others I've seen posting here, and this is one that I think I
just might be able to do. I did wonder, though on that one picture under #4, where you said, "Make the loops for your shoulder strap rings by
aligning pieces, wrong sides facing, and sewing along long sides." Did you mean right sides together? It looked like the picture had right sides
together. I'm fairly new to sewing, so pictures are worth a thousand words to me! LOL
July 16, 2011 at 10:58 AM

Kristie said...
Hi Linda L.! Ohhhh, you are a smart one, I DID say that, and it was wrong. I have now corrected it: align RIGHT sides facing, sew, and invert
so the right sides then face out. Good catch! Thank you!
July 16, 2011 at 11:56 AM

Anonymous said...
Amazing tute! Extremely clear and well constructed.
July 26, 2011 at 8:29 PM

FeetyPajamas said...
Thank you SO much for this! I've been looking at bags online and they can be so ridiculously expensive! I'm still a newbie with sewing, but
thanks to the pics I should be able to knock one of these out without TOOOOOO much hassle. :D AND I'll get to have a OOAK bag! Now, to
figure out how to add a bazillion pockets...
August 17, 2011 at 12:41 PM

Laura said...
I have to say thank you. I just got done making a messenger bag purse using this tutorial. I love it. It's perfect. I have been looking for a purse
for 7 months and I was just about to give up. Thank you for saving the day with this tutorial. Ours looks a little different because I used some
materails I had laying around and an old belt that I was never going to use! I love my purse. Thank YOu
August 20, 2011 at 3:24 PM

Anonymous said...
Thank you for such great detail! Your instructions were so clear and easy to follow. This is one of the easiest things I have ever sewn! I just
finished this bag for my daughter's school bag. She is going to LOVE it!
August 20, 2011 at 5:24 PM

Patricia said...
Hi!
I just wanted to say that this was my first sewing project EVER. My boyfriend bought me a vintage Singer 306W, & after ebay-ing various
missing parts, I was finally ready to go. I found your blog after searching for "messenger bag" patterns, and thought I'd give your tutorial a try.
I did this in one afternoon, having never touched a sewing machine before in my life. Sooo, THANK YOU!! Your instructions and "sucky"
pictures were clear enough for even a complete novice to follow. I tried to get a bit too fancy by using burlap as the outer lining. It frayed in
a couple of places. All in all, however, I'm so proud of it (and myself!) Again, thank you for taking the time to write this post and share your
know-how. I can't wait to try some more of your projects!
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Inspire Me Heather said...


I just love that bag! So beautiful - thanks for posting the tutorial!
October 23, 2011 at 6:53 AM

Primmy said...
Hi!
I love this bag tutorial! And am actually looking at making a couple of christmas gifts. Can you make them in a lighter fabric? I'm in Aus, and
its about to hit summer so I think the wool would be to heavy, could I use a stiffer interfacing instead?
Thanks
Sam.
October 24, 2011 at 11:15 PM

Kristie said...
@Primmy/SamSure! With the right interfacing, any fabric would work! I think that canvas would also be a fun durable-yet-summery choice :)
Have fun!
Kristie
October 25, 2011 at 7:58 AM

Marybeth said...
I just finished a project using your Messenger Bag pattern. I altered the pattern a bit making the size in between your two sizes. Thanks for
wonderful directions. My camera isn't working otherwise I would post a picture. Thanks for you generosity in sharing the pattern. Love my
new bag.
October 29, 2011 at 3:27 PM

Nina said...
Thank you so much! I've made 2 of them so far. For the second one came out better than the first, plus I added some more pockets. Your
tutorial was wonderful!!
November 6, 2011 at 11:32 PM

Magrat 7451 said...


