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This pattern is copyrighted 2021 to Rebecca Page by rebecca-page.com
Please feel free to make garments from this pattern to sell. If you do, we would love you to include a credit to rebecca-page.com as the pattern designer, but it is up to you.
The finished product may only be sold by crafters. It may not be mass produced. You can only sell the finished product; you cannot sell the pattern or these instructions.
Best of luck and happy sewing!
4
Essential Handbag
Member Rating
Difficulty Level
Beginner
Equipment Needed
Description
The handbag sewing pattern of your dreams is here! With loads of pockets, handles and an optional adjustable long strap, plus an optional hanging loop, hand sanitizer pouch, and decorative bow, the Essential Handbag is beautiful, practical, and easy to sew.
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- +Preparation
- Medium to heavy weight interfacing – 1 yard will be sufficient if you are adding to all pieces and options. Your fabric choice will determine the weight of the interfacing needed and if it is needed for all pieces. The interfacing will stabilize the bag and give it structure.
- OPTIONAL Zipper closure – 1 x 11 inch / 28 cm zipper
- OPTIONAL Front Pocket – 1x 4 inch / 10cm zipper
- OPTIONAL Hanging Loop – 1x ½ inch wide Swivel Clasp hardware
- NOTE – You will need the OPTIONAL Hanging Loop if you are adding the OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder.
- OPTIONAL Long Strap – 2x 1 ¼ inch wide / 3 cm D-rings
- OPTIONAL Bow – 1x 1 inch wide Key ring hardware
- OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder:
- 18cm long cord elastic
- ⅜ inch / 1 cm wide Button
- 1x ½ inch wide Key ring hardware
- NOTE – You will need your bottle of hand sanitizer handy in order to calculate the button placement.
- Thread to match
- Front – Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- Facing – Fabric cut 2, Interfacing cut 2
- Lining – Lining cut 2
- Lining Binding – Lining cut 1
- Back – Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- Base – Fabric cut 1 on fold, Interfacing cut 1 on fold
- Handles – Fabric cut 2, Interfacing cut 2
- OPTIONAL Patch Pocket – Lining cut 1
- OPTIONAL Phone Pocket:
- Pocket – Lining cut 1
- Binding – Fabric cut 1 on bias
- OPTIONAL Hanging Loop – Fabric cut 1
- NOTE – This is attached to the Phone Pocket.
- OPTIONAL Front Pocket:
- Back – Fabric cut 1, Lining cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- Top – Fabric cut 1, Lining cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- Bottom – Fabric cut 1, Lining cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- Band – Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- OPTIONAL Long Strap:
- Strap – Fabric cut 1 on fold, Interfacing cut 1 on fold
- D-ring Tab – Fabric cut 2, Interfacing cut 2
- Strap Loop – Fabric cut 4, Interfacing cut 4
- OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder:
- Pouch – Lining cut 2
- Keyring Tab – Fabric cut 1
- NOTE – You will need the OPTIONAL Hanging Loop to attach the Sanitizer Holder to.
- OPTIONAL Bow:
- Bow – Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- Center – Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- Keyring Holder – Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
- Tail – Fabric cut 2, Interfacing cut 2
- OPTIONAL Zipper Closure:
- Zipper Sides – Fabric cut 4, Interfacing cut 2
- OPTIONAL Zipper Pull – Fabric cut 1
- Zipper End – Fabric cut 1
- NOTE – Do not use a thick fabric for the Zipper End as it can be tricky to stitch and attach to the zipper.
Project OverviewEssential Handbag
Difficulty Level = Beginner
The Essential Handbag is the perfect bag for all your bits and bobs. With lots of optional pockets like the zipped outside pocket, perfect for keeping your mask, or the inside patch and phone pockets. Carry the bag by the handles or add a long strap. There is an optional hanging loop to attach your keys to or add the optional sanitizer holder. To finish the bag off add the optional beautiful bow which attaches to a handle.
Our Facebook group is a great place to get help, share your tips and creations! We are a friendly bunch, and we love to help and see what you have made.
Please read the full instructions before getting started.
Wash, dry, and press your fabric before starting your project. A bit of prep now prevents shrinking and means your garment will stay the same size you made it.
Never leave a child or baby unattended or allow to sleep in a garment made from one of our patterns with ties, snaps, buttons, or anything they could remove, choke on, or get caught on. Always use caution if you are unsure. We love our patterns, but we love your bundles of joy more!
SizingSize Range
Bag
Finished Measurements (Inches)
Width
Height
Handle length
OPTIONAL Strap length
One size
13.0
8.0
9.0
42.0
Materials and ToolsFabric – You will need a woven or non-stretch fabric. Cotton, quilting cotton, denim, cotton lawn, canvas, even upholstery fabric would work. You could use a faux leather/leather or suede, but you will need the correct machine and needle to work with this fabric as there are a lot of layers that need sewing together.
Lining fabric – It needs to be a light to medium weight woven fabric. Suitable fabrics include habotai (silk or polyester), poly anti-static lining, cotton, quilting cotton, and satin. If your main fabric is not too thick, you could also use this for the lining.
