Determined to get back to grips with some sewing, I have been working on my second bag kit from U-handbag. This one has taken a couple of attempts because first time round I used outer fabric that was too thick (the kits contain everything except the fabric). In the end I used some of the beautiful Liberty fabric that Mr Snail bought me on our trip to London in the autumn.
The closure is a sprung frame and one of the most difficult parts of the make was putting the frame back together once it had been inserted into the channels that hold it.
My next project is, I think, going to be either a backpack or maybe something with a zip. I am, however, hoping to break fewer sewing machine needles in future.
The Snail of Happiness 
Going Batty in Wales
/ February 6, 2019It looks gorgeous! And what a lovely way to use your special fabric.
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The Snail of Happiness
/ February 6, 2019I’m really, really pleased with it… and I still have some of the fabric… perhaps I’ll make a little wallet to match.
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thecontentedcrafter
/ February 7, 2019I like colour, and the handles and fabric look pleasingly eye-catching to me. I guess it’s one of those things where the more you do it, the easier it gets……. and a gal can never have too many bags, especially when she makes them herself!!
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The Snail of Happiness
/ February 7, 2019I bought the handles first and I was very happy to find a fabric which I thought would set them off. The bag is a great size for me – plenty of room for purse and glasses as well as a crochet hook and yarn!
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katechiconi
/ February 7, 2019Those handles are *fabulous*, I can quite see why you wanted the kit, and they work very well with the Liberty fabric, which is equally fabulous but in a quieter way… Do be aware that sewing in bag zips (bigger, heavier than garment zips) can be equally hazardous to needles. If you aren’t already doing so, try a denim or leather needle. The former is heavier and sturdier, the latter has a chisel point and goes through just about anything.
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The Snail of Happiness
/ February 7, 2019Thanks for the advice on needles… I will get some suitable ones next time I’m in the sewing shop in Lampeter.
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katechiconi
/ February 8, 2019Hope they work for you. At the very least, they should be sturdier.
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The Snail of Happiness
/ February 8, 2019I’ve actually just ordered some online since I needed to do an order for some other bits and bobs and it’s easier than making a special trip out. I’ve ordered both denim and leather needles so I can have a play and find out what works best for the different things I’m making. It’s like learning to sew with a machine all over again!
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katechiconi
/ February 8, 2019I’d also make your stitch length slightly longer. Fingers crossed it helps!
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nanacathy2
/ February 7, 2019What a stunning bag, you should be very proud indeed.
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The Snail of Happiness
/ February 7, 2019And there’s room for yarn and a book in it… my dort of bag!
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wybrow1966
/ February 7, 2019We’ll be calling you the bag lady at this rate!
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The Snail of Happiness
/ February 7, 2019I could live with that!
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Wild Daffodil
/ February 8, 2019Amazing! The handles are superb!
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The Snail of Happiness
/ February 8, 2019Yes – I love them… I will be looking out for bags with interesting handles in all the local charity shops now.
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Kim
/ February 12, 2019It looks magnificent – but I’m still sniggering about the breaking less needles in future 😂
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The Snail of Happiness
/ February 12, 2019I’ve had to put a jar next to my machine in which to put the pieces… I thought ‘sharps’ containers were just for medical situations!
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