How to Make a Bag or Purse with a Zipper - Sewing Tutorial

[@smarmyclothes]

CORRECTIONS: - 0:50 - "...you won't see the lining." Sorry, I misspoke. You WILL see the top trim lining on the finished bag. - 1:36 - D-ring Loop Strap measurement should be 18" x 4". (I mistakenly wrote 18" x 2".) I also neglected to note that the D-rings I'm using are 1" wide. NOTES/ADDITIONAL INFO: - If you are *not* adding the option D-ring detail, you may want to add about 6" to the strap length. That would mean that your four strap pieces should measure 26" x 2" instead of 20" x 2". - Feel free to add a layer of interfacing if you want more structure to your bag or are using a very lightweight fabric. I used a layer of fusible light-to-medium weight interfacing on the main exterior bag pieces. - If you've never made this style of bag before, you might want to check out the original tutorial first: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5nckJmfmrubq5I - If you're interested in making a bag in a different size, I recommend making a paper template first- that way you can fold the gusset and get an idea of the size of the bag (and make adjustments) before you start cutting and sewing. - If you do change the dimensions, remember to get an appropriately sized zipper (at least as long as the width of the bag). If you're adding interior pockets, they should fit in the "non-gusseted" area of the bag when folded. - A text/photo version of this tutorial is available here: whatthecraft.com/how-to-make-a-bag-with-a-zipper-sewing-tutorial/

[@Knittyneeds]

Love you humor. An enjoyable video tutorial. I was giggling all the time. You made my day. The zipper bag seemed so difficult to make but you explained step by step. EXCELLENT FILMING. I had to watch it 2 times and then sew along with you. You are soooo sweet, charming and HUMBLE. My daught in law brought me a pile of fabric and begged of me to make her a large bag to put her piles of music sheets. As my son and his wife play in an orchestra they have piles of music sheets to carry. I promised her a large bag in 2018 but I FORGOT. 😁😁 Your bag is just what my dotty in law was looking for. Thanks for sharing and caring. 💕👍👍👍

[@smarmyclothes]

Thank you so much!

[@alyssabrown2975]

My 4 year old daughter and I really enjoyed this video. We both giggled at your dry humor (My kind of funny). Love it and can't wait to try making this. Thanks!

[@gailschmieder8365]

Thanks!!!! It took me 3 times but it was worth it. My bag is beautiful. The other 2 are ok. You are a fantastic teacher. I like it best when you joke. You do it at just the right moment when a laugh is needed. I can' t thank you enough.

[@smarmyclothes]

+Gail Schmieder Thanks, Gail!

[@cmbyler]

Its 2020. This video is old and still managed to be one of the best tutorials I’ve seen. Thank you and please post more!

[@Cindy-Williams]

Awesome tutorial! You don't talk about a bunch of unnecessary crap...just get right to the good stuff. Love it!

[@maryc3808]

What a great video! You move along at a perfect pace for me. Love your sense of humor.

[@christinabradford9292]

I used this tutorial a few years ago when was first learning how to sew. I hadn't ever sewn anything more complicated than a pillowcase before making this. It probably took me two weeks get through the whole process. But I saved this video and watched it 100 times! It was so helpful. My stitching was uneven and looked like absolute garbage. But I was so proud. Still am. It was a gift, and I have literally never seen her use it! It was a massive undertaking for someone who didn't know how to use her machine at all, but I'm really glad I did it. Was psyched to see this in my suggested videos. Congrats on an awesome tutorial! And thanks!

[@smarmyclothes]

Congrats on your first non-pillow project!

[@amindraf1]

I absolutely love how thorough, straightforward and straight to the point you are. One of the best. ❤️💯

[@carolstiles2356]

Made this bag twice as gifts. LOVE the pattern. Works really well and the recipients have been thrilled. And I'm pretty proud of being to put all the zippers in!