Fabric Requirements 45 inches/115 cm wide (in YARDS)
Main
Lining
Bag
0.5
0.5
OPTIONAL Front Pocket
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Lining Pockets
N/A
0.25
OPTIONAL Hanging Loop
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Bow
0.25
0.25
OPTIONAL Sanitizer
N/A
0.25
OPTIONAL Long Strap
N/A
N/A
Fabric Requirements 60 inches/150 cm wide (in YARDS)
Main
Lining
Bag
0.5
0.5
OPTIONAL Front Pocket
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Lining Pockets
N/A
0.25
OPTIONAL Hanging Loop
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Bow
0.25
0.25
OPTIONAL Sanitizer
N/A
0.25
OPTIONAL Long Strap
0,25
N/A
NOTE – If you are sewing all OPTIONS you will need less fabric. These have been listed separately, however when all placed onto the same fabric you will use less. You can get all options from 1 yard of fabric and ½ yard of lining (60 inches/150 cm wide). The OPTIONAL Long Strap will not fit across fabric 45 inches/115 cm wide.
* If you are using a narrower fabric, a directional print, or a fabric with nap you may need more.
** Make sure to wash, dry, and press all fabrics before cutting out in case they shrink.You will also need:
Tools needed are, sewing machine, pins, scissors, tape measure or ruler, optional washaway sewing tape, zipper foot, optional chopstick, optional loop turner or bodkin. Serger/overlocker is optional but not required.
Printing Your PatternSettings
The pattern is a separate download. Choose either the US letter paper, A4 paper, or A0 paper size based on the printer you wish to use. If you are in the US or Canada then your printer will likely use US letter paper. Other regions normally use A4 paper. Some people prefer to print their patterns at a print shop: A0 is best in this case.
Print at 100%.
On the second page, you will find a 1-inch and a 3-inch square test box. Print this page first, on its own, and measure these squares.
Once you are happy that the test box is accurate, print the rest of the pattern pages.
Please follow this video for information and assistance on assembling this pattern.
Also, please note that some Rebecca Page patterns and projects also come with cut files and a printable design page which you can use to plan your project if you wish. These are provided in a separate section below to avoid any confusion!
+US Print Charts
Here are which pages to print for the US Files
Bag OPTIONAL Front Pocket Lining Pockets Hanging Loop Zipper Closure Bow Sanitizer Long Strap 2-6, 9-13 13-14 7-8 17-18 6 16-20 15-16 15-18 +A4 Print Charts
Here are which pages to print for the A4 Files
Bag OPTIONAL Front Pocket Lining Pockets Hanging Loop Zipper Closure Bow Sanitizer Long Strap 2-6, 8-11, 14-16 12-13 6-7 10-11 20 12, 16-20 11, 17 14-17 Cutting InstructionsCut each of the pieces according to the directions on the pattern piece. Seam allowances are all included so just cut them as is.
Cutting Charts – All pattern pieces are included, however if you prefer to cut using a cutting chart, the dimensions for the rectangular pieces (in INCHES) are below:
Width
Length
Facing
Fabric cut 2, Interfacing cut 2
14.6
3.0
Lining Binding
Lining cut 1
2.0
13.5
Handles
Fabric cut 2, Interfacing cut 2
3.0
16.0
OPTIONAL Phone Pocket:
Pocket
Lining cut 1
5.0
6.0
Binding
Fabric cut 1 on bias
7.0
2.0
OPTIONAL Front Pocket:
Back
Fabric cut 1, Lining cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
8.3
5.4
Top
Fabric cut 1, Lining cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
5.0
2.0
Bottom
Fabric cut 1, Lining cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
5.0
4.1
Band
Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
6.3
2.0
OPTIONAL Patch Pocket
Lining cut 1
8.1
6.3
OPTIONAL Long Strap:
Strap
Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
3.0
60.6
D-ring tab
Fabric cut 2, Interfacing cut 2
3.0
4.0
Strap Loop
Fabric cut 4, Interfacing cut 4
1.8
3.2
OPTIONAL Hanging Loop
Fabric cut 1
2.0
12.0
OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder:
Pouch
Lining cut 2
6.7
5.7
Keyring Tab
Lining cut 1
1.4
2.4
OPTIONAL Bow:
Bow
Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
17.5
9.0
Center
Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
3.7
5.3
Keyring Holder
Fabric cut 1, Interfacing cut 1
5.0
5.0
OPTIONAL Zipper Closure:
Zipper Sides
Fabric cut 4, Interfacing cut 2
9.0
2.4
Zipper End
Fabric cut 1
1.75
2.5
OPTIONAL Zipper Pull
Fabric cut 1
3.0
1.5
Cutting Checklist:
NOTE – To cut fabric on the fold, fold your fabric over parallel to the selvage edges. Align the pattern piece so it is on the fold of the fabric. Cut around the edges, leaving the fold. If you have folded your fabric correctly the fold will be parallel to the two edges of the fabric that are finished. The raw edges (e.g. the ones you could pick at and threads would come off) will be at a right angle to your fold.
- + Instructions
- PATTERN MARKINGS – Transfer all pattern markings.
- INTERFACING – Apply interfacing to all pieces.
- OPTIONAL FRONT POCKET – Lay Main Front Pocket Top right side up. Place zipper on top, right sides together. Place Front Pocket Top Lining on top, right side down. Stitch. Flip Top Lining over, so wrong sides of Main and Lining are facing. Press. OPTIONAL – Topstitch. Pin Main and Lining together. Baste or pin together. Repeat to attach Main and Lining Bottom pieces to other side of zip. Place Main Front Pocket Back onto Front, right sides together, matching both short edges. Stitch. Turn Pocket piece over so Front is wrong side up. Lay Back Pocket Lining right side down, matching short edges. Stitch. OPTIONAL trim zipper ends. Fold Front Pocket Band in half lengthwise, right sides together, matching short ends. Stitch. Clip corner and turn out. Mark center of bottom edge of Main Front and Back pieces. Mark center of Band. Insert Band in between the Front and Back, right sides together, matching centers and raw edges. Pin. Flip Mark center of bottom edge of Back Lining. Match center to Main Back. Stitch. Clip corners and turn out. Place Pocket onto Main Front at pattern markings. Baste. Stitch in the ditch.
