Nancy Zieman’s Favorite Bag Sewing Techniques
Handbags are more popular than ever! They are easy to sew and require far less fabric and time than quilts. They’re always the right size and fit perfectly—making them appealing to apparel sewists. I’ve been looking forward to sharing my Florida Bag design with you on today’s featured Sewing With Nancy Series. This is the first of two episodes of Nancy’s Favorite Handbag Sewing Techniques, that you can watch online anytime at NancyZieman.com.
What You’ll Learn in this Episode of Sewing With Nancy
Start with a Favorite Bag or Tote Pattern, or Template Set
During this two-part series, you’ll see five different handbag options all made using the Trace ‘n Create Bag Florida Tote Template.
It’s What’s Inside that Counts
The foundation for all bags and totes is what’s inside. Here’s how I give shape and support when sewing bags and totes.
- Fuse interfacing to the back of the bag pieces. I like to use ShirTailor.
- Cut another layer of interfacing, Peltex, and machine baste along the edges.
- Finally add a layer of Create ‘n Shape, a bag and tote plastic stabilizer, to the base of the bag/tote. It stitches like a hot knife to butter, but must be held in place prior to sewing with double-sided basting tape.
Use Ribbons for Classic Accents
A collection of Renaissance Ribbons that I designed inspired the first bag design. The ribbons make a statement as pocket accents and are also used to accent the designer handles.
I like to make visual decisions visually, a quote I’ll always remember from Sewing With Nancy guest, Lorraine Torrence. Some of the ribbons are reversible. Auditioning them on the fabric made the decision easy.
Apply Designer Straps
Checking out ready-made bags, I found straps that were 1″ wide at the base and sewn in the handle area. Nice! Learn how to use Create-a-Strap, D-Rings, and ribbon to copy brand-name designs.
Create a Market Tote
I mentioned earlier that sewing handbags is a frequently requested topic, specifically how to add a zipper to a pattern that doesn’t include one. The Market Tote addresses that need. It’s big, roomy, and most importantly, a secure bag with a recessed zipper closure.
- You’ll learn how to custom-sew a recessed zipper to fit any tote or handbag.
- Then, learn how to modify handles, making them arched!
Watch Nancy’s Favorite Handbag Sewing Techniques on Sewing With Nancy online.
For a chance to win a Florida Bag Template from Clover, please leave a comment sharing, what style bag will you be making for spring?
The randomly selected winner of a Supersize 5-in-1 Sliding Gauge from Clover Needlecraft is Barb Abler.
Her comment was, “I have been a fan for several years. I started watching your program on PBS. I have VHS tapes, DVD’s, and go to all the Sewing Weekends in Beaver Dam to watch sewing experts in person. It is so nice with all the wonderful conveniences of technology that we have so many choices. If I can’t sleep or if I only have a few minutes or several hours I can choose how and when I want to watch. Thank you for always being the inspiration you are. Bye for now.”
Bye for now,
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Merri Lynn
I think I would make the one with hidden zipper. It looks like a nice challenge to learn a new technique.
Marsha Dimond
I love all the bags. I would put a lovely floral embroidery on the front pocket.
Barb Tait
Nancy’s patterns have always been a great help to me as I create things for my friends and family. Every time Nancy comes out with a new template or pattern, “sewing life” just becomes easier. I am soooo looking forward to another sewing weekend.
KayZee
I’ve never sewn a purse, but I really like the Market Tote. I’d give that a try.
Carol P
I like the market tote – great for spring farmer market shopping!
Annette Canonica
I love the Florida tote! Perfect for taking shop hopping this summer (in Fl) where the row by row experience will be in full swing.
Shaela
I truley enjoy making totes and handbags. You can never have enough. I want to make another though with the hidden zipper
Diane Q
I love making bags and totes, especially to donate to various organizations in my community as a fundraiser raffle item. These designs would be a wonderful addition for this purpose.
Lillian K
I like the Florida bag and the market rite. Love that hidden zipper!!
Anne Dirks
I love them all. And probably would try making each of them. I’ve been looking for a pattern.
Crystal
I love the Sqaureish bag with the zipper in some beautiful pale yellows and greens or purples. Thanks, Nancy!
