How to Add a Recessed Zipper to Any Tote Bag- Tutorial by Crafty Gemini

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In this video I share with you an upcoming HUGE project I've been working on for the past year and a half! And I also teach you how to make and attach an inset or recessed zipper in any tote bag project. The technique I teach you here is a lot of fun, easier than some other techniques and the results are a super sleek and professionally finished zipper panel. There are no exposed raw edges anywhere! I think you will enjoy incorporating this technique in your next bag project.
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[@szzukowski]

I just added a zipper for the first time. I must have paused and started this video 50 times, but the tut was awesome and my bag looks great! It's going to be a birthday present, but I was able to hide most of my mistakes ;)

[@doadirockwell9317]

I have sewn for 50+ years but I have learned new techniques from you. You are an excellent instructor.

[@joannmccraw7235]

You have just taught an old lady a new trick! You and your tutorials are great!!!

[@MC-pl3we]

What is the hardest for me making bags is turning them inside out, & the bottom of the bag. This has been helpful.

[@annepace3400]

I'm getting reacquainted with sewing, now that I've retired. making handbags , pouches, & totes interest. I made a reuseable tote by watching your video.

[@cathypeterson2874]

❤Thank you, for all your video lessons. I always learn a lot from you. I couldn't join this bag of the month club... because I am watching this video six years later.. But I watch your youtube videos, and I am always learning from you! ❤

[@TheCraftyGemini]

We have a new bag club open for registration right now. Sale ends on Monday, 4/17 at midnight EDT. Details herecraftygemini.com/shop/crafty-gemini-bag-club-mini-edition-3/

[@marisolgonzalez5244]

One of the best videos on how to install a zipper! Thank you!

[@camey66]

I truly enjoy your tutorials. At 77 I'm just learning that these different tote/bag project are not as hard as they look. I love that I can stop & start the video so I can follow along step by step. Thank you from one Gemini to another :-)

[@janiefox2479]

Definitely the best video for learning how to sew a recessed zipper into a bag, which is most intimidating for me.

[@SusanSmith-hl3iv]

I’ve been following you for years! You must have started as a teen! Your enthusiasm, dedication to simplifying instructions and encouraging students are just some of the reasons I have always loved your videos. Sometimes I just pick one to watch while eating a meal. Better than TV by far! Blessings to you and your family and your growing businesses. I can tell you are all hard workers. ❤

[@jerrimerryknits1347]

I haven’t sewn in 20 years. I found this tutorial while I was looking for a way to line a knit purse. Your videos have shown me everything I needed to line my purse and given me inspiration to get back into the sewing.

[@jennifercooper279]

I know this video is almost 3 years old, but SO glad I found it! YOU ARE AMAZING!! I love your teaching style and the fact that you tell us we CAN do it!!

[@samanthaleblanc4327]

I should also mention that your homeschool family was the final push of inspiration I needed to start our own homeschool journey! Where we live in Quebec there is not many who do - so online is where I get my motivation to keep trying. Thanks Vanessa

[@marierlohia5111]

Thank you Vanessa🎉, As you inspire me with your teaching style, I am able to inspire another here at my end.❤

[@amandavangoor6942]

I love this. I am quick at making tote bags but got a request for one with a zipper. I have made a boxed diaper bag but hated making the squared corners and bottom and enjoy my basic tote bags. So this lets me add a zipper to them without fuss. And i love how quick it was and not drawn out like some videos. Nicely done and thank you!

[@charliekryszewski3801]

I should know when it comes to a sewing technique I'm trying to figure out, come to you FIRST. I've made a few messenger bags, and just this past weekend someone asked if I could do one with a zipper. Now I KNOW I can. I might end up watching the video 20 times to make sure I've got it right, but I know now I CAN do it!!!

[@maplelassuk]

Yay, I finally did this after watching this tutorial a dozen times or more ( slow learner!). I added the zip to your improv tote, it's fabulous, thank you Vanessa! 😊

[@mariecloutier3548]

Thank you for this awesome tutorial. I was working on a purse and decided kind of late in the game that I wanted to add a recessed zipper and this was PERFECT for what I wanted. THANK YOU!

[@cindyhoglund9701]

I wanted to take a minute to thank you for your awesome tutorials, I have learned so much following you. I am attaching my tote bag that I created using my embroidery squares. I could not have finished the bag without your help on the strap and recessed zipper. I look forward to visiting your shop some day in the near future and meeting the talented Crafty Gemini. Thanks again

[@rondamuench4918]

Thank you, I lost sleep last night trying to reminder how to add a recessed zipper into a tote. Great job!

[@adriannegentleman83]

always remember, if you've forgotten a crafty issue, then you tube lol, never loose sleep lol

[@estherannaspears9017]

I've been doing my inset zips this way for many years and I just love it!!