- HANDLES – Fold a Handle in half lengthwise, right sides together. Stitch. Trim seam allowance. Turn and press. Topstitch long edges. Repeat for second Handle.
- OPTIONAL LONG STRAP – Fold Long Strap in half lengthwise, right sides together. Pin one short edge and the long raw edge. Stitch. Turn out and press. Fold short edge ½ inch inside. Press. Topstitch both long and short edges. Fold D-ring Tab in half lengthwise right sides together. Stitch long edge. Press seam allowance open, pressing the D-ring Tab flat with seam in the middle. Stitch one short raw edge. Turn out. Slide D-ring the middle of D-ring Tab. Fold Tab right sides together, with raw edge ¾ of an inch away from the sewn edge. Pin. Repeat for other D-ring Tab. Fold both short edges of Strap Loop ¼ inch to wrong side. Press. Fold using double fold bias method. Topstitch open long edge. Repeat for the other three Handle Loops.
- OPTIONAL PATCH POCKET – Lay Patch Pocket wrong side facing up. Fold one long edge ¼ inch to wrong side. Press. Fold ½ inch to wrong side. Press. Topstitch. Fold other three sides over to wrong side by ¼ inch. Press. Repeat. Pin. Place Patch Pocket onto Lining matching pattern placement. Topstitch two short sides and bottom edge.
- OPTIONAL HANGING LOOP – Use double fold bias method with Hanging Loop. Topstitch each long edge. Thread swivel clasp, centering it. Fold Hanging Loop wrong sides together. Stitch across Hanging Loop ½ inch down from the swivel clasp.
- OPTIONAL PHONE POCKET – Use double fold bias method for Phone Pocket Binding. Stitch binding over top edge of Phone Pocket. Fold three sides to wrong side by ¼ inch. Press. Repeat. Pin. Lay Lining right side up. OPTIONAL Hanging Loop – Place 2 inches down from pattern marking. Place Phone Pocket onto Lining. Topstitch sides and bottom.
- OPTIONAL ZIPPER CLOSURE – FRAYING FABRIC: Press both short edges of Zipper End ¼ inch to wrong side. Fold in half widthwise, right sides together, matching short edges. Stitch. Trim corners. Turn out and press. Place zipper into Zipper End. Topstitch. NON-FRAYING FABRIC: Fold Zipper End in half widthwise. Press. Lay Zipper End wrong side facing up. Place stopper end of zipper on top, right side facing up. Fold Zipper End over zipper. Topstitch. Fold both short edges of a Zipper Side ½ inch to wrong side. Press. Repeat with three Zipper Side pieces. Lay one Zipper Side right side up. Place zipper on top, right sides together, matching edges. Pin. Place a second Zipper Side on top, right side down, sandwiching zipper. Pin. Stitch. Flip pieces wrong sides together. Press. Pin. Repeat to attach other two Zipper Sides onto other side of zipper. Fold long open edges 1 inch to wrong side. Press. Topstitch both short sides and along the zipper tape on both Zipper Sides.
- BAG CONSTRUCTION – Lay Main Back and Front pieces right sides together, matching sides. Stitch. Clip curves. Turn right side out. OPTIONAL Long Strap: Place D-ring Tab 2 inches from top edge at side seam, matching middle of the D-ring Tab to the side seam. Topstitch a square. Repeat with second D-ring Tab. Slide each side of Long Strap through D-rings on either side, leaving an 8 inch tail. Fold tail end onto Long Strap. Pin. Measure and mark 2 inches from edge and then at 6 inches. Stitch. Wrap Strap Loop around stitching. Hand stitch in place and close Loops using a slipstitch. Find and mark center of the curved sides of Base. Place Base onto Bag, right sides together, matching center to side seams. Stitch. Lay Facing wrong side up. Place Handle at pattern markings, overlapping by ½ inch. Baste. Fold Handle over to right side. Topstitch the pattern markings. Repeat for second Facing and Handle. OPTIONAL Zipper Closure – Lay Facing right side facing up. Place Zipper Closure in the middle, 1.75 inches from Handle edge. Topstitch long edge of Zipper Side. Repeat to attach other Zipper Side to second Facing. Place Facing pieces right sides together, matching short edges. Stitch. Place raw long edge of Facing onto top edge of bag, right sides together, matching side seams. Stitch. Press seam allowance up towards the Facing. From right side, topstitch along Facing, stitching over Handles. Place Lining pieces right sides together, matching side seams. Stitch. Slide Lining over Bag, right sides together, matching top edge of Lining to raw edge of Facing and matching side seams. Stitch. Pull Lining up, right side facing up. Take bottom raw edge of Lining and fold one side in at side seam, matching side seam and pattern markings to create pleat. Pin. Repeat on other side. Match raw edge of Lining pieces wrong sides together. Baste. Use double fold bias method for Lining Binding. Folding short edges of Lining Binding stitch to raw edge of Lining. Fold Binding over and stitch.
- OPTIONAL ZIPPER PULL – Fold Zipper Pull short edges ¼ inch to wrong side. Press. Use double fold bias method for Zipper Pull. Topstitch both short edges and long edge. Thread through slider. Fold Zipper Pull in half. Stitch across.