Avis Cooper
As with all your instructions, these are easy to follow and the finished product looks professional. I love making bags and this variation would be a great addition to patterns I already use. Thanks, Nancy.
Peg G.
The market tote would surely appeal to my sewing students as it does to me. That zipper is truly a masterpiece in engineering.
nancy lewis
Your bags are truly beautiful!! I would make the Florida tote. I love the design of it.
Linda Weinberger
I love the bag with the hidden zipper. I been looking for a pattern to sew a bag for my mah jongg set.
Linda
Clovis
I enjoy making bags. Thanks for giving me a chance to win a prize. I like the designer handbag look.
Patti
Can anyone ever have too many bags or totes???? Never!! This looks like a great way to make many variations using one pattern. Thanks for the tips.
Julie Kill
I would like to make the Fern print handbag! I can use an all purpose pattern like this.
Also the shopping tote with the hidden Zipper! This is one techinque I would like to master.
Judy brekhus
Just bought your this template, already had another one. They are wonderful. Now instead of buy lots of bag patterns in search of the right one I can use these templates to make my perfect bag and theninstructions and videos are great.
Ellen
Love the style of yellow bag with the longer handles, will be heading to my favorite fabric shop to find a spring fabric!
Erma W
Handbags are one of my favorite things to make. I could make so many more and make them so much easier with your templates.
Dawn
I love all the bags for summer, but I especially like the zipper on the top. It offers a lot of protection.
Jean
Love the bag with the hidden zipper-I definitely need to learn how to do this!
Roberta A.
I’ve just started making bags a few months ago. Have sewn two so far. This template would be a wonderful addition to my sewing tools.
christina
I would love to make the green and orange bag, so pretty!!!!
Joyce West
Learning to use the stabilizers and inserting the zipper would new techniques for me to master . Having the templates would be an extra bonus. Thank you for this opportunity .
Trudy Lindemann
I love the market tote, including the fabrics! They’re all so unique, I’m not sure I could choose only one! I love the idea of taking different elements from different patterns and adding my own personal touch to suit my needs and tastes!
Debbie Darlington
I’m taking a class this summer to sew two purses, one is “use every day” size and the other is a large totebag. Choosing fabrics seems to be MOST daunting, particularly for the smaller one I hope to use most. I’m looking forward to learning all the techniques for attaching zippers and hardware.
Thank you for the give-a-way opportunity!
Gwen Cannino
I really like your Market tote design, and I especially like that it can be done with a zipped top for security. I would make mine out of a linen fabric and would enjoy shopping for the perfect trim. I have returned to sewing now that my children have grown, so my skills are rusty. Installing the zipper would be something that I need to learn (again!).
Noreen
I like the market tote. The fabrics are pretty and the design details really add eye appeal.
Patti
I would like to make the Market Tote
Deb
The Market Tote or any of the other bags with a zipper in the top. I prefer zippers so that I don’t loose my contents. lol
Shelia Ward
Love the large orange and green one. I would make this one to take to the beach during vacation. Would hold all kinds of fun stuff for me and my grand babies.
Susan Spiers
Love the rennaisance ribbon add tote-what a grand idea!-thank you, Susan
Traci Y
I like the green and white bag. I would like to make it using recycled jeans. Thanks Nancy
Marcy M Chandler
I LOVE the market tote!!!!! I would love to make it bigger for a carry all.
Karyn
I would definitely make the Market Tote for spring!
DebbieW
Hi Nancy, I would make the South Beach style tote, it’s similar to a bag I now have that works for me perfectly. Love the yellow, off-white floral with green trim that you chose.
Virginia
I would make a few of the market totes. My daughters and I bring our own bags into stores to avoid throwing out the plastic bags stores use and we shop farmer’s markets. I would attempt to make the inner part (lining) from a wipe clean fabric to avoid having to wash it often. The zipper would keep a wallet handy for quick transactions.
Ann
I would LOVE to try the fern print bag. It looks so lovely and I especially love its shape. I would also like to try the market tote with the hidden zipper; I think it would be a great way to carry my craft projects (cross-stitch) with me ‘on the go’. Thanks so much for the chance to win. ‘bye for now 🙂
Bonnye
I love handbags with zippers. I make them for friends and family. I would make the market bag. Thanks for the inspiration.