I'm half way through making the first of two of these bags for my two daughters. (Computer & sewing machine in different rooms, so am
dashing up & downstairs to remind myself what to do next.) Just sat down and made notes to save wear and tear on the legs.
will send photos of finished products in a day or two.
Hope mine turn out as well as yours looks.
It's a great tutorial - thanks.
November 28, 2011 at 10:53 AM

Anonymous said...
Hi, I'm 17 and I am a huge sewer/quilter. I just made the mini messenger bags for my sisters for Christmas and they are awesome! I'm sure
they are going to love them because they are both In college. I really hope you post more bag tutorials soon!
December 14, 2011 at 7:54 PM

Megan T said...
Where the heck can I find the sliders? I didn't find them at Hancock Fabric today and I can't seem to find them online. Help!
December 15, 2011 at 7:20 PM

Kristie said...
@Megan T- If you go to etsy.com and search "1.5 inch sliders," a bunch of shops and options will pop up. Hope that helps!
Kristie
December 16, 2011 at 7:17 AM

Megan T said...
Thank you Kristie!!! Just ordered some :) Trying to get a bag done by Christmas for my hubs :)
December 16, 2011 at 2:31 PM

Anonymous said...
I just finished my first bag!!! I love this tutorial!!!! My son told me the other day that he wanted a bag that only had one strap. I found your
tutorial and made up the bag in no time at all! He is going to be so excited about this Christmas morning!
Instead of interfacing I used ugly flannel that someone gave to me and the weight is amazing.
Thank you for posting!
December 17, 2011 at 12:10 PM

Elizabeth said...

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Hi, I'm about to start the mini messenger bag. Can anyone tell me what "WOF" is short for in the section on cutting fabrics, specifically the
shoulder strap? Thanks
December 28, 2011 at 9:55 PM

Kristie said...
Hi Elizabeth, WOF is short for "width of fabric." So basically this means to cut it from one end (or "selvege") to the other.
December 28, 2011 at 10:21 PM

Elizabeth said...
Thanks Kristie and for your prompt response. Best wishes, Elizabeth
December 29, 2011 at 5:27 PM

Lyn said...
I. Love. YOU. The smaller bag pattern is *exactly* what I need to replace my purchased bag with a hand made one of the same size and
general make.
I love you! Thanks so much for the tute!
(found you via pintrest)
January 11, 2012 at 1:08 AM

Robin Correa said...


Thank you for the inspiration! I just LOVE your wool bag!!! http://tiptoetango.com/2012/01/16/messenger-bag-tutorial/
January 16, 2012 at 7:14 PM

Anonymous said...
Thank you so much for posting this. I just made a bag and I love it. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 21, 2012 at 5:11 PM

Jennifer said...
Just wanted to thank you for this great tutorial! I just made it and I love it! Here's a link to my site where I gave you credit and posted pics of
mine. Thanks again!! :)
Jennifer from France
January 26, 2012 at 1:13 PM

Anonymous said...
Oh I soo love this bag! I had been wondering also about how to attach a belt as a strap so thx for that:)
I guess I'm another follower! thanks for the inspiration- who wouldn't want to try your creations. great tutes Im not a great sewer but I'll have
a go only way to learn hey! :)
January 26, 2012 at 10:48 PM

Rachelle G. said...
I am definitely going to try this! I bought some clothes from Goodwill (some of them brand new!), a great thick corduroy for the outside and
a fun purple for the lining. It's going to be great, I can't wait to get to get started! Thank you!
February 1, 2012 at 11:14 PM

KACG said...
LOVE this bag-great tutorial! I made one for my niece out of my husband's ACUs.
( http://outside-comfort.blogspot.com/2012/02/time-new-concept.html )
February 9, 2012 at 12:58 PM

Anonymous said...
Lovely pattern. I'm on holiday for a week so going to have a go at making one in oilcloth. We get a lot of rain here in Plymouth UK!! So
hopefully the oilcloth will make it waterproof. Thanks again x
February 19, 2012 at 4:41 PM

The Sugar Fairy said...


