Perfect Corners, Perfect Curves: The Betty Pouch

In this tutorial I will go through a detailed explanation of top zipper installation, techniques to achieve neat, aligned, non-dented corners, and obtaining bottom curves that are symmetrical. I am demonstrating on the OKSew Betty Zipper pouch, templates for which can be downloaded free directly from Google drive (links below), however these techniques can be used on any applicable bag pattern.
The Betty Zipper Pouch is a beginner-friendly fully lined zipper pouch, measuring approximately 7.75" wide x 5" tall. The Betty Coin Carrier measures approximately 4.25" wide x 3" tall.
For this pouch you will need:
Exterior fabric, I am using cotton woven from www.geekgardenfabric.com, interfaced with medium weight woven interfacing
Lining fabric, I am using cotton woven from www.geekgardenfabric.com, interfaced with light interfacing
Fusible fleece (optional, depending on fabric choice)
A single zipper or zipper by the yard with teeth length measuring at least 8.5"
I am sewing on a domestic Juki HZL-DX7.
Betty Zipper Pouch with curve template:
drive.google.c...
Betty Coin Carrier:
drive.google.c...
For the original unmodified Butler method, refer to the fantastic Amy Lynne designs: • The Butler Method

[@lindahughes4373]

Definitely the best zipped pouch tutorial I've watched - and I've watched way too many! So thorough but easy to follow. Thanks.

[@OKSew474]

Thanks so much Linda!

[@kathleenchamp3764]

Ok I had written a very lengthy message. I just had to take it down. I felt as tho I had over done it. I meant every word but it was a book. Lol I'll summarize by saying. It is Wonderfully and Beautifully done. This is a fabulous piece of work. From start to finish every aspect anyone could need to know is right here at the tip of there fingers. It's all about the Why the How was done. With these AWESOME VISUALS & BRAKE DOWNS.. well, in my humble opinion, there isn't anyone whom couldn't watch and make a pouch. Whether one who's never made a stitch to the reg bag maker looking for a new style or techniques. Even someone with say, a brain injury that likes to pop up and cause a slight derailment now and then. Heck I believe even one with pattern reading issues could watch and do! I honestly believe any experienced bag maker will agree.. spot on! NOT needing to jump or search out other videos to find a specific bit of info "AMAZING!" I greatly appreciate that you've taken the time( it's certainly a task) to revise & remake this tutorial. I know there are going to be many folks that will appreciate and enjoy it as much as I have. And the bonus of your patterns freely being shared.. WOWZERS ❤!! THANK YOU, BLESS'NS KATHLEEN PS I funny enough I find myself helping others pretty often. You can be assured I'll be directing folks to this video. 😊 Than you again💞

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much for this thoughtful response Kathleen! This is exactly why I enjoy making these tutorials, nothing gives me more joy than someone watching my video and saying "I get it now!". I appreciate your support and I will do my best to make more videos to help people at all stages of their bagmaking journey and be open to feedback on how I can improve!

[@kathleenchamp3764]

@@OKSew474 🥰

[@beadrat]

Also, loved the " not top stitching the lining" explanation as to why. No one has ever mentioned that. They've just said you don't have to but now I see why you shouldn't. Again thank you so much, love your videos!

[@karincarter235]

I can only agree with so many of the comments! Your tutorial is excellent and I can't wait to use it on my next project! Thank you for sharing this!❤ Greetings from Bavaria, Germany!😊

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much!

[@annie7768]

This is exceedingly well done. All the niceties of getting a pouch (and therefore many other types of bags) to look professionally done.

[@queenslanddiva]

As a completely You Tube taught sewer, I cannot tell you how much your tutorials have helped me improve my sewing. Thank you so very much and cheers from Australia.

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much! ❤️ 🇦🇺

[@Katbird88]

I have watched countless pouch videos and put together almost the same aspects you have used, especially the butler zip! Your video is the very best I have seen, we must think in the same way! Thank you so much, you have wonderful little tips! And the pattern, thank you so much

[@OKSew474]

You are so welcome!

[@michellem.131]

You did the most a amazing job with this tutorial. I agree with all the commenters who are praising your work. So glad I found you 😊

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much Michelle!

[@Karen626]

Thanks for the tutorial. And I ALWAYS appreciate a pattern that is designed for the lining to fit nicely in the bag.

[@OKSew474]

You are so welcome!

[@evelynwieland4779]

Your comments as you sew are so helpful to explain why the techniques you are demonstrating will give beautiful results. Thank you for your great teaching and demonstration in your videos!😊

[@OKSew474]

Thank you Evelyn! You are very welcome!