[@kelvingreen9572]

I was looking for a tutorial with a recesses zipper, yours seems to be easy to follow, now I can add a zipper to my tote bag Thanks Melanie

[@MsAmericanMaid]

I have been looking for weeks for instruction on adding the recessed zipper. Yours is the first I actually understood. Thank you for the clear instructions so that I can adjust depending on what size bag.

[@belindawaldo3678]

You are awesome...Clear, easy to follow, cheerful, and a can do attitude to help novice and experienced sewers to get it done. Love the tips that you throw in. Also like the fast forward parts that save time on a more mundane step, essential yes, but time consuming and gives you time to share a tip or two. Thanks.

[@susangardem1354]

Fantastic tutorial. I love making bags and as you say it can be intimidating to follow written instructions. Your techniques are so concise, I can't wait to start another bag with an enclosed zip. Thank you very much

[@kathyl5610]

Thank you Vanessa! I love this tutorial, it is exactly what I needed. I have made several of your Improv Tote bags & wanted to add a zipper and now I can do that with any new ones that I make! Love it.

[@lhm72052]

Well, holy ****! I've recently retired and taken up sewing again, and I've purposefully avoided anything with zippers because I remember them being a royal pain in the neck. I stumbled upon your video and decided to take a peek. What a revelation!! I can do this!! Who knew a zipper could be soooooo easy!!! THANK YOU C.G.!!

[@soniaguzman762]

I bought a super cool tote bag from Miles to Go. It was a Harry Potter tote but totes are pretty much useless because they are just empty space without a lining. I made a lining with two zipper pockets and made a recessed zipper on top. Now, I use it all the time and I love it.

[@khailsdesigns859]

Thank you so much for this tutorial. Your instructions are the first one that I have found to be clear. I have watched many tutorial, and yet I was still confused, but thanks to you I will now be able to add recessed zippers with confidence. Thank You Again!

[@kathiehoskins813]

I am so excited for the bag of the month club. Fortunately my birthday is August 17th and my son asked me today what I wanted for my bday. I responded that I didn't know what I wanted. I do now. I enjoyed watching you sew. I have made so many of your projects. Favorite one is the triangle pouch. I made 4 of them for my grandchildren and my kids all requested one as well. My sewing skills are ok. I still get intimidated with installing zippers such as which way to lay it on my fabric. When will the final details come out as to price of the bag of the month club. I did sign up for the email referencing the club. You are such an inspiration to me.

[@1954evelyn]

I'm so excited about your new bag tutorials, thank you for this tutorial.

[@smcclain772]

Really enjoy videos. So clear and down to earth. You have so much energy which helps with watching. You make me feel as if I can accomplish this though some of the projects may be a bit challenging for me.

[@Jgiu8909]

Yes thank you for this! I started a tote but was trying to figure out an easy way to put a zipper on it. This is perfect!

[@zinacherkus9778]

You have the best and clearest tutorials ever. I am an experienced seamstress but new to bag making. Thank you so much. ❤

[@OlufisayoLydiaOlanrewaju]

Just had to come in here and THANK YOOOOOOUUUUUU for this easy to follow tutorial. You solved a lot of my problems with this. I am genuinely grateful! Namaste!

[@zainyus]

U r the best love love love ur videos ur method is easy to understand and u r clear in explaining thanx so much for sharing with us

[@patchingmagic]

I love how thorough you are with all the little details. Excellent

[@handmadebyMickie]

Thanks Vanessa! I'm getting ready to make totes for children in foster care and putting zippers in them will give them some added privacy!

[@donnaoliver5642]

This is a great tutorial! You explain every detail so that it is easy to understand. I’m surprised I didn’t wear out the tutorial from pausing it dozens of times. Thank you for all you do!

[@znycelondon5313]

Loved this video..... I was looking on line for a bag that had to have a zipper. Started searching you tube to make one. So so glad I found your tute! I can now use any of my fav bags and add a zipper to them. Thank you so much. 🌹❤️🌹

[@Lemmikki2011]

What an excellent tutorial. I was wondering about the measurements and you explained them so well. Thank you, Vanessa. I love your tutorials.

[@bettystambaugh8533]

Just finished a denim bag using your video, You made it so clear and easy!! Now I'm working on a tote and plan on putting a recessed zipper in it. I used a split rail design for it. Thanks for your help.

[@furfighter211065]

Whitney, that's brilliant, thanks. There's a gazillion videos on how to MAKE the panel, but this is the only one I've found that shows all the steps to attach it. You're wonderful 🥰💖

[@jennifermary2350]

I think you will find this is Vanessa not Whitney!

