I like the nesting iPad sleeve and the other sleeve. The modular idea is ideal. I’d really recommend selling a pattern! It would help me and others progress faster. Thanks.
Hi Ben, If you want even more details, I have a four-part tutorial on making a roll-top backpack you might want to check out. It isn't about messenger bags, specifically, but a lot of the information crosses over. Good luck with your messenger bag, let us know how it turns out!
Well done Jason! I too had the same problem with my binder on my LSZ-1 so I did what you did with the clips and I cranked the machine by hand. It took a tad bit longer but still worked well.
WOW! I like it, as I get a little more experience I’ll attempt this. I’ve seen your current edging setup. I’m working on a Juki 1541,. I’m thinking about ordering a right angle binder. I currently have a swing away, it works pretty well for the unlined bags I have made but I think it would be a pain on a multi layer bag.
That's pretty clean and clear water for a swamp. Most swamp water I've seen was as dark as black coffee with all the tannin that was leaching out of the vegetation that had fallen in the water and decomposing in it. They usually smell bad too. Nice bag by the way.
Hi! Big Cypress is a beautiful place, and the water is very (surprisingly) clear! There's quite a lot of water flowing through the swamp, and the swamp acts as a filter to clean the water as it heads to the Gulf of Mexico. If you're ever in this part of Florida, I highly recommend visiting, and doing a swamp walk if you can. And thank you!
Last year I made a couple quite similar bags as gifts (I tried to reverse-engineer my much-used Timbuk 2 Classic), and it was great until binding the assembled bags, same issue with the wandering grosgrain ribbon in the swing-away binder. So I too had to iron ribbon and clip and maybe sew a little further inwards of the ribbon edge (to reliable capture the other side) than I would have liked, and there was legendary foul language, but the bags still came out great and I learned a lot in the process. I might try gluing first should I revisit. I blamed my binding problem at the time on not having a walking-foot machine (I think I mostly used my Pfaff 130 for the exterior), but after watching this video I think I would have run into the same problems with a walking foot. I enjoy videos like this, thanks for making it.
Thanks, Chris! If you haven't seen it, I made another messenger bag from this pattern, and used the "inside out" method to avoid binding. It turned out great. Also, in my "thrift store challenge" video, I show a drop-in liner that also eliminates the need to bind. I'm working on a roll top backpack tutorial that will have a similar liner. Thanks for watching!
Great video Jason. Glad you include the bits you have problems with, helps others know 'it's not just me'! I tried the pull through method on a heavier bag, not easy and the results aren't as professional as the binding method. I too have had problems and use the same method you do. I suppose for the DIY sewer the cost of the fancy equipment isn't worth the investment. But hey, the fun's in the process right! Greetings from North Wales UK NB: just to be cheeky, maybe for future videos a screen shot with measurements on the pattern would be much appreciated. Colin
Hi Colin, First, thanks! Second, I agree, part of the fun is trying to make it work with what we have on hand or can buy reasonably inexpensively. I'm trying to split the difference between spending as little money as possible and getting the best quality I can. And yes, a screen shot is a great idea. You should be able to get the measurements in the video about drafting this pattern (a few videos ago), but I need to do a better job of getting those details in. Thanks for the feedback!
I have an identical (after market) binder arm attachment and had some difficulty using properly, so I just use the feeder part/cone and iron the binding then sew it by hand. I have more control that way. Nice Vid!
Glad you made through the storm. Great video as always. BTW I purchased a Pfaff 332 machine and am in the process of restoring it. You got me hooked on the old machines - first the Singer 237 and now the Pfaff 332. I'm restoring them and building wood transport cases that turn into a small portable sewing center. See what you've done! haha. Sure would like to see the 201 in action as well. Cheers. Mark in Colorado.
Thanks Mark! Congrats on the 332, that should be a great machine. I'm also considering building some cases for my machines, keep me posted on your progress so I can steal ideas from you! :) The 201 will be appearing soon, I've used it some and I really like it. Thanks again!
