Pattern FAQs

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Yes! You may sell individual finished items handmade by you using our patterns. Use for mass production or contracting a third party to produce the items is prohibited. If you decide to sell items that you have made from our patterns, please include a credit back to 'Sewing Patterns by Mrs H' on your listing. If you do sell bags made with our patterns, we'd be happy to add your information to our list of custom bagmakers (see below). Send your information by email 

Our Bag Retreat sewing patterns are usually exclusive to retreaters for two retreats in a row. We then edit and update them for any issues that retreaters might have found, and release them here at some point after retreat. For all the latest updates on releases, news, and behind-the-scenes gossip, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, or sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page.

What width of fabric do I need? Your materials lists only mention length.

All of Mrs H's patterns are written with standard quilting cotton 44" width in mind.

Where do you get your hardware and zips?

The majority of Mrs H's hardware and zips comes from Emmaline Bags, stocked by Sew Hot in the UK

 

 

What difficulty is The Bookbag Backpack?

The Bookbag Backpack is classified as an advanced pattern and may be tricky for beginners.

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is The Bookbag Backpack?

W 12” x H 15” x D 3”

W 30.5cm x H 38cm x D 7.5cm

What interfacing and stabiliser should I use?

Vilene G700 or Pellon SF101 for the medium weight interfacing and fusible fleece or a foam stabiliser such as Headliner, Soft & Stable or Bosal In-R Form for the heavy weight stabiliser.

What fabrics did you use?

I made my cover bag from Poetic Saddle in Iris with Rhythmic Hatch Dream for the straps both from Bari J's Anna Elise line for Art Gallery Fabrics. I used 'Gumdrop' by Kona Cotton for the accents.

My shiny 'Made in Great Britain' bag label came from the Emmaline Bags range stocked by Bobbin Girl.

I used some eyelet lace trim cut in half to trim my front pocket and back strap support, I think it pairs really nicely!

I used regular quilting cotton for the outer and lining, medium weight interfacing on the lining panels (Vilene F220) and headliner foam for the outer panels.

What does it look like inside?

Where can I buy this bag sewing pattern?

Here! https://www.mrs-h.com/the-bowler-bag-pattern.html

What fabrics did you use?

The print on my cover bag is Herb Garden from the Amalfi range designed by Rifle Paper Co for Cotton and Steel

Why can't I find this pattern on your website?

We're sorry, but The Bubbles Bag is a retired pattern. Why not try The Fiesta Tote, or watch out for the release of The Loopy Lou later in 2019!

Released 27th March 2020 at https://www.mrs-h.com/shop/patterns/the-bucket-tote.html

What difficulty is it?

This is classified as an intermediate level pattern. It does require focus as it has an unusual construction, but the testers found the pattern straightforward when they followed step-by-step.

How big is The Captivating Clutch?

The finished dimensions of the Starlet Clutch are 9" x 7" x 2.5" (23cm x 18cm x 6.5cm). The Leading Lady Oversized Clutch is 13" x 10" x 4" (33cm x 25.5cm x 10cm).

What fabrics did you use?

I used Mixologie linen by Studio M for Moda Fabrics, paired with Kona Navy and Kona Ice Frappe. The fabrics were provided by Simply Solids.

What difficulty is The Companion Carpet Bag?

The Companion Carpet Bag is a beginner-level pattern. The trickiest part is keeping track of the tiny screws you will use in the frame!

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

For the first edition of this pattern, I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is it?

Small (8.5” tubular frame) – W 12" x H 8" x D 6" (30.5cm x 20cm x 15cm)

Large (12” tubular frame) – W 16" x H 10" x D 6" (41cm x 25cm x 15cm)

Where can I get the internal tubular frame?