This tutorial is amazing!! Thank you! I changed the measurements up to make a hotwheels carrying case for my little boy. It turned out so
well. Thanks again!
http://thesugarfairyinjapan.blogspot.com/2012/02/car-case.html
February 23, 2012 at 5:59 AM

Lisa said...
Thank you for the tutorial. I found some sliders for those who are interested. http://www.buckleguy.com has some nice 1.5" single and
double loop sliders at great prices.
February 25, 2012 at 5:22 PM

Steph said...
I have almost finished my bag. Thanks for making this pattern so easy to follow. I'm a sewing newbie with only a few projects under my belt.

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Still, I was never confused by your instructions. I hope you start to accept payments for your patterns, because they are definitely worth it.
February 26, 2012 at 8:37 AM

Kalie said...
I am so thankful i found your tutorial!!! I love the pics too! very helpful as i am a visual learner!!! I was just wondering if and how I could add
a zipper... I started making it but have stopped hoping i can add a zippered section somewhere. And i think i will have to make my strap
longer...it doesnt seem to have come out as long as yours did. btw i am making the mini.
April 13, 2012 at 10:38 AM

Kalie said...

April 13, 2012 at 10:39 AM

Kalie said...

April 13, 2012 at 10:39 AM

anschi said...
die ist echt toll, da versuch ich heut gleich mal sommerversion mit baumwollstoff. danke lg
April 23, 2012 at 6:59 AM

Jessica Marie said...


This is awesome! I'm a sewing novice but I'm pretty sure I can handle this because your photos and instructions are so good. Thanks so much
for sharing your talent!
May 7, 2012 at 4:53 PM

Kristin said...
Hi Kristie!
This bag is so much fun. I've made one with a fun coated cotton for a "diaper bag" and another with wool for a "macho messanger." Both have
turned out great, and look so different. Your instructions are spot on, and are so clear they can even be accomplished at 2am. Thank you so
much for sharing!
The only problem I'm having is stitching the dividing stitch in a straight line down the middle of the outer/inner pockets. I noticed in your
picture you seem to have some kind of white tape that you are using as a guide? Can you reveal the secret to perfectly-ish straight center
lines? I've tried chalk and just ironing down the center, with mixed results.
Thanks so much!!
kris10bush@yahoo.com
June 7, 2012 at 12:57 AM

Kristin said...
Hi Kristie! This bag is so much fun. I've made one with fun coated cotton for a "diaper bag" and another with wool for a "macho messanger."
Both have turned out great, and look so different. Your instructions are spot on, and are so clear they can even be accomplished at 2am.
Thank you so much for sharing!
The only problem I'm having is stitching the dividing stitch in a straight line down the middle of the outer/inner pockets. I noticed in your
picture you seem to have some kind of white tape that you are using as a guide? Can you reveal the secret to perfectly-ish straight center
lines? I've tried chalk and just ironing down the center, with mixed results.
Thanks so much!!
kris10bush@yahoo.com
June 7, 2012 at 12:59 AM

Osama Zain said...


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June 19, 2012 at 4:39 AM

Maham Arshad said...

July 14, 2012 at 12:08 PM

Maham Arshad said...


Awesome! Great tutorial.
http://lavagirlart.blogspot.com/2012/07/how-to-diy-girly-sling-bag.html

Please check out my first tutorial ever! DIY SLING BAG :)


xoxoxo
July 14, 2012 at 12:17 PM

Jeni Reilly said...

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http://pinterest.com/pin/283797213989329659 posted to pintrest will update when I finish the project thanks for the tutorial!!! Great job!!!
July 27, 2012 at 10:22 AM

Jennifer said...
Just made 3 of these. Fantastic instructions. I found the strap to be a little short for my needs. I also had the problem with the straps being
too wide for the hardware. All REALLY easy fixes. Don't forget to leave the "hole" in the lining. I forgot once, then made an ink note on the
lining. Super easy to do, especially with the pictures. Thank you SO MUCH!
August 29, 2012 at 8:27 PM

Jessica Zabloski said...