[@gerandgadantzing5190]

Excellent video. I love how you move along at a rapid pace and exclude laborious video of you pinning and sewing everything. Your explanations are clear and concise, just the way I like em. On the first bag I made the zipper ended up on top, not recessed. I re-watched the video at least 10 times b4 I figured out my error which is a beautiful example of not thoroughly reading/watching the directions. I didn't pick up on the fact you used the same fabric for outside of bag as you did for the pocket on the lining. I also thought the top trim of the lining and bag where the same. Yeesh! Its close to impossible for me to figure ahead in my mind so its all about the visual for me. Anyhoo, thank you for showing me the zipper stuff; Ive catapulted into a whole new arena of sewing! Sew on, DAB.

[@smarmyclothes]

+Daren Brandts I probably should have used different fabrics for the different pockets and top trim, just to avoid confusion!

[@kellyhipkins5616]

Wow, I so love that bag. I'm so glad I found your channel. Hello from Ohio

[@cindyszoke6204]

Love your tutorial.. Not a lot of unnecessary chit chat and just doing the project...

[@hemaliarachchige7788]

Your way of fixing zipper is very easy. Thank you very much for your clear description.

[@FaerySeeker]

This video was great! I made this purse and it turned out perfect. I recommend this tutorial to anyone that wants to make their own zippered purse. Very clear and easy instructions. Loved it!!

[@BadWolfe42]

I had my doubts when I clickd on this video ... but your instructions are clear and concise, and I love your sense of humor! Truly a delight to watch, and yes! I want to go sew zippered pockets onto everything now .. Hmmm, I do have a pair of jeans that just spouted a hole in the knee ...

[@barbaralies]

I commented earlier, but never got around to making the bag. I just made it and am pleased. I made the straps about 2 inches longer and did add stabilizer to the main bag. I made the mistake of unzipping the zipper after I had cut it off at the end and had to rip it out and insert another. You do great tutorials; do more!

[@ruthbutler6725]

Just rewatched this. Love your way of adding pockets to just about any project I'm sewing! Plus, you're super funny and cool and make it easy to understand. Love this video!!

[@lynnedennis542]

I love your tutorials. I have to watch videos over and over. I have a problem remembering steps. You explain things extremely well, and there isn't a lot of wasted chit chat, and time showing silly things. I love the fact you get right to the instruction, and just do it. No dragging the machine back and forth to see how it stitches. I am always looking for tutorials on here, but it the ones doing the tutorials waste a lot of time, and go on and on and on, I just close and keep looking. I've used your tutorial for almost every bag I make. Showing how to make the pattern was brilliant, as I have made everything from a tiny childs bag to a duffle bag, basically following your easy steps.

[@smarmyclothes]

+Lynne Dennis Thank you, Lynne!

[@lynnedennis542]

I finished the bag, not happy about the size of the zipper, There is too much bulk at each end and it doesn't lay flat.

[@GuamBaybe97]

Lol I just realized that you're the one I asked to make those fingerless gloves tutorial back in 2014!!!! I've made two bags like this from your video already and didn't realize this was your be my goth channel lol. Thank you for all your great tutorials 😁😁

[@humabatool9955]

I made this Purse/ Bag today and I'm so happy this video was so helpful and waiting for more.

[@lolab6712]

I just found this channel. She is hilarious and I love this pattern!

[@AdiarraS]

LOL. I love your sense of humor. Fantastic tutorial! Thank you!

[@seboyaprimera3785]

UGH! THANK YOU! THANK YOU FOR ME FINDING YOU AND YOU BEING STRAIGHT TO THE POINT!! (pun intended) some other channels are frustrating and now, relief!! awesome bag, starting it now.... searching your channel for more things to do! thank you most wonderful person!

[@smarmyclothes]

Thanks, Angela! XD

[@cindybryant1136]

I love your humor, phrasing, style and great tutorial! Thank You.

[@wickens9221]

Wow! This is 1 of the best purse tutorials I have seen on youtube. And I have watched hundreds of them trying to teach myself to sew.I love your way of talking to us. Very funny! I can't wait to try this!