UK & Europe: Sew Hot. Small frame - https://www.sewhot.co.uk/product/emmaline-bags-internal-tubular-bag-frame-small/, Large frame - https://www.sewhot.co.uk/product/emmaline-bags-internal-tubular-bag-frame-large/

Canada & USA: Emmaline Bags - emmalinebags.com/collections/bag-hardware/bag-hardware_bag-frames

Worldwide: 3DAN Supplies on Etsy. Small - www.etsy.com/uk/listing/66968312/8-12-x-3-12-inch-aluminous-, and Large - www.etsy.com/uk/listing/58836567/12-inch-aluminous-tubular-internal-hinge

Where can I get the leather handles?

Emmaline Bags - https://emmalinebags.com/collections/straps-handles

3DAN Supplies on Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/66357461/a-pair-of-55cm-x-18cm-pu-leather-handles

Can I use a different frame size?

Yes. If your frame is only 1/2" bigger or smaller, then just use whichever pattern piece (small or large) is nearest and adjust the frame channels only using the calculation at step 40) in the pattern. I wouldn't recommend adjusting more than 2".

Follow the steps in my tutorial here: https://www.mrs-h.com/blog/adjusting-the-companion-carpet-bag/

How does The Companion Carpet Bag stay closed?

The tubular frame has enough tension to stay closed on its own. You can add a snap for appearance, such as these available from 3DAN Supplies on Etsy: Sew on leather snap fastener

What fabrics did you use?

You can use upholstery fabric, faux leather, quilting cotton, wool suiting, or a mix of all! Find inspiration for your carpet bag here: New Companion Carpet bag tester photos.

What does The Companion Carpet Bag look like inside?

What difficulty is it?

The Convertible Bag is a beginner to intermediate level bag sewing pattern. One of the Mrs H team members made this bag for their first bagmaking project.

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is The Convertible Bag?

W 9” x H 11” x D 2”(W 23cm x H 28cm x D 5cm)

What fabrics did you use?

I made my original cover bag using Joel Dewberry Tile flourish with some solid pink for the contrast front pocket. You can see that bag here: Introducing The Convertible Bag. The current cover bags were made by Lynne's Selections.

What does The Convertible Bag look like inside?

This pattern was released on February 3rd when Mrs H demoed it live on Natasha Makes. Find the sewing pattern here: https://www.mrs-h.com/the-crossbody-bag.html

What difficulty is it?

This sewing pattern is around an intermediate level. Be thoughtful about your fabric choices (see below), read the instructions carefully, and have chocolate on hand in case of an emergency!

How big is The Dainty Daytripper?

11" W x 13" H x 5" D (28cm x 33cm x 12.5cm)

What fabrics should I use?

Please note that at its thickest part you will be sewing through 6 layers plus 2 layers of foam stabiliser to form the bottom boxed corners. If you are using all faux leather / vinyl / cork, you may want to consider doing a swatch test before you begin. We recommend against using leather for the Dainty Daytripper as it gets very thick in the bottom corners.

Where can I get the internal wire frame?

Sew Hot, or Emmaline Bags. Some bagmakers have made this bag without the frame, and some have experimented with making their own bag frames using wire. We're unable to advise on either of these methods, but have a look through our Facebook group to see what others have tried.

Where can I get the diamond strap anchors?

Sew Hot, or Emmaline Bags. Some bagmakers have made this bag using fabric tabs and rectangular rings in place of the diamond strap anchors. Have a look through our Facebook group to see what others have tried.

Have you got any tips for working with PVC/faux leather?

Sewing faux leather: We entirely understand that faux leather can be tricky if you've not used it before, especially if you have a few layers. You may find it easier to sew if you use a Teflon foot on your machine. You may also want to consider lengthening your stitch to around 4 when topstitching, or reducing the tension on the pressure foot. Some bagineers have told us they use tissue paper or Stitch and Tear when working with faux leather. Don't forget to use a new needle for every project too!

Have you got any tips for working with multiple layers/bulk?

Check out my YouTube video: How to trim headliner away from seams

Have you got any tips for adding bag feet to the base?

Your bag feet should be 3 1/2 inches from the centre line, and 1 1/2 inches from the bottom. Don't forget to use fray check!

If you're installing a base, then don't do this until everything is sewn, then put the base through the turning gap and then push the feet into place. The base should be 4 3/4 inches high by 10 1/2 inches.