Rebecca Christie
I love all the bags.. . I think I would have to make all of the options but probably the one with the fern print would be my first choice. I have been watching your program on PBS since I first found it. In fact my kids and husband all know that 1/2 hour is sacred. Now I am training my grandchildren to understand that concept as well. LOL
Grace Niederlehner
I think I would like to try the market bag. Actually I want to make them all but would start with the market bag.
Melinda Meehan
I keep a folder of different handle methods and another for all different pockets..these templates would be perfect for switching them up! Endless possibilities!
Cindy Hoover
I love the bag with the vertical coral/green stripes – the shape of it and the two different carrying straps make it unique and functional. I have made a couple of bags with zippers, etc., and I love the option of picking your own fabrics and trim. Thanks, Nancy, for your great inspirational ideas!
linda copas
I have never made a bag. I just bought an Amy Butler bag pattern that I am going to make for spring. Now I can use Nancy’s techniques to complete the project.
Peggy V
I love the style of the fern tote. That would be my first bag!! Thank your for the opportunity to win this great pattern.
Pat
I want to make the market tote in a nice spring floral. I need the pretty spring flowers to perk me up after a dull, drab winter. Since I have never made a bag before I would love to win template to guide me through it. Thanks for the chance to win.
Cheryl Leabo
I’ll be making farmer’s market totes this spring.
Jan C
I like the classic 50’s look of the green fern bag. I think that’s the one I’ll start with. Something to coordinate with an Easter dress.
Linda Machado
Like most everyone else I’ve been a fan of Sewing With Nancy for years and even met you once with the dealer I worked for at the time at a sewing convention. If my husband ever decides to check the yearly Visa statement he would flip at all the purchases I’ve made over the years. I even have a dedicated drawer and shelf in my sewing room for all my Sewing With Nancy books and patterns! As for the bags shown I want to make both of them. Never can have to many bags right?
Delores Peterson
Would like to make the market tote to take with me to AZ. I have watched you for many years. Even went to your store many years ago. You have a great show.
Ruth L
Dear Nancy,
Your bags are the best – big and roomy with lots of pockets, stylish and well constructed! I like a mid to large tote style bag with lots of pockets (so things don’t get lost) with room to throw in whatever! I’ve been a huge fan for many years and never miss your program. Thanks for all the ways you have inspired me to be more creative!
Warm regards,
Ruth L
sue
i will love making the florida bag and use it all year round
Linda Buttera
I love making bags and must make my first “Trace’nCreatebag”. When attending baby showers, I love to gift tote bags made using techniques from Nancy’s “Designer Handbags” and “Handbags 2 – Designer Knockoffs”. The moms love the bags and the quilts, sheets, and bibs hidden within! What isn’t to love with the bags’ embroidered applique corners, gorgeous appliqued strap holders, and embellished grommets, and Airborne Pockets. I’ve learned so much from Nancy, and I’d love to learn the techniques of TraceNCreate by making the South Beach Plus bag.
Ennis A
I love all. Would like to start with the Key West style and then the South Beach convertible! Thanks for more inspiration!!!
Kathryn E
I would love to make the green fern bag. I would lengthen the handles so I could carry it as a cross body bag. I love cross body bags because they are more secure and I don’t have to put them down when shopping. The green fern bag looks like a convenient style.
Renae Walters
I actually like them all and would like to make one of each in different colors.
Mary Esser
Hi Nancy, I love your bags ! The Florida one, I have not tried to make yet, but I love it because of the size. I know this would make great gifts for family members. I love your easy directions on all your bags.
Loree
I’ve made 2 bags recently. I love the challenge and precision required. So far I’ve only used scrap fabric from Sailrite, both of which didn’t take to fusible interfacing. I used sew-in interfacing which is okay but made the handles look funky. I do enjoy the process though. Anyway, thanks for the drawing.
Barbara M. Johnson
I like both bags but I think I would make the striped one first. Love watching your programs both on TV and on the Internet. Thanks for all the helpful hints.
Catherine L
I’m looking for ideas for a friend’s upcoming birthday. Just love the striped Florida bag! Thanks, too, Nancy, for the directions for adding a zipper to any bag. I like to feel safe when out & about w/a bag. I’ve been a fan for more than 30 years, and am grateful for so many sewing tips I’ve learned from your shows/blog over the years.