Thanks so much for the video ☺ a thought for 'basting' around corners... A simple staple pinning the tape and then hand feeding the fabric through. I use staples to hold patches in place on scout uniforms while I'm stitching them in place. I used to use water soluble glue but the staples hold better and come out easily without damage. Thanks again!!!
I use hair clips from a beautiful supply store(similar to an alligator clip without teeth) they are flat and work great. Way better than the wonder clips.
This is great, I like your channel just the right amount of detail for the DIY oriented among us. I would love it if you could go into more detail on the patterning process like how you decide where to put seams and how to break up the bag into panels.
Thank you, Matthew! You might want to check out the four(ish) part series on designing and making a roll top backpack that I'm currently producing. Episode Zero and Episode One are out now. Thanks for watching and commenting!
It is my primary machine for sure. I use some of the others for fun, or when sewing lightweight materials, but 90% of my sewing is done on the Sailrite. I love it!
Maybe try Steam-a seam double sided binding, which I found at Nancy’s Notions, but once you find it there, you can search Amazon or elsewhere to price compare.
Some messenger bags add a zipper towards the top of the flap to make it a pocket good for holding flat items, like maps or documents. That stabilizing strap is an excellent idea! How'd you make it? Thanks!
I was thinking that that modular technique could easily be adapted to incorporating a washable lunch bag or a pencil pouch for the artist in you. And a small drawstring or some elastic or an elastic drawstring even! on the bottle pouch would even prevent slender bottle from sliding out unintentionally. The one thing I really like about the messenger bag I received as a gift is a 15cm long lightly padded shoulder pad that can slide along the strap so that it always rests on your shoulder regardless of the balance of the bags contents or where you have chosen to place the bag. I think there is something about the soft leather under the strap that still allows you to adjust it on the fly but prevents it from slipping all over the place like nylon or synthetic canvas might with that type of strapping..
Yeah, my personal bags have velcro inside for attaching various pouches - if I can ever get around to making those pouches, lol! I like the idea of a washable lunch bag. Thanks for the info on the shoulder pad. I'm planning to make one for my brother's bag soon, and I might try using Slip-Not inside it. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Hi Mike, I actually did just that in a previous video (see it here - th-cam.com/video/mWaIl256XF4/w-d-xo.html ). It's a good option, depending on the material. It is a bit more work, though, and I still had to clip the binding in place to sew it on. At work we use right angle binders that use unfolded strips (as opposed to pre-folded grosgrain and other types of binding). It seems to work better, but I haven't gotten one for home use yet. It's on the list of things to try eventually. Thanks for your suggestion, and thanks for watching!
Hi Ted, Generally speaking, size 69 is the largest size most domestic machines will reliably run, but I suspect the 201 would be OK with 92. I haven't tried it in my 201 yet, but I'll try to let you know if I get a chance to run some through it soon. Thanks for watching!
That sounds cool! I just started sewing with leather at my job. I tried some size 92 thread in my 201. There were some tension issues (I had size 69 in the bobbin), but I suspect it could be made to sew fine, depending on the material being sewn. Your mileage may vary, but I doubt you'll hurt anything by trying.
Hi! I'm interpreting what you are saying as sewing binding all the way around the bag before it is folded into the shape of a bag, then folding it and sewing it together. Technically, that could work; however, you would then have four layers of binding and all the layers of the bag (outer layer, liner, and any pockets or attachments where applicable) to sew together to complete the bag, as opposed to only two layers of binding (plus all the other stuff). The appearance would be somewhat different, as well, as you would have to bound edges visible instead of only one (in the places where the bag was folded/connected). I probably wouldn't do it that way, but it might not be a bad idea if the binding is otherwise not working out. Incidentally, the other bag I was referring to in this video was eventually completed, and I sewed that one inside-out and turned it out to avoid using binding. That worked fairly well. Thanks for the question, and thanks for watching!
@@thejasonofalltrades Thanks for the feedback, you are completely right in what you say, I didn't think about this issue of the number of layers. yes sewing inside and then turning is an option but the finish is different. thanks
I like the idea of doing a paper pattern first. I’ll definitely be stealing that idea when I go to make mine. Also what kind of singer machine is that? Looks similar to my 1948 singer 15-91.