- OPTIONAL BOW – Fold Bow in half lengthwise, right sides together. Stitch long edge, leaving a 1 inch gap. Turn out. Align short edges right sides together. Stitch. Fold fabric under by ½ inch. Use slipstitch to close gap. Press seam to middle. Place Tails right sides together. Stitch, leaving a 1 inch gap. Clip corners. Turn out and press. Use slipstitch to close gap. Pinch middle of Bow together. Repeat with Tail. Place Tail onto bottom of Bow. Hand stitch. Use double fold bias method for Keyring Holder. Topstitch long edges. Thread keyring through Keyring Holder. Fold in half with keyring at center. Stitch. Fold Bow Center in half lengthwise right sides together. Stitch one short and the long edge. Clip corner and trim seam allowance. Turn out and press. Fold open short edge ½ inch to wrong side. Pin. Wrap Center around right side of Bow and Tail. Place Keyring holder in between Center, with folded edge facing out. Topstitch across Center. Place keyring around a Handle to attach Bow.
- OPTIONAL SANITIZER HOLDER – Lay Sanitizer Pouch right side facing up. Baste elastic at top long edge, ¾ inch and 2 inches away. Use double fold bias method for Keyring Tab. Topstitch open long edge. Thread the keyring. Fold in half with keyring at center. Stitch across bottom. Place Keyring Tab onto Pouch, right sides together, 2 inches from top edge, matching raw edges. Baste. Place second Pouch on top, right sides together. Stitch. Press seam open. Fold Pouch in half widthways, right sides together. Stitch long edge. Take top raw edge and gently pull it down till raw edges match, turning it right side out. Press. Stitch bottom edge using a french seam. Hand stitch button. Attach keyring onto Hanging Loop swivel clasp.
- step 4 for the OPTIONAL Patch Pocket
- or to step 5 for the OPTIONAL Hanging Loop
- or step 6 for the OPTIONAL Phone Pocket
- or step 7 for the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
- or step 8 for the bag construction
- step 5 for the OPTIONAL Hanging Loop
- or step 6 for the OPTIONAL Phone Pocket
- or step 7 for the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
- or step 8 for the bag construction
- step 6 for the OPTIONAL Phone Pocket
- or step 7 for the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
- or step 8 for the bag construction
- or step 7 for the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
- or step 8 for the bag construction
- step 7 for the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
- or step 8 for the bag construction
- If you are adding the OPTIONAL Zipper Pull, follow step 9.
- If you are adding the OPTIONAL Bow, follow step 10.
- If you are adding the OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder, follow step 11.
- If you are adding the OPTIONAL Bow, follow step 10.
- If you are adding the OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder, follow step 11.
Quick Glance Cheat Sheet½ inch seam allowance included (¼ then ¼ for French seams) – Top stitching ⅛ inch – Basting ⅛ inch
Preparation –
Sewing –
0 . PreparationSeam Allowance
½ inch seam allowance included (¼ then ¼ for French seams) – Top stitching ⅛ inch – Basting ⅛ inch
0.1Pattern Markings
Transfer all pattern markings to the fabric using a disappearing ink pen or tailors chalk.
0.2Interfacing
Use the manufacturer’s instructions to apply interfacing to the to the wrong side of the following pieces: Main Front and Back, Base, Facing, Front Pocket Back, Top, Bottom and Band, Handles, Long Strap, D-ring Tab, Strap Loops and Zipper Sides.
OPTIONAL Bow – Dependent on your fabric choice you may need to interface all the Bow pieces (Bow, Center Tail and Keyring Holder) to give it a bit of structure.
1 . OPTIONAL Front Pocket1.0The OPTIONAL Front Pocket sits on the outside of the bag. If you are not adding the OPTIONAL Front Pocket, skip to step 2. Otherwise follow below.
1.1Lay the Main Front Pocket Top right side up. Place the zipper on top, right sides together, matching edges. Pin.
TIP – To help prevent the zipper from shifting or the fabric from distorting when sewing, use washaway sewing tape to secure the zipper.
1.2Place the Front Pocket Top Lining on top, right side down, sandwiching the zipper between the fabrics. Pin.
They will now be layered in this order: Main facing up, zipper facing down, Lining facing down.
NOTE – Check the zipper finished length required for your Front Pocket. If your zipper is longer, trim it to the correct length and stitch a bar tack to close the zipper, as shown here.
1.4Flip the Top Lining over, so wrong sides of the Main and Lining are facing. Press.
OPTIONAL – Topstitch along the zipper tape, ⅛ inch from the fabric edge.
1.6Repeat steps 1.1 to 1.5 to attach the Main and Lining Bottom pieces to the other side of the zip.
NOTE – This will now be called the Front.
1.7Place the Main Front Pocket Back onto the Front, right sides together, matching both short edges. Pin.
NOTE – The Back piece is longer than the Front.
1.9Turn the Pocket piece over so the Front is wrong side up. Lay the Back Pocket Lining right side down, matching short edges.
TIP – Pin the Main Front Pocket back during this step so it does not get caught in the side seam.
1.11Fold the Front Pocket Band in half lengthwise, right sides together, matching short ends. Pin.
1.13Clip the corner at the folded edge to avoid bulk. Be careful not to cut into the stitching.
1.14Turn it right side out.
1.15Mark the center of the bottom edge of the Main Front and Back pieces. Mark the center of the Band.
Insert the Band in between the Front and Back, right sides together, matching centers and raw edges. Pin.
1.16Flip the Pocket over so the Lining is facing up. Mark the center of the bottom edge of the Back Lining. Match the center to the Main Back. Pin.
NOTE – You will now have six layers pinned together with the Main Back, Band and Back Lining.
1.18Clip the corners to reduce bulk. Be careful not to cut into the stitching.
1.19Starting with the Main Back, turn the Pocket right side out.