[@outlander5706]

Absolutely loved watching you insert a zipper into a bag.Always wondered how to do this. looking forward to learning more from you!

[@pernillestorr6987]

thank you for these turtorials. I just love them. you make it so clear and easy to do the various things. I loved this one, as I have been a bit scared to do zippers this way - as I did not quite understand how it was done. Now I am going to try it. Cannot wait for the bag of the month. I have done some of your other tutorials - like some of the smaller bags /toiletbag etc. I am looking forward to your videos. Great to be able to do this even though I am in Denmark and you are in USA.

[@seemarajderkar3019]

Crafty Gemini,you have magical fingers !!! You can transform any fabric into a lovely little useful piece of art !!! Great !! When you do and show something,it seems so easy,but not when I try to do it later !!! Maybe with practice,I too can reach near you !!!Happy Sewing !!

[@Sabrina1998]

Love your videos and teaching style. I have learned so much from you and have gained the confidence to finally actually sew and create things by following your step-by-step videos. It’s fabulous. Thank you for sharing your gift with the world. 🙏🏻 P.S. I love your professional confidence in your ability and gift. Makes all the difference!!!

[@chiquitatarita]

Thank you for taking the time to do these videos, I can't wait to try this technique on a bag tomorrow!

[@micheledandrea9197]

Thank you Vanessa, great video, cannot wait for the bag of the month, very easy to follow all your tutorials for a beginner , i love making bags .

[@janetteaguirre-terry2986]

your awesome! i really want to take more classes but with quilting now for almost a year its been quite expessive to buy all the notions, fabric, and interface. but I must say I have the notions that are higher end. Ive had my Juki 8 months and have made so far several rag quilts, baby quilt, pouches, notions organizers, hot pads, and rug mugs. love my Juki and love sewing. im trying to perfect my free motion quilting and would love to get a Juki TL, serger, and sashiko machine. eventually. love your tutorials and will save up to take your purse club subscriptions. Great job, Vanessa! God Bless you and your beautiful family!

[@nolapancho8614]

thank you for doing these tutorials for beginners like me and the world at large, I enjoyed it and will definitely be making one of these for my sister

[@kassaundrajohnson465]

Thank you for making a tricky addition to any bag so easy! I can’t wait to try it on my next “practice purse.”

[@lisaohanlon7782]

I love the music that plays when you sew. It's just great. Thanks.

[@NinoFam12]

Yes this is an awesome tutorial...I love all your videos how instructions are put in simple terms and just love them...I did my first bag with the zipper...thank you

[@MultiCaro2011]

Thanks for another great tutorial! I love making bags and I am excited to follow along!

[@patriciachristian6352]

Thank you for all your step by step comprehensible sewing and quilting projects. You are the BOMB!!!! \

[@elizabethrobbins8562]

I really glad you did this video I have watched others on zippers and they can be confusing and I didn't know about how to do the zipper tabs. So thanks!

[@bq1428]

You are a exceptional teacher! You describe in detail to accomplish the feat . Thank you 😉

[@karengetter8528]

Thank you so much! I am in the process of inserting an inset zipper. Keep up the great work!

[@pamelacasey1699]

Love this tutorial! Thank you for making it so clear to understand!!

[@jennifermassello8670]

That’s so awesome! Zippers and inside pockets- especially those with zippers intimidate me!

[@jesspeak7543]

Wonderful, that is just so clever, and I love your fabric choices. Jess

[@denashortt9405]

I love all your videos and tips. Thank you so much for this video. You make everything so clear!!!

[@apstorti]

thanks Vanessa, it's so easy to follow yours tutorials! I learn a lot with you!!

[@janemixon4711]

I love the way you teach! You explain it in great detail.

[@gretchenm7669]

I just finished my zipper handbag!! I plan to make a couple more as Christmas presents. Thanks Vanessa.

[@davidmammone6167]

You are brilliant! I had a conversation with my husband today about how frustrated I am about my bag attempts for this same bag! Thanks so much!

[@AChippendale]

Thanks for this great tutorial! I've been making bags for a long time but I'm still learning new skills. The thing that is the most intimidating is cutting into very expensive fabric! But so far so good. I usually make prototypes until I am very confident about my pattern (and my skills).... Nothing beats the feeling of finishing a really cute bag and then taking her out for a test drive!

[@JERSEYTOMATO]

BING - BANG - BOOM! Another wonderful video - thanks

[@log20800]

You are a born teacher. Just loved this video.

[@rochelleflores1972]

This tutorial has helped me so much! You are an amazing teacher! Thank you for the easy steps.

[@anthonypage8946]

Thank you so much for the video it was a blessing , I make purses for a living and I never made a purse with a zipper you are my teach for now on . Thank you !