[@smarmyclothes]

+Sue B Thank you! :D

[@annadimarzio6399]

great humorous tutorial .enjoyed it . I've made many bags with and without zippers. This shows me a different way a easier way and quick. Many thanks for the extra tips and laughs

[@julianyc422]

I know this video is old, but maybe you'll see this anyway. Been using kids glue on fabric for years, works great. Another trick is to use a lighter to burn the ends of the zipper and do a tack stitich on the end to strenghten it. Great Video.

[@smarmyclothes]

Thanks for the tips!

[@xAmaya13x]

I absolutely LOVE your narrating! Made me smile the whole video. Yes! Finally a super crafty and funny channel on sewing. I know this was posted in 2015 but I had to comment. I'm gonna try Mt had at this pattern , see how I do. Thank you for this!

[@Jana-TheCraftyGambler]

Zippers have always scared the crap out of me but this I think I can handle. Thanks for such an entertaining and easy video to follow. I see a ton of bags in my future!

[@HackThePlanetNow]

Finally a sewing channel that recognizes dudes haha. Great tutorial thanks.

[@hblanchette799]

Fantastic tutorial! I'm new to crafting bags, but with some basic sewing experience. This was fabulous...Thanks so much!

[@gg-ye7ge]

H Blanchette 56vueighjzb. Around.

[@christineallen7097]

Such a great pattern and so many fabrics to make a pretty bag.

[@Valane13]

This is a really great tutorial, thank you so much! After watching/reading many (too many to count) tutorials, I've found that your teaching style and information you've shared in this ONE video has consolidated, simplified, and gone more in-depth than any other. And bonus: the humor! 😆😝🙃😉

[@Valane13]

P.S. I really love the fabric prints and zipper colors you used! Very inspiring for me! I've cut out my fabrics, but not chosen zippers yet, so I will definitely be playing around with different color combos 😬

[@smarmyclothes]

Thanks, Laura! A different commenter complained about my zippers not matching... I wanted to say, "It's called 'power clashing' and I do it because I can." XP

[@smathus]

I really like this tutorial. Thanks. Interfacing the main parts of the bag will make it sturdier.

[@totallykitsch]

One of the most fun tutorials I have ever watched!

[@candar559]

I must say, you are amazing at giving instructions. I just finished my bag last night and I was happy with it. Thank you for taking the time and teaching us how to create cute thing's ❤ can't wait for your other video's.

[@smarmyclothes]

+candy lopez Thank you!

[@carolroot2285]

What a great video! Perfect concise instructions and a great sense of humor! Thank you!

[@rosieingleton2768]

I just love this video, I have watched it a number of times and i am still working on my first bag, thank you for such a great great turtorial, Rosie Australia

[@aribella6913]

Going shopping for the d rings and I'm gonna give it a go. Thanks for this great tutorial.

[@LikeSeriouslyAwesome]

Great techniques. Loved your humor throughout. Will try this bag this weekend and checkout more of your tutorials. Very well done!

[@ellenlaye9750]

must say fantastc video. love your manner and sense of humour.

[@lynnm5267]

You have so much fun, thanks for your humor... we need more of that.

[@ksharpe8137]

You made it look so easy! Heading upstairs to my craft room right now to make it!

[@paulapower8505]

Excellent tutorial, great fun AND informative...What more could we want? More sewing tunes, that's what! Seriously, you rock 😀

[@AyngeMackay]

Thanks! I am definitely making this. My friend just gave me her entire fabric stash, 4 giant trash bags full. I need to get sewing.

[@fullarmor4576]

Thank you for the clear and easy to follow tutorial.

[@angelaballard5813]

Finally! I found out how to make a bag with a zipper! Thank you! Great tutorial!

[@Elkycreates]

I will definitely make this bag and will be directing my sewing students to this tutorial as a suggested project. Thank you so much!

[@d1widdhair]

this was awesome I made the bag today and it was very straightforward. love the pocket design thank you!