[@joanrupar1576]

Thank you I’m so glad I found you. You’re a wonderful teacher. I learned a lot from you. I make pouches for friends. I don’t sell things, but whatever I make I like to be perfect but now that I found you, my pouches will be perfect maybe not perfect but nicer. Thank you so much again.

[@marnieandersen3264]

Excellent video!! You make it so easy to understand!! Thank you!!!

[@hanlinc1]

I have been sewing for 30+ years and have learned much and removed Rust from my sewing, LOL. God bless you! 😊🤩😇🥰

You teach everything incredibly perfect, bravo! Thank you so much!

[@OKSew474]

Thank you!

[@MsMancans]

Thankyou. Probably the best pouch tutorial Ive seen. Game changing!!

[@LBerm-qc9mq]

I've watched a million videos on pouches and made almost as many pouches (not really but it feels that way) and I'm never satisfied with the results and now I know why. This tutorial addresses all the pitfalls and issues I have encountered. You are an excellent teacher! Thank you so much!

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much for this comment! I hope your next pouch is one you are thrilled with!

[@marinad164]

Again, perfect tutorial, perfect result...!!! I 've been sewing for 40 years and I have absolutely nothing to correct or add to your tutorials. You pay attention to every small detail and you explain EVERYTHING...!!! Wish you all the blessings! Thank you!

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much for your kind feedback!

[@TheJaniebabe]

That's a really nice tip about hiding the backstitching, I'll have to remember that one. Thank you!

[@MariSews]

Great zipper tips! I can’t wait to try them. Also, really love your accent

[@OKSew474]

Thank you! 😊

[@michellehale8962]

Thank you for the detailed instructions and for the pattern PDF. I’m ready to make a Betty zipper pouch!

[@lindahughes4373]

Well, I made a Betty pouch today, and I’m thrilled with how it turned out. It’s almost perfect! Thanks for your brilliant tutorial and your pattern.

[@OKSew474]

This the best feedback! Thank you for sharing, I am so glad you were successful!

[@mckaymargaret0]

Thank you so much for your tutorial. I absolutely love it.

[@OKSew474]

You are so welcome!

[@hanlinc1]

Watched your video and got out several bags of my zipper tapes and practiced...I finally got it together...I taught there was something wrong with the tapes and tabs. Even from several different companies and with tools to put them together, even tried the fork method. NAILED IT WITH FOLLOWING YOU AND YOU TEACHING...Thank you! 😇😊🤔😉

[@OKSew474]

I’m so glad I could help!

[@gfayecox]

Excellent tutorial.

[@dnetlayton3456]

I so appreciate you sharing your knowledge. Your videos changed my zipper pouches from very, very good to professional. Thank you!

[@OKSew474]

You are so welcome!

[@eileenwhiston1949]

I love the staple idea and also how to it a zipper head on. Very useful. Thank you.

[@OKSew474]

You are very welcome!

[@pamelaweaver127]

Thank you! Great tips!

[@OKSew474]

Thanks Pamela!!

[@mmcquade809]

You are a fantastic teacher. I've learned so much from you. You are clear and concise. I'm a beginner and your style is easily understood. TYSM!

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much!

[@karenmfrank]

I have made many, many pouches and watched a ton of videos about pouches, but I learned quite a few techniques from your video!! Thank so much

[@OKSew474]

You are more than welcome, I am so glad you found it helpful!!

[@melpavic1289]

Thanks so much for this video. I fight with my zipper tape all the time 😂 - you made it look so easy and it is a great tip on getting the zipper pull on - I’ll try next time ❤

[@OKSew474]

I'm so glad it helped! I have a tutorial that goes into even more detail on the putting the pulls on if you are still fighting with your zipper tape! kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5vPmmN4fNJnrNEsi=owLE3DdyJQJ5TH6m

[@marionjohnson6757]

I love your videos! Thank you! I appreciate you!

[@OKSew474]

You are so welcome!

[@michellelinhoff3736]

Agree with previous messages above. Such a detailed tutorial! Thank you for inspiring us all…Bless you!🩷

[@reginagraham6539]

Best video I’ve seen doing this method

[@lucretiawrolstad3997]

Greatest tips on corners and zipper tabs installation but I've been watched so far. I have struggled with my zipper closures looking smooth and also top stitching the opening. This will be my next task to practice.

[@OKSew474]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Vicapr]

So glad I found your channel!

[@jeaniesherwood1738]

I came across this video by accident. Thank you so much for such a fantastic tutorial. You are a great teacher and explain things so well. I have subscribed and am looking forward to watching more. Thank you also for the free patterns 😊

[@OKSew474]

So glad you stumbled across the channel! Welcome!