What difficulty is it?

This is a beginner-level sewing pattern and a quick, simple sew.

How big is The Fiesta Tote?

14" W x 11.5" H x 5" D (35.5cm x 29cm x 12.5cm)

Where can I find the webbing for the handles?

Sew Hot have a wide selection: https://www.sewhot.co.uk/product-category/notions/handles-straps/. Some bagineers have told us they found their webbing on eBay. You could also use pre-made leather handles instead of webbing, as I did with my Patchwork Fiesta: Herringbone Patchwork Fiesta

What difficulty is it?

The Gentleman's Wallet is an intermediate level sewing pattern.

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

For my initial make, I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is The Gentleman's Wallet?

W 4.5" x H 4" x D 0.5" (W 11.5cm x H 10cm x D 1.25cm)

What interfacing and stabiliser should I use?

You’ll need both firm interfacing such as Vilene H250 or Pellon 809 and extra firm stabiliser such as Decovil 1 or Peltex

What fabrics did you use?

I used C4225 for Riley Blake by The Quilted Fish. I designed this pattern for cottons. Although some of my testers experimented with cork and vegan leather, I recommend that you avoid using linens or very thick fabrics for the interior pockets.

Where can I get the vinyl for the ID pocket?

I used clear vinyl from Sew Hot.

What difficulty is it?

This is an intermediate level sewing pattern

How big is The Holey Mayole?

13" W x 11" H x 5" D (33cm x 28cm x 12.5cm)

Can I make the bag without the hole?

You can! You'll want to attach a crossbody strap in place of the handles.

Why do people keep telling me to take a selfie with my Holey Mayole?

This bag sparked a trend among bagineers for taking a photo through the flaphole. It even has its own hashtag - #flapholeselfie. It's a fun little extra thing to do as you're making your bag. Be sure to share your selfies with us on our Facebook group, so we can cheer you on in your bagmaking adventure.

What's the meaning behind the name Holey Mayole and how do I pronounce it?

This bag was originally designed for The Bag of the Month Club and was released in May 2018, and the flap has a hole for the handles.

The bag name is pronounced as "Ho-lee May-o-lee".

What difficulty is it?

This is an intermediate to advanced level sewing pattern, designed to teach you new bagmaking techniques.

How big is The Jangles Anchor Bag?

11" W x 10" H x 5" D (28cm x 25cm x 12.5cm)

Where can I get the long john strap anchors?

Sew Hot - https://www.sewhot.co.uk/product-category/notions/bag-hardware/strap-anchors/, or Emmaline Bags - https://emmalinebags.com/products/strap-anchor-long-john-in-6-finish-4-pack. Some bagineers have made this using diamond strap anchors or rectangular rings. Have a look on our Facebook group for inspiration.

What is the meaning behind the pattern's name?

The 'Anchor' part comes from the pattern using Long John Strap Anchors. 'Jangles' is the nickname of one of our favourite people!

Is the zip bridge meant to be so low down?

Yes! The Jangles Anchor Bag was designed to let you carry a folded umbrella on top of the bag.

 

 

What difficulty is it?

This is an intermediate level sewing pattern

How big is The Machine Bag?

16.5" W x 12.5" H x 9" D (42cm x 32cm x 23cm)

Where can I find the webbing for the handles?

Sew Hot have a wide selection: https://www.sewhot.co.uk/product-category/notions/handles-straps/.

Where can I get foam core board for the bag base?

This is an artist's material, so check out your local art supply shops. Some bagineers have used plastic mesh or plastic cutting boards cut to size for their bag bases. Have a look on our Facebook group for inspiration.

What difficulty is it?

This is an advanced level sewing pattern.

How long does it take to sew The Nappy Bag?

This isn't a quickie. Our more experienced testers spent around 4 hours just on the sewing. The average sewing time for The Nappy Bag appears to be around 6-8 hours. If you're making the full version of The Nappy Bag with all the pockets, then the cutting out and prep time is likely to be around another 4 hours too.