Hi, The machine in the background is a Singer 1200. It's a special version of the 201, in an industrial-style table with a knee-lift for the presser foot. I got really lucky and found it at a thrift shop totally at random. There's a video about it on my channel if you'd like to know more. I also have a video on how I made the pattern for this bag that you might find helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Can I purchase a custom bag? Well actually, can I purchase a template and I can figure out how to sew it myself? I'm new to sewing, but really want to try and design my own bag. I think it would be a fun thing to learn.
Hi Troy, I'm not (yet) offering patterns. I do sew custom bags, but they are very expensive and take a long time. If you're thinking of a messenger bag, my video on drafting the pattern for this bag might be helpful. If you have other questions, feel free to email me at thejasonofalltrades AT gmail.com, I'd be happy to help if I can! I've designed and sewn at least ten bags, and I learn something each time, so don't be afraid to start experimenting and see what you can do!
Great job! I sew binding tape with clips like your video shows. I have a consew 123 sewing machine. Have you ever used the binding attachment? I was thinking on buying one but I am concerned it will not work well on thicker stuff and it will sit in the sew attachment box collecting dust.
Hi Steve, Thanks! I have done a TON of binding at work, and some at home. I find that right-angle binders seem to be easier to use, but I haven't gotten around to buying one for myself yet. Part of the problem (for me) is I haven't found the right binding material(s) - the binding attachment needs to be the right size for the width of the binding material, which might depend on the thickness/layers being bound, etc. I'm still looking for a solution that will work more of the time than not, without having to make my own. Binding attachments can be had pretty inexpensively, so I would encourage you to experiment. Keep a consistent seam allowance when assembling your project, and try not to have big changes in the layers where you will be binding (it's hard to avoid but something you can think about when designing). With the right attachment, thick is no problem, and thin is no problem, but the challenge is trying to do BOTH with the SAME binder. I hope that helps, thanks for watching and commenting!
@@thejasonofalltrades First of all thanks for the great information. I did make an error my big machine is a Consew 223 and I just need to buy the binder and try it. I make my roll up tool holders for work and I did the binding on the edges. I ended up using the clips and was thinking it was just me not knowing how to make the binder work. Your errors really helped me understand it's a problem other's have . I did buy some black fabric with Kevlar and glued some of the fabric as the backing to stiffen the leather I was using. It really takes abuse and your comments about binding material made me think that this Kevlar fabric could make a great binding tape. It's thin and irons easy but it's strong.
I'd like to see a close-up of that "webbing tab" "impeding the zipper", I'm guessing it's just a fold over tab sewn in with the zip, that has to be moved up to allow the zip to move past. Just link to a pic would be nice. :D Or a link to where you "stole" it from. :)
I wish I could remember where I saw this, it was some time ago. You are correct, it's simply a folded piece of webbing (same as I used for the side-release buckles on this bag) sewn into the seam near the top of the zipper. I think I have a pic that shows it (I shipped the bag yesterday), I'll send you an email.
Good job with the video, wondering why you have the bottom width reduced at the sides by that notched section, what does it achieve for you when putting it all together., thanks
Hi, I've forgotten more than I remember about designing this pack, but if I recall correctly, the width reduction makes the seam allowances consistent. It's also possible I got the math wrong, but I've made several bags with this pattern and they've all turned out well. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Awesome video! 2 questions though: Do you use an interfacing when you make bags? Are the laptop/ipad sleeves just a single piece of fabric with binding on the open edge or two that are sewn together then flipped inside out?