[@baharkanbas]

Thanks for sharing ❤️

[@OKSew474]

Thanks for watching! ❤️

[@beadrat]

You have done it again! The best zipper installation tutorial. Thank you very much, sew glad I found your channel. Keep them coming please!

[@OKSew474]

Thank you! I have plans for many more as time allows!

[@stelladowney6891]

I found this video the most helpful yet regarding the zip and getting great corners - worked a treat - thank you so much for sharing

[@OKSew474]

I'm so glad to hear you found it helpful, especially knowing there are so many tutorials out there!

[@alananderson4145]

Thank you for the free patterns!! Just loved your video !!!! Nice and slow love your over head camera fantastic that was a really really big help !! A lot of information on a lot of little things !!!! Thank you for sharing and caring 👊🙌🏼👏🏿👍🏿⭕️❌🎈🎈🥰😍

[@ilenecorwin9916]

You are a fantastic teacher, I have now made a few of your bags. Logi is a fave ..all you tutorials, patterns, tips & tricks are superior..thank you so much for all you do..

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@TriciaBinGSO]

Thank you so much for this. I find you easier to follow than others on KZbin (and I love your accent). I've thrown away two catastrophies so far, but I have high hopes for my 3rd one. On the 2nd one, I made a mistake that I'll never make again...I actually LOL'd at myself. Learning is fun! :O)

[@OKSew474]

The catastrophes are where we learn the most!! ❤️

[@Alicia652]

Your video tutorial is very thorough and explained exceptionally well. I especially liked your explanation of how to add the zipper pull. I have a difficult time occasionally getting the pull to line up well when I add the pull. Your explanation of starting on the side where the teeth is at the highest point was fabulous! I can’t wait to try this the next time a make a bag. This bag looks so neat and tidy when finished. I have never tried the “Butler method” on inserting a zipper but would like to try it after watching your detailed tutorial. Thanks for sharing! ❤

[@OKSew474]

Thank you so much!! I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@deboramccadden5318]

Another great video with such clear details, thanks again for sharing!

[@eileenmarie2]

It's so nice to learn new techniques. Thank you!

[@OKSew474]

You are very welcome!

[@Yt-hb4wh]

Excellent pattern & tutorial!

[@patriciamoller3060]

Thankyou for explaining every thing so very well, looking forward to more interesting tutorial Australia

[@OKSew474]

You are most welcome Patricia! Thank you. :)

[@elonanamor6420]

Great video Nicole.

[@KatiFalk1]

Very professional video. Well done and exceeding complete

[@dorothytackett9943]

Wonderful tutorial. You made it so easy to understand. I am a new subscriber.

[@ettastanley9533]

Love watching your videos ❤

[@PCOH051610]

The absolute best zipped pouch tutorial I’ve ever seen! Over the years, I’ve made countless zippered pouches and you’ve taught me a few new tricks that really have explained some issues I have encountered. Two quick questions - do you have a source for the double-sided tape and if I was using a regular zipper, would I just buy one a little longer and trim the end off? Thank you for sharing your talent!

[@OKSew474]

Thank you, I'm so glad you found it helpful! Yes, if you are using a zipper with the pull on already you can use any length that is 8.5" or greater and trim it down, noting that you want the actual teeth to be 8.5" or more, not the tape itself. Some sellers list by the tape length not the length of usable zipper. What I would do is trim just in front of the stop at the closed end, add the tab, then sew the zipper in. Then trim the other end after I had topstitched. I always think it is better to have too much and trim later, then come up short and not be able to turn the open end properly. I use this double sided tape from Amazon: a.co/d/hx640Km

[@analuciamoreno3938]

Excelente explicación. Muchas gracias por el tutorial y por compartir sus conocimientos y habilidades. Saludos desde Colombia 🇨🇴

[@OKSew474]

Thank you! :)

[@annkvittum4190]

Great video!

[@OKSew474]

Thank you Ann!

[@jenpatterson8309]

Great tutorial ❤

[@scarahboo]

Fab video it’s great to have someone explain as they’re making ✨ Just wondering how you print your own patterns off at the correct size? Would love to be able to create my own for projects!

[@OKSew474]

Honestly it’s a lot of experimenting; since I’m just drafting to have something to accompany my tutorials rather than creating full pdf patterns with instructions like many independent designers my process is very basic. I design on paper then either scan it and digitize that way or recreate the pieces using measurements in a jpeg file, then transfer it to Canva where I adjust the size until it is printing the way I want it do. There are absolutely programs like illustrator where you could do it much more easily but I am more interested in teaching than making patterns so at least for now this is good enough for my purposes!