[@SallyAnn191]

I DID IT! I finished the bag just now. Lots of unpicking (slightly dyslexic about left/right/reverse/forward etc) but I did it. Missed out the pockets but included the D rings. Made it out of a chenille fabric so there are more fabric threads than dog hairs on the floor but I am SO HAPPY! Thank you. x

[@smarmyclothes]

+miasverypretty So glad you're happy with it!

[@feadaneella1112]

Snow Crone yyy

[@sivakumarigullapalli3163]

smarmyclothes lhhh

[@sivakumarigullapalli3163]

smarmyclothes l

[@traceybrooks416]

Love this tutorial , you teach so well, thank you and I look forward to learning more from you !

[@ruthbutler6725]

Gonna make this next! Already made your cross strap bag with the pocket party! Loved it! Can't wait to get this one started!!

[@herrvideoentertainment3744]

Thanks for sharing. I like the way you prepared your materials and guideline.

[@supamou555]

Thank you for the fantastic no-nonsense instructions! I will have another go with a zippered purse.based on yours My first first try was a disaster.

[@anamnesis04]

This is so much better than my attempt! I took the old tutorial for a square bottom bag and did my own edits to put in a zipper. It's a little wonky, but it's going to be used as a makeup bag so it's fine. Thanks for this, though!! I'm glad I'll get a second shot at making the makeup bag with much better vision!

[@marykowalski7349]

What an awesome tutorial (well two because I watched the bag one, first). Thanks for being so clear and funny - it was a pleasure to watch.

[@timomurillo925]

Thank you. I have been using this tutorial for making my bags. I have always hating the seam at the bottom of the bag. Now because of your video I put it in the lining corner.

[@phyllismiller8097]

Fun lesson, love your style and the puns!!!!!

[@440jasmine]

Your instructions are fantastic! Thank you so much for this video!

[@monicaveintemillas1836]

Hi, I really enjoyed your well explained and easy to follow Tutorial, I will try this a Tote for sure. Mónica from Bolivia 🇧🇴, quilter since 2015 🧵✂️📍

[@amandasullivan9140]

Of all the patterns & tutorials ive tried to sew bags, this one is by far the best! For once, im happy with how it turned out, & could easily understand. I especially love the idea of using the corner instead of the bottom lining to pull it out! You really should look into doing craftsy classes :)

[@jenniferbrown7958]

I truly enjoyed watching this tutorial. I'm gonna make this bag without the straps and fill it with sewing stuff for my daughter's birthday so she can learn to sew

[@moniqueewing380]

Thank you for this very detailed tutorial. I sewed bags with snaps and button closures but never a zipper.

[@jordanalexisokeefe3509]

You are adorable, my dear, and a joy to watch! Thank you for such a fun instruction!

[@MegaKimwade]

Your personality 😍😍😍😍. Love this bag and tutorial.

[@trudyroxburgh8661]

Thanks so much for this tutorial. Made my first bag using a different tutorial which had step missing, so took me forever plus I had to figure a few things out as a went along. This tutorial was great from the start! Will be using it again to make larger sized bag.... thank you so so much. I'd post a pic of the finished bag if only I could figure that bit out 😆

[@jodiradelet8375]

omg love this video love your sense of humor lol strips of strap lol

[@jeanbellm5738]

Thank you...what a great job you did on that bag....I am going to make this and hopefully it will be a success...

[@emily-gz1fp]

I'm getting a sewing machine for christmas and right when i get it I'm making this! I already pre-cut my fabric, lol. Im going to see my aunt on the 29th so i have plenty of time to sew it. (don't worry i have been sewing for about 8 months now so this would not be my first project.) :D

[@heatherhewlett1589]

I made one this weekend. It was hard, but turned out lovely!

[@tiffanytaylor8043]

Ohno! Cannibal purse! Great tutorial! I'm going to run out and add pockets to everything!

[@smarmyclothes]

Yes! Pocket invasion!

[@redcaboose3054]

Awesome ! I have made a few bags from 5" Charm Packs....and would love to use the method you use for putting zippers in the bags. Your tutorials are great !