Donna Rothacher
I would like to make a purse with pockets to make it easy to find items. Also want purse to zip shut or close in some way.
Virginia
I make leather handbags for a living and enjoy them immensely. I love the colour palette of the orange and green striped one but I like parts of both bags. Because I work for someone else I can only customize a bag if I am buying it. Just about every bag I own I have put my own stamp on it.
Christine Warner
I am new to sewing, so I enjoy all of your tutorials and tv shows. You do an excellent job at explaining every detail! I am looking forward to creating my own travel bag for our upcoming anniversary trip to Disney. It’s always fun to share our love of Mickey Mouse with other Disney fans! Thanks for the chance!
Linda Edwards
I think I would start with a Market Bag for me and each of my daughters. Something bright and pretty for spring.
Kathe
I like the zipper feature in the market tote. I’d like to learn that technique.
CHARLOTTE KEY
I like this Florida bag, especially the zipper closing technique.
beth d.
I have made 3 bags, one for spring and summer and one for fall and winter. I hope to make another bag. I have some trace and create template at home, but have not started on that one. I will watch your show. I always get hints and tips from your shows.
Deborah. Ervin
Love making bags. Have made many. Would like to try the Florida bag. Enjoy watching your show, many great ideas and pointers!!
Mary Ellen
I have learned so many great techniques from your shows over the years that have improved my sewing skills and saved me time. I am really excited to apply these tips and techniques to my next bag project. I love the Florida bag – it’s functional and attractive.
Janice Harski
I love all of the bags and would like to make them in different fabrics/colors. The one with the hidden zipper is a good technique to learn and to play with different fabrics/ribbons on the insert, etc.
Janice Harski
I like all of the bags and would try different fabrics/colors. The one with the hidden zipper is a good technique to learn and I would play with different fabrics/ribbons around the zipper, etc.
Angela
I discovered sewing with Nancy only recently, but it was a pleasant surprise. My way of sewing has improved a lot and is also increased my enjoyment. I love all the bags of Nancy Zieman, for the fantasy of the fabrics, for the beautiful design and the immaculate execution. I really admire Nancy Zieman. What is my favorite bag? All!
Best regards,
Angela from Novara (Italia)
Patricia
I like all things bags and totes. I have tried to make a few from patterns, the templates have to be an easier way. I would try the market tote first because of the zipper. I want to learn zippers for security. I like that you can make a bag with your choice of fabric and tweaks that stands out from all the others.
Sue
Just looking at and listening to your videos has helped me tremendously to change things up and try new ideas though I have been sewing for over 50 years. You keep things new and exciting. I would love to make shopping bags for sale to support the Alzheimer’s Association and would appreciate a Florida Bag pattern.
Thank you.
Sue
Susan Robbins
I love the bags with the curve at the top and pocket, any of the versions. I have several great pieces of fabric waiting to become bags
Melanie Eddy
I have made many purses but you always teach me something new! I am going to try the interfacings instead of the fusible fleece that I have been using. It is wonderful to be able to go to your website and order what I need because in my rural area supplies are hard to find.
Dorie Esquivel
I’m hoping to start a Charli bag by Lorali. I’m trying to arrive at a bag that doesn’t fit the kitchen sink, stays up on my shoulders and holds my essentials!
Judi M
Ahh thanks for the pattern, The zipper was the tricky part for me, very helpful.
Mary Brock
The market tote. I like the size but the recessed zipper is the best feature. Love being able to make in whatever materials, etc that I like. So many options!
Sharon Kirry
I think the Florida tote is great. I have some ribbons from Renaissance Ribbons that I’d like to use on one. Can’t wait to start!
Mary
I am planning to make a large tote with lots of pockets and a zip closure in the top. Love these templates and super easy instructions!
Sonia
Want to make a tote with a recessed zipper for sure.
Ina
I love making my handbags. Made one last year with a spring flower print. Would like to make one this year that would be good through the year — maybe some stripes. Love your striped bags.
Sandie G
I’ve made some bags but had no pattern. Would love to make the Florida bag with the hidden zipper. Love to watch Sewing with Nancy, always get new ideas & inspiration. Thanks
Mary C
I have been watching you forever and learn something every time. Since I’m trying to perfect zippers in bags right now I would probably make the one with the zipper. Thank you for your wonderful work and being you.