How big is The Nappy Bag?

W 18" x H 10" x D 5"

W 45.75cm x H 25.5cm x D 12cm

What fabrics did you use?

I used quilting cottons throughout. You can use a lightweight home décor fabric, but it can be tricky.

For my first version, I used Amy Butler home decor fabric Trumpet Flowers in pink and co-ordinated it with Robert Kaufman Kona Solids Melon.

What does The Nappy Bag look like inside?

Can I make The Nappy Bag as an overnight bag or an office bag?

Yes! There are lots of ways that you can modify The Nappy Bag. I've made multiple versions of it, including as an overnight bag, and as an office bag. Why not have a browse of some of my blogs about The Nappy Bag? List of blogs tagged for The Nappy Bag

What difficulty is it?

This is a beginner-level bag sewing pattern.

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is The Pampering Pouch?

W 14.5” x H 9” x D 4.5”

W 35.5cm x H 23cm x D 11.5cm

What fabrics did you use?

Quilting cottons, with an optional faux leather accent on the base. I used fabrics from Betz White’s Dutch Treat line for Riley Blake

Where did you get the internal frames:

US/CANADA: https://emmalinebags.com/products/internal-wire-frames-style-c-14-x-4-1-2

UK: https://www.sewhot.co.uk/product/emmaline-bags-internal-wire-frame-style-c/

What does The Pampering Pouch look like inside?

What difficulty is The Reversible Hobo Bag?

This is a beginner level bag

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is The Reversible Hobo?

W 15” x H 15” x D 4”

W 38cm x H 38cm x D 10cm

What fabrics did you use for your Reversible Hobo Bag?

I used a faux leather for the outer and a quilting cotton for the lining, but of course it’s reversible! This pattern also looks great in home decor fabric. For my first bag, I used Tula Pink Chain main in Plum and Bramble Flame retardant faux leather from Fabric-online.co.uk

What does The Reversible Hobo Bag look like inside?

What difficulty is it?

This is a beginner-level bag, and a quick and easy sew.

How big is it?

12" W x 10" H x 5" D (30.5cm x 25.5cm x 12.5cm)

Is there a video tutorial for The Ring Sling?

Yes! You'll find it on my YouTube channel here: The Ring Sling Sew Along on YouTube.

I'm planning to make my Ring Sling with faux leather/vinyl; do I need to use stabiliser?

Not necessarily. For my first Ring Sling, I used faux leather and didn't use any stabiliser at all, just medium weight interfacing on the inside lining. The structure of the bag's shape gives it the stability that it needs without stabiliser.

Why is the interior pocket designed this way?

To hide the raw edges of the zip tape.

What difficulty is it?

This is a beginner-level sewing pattern.

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is it?

W 14" x H 8.5" x D 7"

W 35.5cm x H 22cm x D 18cm

What does it look like inside?

Have you got any tips for working with PVC/faux leather?

Sewing faux leather: We entirely understand that faux leather can be tricky if you've not used it before, especially if you have a few layers. You may find it easier to sew if you use a Teflon foot on your machine. You may also want to consider lengthening your stitch to around 4 when topstitching, or reducing the tension on the pressure foot. Some bagineers have told us they use tissue paper or Stitch and Tear when working with faux leather. Don't forget to use a new needle for every project too!

Ironing faux leather: There is a step in the making of The Sassy Saddlebag where you need to press your bag. When you get to this point, put your iron on low, use a pressing cloth, and only press very gently.

Why can't I find The Satchel Bag on your website?

We're sorry, but this is a retired sewing pattern. Why not try the large version of The Captivating Clutch? Or, make The Nappy Bag as an office bag! Find out how I did that, here: Amanda's Awesome Bag

I'm not sure I understand step 46 on page 13 where it says, "Reach through...", can you help please?