Press.
NOTE – The top raw edge will be sewn into the bag in a later step.
NOTE – I have used a heavy thick fabric in this tutorial which resulted in the Band not meeting the side of the Pocket (see last photo). If you use a thinner fabric for your bag, the sides will line up.
1.20Place the Pocket onto the Main Front at the pattern markings. Pin.
1.22Stitch directly over the seam of the Band to the Pocket. This is called stitching in the ditch. Your stitches won’t be seen.
2 . Handles2.1Fold a Handle in half lengthwise, right sides together. Pin.
2.4Turn right side out and press.
There are several ways to turn the Handle right side out. If you have a preferred method you are more familiar with, please use this. Alternatively, here are two options on how I like to do it.
METHOD A – Leave a long tail of threads after backstitching at the end of the tube. Tie the threads with a double knot to secure in the eye of a blunt large needle (you can use a bodkin or a large darning needle).
Push the needle inside the tube all the way until it emerges at the other end. Very delicately, pull on the thread and roll the fabric on itself inside the tube so it is wrong sides together. Continue to roll until you turned the tube right side out completely.
METHOD B – Use a loop turner. Insert the loop turner inside the tube until it reaches the other end.
Perforate the fabric with the little clasp and push it to close the hook. Pull the loop turner back inside very delicately. While pulling the loop turner inside, smooth the fabric upwards towards the top of the hook and roll the fabric on itself inside the tube so it is wrong sides together. Continue to roll until you turned the tube right side out completely.
2.6Repeat steps 2.1 to 2.5 for the second Handle.
If you are adding the OPTIONAL Long Strap, follow below.
If you are not adding the OPTIONAL Long Strap, skip to
3 . OPTIONAL Long Strap3.1Fold the Long Strap in half lengthwise, right sides together. Pin one short edge and the long raw edge.
3.4Fold the open short edge ½ inch inside. Pin. Press.
3.6Fold the D-ring Tab in half lengthwise right sides together. Pin the long edge.
3.9Pin one short raw edge.
3.11OPTIONAL – If you are using a heavy weight fabric, trim the corners to reduce bulk.
Turn right side out.
3.12Slide the D-ring into the middle of the D-ring Tab.
3.13Fold the Tab right sides together, with the raw edge ¾ of an inch away from the sewn edge. Pin.
3.14Repeat steps 3.6 to 3.13 for the other D-ring Tab.
3.15Fold both short edges of the Strap Loop ¼ inch to the wrong side. Press.
TIP – The thickness of the fabric will affect the size of the Long Strap. Check the Strap Loop fits around the Long Strap and adjust if needed by folding more over on each short edge.
3.16If you are familiar with making double fold bias tape, please use this. If not, don’t worry, just follow along here.
Fold the Strap Loop in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press.
3.17Open the Strap Loop then fold the two long sides into the middle and press.
3.18Refold the Strap Loop along the first middle fold, folding the raw edges to the inside. Press.
3.20Repeat steps 3.16 to 3.19 for the other three Handle Loop pieces.
Follow step 4 for the OPTIONAL Patch Pocket or skip to
4 . OPTIONAL Patch Pocket4.1Lay the Patch Pocket wrong side facing up. Fold one long edge ¼ inch to the wrong side. Press.
4.2Fold ½ inch to the wrong side. Press.
4.4Fold the other three sides over to the wrong side by ¼ inch. Press.
4.5Fold again by ¼ inch. This will encase the raw edges. Pin.
4.6Place the Patch Pocket onto the Lining matching the top of the Patch Pocket to the pattern placement. Pin the two short sides and the bottom edge.
NOTE – Leave the top edge unpinned.
5 . OPTIONAL Hanging Loop5.0If you are making the OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder you will need the OPTIONAL Hanging Loop to attach it to. You can also use this Hanging Loop to attach your keys to or anything else on a keyring hardware. This is attached to the OPTIONAL Phone Pocket. If you are not making the OPTIONAL Hanging Loop skip to
Otherwise follow below.
5.1If you are familiar with making double fold bias tape, please use this. If not, don’t worry, just follow along here.
Fold the Hanging Loop in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press.
5.2Open the Hanging Loop then fold the two long sides into the middle and press.
5.3Refold the Hanging Loop along the first middle fold, folding the raw edges to the inside. Press.
5.5Thread the swivel clasp onto the Hanging Loop, centering it.
5.6Fold the Hanging Loop wrong sides together. Stitch across the Hanging Loop ½ inch down from the swivel clasp. Stitch back and forth to secure it.
Follow step 6 for the OPTIONAL Phone Pocket
6 . OPTIONAL Phone Pocket6.0The OPTIONAL Phone Pocket will be attached to the opposite side of Lining as the OPTIONAL Patch Pocket (if added). If you are not making the OPTIONAL Phone Pocket, skip to
Otherwise follow below.
6.1If you are familiar with making double fold bias tape, please use this. If not, don’t worry, just follow along here.
Fold the Phone Pocket Binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press.
NOTE – We have used a contrast fabric for the Binding in these steps. However, you can use the same Lining fabric as your Phone Pocket.
6.2Open the Phone Pocket Binding then fold the two long sides into the middle and press.
6.3Refold the Phone Pocket Binding along the first middle fold, folding the raw edges to the inside. Press.
6.4Lay the Phone Pocket wrong side up. Place the Binding onto a short edge, right side down, matching raw edges. Trim the excess fabric. Pin.
NOTE – The edge you are attaching the Binding will become the top edge.
6.5Stitch along the first fold.