[@cathyfijalkovic6515]

Wow, this is great. I'm going to have to plan to do this soon. Wonder clips and wonder tape work well. I've discovered "wonder" and it helps speed things along as you don't need to do as much pinning. Thanks for this tutorial. Can't wait! I'm going to have fun picking out fabric for this one. :)

[@alexishollis1580]

I use the clips but what is this tape you speak of O_O

[@kitzy8005]

Best tutorial online....ur the bomb,,,,

[@backyardcnc]

Strips of Strap! you certainly are a cunning linguist! thanks for the video! I learned a few tricks!

[@smarmyclothes]

Ha! You are most welcome!

[@debiharrop8340]

Thank-you so much for your pattern and tutorial. I really like this bag.

[@debl3063]

This was very easy to follow. Thank you for the video.

[@kellyf4154]

I made this yesterday and love it! The only change I made was to the instructions: I left a hole at the bottom of the lining and pulled through there. Since I used interfacing, I thought the gusset was too small to pull through.

[@evepaludan7713]

Thanks, I am going to try that little change to the technique so I can make a denim bag, which might be too bulky to pull through the gusset opening. =) I love this tutorial so much!

[@patfranzoi7713]

I love your videos. I'm going to give this bag a try. I'm fairly new to sewing but your video seems easy to follow. Thank you for sharing your talent. Hugs.

[@fionladfinley281]

Fantastic and well done tutorial that is easy to follow!

[@Angelstasia]

You had me at "honkin'" -- I love your bodacious vernacular; it's akin to my own. Love the tutorial! Subscribed!

[@62usha]

Loved your tutorial! Very clear and enjoyed making the bag😊! Thankyou so much!

[@sheryllovestobake9898]

Wow very clear and funny tutorial, thanks maam for sharing.

[@kaylaw.4443]

dry humor, gotta love it.

[@ruthtay9819]

awesome tutorial! can't wait to loom through the rest of your goodies

[@yvonnemeister9303]

You crack me up girl!! Right up my alley. I am going to try this bag now. Thanks for such a fun tutorial! :-)

[@tondeliabennett9265]

Excellent "How to" video. Thank you.

[@em3332]

hi!!! I really like this tutorial. I made a bag similar to this and it was a total frickin nightmare I really wish I had seen yours first. I'm planning to start on this bag today. I really can't wait and look forward more vids from you. 😄😁😊😊😊

[@morenaczarnecki5066]

I love your style girl! even if your sewing is a bit advance for me, I will stick with you because you are too much fun to listen to :-)

[@scottharlan9327]

THis is amazing. Love the humor with it. Thanks so much!!

[@Noelsam11]

The whole "enchiladas" your so funny. you got my attention.

[@funwithtoys3163]

Very Nice!!! you are an awesome teacher

[@LancasterM972]

I love your tutorial. Very cool!!

[@sensa619]

I love this ! Thank you so much for sharing and your personality is amazing 😁

[@Clearymartin]

Just found your youtube channel and this bag tutorial. I was going to give up and throw what I had started out after 2 hours of pausing, rewinding, ripping a seam out, etc...and then this morning I got back up, in my sewing room and said, "NO, Not today! Not today will this fabric get the best of me!" Well, I did some more pausing, rewinding, scratching my head, tilting my head at the screen like the RKO radio dog.... and .....I got it done! Thank you for the video. Awesome bag! I wish I had more skill lol - but now I will practice this one a few more times...and then I will have the skills..... all the skills!!! :D Thank you!

[@smarmyclothes]

Yay! I'm glad you persevered!!

[@Miya2306]

Awesome. I'm new to your channel but I've just subscribed and I'll be trying this one out. Cant wait for your next one.

[@surejvimukthi7731]

great tutorial.everything is clear!! thanks!

[@finickykouture1159]

Just found this channel... Great video! I can't wait to do this

[@pattyclatterbuck244]

thanks for the newer videos love them

[@joannepierce941]

Well I made my bag today looks great, apart from the zip was fine but I put the inside pocket ended up on the same side as the zip, but I wanted the pockets on the back. Well looks like an other bag to make😀 thanks again for a great video. 😊