[@janomalley]

I'm making a bag for a friend and it calls for a recessed zipper but the written instructions are terrible. I'm so thankful I found your video and it's so helpful. I've now watched it twice and I understand what the concept is! I can't thank you enough!!!!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Yay!! Glad to help! 👍🏽❤️

[@janomalley]

@@TheCraftyGemini I just finished my bag. Did some ripping out of stitches but kept referring to your video and it came out so well. Thank you again.

[@camey66]

Yea! I did it! Mine was much bigger but it came out perfect, I'm so glad I found you.

[@kschallert3569]

I've watched so many of your videos and I really appreciate you. Today though I would just like to compliment you on your gorgeous hair! You are absolutely beautiful!

[@wickens9221]

I Love all your videos,I have learned so much.I am self taught and everything helps!

[@ruthbutler6725]

This is amazing! I'm trying to make a purse for my daughter for Christmas and this will help so much! Thanks!

[@robertmorrison3420]

Definitely enjoyed your video. A beginner here. I know after watching this video I will be able to make a ham band. Great job.🎉

[@leslierinaldi3131]

Love the ability to start and stop. Great job. Thanks to you my friends have some very cool totes!

[@chrissyoldfield8566]

OMG!!!!!! I have to go to work 😁. Can't wait to get home and finish watching. I've been NEEDING this video ❣. Thang you 😘😘😘👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@ksandry1]

Thanks so much for another great tutorial I am a quilter and have now started to make bags and think your way of putting the recessed zip in is so easy. There are few bags that I have made that I am going to go back and put zips in them. Also I have signed up for the Bag Club and am looking forward to starting.

[@debrariley2057]

What a great tutorial, so clear and interesting zip insertion … the burrito method for zips … thank you for taking the time to share.

[@backusk]

Thank you SO MUCH for this tutorial! I just completed a bag for my friend who wanted a zipper, and this was exactly what I needed to do that for her! Excellent video and very helpful.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Glad to help! 👏🏽

[@samanthaleblanc4327]

Girl your hair is awesome! I have notices the last few videos its looking really cool. As for bags the hardware intimidates me!

[@MsDjvinson]

I to was born on June 1st I am just starting to get interested in making bags, so glad I came across this. Have been a subscriber for years, oh and did I mention I lost the use of my right hand a couple of years ago, but I spend most of my time in my Happy Room trying to make things, wish me luck with your bags. Love your channel

[@ceciliaohman185]

You are Excellent!!! Awesome for what I'm doing with bags. Adding new skills all the time as I master the basics. Having alit of fun with this and using up ALOT of fabric!!

[@Smurfanda]

Exactly what I've been looking for! Thank you!

[@winniemaemorris4005]

best recessed zipper tutorial ever!! love you videos! they are so easy to follow!

[@patsyfuttere2625]

This zipper application is genious. I'm so up for your bag club!

[@jeankuxmann6135]

Thank you for making the recessed zipper easier to understand 😀

[@almacollum6429]

Hello, Had to tell you how much I absolutely love your tutorials. For me, a picture / video is more helpful than printed directions. I tried the recessed zipper. part of it went well but I messed up a little bit . I am going to try again. Thanks so much. Sincerely.

[@andreadixon9512]

Love this video ❤ So clearly explained & easy to follow... thanks very much xx

[@iwitness173]

You are so right your videos are so easy to follow! Now what I would love to see is how to make inside pockets or one of those bag organizers that you can just pull out the insert and place into a different bag; making changing purses easy!!

[@poohie2525]

I love it!! Thank you for sharing your knowledge. You are awesome.

[@ornelladay2041]

Hi Vanessa - great tutorial. I'm in the middle of making a baby changing bag for my daughter and decided I needed a zipper as the bag depth is 6" As the bag is wider than the one you are demonstrating with I was able to attach the second side using the free arm and sewing through the open zipper. It's looking good, just need to add hardware and I'm also using your adjustable straps tutorial. Good luck with the live chat this evening.

[@lucindadixon9775]

I was wondering how on earth I would be able to add a zip to a bag pattern and this video has been a godsend. So clear and easy to follow, thanks so much!

[@Natalie-rm8yz]

Thank you for this video!!! I was struggling with my pattern and you explained it so well.

[@khadijajabrot3649]

hey mam....i have been waiting for your video tutorials since last few days...i love your work...its too easy to make using your guidelines...you are my teacher in one way...i learned many things from you....thank you so much

[@mssisonfamily1796]

I love it so clear step by step instruction and very confident ! More power thank you so much your superstar

[@rochelleflores1972]

Thank you so much for this technique! I was stuck on a project and this tutorial helps me so much!