[@elainebruno4119]

Thank you!

[@maryjovogt1108]

I totally agree with the other comments-excellent video. I am making both the pouch and coin carrier and have a question; do you start the zipper on the coin pouch in 3/4" in also?

[@OKSew474]

Thanks so much! I’m thrilled you are making both! If your fabric is not too thick you could do 5/8” and still have enough room to push the corner out; I use 3/4” as a rule of thumb so it can be applied to lots of different patterns but as long as the materials aren’t bulky you can safely do 5/8” so you have a slightly wider opening.

[@maryjovogt1108]

@@OKSew474 Thank you for answering so quickly. I am using quilting cotton, so I will do the 5/8”. 😎

[@jayneevanderheym352]

Thank you for your videos. Can I ask what type of needle do you use on the machine? I find mine skipping stitches. Especially when I top stitch.

[@OKSew474]

Hi Jaynee! I mostly use a universal 12/80 needle, but as there is so much variation between machines, material types and thread choices I am hesitant to give recommendations in my tutorials. If you are getting skipped stitches it generally means the top needle is not making it to the bobbin thread in time to catch it as it makes its rotation, which could be because of the number of layers or difficulty piercing through. A bigger and/or sharper needle can help it make its way through the layers more easily so it gets to the bobbin in time. A non-stick needle may also help if you are using vinyl or your double sided tape is in the line of stitches. I need to think of a way to demonstrate this in a video!

[@teresahightower5692]

Thank you for this great pouch tutorial. Love all your tutorials. I wanted to know where to buy the continuous zippers that you are using? Thanks, Teresa.

[@OKSew474]

Thanks Teresa! I get my continuous zippers from a few different places, but most commonly from My Handmade Space, or from Amazon if its for basic color combinations (Leeyaker, Yahoga, Goyunwell brands are ones I have tried and liked, and importantly found to be compatible across brands).

[@teresahightower5692]

Thank you so much!@@OKSew474

[@TheCraftyCornerLisa]

I absolutely love that fabric! Where can I find some?

[@OKSew474]

The daisy print and the coordinate I used for the lining are from Geek Garden Fabric

[@westbourne7034]

Just found your channel so binge watching! Very new to bag making so a steep learning curve. Do you use the Juki for all your bag making? looking at different models and makes of machines before making a purchase. thanks

[@OKSew474]

Hi! I'm glad you found me, I hope you find some useful information here! Yes, I use my domestic Juki for all my bag making. My machine is the HZL-DX7 but the other HZL series machines are very similar as far as power and operation - often just coming with different presser feet and accessories as well as have extra stitch options. If you find a dealer who can go over your needs they should be able to direct you to the best machine for you; I have used Juki Junkies and found them to be very helpful. They are FL based but ship across the USA. If you are not US based you could search for a dealer in your location. A lot of bag makers use the Juki quilting machines that are straight stitch only and find them to be a good machine for bag making. Another option is a vintage machine, those are often much cheaper than a modern machine but still very powerful. Something to keep in mind when choosing your machine is what you think you will be sewing; for example if you will be working with a lot of thick layers of vinyl you may eventually outgrow a domestic machine. I prefer to work with wovens over vinyl, and when I do use vinyl it is not in thick layers so the domestic machine is perfect for me (plus I like to demonstrate that you don't need an industrial machine to be a bagmaker, you just need to know your machine and use the right settings/foot etc!). I love my Juki - I got it at the height of the pandemic and it has been wonderful in the 3-4 years that I have had it so far and I don't feel that I need to "upgrade" at all. I hope that helps!

[@westbourne7034]

Thank you so much for the information, it will be a great help to me x

[@diannebethune8974]

Genius

[@dak3845]

I have a heat press (HTVRONT). Can you tell me what heat setting you use and the time?

[@OKSew474]

On my press I use 300 degrees for 12 seconds but I highly recommend getting some scraps of fabric and interfacing to do some experimentation as the best settings will depend on the specific interfacing and fabric. You could then write the settings used on the back of the fabric so you have a record of what worked well for the specific combinations.

[@valeriehofmann2615]

Can you put a link to the double sided tape?

[@OKSew474]

This is the one I use: a.co/d/gYdhTJH

[@lynn8725]

I don’t see a link to the free pdf, does anyone have that?

[@OKSew474]

Hi Lynn, if you open the description of the video there is a link to the pdf template on google drive. It is right toward the bottom so you may need to expand and scroll down, it will be highlighted in blue.

[@Melissa-sews]

Great video!