An alternative way to read the instruction is: "Take hold of the seam allowance of the exterior top and the seam allowance lining and stitch them together within the seam allowance. This will prevent the lining from falling down inside the bag. It holds it in place. " The reason why you're reaching into the opening is because one half is exposed to you because you've just sewn it, but to do the second side you'll have to manipulate the fabric so that you have both seam allowances available. So, think of that step as "wrangle the bag so that you can sew the seam allowances (exterior and lining) together on each side of the zip gusset. If you're still stuck, please pop a question up in our Facebook group, or send us an email.

What difficulty is it?

This is a beginner level bag, and an ideal first make for beginners, especially as it's totally free!

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is it?

W 13” x H 8” x D 4.5”

W 33cm x H 21cm x D 12cm

What fabrics did you use?

The grey is faux suede upholstery fabric, with pink floral lawn from Granny’s stash. The Green & pink is from Granny’s stash too!

What does it look like inside?

What difficulty is it?

This is a beginner level bag pattern.

How big is it?

Small: 8" W x 9" H x 3" D (20cm x 23cm x 8cm); Large: 10" W x 11" H x 4" D (25cm x 28cm x 10cm)

What fabrics did you use?

The main fabric for my cover bags is from the Juxtaposey range, designed by Betz White for Riley Blake.

Can I use directional fabric for The Squiffy Sling?

As this bag sewing pattern has just one main pattern piece, you might find it easiest to use non-directional fabrics. However, if you are thinking of using a directional fabric, PennyDog Patchwork has a pattern hack video on YouTube to help you get your prints the right way up.

Where can I buy your Sunburst Clutch sewing pattern?

This was designed in association with PennyDog Patchwork and you will find the Sunburst Clutch pattern in PennyDog's store at: https://payhip.com/pennydog

What difficulty is it?

Advanced beginner. The construction is beginner, but working with tricky fabrics makes it slightly more difficult.

What machine did you use to sew The Swim & Gym originally?

I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is The Swim & Gym?

12” W x 18” H x 7” D (30cm X 45cm X 18cm)

What interfacing and stabiliser should I use?

None!

Where did you get….

Mesh – By Annie’s manufactures mesh which is available in many haberdasheries

Rope – any hardware store. It needs to fit through your eyelets but over than that as thick as possible

Waterproof material – you can use cordura which is a speciality material or anything waterproof. One of my testers used a waterproof table cloth.

Pretty metal rope endings – from the hardware store. In the UK they’re called copper couplings

What fabrics did you use?

I used faux leather, PUL and Mesh. I also used on a different bag 1000d Cordura and mesh. I have also made a bag from faux leather, quilting cotton and linen, please see the sew along posts. I finished the rope ends off with Copper Couplings on some bags.

What does it look like inside?

What type of elastic should I use?

Fold over Elastic

How long should the elastic be?

Cut the elastic unstretched to the length you'd like the pocket top to be

What difficulty is it?

This is an advanced pattern for bagineers who want a challenging sew, and who have great attention to detail!

How big is it?

14" W x 11.5" H x 5.5" D (35.5cm x 29cm x 14cm)

What difficulty is it?

Intermediate

What machine did you use to sew this originally?

I used a Brother FS-40, it's a domestic machine designed for quilting

How big is The Window Shopper Tote?

W 15" x H 16" x D 2.5"
W 38cm x H 40cm x D 6cm

Where did you get….

Screw-In Oval grommet handles

US/CANADA: http://emmalinebags.com/products/oval-bag-handles-grommet-style-screw-in

UK: https://www.sewhot.co.uk/product/emmaline-bags-oval-bag-handles-nickel-finish/. Sew Hot also have a hardware kit available for The Window Shopper Tote: https://www.sewhot.co.uk/product/emmaline-bags-bag-of-the-month-club-kit-for-feb-2016-mrs-h/

What fabrics did you use?

Quilting cotton throughout, with faux leather for the gusset. I used Tula Pink Mosaic in Glacier from the Eden collection

What does it look like inside?

The Necessary Clutch Wallet (NCW) - Emmaline Bags

The Flora Wristlet - Emmaline Bags

The Shoreline Shoulder Bag - Dog Under My Desk

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