Simone P
As my daughter likes to say, LOVE LOVE LOVE this! I’d like to do a bag with the top zipper–I always worry about losing important things in an open bag.
Nancy Taylor
I have the Hobo Trace & Create Bag and Rectangles & Squares from your company and always get compliments when I carry them. I love making bags. It doesn’t matter what kind. I would like to have the Florida tote to fill out my “stash”.
Thank you.
Nancy Taylor.
Louise Johnson
I have made the saddlebags in several sizes and using table runners and tapestry fabrics. Every time I use them, I get compliments. I also have made the weekender and the clutch from squares and rectangles. The clutch is the perfect size for my IPad Mini. Mary Mulari’s travel trays keep my husband’s and my little stuff in control on hotel nightstands. Many of these things match: fun! Maybe I will make another weekender, tote, or jump into my favorite type of bag: a Hobo.
Mary Green
I was fascinated to see you make that sunken zipper panel and I would love to make the market tote to give it a go for myself. I’ve watched you for 20 years when we moved to Fort Worth and I saw you on PBS KERA here. I’ve learned so much from you, Nancy, Thank you and God bless…
Phyliss Booe
I love the shape of the green bag. It looks like a great bag. Zippers are really great to have in any bag. I just love to make all kinds of purses.
Peggy Sego
The Florida bag with the zipper is my new favorite. You make sewing so easy and fun. I watch you every Saturday on PBS and enjo every show. Thank you.
Pat O.
I love making your bags as gifts and for myself. Your “Florida” bag template would be a great addition to my pattern collection. I would love to make one.
Donna Foltz
I just bought some MLB fabric with the idea of making a purse. The Key West bag looks like it would be perfect.
Susan T
This Spring I will be making a bag using your embroidery DVD Knock Off Handbags. The Florida Bag template would be a great addition to my sewing library. Thanks for showing beautiful fabric combinations to inspire my own purse making.
Jan Smith
I usually work in computer in software for my machines and embroidery projects. I haven’t made very many tote bags so I went online to see what information I could find for putting a zipper in the top of my tote bag. I am just creating a basic tote bag with straps and lining. In viewing YouTube videos for adding the zipper, I think I need to put a recessed zipper in the top and the method you use for the Florida tote bag seems the best way to go. I am not sure how to make my own template, but I think I can use the bottom of the bag with the corners cut out and duplicate that for the top. I appreciate your expertise and video. Thank you.
Edna Marks
Think I would make the key west bag,
Linda
AMarket bag always comes in handy.
Margaret Williams
I would make the market bag, I love all the bags pictured with the pattern.
A States
I Like the South Beach Convertible style. I really like making purses and totes, so this pattern would be a great addition.
Gail Beam
Your bags are awesome and I love any bag with zippers, as I tend to carry everything but the kitchen sink in any purse or bag that I use. All of your bags are fantastic, but if I can only choose one, I will go with the Florida tote. Thanks for another great video!
Michelle Hall
would love to try the Florida tote with zipper
Jennifer Reinke
What Inspiration! Love all these bags, but the one I keep coming back to is the Market Tote. And I think I have just the right fabric in my “stash” —
Joan Davidson
You make bag making so EASY. I love to make bags and I use your templates frequently. I have watched your shows since I was a “youngin” -it has been many years and I have learned SEW much from you, your books, patterns and shows.
DIANA MILLER
The market tote is the one for me. I appreciate the instructions on Seewng with Nancy segments on these beautiful bags. I have always been scared…yes scared to try anything involving interfacing and using iron on stàbilizers…..years ago I tried and I only created bubbles on my fabric. Nancy has made it so easy, both with the templates and videos. Thank you for giving me the confidence to try again. Great assembly instructions on the videos.
Linda
I am a “bag sewing addict” and I love the style of the Florida bag. I find sewing bags is a great way to use up stash and make great gifts at the same time. I like to “gift” myself too!
Maria R
What great totes. I like the market tote. They are all great. Keeping my fingers crossed
Michele Kolodij
I am a huge fan of your handbags. My next planned bag will be the Florida Tote bag with zippered top. I love how well you supply directions as well as the necessary notions to complete a professional looking project. I think the Florida bag will be a nice challenge for me and a welcome new Spring bag. Thank you.