6.6Fold the Binding over, enclosing the raw edge. Pin.
6.8Fold the other three sides over to the wrong side by ¼ inch. Press.
Fold again by ¼ inch. This will encase the raw edges. Pin.
6.9Lay the Lining right side up.
OPTIONAL Hanging Loop – Place the Hanging Loop raw edges 2 inches down from the pattern marking, right sides together.
TIP – Lay the Hanging Loop ends beside each other to reduce bulk. This will make it easier to stitch.
Place the Phone Pocket onto the Lining, matching the top of the Phone Pocket to the pattern marking. Pin the sides and the bottom edge.
NOTE – Leave the top edge unpinned.
7 . OPTIONAL Zipper Closure7.0You can close the center of the bag with a zip closure or you can leave it open. If you are making the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure, follow below. NOTE – The sides of the bag are left open with the Zipper Closure OPTION. If you are not adding the zipper closure skip to step 8 for the bag construction.
If you are using a fabric that frays, follow steps 7.1 to 7.7. If you are using a fabric that won’t fray, follow steps 7.8 to 7.9.
7.1FRAYING FABRIC: Fold both short edges of the Zipper End ¼ inch to the wrong side. Press.
7.2Fold the Zipper End in half widthwise, right sides together, matching short edges. Pin the unpressed edges.
7.4Trim the bottom corners being careful not to cut into the stitching.
7.5Turn it right side out and press.
7.6Place the zipper into Zipper End. Pin.
NOTE – You are inserting the stopper end.
NOTE – Check the zipper finished length required for the zipper closure. If your zipper is longer, trim it to the correct length and stitch a bar tack to close the zipper.
7.8NON-FRAYING FABRIC: Fold the Zipper End in half widthwise. Press.
Lay the Zipper End wrong side facing up. Place the stopper end of the zipper on top, right side facing up.
Fold the Zipper End over the zipper. Pin.
OPTIONAL – Trim the sides of the Zipper End to meet the zipper tape.
7.10Fold both short edges of a Zipper Side ½ inch to the wrong side. Press.
7.11Repeat step 7.10 with the other three Zipper Side pieces.
7.12Lay one Zipper Side right side up. Place the zipper on top, right sides together, matching edges. Pin.
TIP – To help prevent the zipper from shifting or the fabric from distorting when sewing, use washaway sewing tape to secure the zipper.
TIP – Match the zipper stoppers to the folded edge of the zipper side, later you will have something to tuck under.
7.13Place a second Zipper Side on top, right side down, sandwiching the zipper between the fabrics. Pin.
They will now be layered in this order: Zipper Side facing up, zipper facing down, Zipper Side facing down.
7.15Flip the pieces wrong sides together. Press. Pin.
7.16Repeat steps 7.12 to 7.15 to attach the other two Zipper Sides onto the other side of the zipper.
7.17Fold the long open edges 1 inch to the wrong side. Press.
NOTE – You will need to do this on all four pieces.
Pin.
NOTE – Tuck the raw edge of the zipper tape in between the Zipper Sides. This will keep it neat and inside the bag.
8 . Bag Construction8.1Lay the Main Back and Front pieces right sides together, matching the sides. Pin.
8.3Clip into the curve being careful not to clip into the stitches.
Turn bag right side out.
If you are not attaching the OPTIONAL Long Strap, skip to step 8.11.
If you are attaching OPTIONAL Long Strap, follow below.
8.4OPTIONAL Long Strap: Place the D-ring Tab 2 inches from the top edge at the side seam, matching the middle of the D-ring Tab to the side seam. Pin.
NOTE – The shorter folded edge of the D-ring Tab should be facing onto the side seam, with the folded edge and D-ring at the top.
8.6Slide each side of the Long Strap through the D-rings on either side, leaving an 8 inch tail.
8.7Fold the tail end onto the Long Strap. Pin.
Measure and mark 2 inches from the edge and then at 6 inches.
8.8Stitch across the Long Strap at these markings.
TIP – Stitch back and forth a few times to secure the stitches.
8.9Take a Strap Loop and wrap it around the Long Strap at the first stitch line from step 8.8.
Hand stitch the ends onto the inner side of the Long Strap to secure them. This will stop the Strap Loops sliding up and down.
8.10Use a slipstitch (also called a ‘ladder stitch’) to stitch the ends together.
Thread your needle, tying the two thread tail ends together in a knot. This will provide added strength to your finished seam.
Push your needle up from the inside of one edge of the Strap Loop to the outside, through one of the folds, pulling the thread tail completely through. Your knotted end will now be nicely concealed within the seam on the inside.
Directly across from your starting point, push the needle down and then back up through the opposite seam fold to create a stitch that is between ¼ – ½ inch long. When you pull the thread through, you will notice that the stitch you just made is concealed within the seam crease, and there will be a horizontal stitch connecting the left and right sides of your opening.
Pull the thread through so that it is taut.
Repeat steps 8.9 to 8.10 to attach the second Strap Loop over the second stitch line on the Long Strap.
Repeat steps 8.7 to 8.10 to secure the other side of the Long Strap and Strap Loops.
8.11Find and mark the center of the curved sides of the Base. Place the Base onto the Bag, right sides together, matching the center of the curved edges to the side seams. Pin.
8.12Continue pinning all around.
8.14Lay a Facing piece wrong side up. Place a Handle at the pattern markings, overlapping by ½ inch. Pin.
8.16Fold the Handle over to the right side of the Facing. Pin.
8.17Topstitch along the pattern markings.
8.18Repeat steps 8.14 to 8.17 for the second Facing and Handle.
