BAG SEWING FOR BEGINNERS
Everything you need – plus a few things you didn’t know you needed
How to sew a bag yourself
You probably know the feeling of having an almost perfect bag. If only they had a few more pockets, a bit more space, a different colour – or just felt a bit more *you*.
The solution? Make it yourself! It's easier (and more fun) than you think.
Why we love sewing bags
Sewing a bag is a manageable project – regardless if you're a beginner or have more experience. And when you sew yourself, you're in charge!
Size, shape, fabric, colours, pockets – it's all up to you. Not one other will have the exact same bag!
And don't forget that terrific feeling inside when you can answer "where is it from" with a proud: I made it myself.
Already know what you need?
Go straight to the materials – or scroll down for inspiration for your next bag sewing project..
3 questions to ask yourself before you get started
- What will your bag be used for?
Groceries? Yarn? Makeup? Or all of the above? That’ll help you decide how sturdy the fabric needs to be. - How confident are you at the sewing machine?
A simple tote is a perfect place to start. Bags with linings, zips and interfacing take a bit more know-how – but they’re absolutely doable. - What look are you going for?
Clean and practical? Bright and eye-catching? Or a lovely mix of both?
Materials that make all the difference
You can sew a bag from just about anything – but some fabrics are easier to work with and hold up far better over time.
We recommend choosing tightly woven, non-transparent fabrics. It gives you a neater result – and a bag that won’t wear out before its time.
Do yourself a favour: go for a firm woven fabric
We suggest avoiding stretch. A firm, woven fabric will give you cleaner lines and help your bag keep its shape – even when you’ve filled it to the brim.
Below you’ll find our top picks – but it’s entirely up to you what suits your project and personal style.
Canvas
Denim
Tapestry
Upholstery fabric
Beaver nylon
Corduroy
Faux leather
Woven cotton
But those are far from your only options.
As we said: as long as the fabric is tightly woven, you can use just about anything.
In addition to favourites like canvas, denim and upholstery fabric, there are loads of other great options too.
Try quilted fabrics, half panama, faux fur, teddy, patchwork fabrics, cotton canvas, linen, jacquard – or any of the many other firm woven fabrics we have on offer.
Psst... Got any fabric scraps lying around? A bag is often the perfect project to put them to good use.
Interfacing and stabilisers – and why your bag probably needs them
Keep your bag from going floppy
Want your bag to hold its shape? Then adding some interfacing is a smart move.
It gives your bag structure, strength, and a more polished finish – especially if it needs to carry a bit of weight.
Some of the most popular types of interfacing for bags
- Decovil
A semi-rigid interfacing, great for bags that need to stand up on their own – like pouches or toiletry bags. - Fusible bag interfacing
Strong and stable – ideal for larger bags or bags with a flat base. - Style-Vil
A soft foam interfacing with body, giving your bag volume without letting it collapse. - Volume fleece or batting
Adds softness and a bit of puff – perfect for quilted bags or cosmetic pouches.
There are plenty of options out there – and the right one depends on both your fabric and the type of bag you’re making.
We’ve put together a handy guide to help you choose the best match for your project. You’ll find it right here.
The finishing touches: Accessories that complete your bag
The fabric alone won’t cut it. Let’s be honest—it’s just easier to carry your bag if it has a proper strap.
And it definitely feels more secure when there’s a zip keeping everything inside instead of spilling across the pavement... or into someone else’s pocket.
Accessories help make your bag both functional and good-looking.
The most commonly used accessories for bags
- Zips
You can choose from a huge range of colours and lengths, with plastic or metal teeth, depending on the look you’re going for. - Buckles and D-rings
Use them to attach straps – and to make them removable with a simple click. Essential for crossbody bags and bumbags. - Adjusters
These help you change the strap length so you can carry your bag just the way you like. Often used on backpacks, shoulder bags and bumbags. - Magnetic snaps and press fasteners
Simple closures for shopper bags or small purses. Easy to attach and even easier to use daily. - Webbing and woven tape
Tough and practical as handles, straps or decorative details. Available in loads of colours, widths and patterns, so you can make it yours.
Going all-in with your bag-making?
Then, please take a look at our range of unique bag-making products.
You’ll find all the extras that make your project more fun and more polished, from pre-cut bag bottoms and inserts to keyrings, rivets, and chain straps.
It’s the little things that make a big difference.
Which one is your next bag?
There are plenty of ways to get started, and there is no need to begin with the trickiest one. Here's a quick overview of some of the most popular bag types and what they're suitable for:
- Tote bags and shopping nets
A classic beginner project. Few parts, simple seams, and lots of room to make it your own with straps, pockets, or prints. - Toiletry bags and pouches
Small, manageable projects where you can practise sewing zips, linings, and adding structure. Great as gifts to others – or yourself! - Shoppers and shoulder bags
Practical everyday bags with room to spare are a great place to start experimenting with linings, magnetic closures, and a bit more structure. - Bumbags and crossbody bags
A touch more advanced – but still beginner-friendly, especially with our improved, award-winning sewing patterns. You'll get to try curved seams, buckles and adjustable straps. - Backpacks
A more demanding project with more parts and functionality – but oh, the satisfaction when it all comes together. - Small handbags
Compact, pretty projects that allow you to play with detail and expression. Use striking fabrics, fun closures or decorative trims.
Start wherever it feels most fun, and go from there. We've got plenty of sewing patterns to choose from.
Try one of our Selfmade® quality bag patterns, complete with detailed guides and pre-cut pattern pieces in interfacing.
Or download one of our many free print-at-home patterns and get started immediately.
Ideas for your next bag project
Here, you’ll find a collection of short articles packed with inspiration for specific bags – and how to get them just right.
Which one do you feel like making?
Sew a bumbag
Explore loads of inspiration and practical tips for bumbags and belt bags.
Sew toiletry bags
Discover clever ideas and helpful advice for making toiletry bags.
Would you rather crochet?
Not in the mood for sewing? You can also crochet or knit a bag! Find all our free crochet patterns right here.