Thanks for a great tutorial . I'm a novice at sewing and your tutorial walked me through with no issues. I made a cute bag that everyone
wants.i added a racing strip dowm the center .LOVE IT!!
Thanks again.
September 6, 2012 at 3:16 PM

Crystelle Boutique said...


Hello there! Your tutorial i fabulous. I feature a bag using this pattern on my blog. This is the link: http://www.crystelleboutique.com/1/post
/2012/11/ptt-post-bags-dutch-mail-sacks-upcycled-purses.html
Thanks for sharing!
hugs ~ Crystelle
http://www.crystelleboutique.com
November 7, 2012 at 1:18 PM

Linda Minnix said...


Thank you so much for your tutorial. IM just finishing my bag and loving it. Even my sons are impressed. :-) All I needed was the hardware.
Because of the blizzard (Indiana) only Walmart was open. Their limited seeing section have me nothing but I was determined to finish so I
went searching. I found a box of replacement buckle and sliders in the sporting section. They come in shard black plastic, 1" and 2", which
was the perfect size. A set of 2 was $.68!! I bought 2 and used the sliders on the sides as well as the sliders (used three). Worked perfectly!
Maybe this will help someone else. Thanks again!
December 26, 2012 at 4:16 PM

Linda Minnix said...


Thank you so much for your tutorial. IM just finishing my bag and loving it. Even my sons are impressed. :-) All I needed was the hardware.
Because of the blizzard (Indiana) only Walmart was open. Their limited seeing section have me nothing but I was determined to finish so I
went searching. I found a box of replacement buckle and sliders in the sporting section. They come in shard black plastic, 1" and 2", which
was the perfect size. A set of 2 was $.68!! I bought 2 and used the sliders on the sides as well as the sliders (used three). Worked perfectly!
Maybe this will help someone else. Thanks again!
December 26, 2012 at 4:28 PM

Keleigh Rickman said...

January 11, 2013 at 1:35 PM

Keleigh Rickman said...


This tutorial was great!! It was so easy to follow. I just got a sewing machine after having not sewn for 6 years. This was such an easy first
project for me and the bag turned out beautiful. I actually installed some foam boards covered in the inner fabric to turn the bag into a
camera bag for my sister.
Brilliant!! Thanks so much!
January 11, 2013 at 1:35 PM

Tamara said...
Thanks for this great tutorial!
I made a little bag for my dad to use for Disc Golf!
I had to change a few things - but the tutorial was so helpful!
Thanks again.
Here is a photo of the bag
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sockmonkeyfun/8391591556/in/photostream/
I linked back to your blog on every photo! :)
January 17, 2013 at 10:22 PM

Anna said...
Thanks for this! I used duck canvas for the body of the bag and a patterned canvas for the flap and the inside pockets. it came out super
cute. I used a men's belt for the strap, which looks cool too.
January 28, 2013 at 12:37 AM

Julian Levi said...


Oh! Lovely that's so nice... I love the tutorials and thank u so much for sharing this...
flight bags
leather tote bags
wash bags for men
sports bags for men

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retro bags
March 9, 2013 at 4:38 AM

Germana said...
Grazie per questo tutorial. Ho visto la borsa su Pinterest e sono venuta a vedere il tuo lavoro.
Bellissima borsa!
Germana
May 26, 2013 at 3:15 PM

alittlebirdmademe.com said...
I have included a link to this tutorial on my blog - it looks so well put together!
http://alittlebirdmademe.com/2013/07/19/friday-finds-a-list-of-23-free-tutorials-and-patterns-to-make-messenger-bags/
July 19, 2013 at 5:19 AM

Morgan K said...
Thanks, Kristie! I just made two of these in response to my sons' request for "purses." They turned out great! I made a couple of changes
(sewed strap directly into bag & made it adjustable with parachute buckles, used magnetic snaps instead of buttons) and put in LOTS of
pockets inside and out (my boys love pockets!). Your instructions were terrific, clear and easy to follow. I had fun making these bags and will
be making one for mama next!
August 1, 2013 at 6:54 PM

Loving every step said...