If you are not doing the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure, skip to step 8.22.
If you are adding the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure, follow below.
8.19Lay the Facing right side facing up. Place the Zipper Closure in the middle, 1.75 inches from the Handle edge. Pin the long edge (opposite to zipper) of the Zipper Side onto the Facing.
8.20Topstitch ⅛ inch from the edge.
8.21Repeat steps 8.19 to 8.20 to attach the other Zipper Side to the second Facing.
8.22Place the Facing pieces right sides together, matching the short edges. Pin.
8.24Place the raw long edge of the Facing onto the top edge of the Bag right sides together, matching side seams. Pin.
NOTE – You are attaching the raw edge of the Facing opposite to the side the Handles are attached to.
8.27Place the Lining pieces right sides together, matching the side seams. Pin.
NOTE – Check you are attaching the Lining pieces the right way around. If you have added Pockets you want both top edges to be facing up.
8.29Slide the Lining over the Bag, right sides together, matching the top edge of the Lining to the raw edge of the Facing and matching side seams. Pin.
NOTE – If you have added Pockets to the Lining the top edge is the same edge as the top edge of the Pockets.
8.31Pull the Lining up away from the bag, right side facing up.
Take the bottom raw edge of the Lining and fold one side in at the side seam, matching the side seam and pattern markings together to create a pleat. Pin.
Repeat on the other side.
8.32Match the raw edge of the Lining pieces wrong sides together. Pin.
8.34If you are familiar with making double fold bias tape, please use this. If not, don’t worry, just follow along here.
Fold each short side of the Lining Binding ½ inch to the wrong side. Press.
Fold the Lining Binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press.
8.35Open the Lining Binding then fold the two long sides into the middle and press.
8.36Refold the Lining Binding along the first middle fold, folding the raw edges to the inside. Press.
8.37Check the measure of your Lining Binding and if needed trim to fit. You will need to fold the short edges to enclose the short edges of your Binding.
Place it onto the bottom of the Lining, matching the long raw edges. Pin.
8.38Stitch along the first fold.
8.39Fold the Binding over, enclosing the raw edge. Pin.
8.41Tuck the Lining inside the bag.
If you are not adding any OPTIONAL extras, your Handbag is finished!
9 . OPTIONAL Zipper Pull9.0If you have made the OPTIONAL Zipper Closure and your zipper slider has a large opening, you can add an OPTIONAL Zipper Pull. This will make it easier to open and close the bag. Follow below. Otherwise skip to step 10.
9.1Fold the Zipper Pull short edges ¼ inch to the wrong side. Press.
9.2If you are familiar with making double fold bias tape, please use this. If not, don’t worry, just follow along here.
Fold the Zipper Pull in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press
9.3Open the Zipper Pull then fold the two long sides into the middle and press.
9.4Refold the Zipper Pull along the first middle fold, folding the raw edges to the inside. Press.
9.6Thread the Zipper Pull through the hole in the slider.
9.7Fold the Zipper Pull in half. Stitch across, close to the slider.
If you are not adding any further OPTIONAL extras, your Handbag is finished!
10 . OPTIONAL Bow10.1Fold the Bow in half lengthwise, right sides together. Pin the long edge.
10.3Turn right side out.
Align the short edges right sides together. Pin.
10.5Use a slipstitch (also called a ‘ladder stitch’) to stitch the gap closed.
Fold your fabric under by ½ inch. You will be stitching along this folded edge.
Thread your needle, tying the two thread tail ends together in a knot. This will provide added strength to your finished seam.
Push your needle up from the inside of the Bow to the outside, through one of the folds, pulling the thread tail completely through. Your knotted end will now be nicely concealed within the seam on the inside.
Directly across from your starting point, push the needle down and then back up through the opposite seam fold to create a stitch that is between ¼ – ½ inch long. When you pull the thread through, you will notice that the stitch you just made is concealed within the seam crease, and there will be a horizontal stitch connecting the left and right sides of your opening.
Pull the thread through so that it is taut.
10.6Press the seam to the middle.
10.7Place the Tails right sides together. Pin.
10.9Clip the corners and turn the Tail right side out. Press.
Use a slipstitch (also called a ‘ladder stitch’) to stitch the gap closed.
10.10Pinch the middle of the Bow together. Repeat with the Tail.
Then place the Tail on the bottom of the Bow.
Hand stitch together.
10.11If you are familiar with making double fold bias tape, please use this. If not, don’t worry, just follow along here.
Fold the Keyring Holder in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press.
10.12Open the Keyring Holder then fold the two long sides into the middle and press.
10.13Refold the Keyring Holder along the first middle fold, folding the raw edges to the inside. Press.
10.15Thread the keyring through the Keyring Holder. Fold in half with the keyring at the center.
10.16Stitch across the Keyring Holder approximately ½ inch away from the keyring. Stitch back and forth to secure it.
10.17Fold the Bow Center in half lengthwise right sides together. Pin one short and the long edge.
10.21Fold the open short edge ½ inch to the wrong side. Pin.
10.22Wrap the Center around the right side of the Bow and Tail.
10.23Place the Keyring holder in between the Center, with the folded edge facing out. Pin.
10.24Topstitch across the Center ⅛ inch from the edge.
NOTE – If your machine is struggling to stitch through all of these layers (especially with thicker fabric), use a slipstitch or running stitch to stitch by hand.
Place the keyring around a Handle to attach the Bow to your bag.
If you are not adding the OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder, your Handbag is finished!
If you are adding the OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder, follow below.
11 . OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder11.1Lay a Sanitizer Pouch right side facing up. Place one end of the elastic along the top long edge, ¾ inch from the right side and the other end 2 inches away. Pin.