Hi Robert! I don't usually use interfacing. I've tried it with waxed canvas and couldn't get good adhesion with the interfacing I was using. Some of the previous bags I've made have had thin foam in between the inner and outer fabric on the part that touches the body, but this particular bag does not. The laptop and iPad sleeves are two layers of fabric with 1/4" foam sandwiched between the layers. I sewed them inside out on three sides, flipped them and inserted the foam, then folded the remaining opening in and sewed it closed, so no need for binding. Each of these sleeves is made of two separate pieces that are then sewn together on three sides to make the sleeve. Same as with the bag, you need to sew the velcro pieces on before assembling the pieces. I hope that helps, thanks for your questions and thanks for watching!
cute. i'm responsible for messenger bag craze. guess who. google outside magazine may 26, 2009. retired now after 40 years of manufacturing. look like wax cloth which has to be backed up and stitched through. wax cloth pretty weak stuff. gave up the velcro yeas ago. its not velcro its hook and loop.
Hi, Sorry for the delay in responding to your comment! At the moment, I don't sell anything on any sites. I am SLOWLY working toward getting a website up and running, and I intend to offer a few things eventually. I do custom work from time to time, but as custom work usually is, it is VERY expensive. If you need something made for you, you can always email me at thejasonofalltrades @ gmail . com (
Thank you for responding. Your work is amazing amd your attention to detail is very much appreciated. I am going to attempt to make myself one of these bags for my birthday. Lol let see how it goes.
Well done, but stop using clips when You sewing, try to make notches on blueprint first and transfer them to a fabric. It's easier way to control sewing process.
Hi Linus, A custom bag like this would cost $300 USD or more, depending on materials, options, etc. I'm slowly working on setting up a website and offering some things for sale, but in the meantime you can email me with inquiries at thejasonofalltrades @ gmail . com (
Nice job, but too many steps not being shown, so you lost me. This is where selling your detailed pattern, that you or the missus wrote, you be a great idea. Just my humble opinion... thank you.
so for binding, you could try buying a 2nd needle plate and paying someone to drill and tap it for a Right Angle binding attachment. or having a custom needle plate made. a machine that does zig- zag stitching isn't as practical for binding as a dedicated strait stich, the presser foot is too wide and does not allow the attachment to be close as is needed. the most practical approach would probably be to go ahead and buy a machine that will take a Drop-in right angle binding attachment with its own needle plate. www.sailrite.com/Sailrite-Fabricator-Sewing-Machine-in-Power-Stand-with-Workhorse-Servo-Motor?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuaKz6JCv1wIVGbXACh0YngouEAQYASABEgJQofD_BwE or similar machine and www.ebay.com/itm/JUKI-DNU-1541-DNU-241-CONSEW-206RB-TACSEW-BINDER-SET-SINGLE-FOLD-RIGHT-ANGLE/302295377540?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&var=601134568854&_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649
Thanks Kurt, that's good advice! I use similar set-ups at work. But "pay someone to drill and tap"?!? I'm The Jason Of All Trades. I can drill and tap myself. (That sounds a lot dirtier than what I meant.)
![The Wall Song ร้องข้ามกำแพง | EP.215 | พาเวล นเรศ - พูห์ กฤติน | 17 ต.ค. 67 [1/5]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/IUzrjuf60P4/mqdefault.jpg)
Good to see the cat helping you.
Yeah, they help a LOT ;)
That water bottle pocket is a work of art 👌
Thank you!
I like the nesting iPad sleeve and the other sleeve. The modular idea is ideal. I’d really recommend selling a pattern! It would help me and others progress faster. Thanks.
I'm definitely interested in developing patterns to sell, but it might be awhile. Stay tuned!
I'm just about to sew my own messenger bag too, so this video is in the right time.
Hi Ben,
If you want even more details, I have a four-part tutorial on making a roll-top backpack you might want to check out. It isn't about messenger bags, specifically, but a lot of the information crosses over.
Good luck with your messenger bag, let us know how it turns out!
Nicely done Jason. I don't even sew, but really enjoy watching your channel. I'm waiting to see your 201 in action someday.
Thanks Andy! I'll be watching your channel for maintenance tips!
Well done Jason! I too had the same problem with my binder on my LSZ-1 so I did what you did with the clips and I cranked the machine by hand. It took a tad bit longer but still worked well.
WOW! I like it, as I get a little more experience I’ll attempt this. I’ve seen your current edging setup. I’m working on a Juki 1541,. I’m thinking about ordering a right angle binder. I currently have a swing away, it works pretty well for the unlined bags I have made but I think it would be a pain on a multi layer bag.