Thank you for such an easy to understand and amazing tutorial :)
I just made the Regular Messenger bag from denim and a pretty lining and covered it in patches and badges... I LOVE IT!!! So easy and I it
works perfectly :) Thank you xxx
August 2, 2013 at 9:54 AM

Louise said...
this looks great thanks very much
December 11, 2013 at 2:40 AM

Ellavera said...
Perfect pattern for a snow day! I made this out of a 20yo wool coat. Your instructions were super easy to follow. Now I can't wait to go back
to work tomorrow, and show off my new purse! Thank you!
January 7, 2014 at 7:39 PM

Sandy said...
great tutorial. Thank you
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/211528513722228874/
January 14, 2014 at 3:00 PM

Ellavera said...
Great pattern! I used it to make a bag out of an old wool coat. I have received so many compliments. Thank you!
February 5, 2014 at 7:45 PM

karen said...
Thank you so much. I just finished my first messenger bag upcycling a men's suit jacket. I love it and can't wait to make more for gifts.This
weekend I'm going to try your tutorial for felted wool mittens. - Karen
February 11, 2014 at 6:53 PM

Maaike said...
Great tutorial, thanks so much! I made the small version for my boyfriend, using an old pair of pants of his. The size is just perfect! I added
some pics of it on your flickr group and blogged about it here: http://lapjevoorlapje.blogspot.de/2014/06/van-oude-broeknaar-schoudertas.html
June 25, 2014 at 8:30 AM

Arianna Brown said...


You have a great artist in yourself. You have made a really fashionable looking messenger bags. Thank you for sharing a very valuable
information to us. I will definitely to create for me as i'm not much creative I know it will not look as cool as you had created. I'll sure update
this kind of stuff in my collection soon so you can even earn money for your creativity. Check this website www.gkfashionstore.com for more
collection of messenger bags.
July 11, 2014 at 3:34 AM

Stephanie Hughes said...


Thanks Kristie for the tutorial, I just finished mine, great tutorial! I blogged about it here: http://a-ditchin-time-quilts.blogspot.com
/2014/08/laptop-bag-for-lindsay.html
Steph
August 2, 2014 at 12:24 AM

Richard Roberts said...

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Howdy, I am making a couple of the mini messenger bags and want to use the adjustable shoulder strap with them. However, I am having a
bear of a time locating the hardware (slider rings and other rings) No luck and Joann Fabrics, No Luck at Hancock Fabrics) It there a certain
thing I need to look for online? As I've been searching, and have had no luck at all in finding these. And the few that I have found are not 1
1/2" as you specify. Please advise Thanks Ric
May 5, 2015 at 1:30 PM

Kristie Maslow said...


Hi Ric,
If you search 1.5" sliders on etsy.com you will find them! There are many US sellers but I bought mine from Dan in Hong Kong and he was
great:
https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/3DANsupplies?ref=s2-header-shopname
May 5, 2015 at 2:03 PM

Armando Iswahyudi said...


Hi there,I enjoy reading through your article post, I wanted to write a little comment to support you and wish you a good continuationAll the
best for all your blogging efforts.
mebel jepara
mebel jati jepara
August 13, 2015 at 4:53 PM

Richard Roberts said...


I'm loving making these bags. I have altered the pattern a lot and am making much larger bags now. All sorts of fun adding zippers and more
pockets.
August 13, 2015 at 5:34 PM

Tasty Destination said...


Adorable Gift Bag! Thanks to you that now I can make gift bags by myself using dress fabrics that were given by my sister :)
September 6, 2015 at 4:16 AM
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Content copyright 2010 - 2012 OCD: obsessive crafting disorder | Design copyright 2012 Between Loads of Laundry | All Rights Reserved

TERMS OF USE - You may use all of my free tutorials for personal or charitable/fundraising purposes. I do not allow items made using my tutorials to be sold for profit. Please feel free to link to
any of my projects but DO NOT use pictures of my children. Thank you!

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