11.3If you are familiar with making double fold bias tape, please use this. If not, don’t worry, just follow along here.
Fold the Keyring Tab in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press.
11.4Open the Keyring Tab then fold the two long sides into the middle and press.
11.5Refold the Keyring Tab along the first middle fold, folding the raw edges to the inside. Press.
11.7Thread the Keyring Tab through the keyring. Fold in half with the keyring at the center.
11.8Stitch across the bottom ⅛ inch away from the raw edge.
11.9Place the Keyring Tab onto the Pouch, right sides together, 2 inches from the top edge, matching raw edges. Pin.
11.11Place the second Pouch on top, right sides together. Pin the top edge (with elastic).
11.14Fold the Pouch in half widthways (with the seam in the middle), right sides together. Pin the long edge.
11.16Take the top raw edge and gently pull it down, until the raw edges match, turning it right side out. Press.
11.17You are going to use a French seam to stitch the bottom edge. This will hide all the raw edges and give a much cleaner finish. If you haven’t done these before, don’t worry, all the steps are below so you can just follow along.
Pin the bottom edge wrong sides together.
11.20Turn the Pouch wrong side out. Press.
TIP – Use a blunt object, like a chopstick to push the corners out.
11.22Turn the Holder right side out.
Place your sanitizer bottle inside the Pouch. Fold the elastic down and mark where the button placement is.
11.23Hand stitch the button in place.
Attach the keyring onto the Hanging Loop swivel clasp.
Your Handbag is finished!
- + Finishing Notes and Congratulations
Finishing Notes and Congratulations
Congratulations, your Essential Handbag is done. Enjoy!
We would love to hear how you got on and see photos of your finished project!
Join us at our Facebook Group, tag us on Instagram, or use the hashtag #rpessentialhandbag
Thank you for using a Rebecca Page pattern.
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All Rights Reserved
Sales + Licencing InformationProject OverviewEssential Handbag
Difficulty Level = Beginner
The Essential Handbag is the perfect bag for all your bits and bobs. With lots of optional pockets like the zipped outside pocket, perfect for keeping your mask, or the inside patch and phone pockets. Carry the bag by the handles or add a long strap. There is an optional hanging loop to attach your keys to or add the optional sanitizer holder. To finish the bag off add the optional beautiful bow which attaches to a handle.
SizingSize Range
Bag
Finished Measurements (Inches)
Width
Height
Handle length
OPTIONAL Strap length
One size
13.0
8.0
9.0
42.0
Materials and ToolsFabric – You will need a woven or non-stretch fabric. Cotton, quilting cotton, denim, cotton lawn, canvas, even upholstery fabric would work. You could use a faux leather/leather or suede, but you will need the correct machine and needle to work with this fabric as there are a lot of layers that need sewing together.
Lining fabric – It needs to be a light to medium weight woven fabric. Suitable fabrics include habotai (silk or polyester), poly anti-static lining, cotton, quilting cotton, and satin. If your main fabric is not too thick, you could also use this for the lining.
Fabric Requirements 45 inches/115 cm wide (in YARDS)
Main
Lining
Bag
0.5
0.5
OPTIONAL Front Pocket
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Lining Pockets
N/A
0.25
OPTIONAL Hanging Loop
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Bow
0.25
0.25
OPTIONAL Sanitizer
N/A
0.25
OPTIONAL Long Strap
N/A
N/A
Fabric Requirements 60 inches/150 cm wide (in YARDS)
Main
Lining
Bag
0.5
0.5
OPTIONAL Front Pocket
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Lining Pockets
N/A
0.25
OPTIONAL Hanging Loop
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Zipper Closure
0.25
N/A
OPTIONAL Bow
0.25
0.25
OPTIONAL Sanitizer
N/A
0.25
OPTIONAL Long Strap
0,25
N/A
NOTE – If you are sewing all OPTIONS you will need less fabric. These have been listed separately, however when all placed onto the same fabric you will use less. You can get all options from 1 yard of fabric and ½ yard of lining (60 inches/150 cm wide). The OPTIONAL Long Strap will not fit across fabric 45 inches/115 cm wide.
* If you are using a narrower fabric, a directional print, or a fabric with nap you may need more.
** Make sure to wash, dry, and press all fabrics before cutting out in case they shrink.You will also need:
- Medium to heavy weight interfacing – 1 yard will be sufficient if you are adding to all pieces and options. Your fabric choice will determine the weight of the interfacing needed and if it is needed for all pieces. The interfacing will stabilize the bag and give it structure.
- OPTIONAL Zipper closure – 1 x 11 inch / 28 cm zipper
- OPTIONAL Front Pocket – 1x 4 inch / 10cm zipper
- OPTIONAL Hanging Loop – 1x ½ inch wide Swivel Clasp hardware
- NOTE – You will need the OPTIONAL Hanging Loop if you are adding the OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder.
- OPTIONAL Long Strap – 2x 1 ¼ inch wide / 3 cm D-rings
- OPTIONAL Bow – 1x 1 inch wide Key ring hardware
- OPTIONAL Sanitizer Holder:
- 18cm long cord elastic
- ⅜ inch / 1 cm wide Button
- 1x ½ inch wide Key ring hardware
- NOTE – You will need your bottle of hand sanitizer handy in order to calculate the button placement.
- Thread to match
Tools needed are, sewing machine, pins, scissors, tape measure or ruler, optional washaway sewing tape, zipper foot, optional chopstick, optional loop turner or bodkin. Serger/overlocker is optional but not required.