That's pretty clean and clear water for a swamp. Most swamp water I've seen was as dark as black coffee with all the tannin that was leaching out of the vegetation that had fallen in the water and decomposing in it. They usually smell bad too.
Nice bag by the way.
Hi!
Big Cypress is a beautiful place, and the water is very (surprisingly) clear! There's quite a lot of water flowing through the swamp, and the swamp acts as a filter to clean the water as it heads to the Gulf of Mexico. If you're ever in this part of Florida, I highly recommend visiting, and doing a swamp walk if you can.
And thank you!
Last year I made a couple quite similar bags as gifts (I tried to reverse-engineer my much-used Timbuk 2 Classic), and it was great until binding the assembled bags, same issue with the wandering grosgrain ribbon in the swing-away binder. So I too had to iron ribbon and clip and maybe sew a little further inwards of the ribbon edge (to reliable capture the other side) than I would have liked, and there was legendary foul language, but the bags still came out great and I learned a lot in the process. I might try gluing first should I revisit.
I blamed my binding problem at the time on not having a walking-foot machine (I think I mostly used my Pfaff 130 for the exterior), but after watching this video I think I would have run into the same problems with a walking foot.
I enjoy videos like this, thanks for making it.
Thanks, Chris!
If you haven't seen it, I made another messenger bag from this pattern, and used the "inside out" method to avoid binding. It turned out great. Also, in my "thrift store challenge" video, I show a drop-in liner that also eliminates the need to bind. I'm working on a roll top backpack tutorial that will have a similar liner.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for your inspiration. I made my first back today on my Singer 4432.
That was fantastic. Thanks for posting....
Great video Jason. Glad you include the bits you have problems with, helps others know 'it's not just me'! I tried the pull through method on a heavier bag, not easy and the results aren't as professional as the binding method. I too have had problems and use the same method you do. I suppose for the DIY sewer the cost of the fancy equipment isn't worth the investment. But hey, the fun's in the process right! Greetings from North Wales UK NB: just to be cheeky, maybe for future videos a screen shot with measurements on the pattern would be much appreciated. Colin
Hi Colin,
First, thanks!
Second, I agree, part of the fun is trying to make it work with what we have on hand or can buy reasonably inexpensively. I'm trying to split the difference between spending as little money as possible and getting the best quality I can.
And yes, a screen shot is a great idea. You should be able to get the measurements in the video about drafting this pattern (a few videos ago), but I need to do a better job of getting those details in. Thanks for the feedback!
Another great video Jason. The bag looks functionally fantastic. Its off to the design lab for me now :)
I have an identical (after market) binder arm attachment and had some difficulty using properly, so I just use the feeder part/cone and iron the binding then sew it by hand. I have more control that way. Nice Vid!
Thanks, Jeff, that's a great tip!
I learned a lot from you though. Hope it helps.
Glad you made through the storm. Great video as always. BTW I purchased a Pfaff 332 machine and am in the process of restoring it. You got me hooked on the old machines - first the Singer 237 and now the Pfaff 332. I'm restoring them and building wood transport cases that turn into a small portable sewing center. See what you've done! haha. Sure would like to see the 201 in action as well. Cheers. Mark in Colorado.
Thanks Mark!
Congrats on the 332, that should be a great machine. I'm also considering building some cases for my machines, keep me posted on your progress so I can steal ideas from you! :)
The 201 will be appearing soon, I've used it some and I really like it.
Thanks again!
very well done and I love the bag
Thank you!
Wow, lots of great information in there. Very inspirational.
I like it!
Wow amazing!
Thanks so much for the video ☺ a thought for 'basting' around corners... A simple staple pinning the tape and then hand feeding the fabric through. I use staples to hold patches in place on scout uniforms while I'm stitching them in place. I used to use water soluble glue but the staples hold better and come out easily without damage. Thanks again!!!
Thanks Julia! I use staples to baste quite a bit, but I haven't tried it on binding, I'll have to give it a try!