Ann
All of the bags are beautiful, but I think the first bag for me is the Market Tote!
Patricia Hersl
I really hadn’t planned on a new spring bag but now you have me thinking. Can I tell you later?
Diane S.
I think I will be making the Market Bag first. I want to learn how to insert the zipper closure. I also need more market bags as I live in California where the new law requires stores to charge for grocery bags.
Kati Falk
I am going to make a handbag for a friend of mine in Alaska who is a Green Bay Packers fan – I have the material and now I would love to have your template for the pattern. I absolutely love your program – you are always so detailed on the how to side of things – a great teacher and always sharing with the world. I adore ordering things from you because you are a give back person.
Anne Z.
I would love to learn the recessed zipper technique.
Thanks for all the inspirtaion.
BevM
Since I am short, I prefer small to medium bags. Large bags are the wrong proportion for me.
Peg Sullivan
I make lots of bags. I even paid for some of my college years sewing and selling totes. But Nancy you come up with so many ideas and tips, I always learn somethng. Thanks for your great newsletter.
An avid fan
Carol
I love the Florida bag for summer. It’s perfect for all the events that I attend and casual enough for everyday. I can’t wait to follow your easy directions and choose fabric and embellishments
Nancy Southard
I think I would want to make the market tote first, but I also want to learn the recessed zipper because I could use it so many different ways.
Donna W
Love to make bags. I think a new “Florida” bag would be in order.
barbara J
My girlfriend and I had a recent sew in weekend and made what was listed as a tote which became a duffle bag. Turned out great, but oh the size and a little intimidating for my friend’s first “purse”. This would be much easier for her to tackle.
PamB
I like the market tote with the recessed zipper opening. I’d probably add a cross body option for the handle as that is what I prefer now versus handles. Thanks!
Dina Lee
I want the market tote bag to learn about the zipper, but the Florida bag will be next….love your patterns and info….thanks
Gayle Bryant
I love all these tips. I have lots of vintage ribbons crying out for something special. Am torn between the market and Florida bags but the Florida bag speaks to me more. Am looking forward to more bags this year!
Karen R
Love your easy lessons. Would love to make the bag.
Debbie
I made the Valentino Bag kit from Nancy’s Notion’s. Reversed the colors and added Peacock embroidery on the band.
Helen Jaroslawski
Love your handbag design! I plan to make one like it for my next trip. Thanks for the nifty zipper tutorial.
Becky Hournbuckle
I like the bag that uses ribbons for accents. What a great way to use beautiful ribbon that I’ve not found the right use for!
deb w
I have been a follower of yours since way back when – I think the first book I bought was 10-20-30 minutes to sew which was a great help in my working years! now I watch all your shows on PBS, and must say “thanks” many times over for your tips and inspiration!
Doreen Linehan
I’d like to make the zippered market tote. Hopefully I would then use it if I made something pretty. I get so annoyed with myself when I forget to bring the reusable bags into the store.
Cyndy Lacey
I love this tote pattern. I recently bought the hobo bag templates and they are amazing.I would love to make the open market tote. I love the depth and design.
Cyndy from The Funny Farm
A few years ago I made nearly 20 of the Hobo Tote as part of a fundraiser for victims of Typhoon Haiyan. I got really good at making them to say the least. 🙂 Last year I made another version using donated upholstery weight fabric and custom painted (by me) Kraftex which was donated to my guild’s auction for a fund raiser. That version was heavily modified as I included a zippered top enclosure and pintucked the upholstery fabric. I even used piping in lieu of narrow strips between the top and bottom fabric, as I’d done on many of the 20 I’d made before. It’s a really nice look. That bag was such a hit at the auction, I was just asked to make another bag for this year. It will be a barrel style purse with some imported Yoko Saito fabric outside and some repurposed sari silk purchased this weekend at Sew Expo (in Puyallup) from a woman raising funds to keep her efforts going with working with survivors of the sex traffic trade in Nepal. Will be a very meaningful bag for me!
Cheryl Feyen
I’ve been using several patterns that I have modified using many of the techniques on your show. I watch on PBS as well as on utube. I have been sewing for over 50 years and am still learning great tips and new techniques from your shows. Thanks.