I use hair clips from a beautiful supply store(similar to an alligator clip without teeth) they are flat and work great. Way better than the wonder clips.
This is great, I like your channel just the right amount of detail for the DIY oriented among us. I would love it if you could go into more detail on the patterning process like how you decide where to put seams and how to break up the bag into panels.
Thank you, Matthew! You might want to check out the four(ish) part series on designing and making a roll top backpack that I'm currently producing. Episode Zero and Episode One are out now.
Thanks for watching and commenting!
I could not sew with you ...lol. It’s all over the place and the pointer is hilarious
It's the rare person who can even stand to be around me for more than a few minutes lol!
Thanks for watching!
Seems like you really like your Sailrite sewing machine. You’re using it a lot since the unboxing video. It must suit your needs really well.
It is my primary machine for sure. I use some of the others for fun, or when sewing lightweight materials, but 90% of my sewing is done on the Sailrite. I love it!
Maybe try Steam-a seam double sided binding, which I found at Nancy’s Notions, but once you find it there, you can search Amazon or elsewhere to price compare.
Some messenger bags add a zipper towards the top of the flap to make it a pocket good for holding flat items, like maps or documents.
That stabilizing strap is an excellent idea! How'd you make it? Thanks!
Thanks for these videos! Your the man!
Thank YOU for watching!!!
Hey Jase , Great job mate ! bag looks a treat ... Regards KQ13 Man with a machine down under :-) enjoy your videos...
Thanks so much!
I was thinking that that modular technique could easily be adapted to incorporating a washable lunch bag or a pencil pouch for the artist in you. And a small drawstring or some elastic or an elastic drawstring even! on the bottle pouch would even prevent slender bottle from sliding out unintentionally. The one thing I really like about the messenger bag I received as a gift is a 15cm long lightly padded shoulder pad that can slide along the strap so that it always rests on your shoulder regardless of the balance of the bags contents or where you have chosen to place the bag. I think there is something about the soft leather under the strap that still allows you to adjust it on the fly but prevents it from slipping all over the place like nylon or synthetic canvas might with that type of strapping..
Yeah, my personal bags have velcro inside for attaching various pouches - if I can ever get around to making those pouches, lol! I like the idea of a washable lunch bag.
Thanks for the info on the shoulder pad. I'm planning to make one for my brother's bag soon, and I might try using Slip-Not inside it.
Thanks for watching and commenting!
What about making your own bias tape? That way you can use any fabric and color to fit your project.
Hi Mike,
I actually did just that in a previous video (see it here - th-cam.com/video/mWaIl256XF4/w-d-xo.html ). It's a good option, depending on the material. It is a bit more work, though, and I still had to clip the binding in place to sew it on.
At work we use right angle binders that use unfolded strips (as opposed to pre-folded grosgrain and other types of binding). It seems to work better, but I haven't gotten one for home use yet. It's on the list of things to try eventually.
Thanks for your suggestion, and thanks for watching!
Hi.. truly enjoyed the video. I am wonder can I use 92 Nylon thread on my 201 Singer? Thank you.
Hi Ted,
Generally speaking, size 69 is the largest size most domestic machines will reliably run, but I suspect the 201 would be OK with 92. I haven't tried it in my 201 yet, but I'll try to let you know if I get a chance to run some through it soon.
Thanks for watching!
thejasonofalltrades I make leather wallets, I like to try machine sew next time.
That sounds cool! I just started sewing with leather at my job.
I tried some size 92 thread in my 201. There were some tension issues (I had size 69 in the bobbin), but I suspect it could be made to sew fine, depending on the material being sewn. Your mileage may vary, but I doubt you'll hurt anything by trying.
Thumbs Up (Because one click of the Thumbs up wasn't enough!!), Another THUMBS UP (see previous reason!)
Thank you, David!
Great video, I was thinking if it will be simple to apply the binder strap before you sewing the bag to his final form? or it wont work the same?
Hi!
I'm interpreting what you are saying as sewing binding all the way around the bag before it is folded into the shape of a bag, then folding it and sewing it together.
Technically, that could work; however, you would then have four layers of binding and all the layers of the bag (outer layer, liner, and any pockets or attachments where applicable) to sew together to complete the bag, as opposed to only two layers of binding (plus all the other stuff). The appearance would be somewhat different, as well, as you would have to bound edges visible instead of only one (in the places where the bag was folded/connected).
I probably wouldn't do it that way, but it might not be a bad idea if the binding is otherwise not working out.
Incidentally, the other bag I was referring to in this video was eventually completed, and I sewed that one inside-out and turned it out to avoid using binding. That worked fairly well.
Thanks for the question, and thanks for watching!
@@thejasonofalltrades Thanks for the feedback, you are completely right in what you say, I didn't think about this issue of the number of layers. yes sewing inside and then turning is an option but the finish is different.
thanks
I like the idea of doing a paper pattern first. I’ll definitely be stealing that idea when I go to make mine.
Also what kind of singer machine is that? Looks similar to my 1948 singer 15-91.
Hi,
The machine in the background is a Singer 1200. It's a special version of the 201, in an industrial-style table with a knee-lift for the presser foot. I got really lucky and found it at a thrift shop totally at random. There's a video about it on my channel if you'd like to know more.
I also have a video on how I made the pattern for this bag that you might find helpful!
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Can I purchase a custom bag? Well actually, can I purchase a template and I can figure out how to sew it myself? I'm new to sewing, but really want to try and design my own bag. I think it would be a fun thing to learn.
Hi Troy,
I'm not (yet) offering patterns. I do sew custom bags, but they are very expensive and take a long time. If you're thinking of a messenger bag, my video on drafting the pattern for this bag might be helpful.
If you have other questions, feel free to email me at thejasonofalltrades AT gmail.com, I'd be happy to help if I can!
I've designed and sewn at least ten bags, and I learn something each time, so don't be afraid to start experimenting and see what you can do!
hello nice tutorial what fabric do you use in this video?
Thanks!
This bag is made from 10.10 oz waxed canvas with a 400-denier nylon packcloth liner.
Thanks for watching!
Great job! I sew binding tape with clips like your video shows. I have a consew 123 sewing machine. Have you ever used the binding attachment? I was thinking on buying one but I am concerned it will not work well on thicker stuff and it will sit in the sew attachment box collecting dust.
Hi Steve,
Thanks!
I have done a TON of binding at work, and some at home. I find that right-angle binders seem to be easier to use, but I haven't gotten around to buying one for myself yet. Part of the problem (for me) is I haven't found the right binding material(s) - the binding attachment needs to be the right size for the width of the binding material, which might depend on the thickness/layers being bound, etc. I'm still looking for a solution that will work more of the time than not, without having to make my own.
Binding attachments can be had pretty inexpensively, so I would encourage you to experiment. Keep a consistent seam allowance when assembling your project, and try not to have big changes in the layers where you will be binding (it's hard to avoid but something you can think about when designing).
With the right attachment, thick is no problem, and thin is no problem, but the challenge is trying to do BOTH with the SAME binder.
I hope that helps, thanks for watching and commenting!
@@thejasonofalltrades First of all thanks for the great information. I did make an error my big machine is a Consew 223 and I just need to buy the binder and try it. I make my roll up tool holders for work and I did the binding on the edges. I ended up using the clips and was thinking it was just me not knowing how to make the binder work. Your errors really helped me understand it's a problem other's have . I did buy some black fabric with Kevlar and glued some of the fabric as the backing to stiffen the leather I was using. It really takes abuse and your comments about binding material made me think that this Kevlar fabric could make a great binding tape. It's thin and irons easy but it's strong.
I'd like to see a close-up of that "webbing tab" "impeding the zipper", I'm guessing it's just a fold over tab sewn in with the zip, that has to be moved up to allow the zip to move past. Just link to a pic would be nice. :D Or a link to where you "stole" it from. :)
I wish I could remember where I saw this, it was some time ago. You are correct, it's simply a folded piece of webbing (same as I used for the side-release buckles on this bag) sewn into the seam near the top of the zipper.
I think I have a pic that shows it (I shipped the bag yesterday), I'll send you an email.
Good job with the video, wondering why you have the bottom width reduced at the sides by that notched section, what does it achieve for you when putting it all together., thanks
Hi,
I've forgotten more than I remember about designing this pack, but if I recall correctly, the width reduction makes the seam allowances consistent. It's also possible I got the math wrong, but I've made several bags with this pattern and they've all turned out well.
Thanks for watching and commenting!
I couldn't work that out either :-).
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Niceeee!
Awesome video!
2 questions though:
Do you use an interfacing when you make bags?
Are the laptop/ipad sleeves just a single piece of fabric with binding on the open edge or two that are sewn together then flipped inside out?
Hi Robert!
I don't usually use interfacing. I've tried it with waxed canvas and couldn't get good adhesion with the interfacing I was using. Some of the previous bags I've made have had thin foam in between the inner and outer fabric on the part that touches the body, but this particular bag does not.
The laptop and iPad sleeves are two layers of fabric with 1/4" foam sandwiched between the layers. I sewed them inside out on three sides, flipped them and inserted the foam, then folded the remaining opening in and sewed it closed, so no need for binding. Each of these sleeves is made of two separate pieces that are then sewn together on three sides to make the sleeve. Same as with the bag, you need to sew the velcro pieces on before assembling the pieces.
I hope that helps, thanks for your questions and thanks for watching!
cute. i'm responsible for messenger bag craze. guess who. google outside magazine may 26, 2009. retired now after 40 years of manufacturing. look like wax cloth which has to be backed up and stitched through. wax cloth pretty weak stuff. gave up the velcro yeas ago. its not velcro its hook and loop.
Do you sell your items any where? Etsy or have a website?
Hi,
Sorry for the delay in responding to your comment! At the moment, I don't sell anything on any sites. I am SLOWLY working toward getting a website up and running, and I intend to offer a few things eventually. I do custom work from time to time, but as custom work usually is, it is VERY expensive. If you need something made for you, you can always email me at thejasonofalltrades @ gmail . com (
Thank you for responding. Your work is amazing amd your attention to detail is very much appreciated. I am going to attempt to make myself one of these bags for my birthday. Lol let see how it goes.
Well done, but stop using clips when You sewing, try to make notches on blueprint first and transfer them to a fabric. It's easier way to control sewing process.
Is any type of sewing machine will do the job?
Yes, although a walking-foot machine makes it a lot easier to handle the thicker seams.
Thanks for watching!
How mutch dose that bag cost? Regards Linus
Hi Linus,
A custom bag like this would cost $300 USD or more, depending on materials, options, etc. I'm slowly working on setting up a website and offering some things for sale, but in the meantime you can email me with inquiries at thejasonofalltrades @ gmail . com (
Nice job, but too many steps not being shown, so you lost me. This is where selling your detailed pattern, that you or the missus wrote, you be a great idea. Just my humble opinion... thank you.
so for binding, you could try buying a 2nd needle plate and paying someone to drill and tap it for a Right Angle binding attachment. or having a custom needle plate made. a machine that does zig- zag stitching isn't as practical for binding as a dedicated strait stich, the presser foot is too wide and does not allow the attachment to be close as is needed. the most practical approach would probably be to go ahead and buy a machine that will take a Drop-in right angle binding attachment with its own needle plate. www.sailrite.com/Sailrite-Fabricator-Sewing-Machine-in-Power-Stand-with-Workhorse-Servo-Motor?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuaKz6JCv1wIVGbXACh0YngouEAQYASABEgJQofD_BwE or similar machine and www.ebay.com/itm/JUKI-DNU-1541-DNU-241-CONSEW-206RB-TACSEW-BINDER-SET-SINGLE-FOLD-RIGHT-ANGLE/302295377540?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&var=601134568854&_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649
Thanks Kurt, that's good advice! I use similar set-ups at work.
But "pay someone to drill and tap"?!? I'm The Jason Of All Trades. I can drill and tap myself. (That sounds a lot dirtier than what I meant.)
thejasonofalltrades 😂