Introduction 6
Understanding the templates 8
Materials 12
Tools 14
Hardware 16
Techniques 17
Debbie’s top tips 24
Glossary 25
The Projects 26
Curved flap handbag 28
Round flap handbag 34
Scalloped flap handbag 38
Bow clutch 44
Curved flap clutch 48
Scalloped flap clutch 52
Zip clutch 56
Cosmetic bag 60
Fringed handbag 64
Patchwork clutch 68
Piped handbag 72
Slim clutch with scalloped flap 76
Triple pocket handbag 80
Chain strap clutch 84
Zipped purse 88
A little extra something 94
Index 96
Debbie Shore started her career as a children's television presenter and since then has appeared regularly on television both as an actress and selling products on a shopping channel. Debbie has also hosted live fashion shows with a major fashion store, produces her own range of instructional DVDs and writes for several popular sewing magazines. She is now a bestselling author and has written 12 books for Search Press, with several more under way. Debbie was voted Sewing Designer of the Year in the Immediate Media British Craft Awards 2017. She lives in Lincolnshire. Visit her website at www.debbieshoresewing.com.
I discovered this book at the Frankfurt Book Fair. As a
cosplayer I am familiar with the problem of "Where do I put my
stuff?" I often see so many great cosplays which are ruined by a
bag that doesn't match the rest of the outfit - make it match your
outfit! This is an easy way to create a bag from any leftover
fabric you have. If your leftovers are not big enough: patchwork
it! The templates are easy to use and easy to follow. A great book
to use for your leftover fabric, for cosplayers, but also for
vintage lovers. You could even make a bag to match your vintage
dress.
*Customer Review*
These two stunning new titles from Debbie convince us yet again
that we can never have too many bags! Each book comes in an
attractive hard-back folder which also encloses a wallet containing
two durable plastic templates, from which, by following Debbie’s
impeccable instructions, it is possible to construct fifteen
different bags from each book. There is a bag for every taste
and occasion, each beautifully presented in full colour, showing
Debbie’s inspiring fabric choices. Techniques including
zipped pockets, magnetic closures and piping are all covered in
detail, making these projects suitable for every level of sewing
expertise. Debbie also includes inspiring suggestions on
adapting the templates to expand the design possibilities and
create even more bags. Outstanding value for money, these
books are a definite must-have for every bag-loving sewer.
*East Kent Embroiderers’ Guild*
Debbie Shore has released two new bag making books in a new series
of books with Search Press – the Build a Bag series. The first two
books focus on Tote Bags and Occasion bags, each book containing
instructions for 15 projects as well as tips on making your own
variations of these designs. I hear that future books include
backpacks and satchels. What differentiates these books from other
bag making books is they both come with full size reusable plastic
templates, so you can use them repeatedly without the wear and tear
you normally get from paper patterns. They are thin plastic
templates with slots for you to draw through to mark the shape of
your bag, the flap or zip positioning. The templates are also
transparent, so you can fussy cut your fabric. Each book has a
handy plastic pocket inside the front cover to safely store your
templates, so they don’t get bent or damaged. Both books start with
a guide to using the templates, to the tools and techniques you
will need to make the bags (with step by step instructions and
colour photos) and some tip tips from Debbie. The bags themselves
range in size and complexity and include clutch bags, large totes
and handbags. Some of them do look quite similar with just a detail
like the bag flap changed but there’s still several different
styles and sizes contained in the books. The projects teach you
different bag making techniques including adding zips, making
pockets, sewing different shaped bag flaps, making piping, bag
closures, making quilted bags, adding details like bows or applique
etc. In her bag making tips Debbie lets the reader know which bag
is the easiest one to start with. As with all her books the project
instructions are easy to follow and have clear photos for every
stage to help guide the reader. These books are ideal for those new
to bag making and will help readers grow their bag making skills
and confidence as they work through the projects. The plastic
templates are a brilliant idea and a great bonus. I look forward to
seeing the next books in this series.
*The Sewing Directory*
If you need a bag for a special occasion (or any occasion for that
matter) you can make one quickly and simply with this book. Undo
the elastic band on the cover - where you can also find a useful
imperial/metric ruler – and discover how inside… On the inside of
the front cover is a pocket containing two reusable plastic
templates. With these you can make all fifteen bags in the book
with not as much sewing know-how as you might think. The book opens
by explaining how to use the templates before discussing fabric
options and listing what you need to get started. This book would
appeal to most levels of expertise but is particularly useful for
anybody of “improver” level. That is, somebody who knows the very
basics of sewing but would appreciate the glossary of terms and
helpful section on techniques such as making fabric flowers, zipped
pockets and straps. Each project has a large photograph of the
finished item plus a list of what you need, section on how to use
the templates and a good number of steps with photographs. All
measurements are in imperial and metric and use is made of the
attractive hardware options available now such as metal fasteners,
handles, D-rings etc which lift a bag out of the homemade category
and into the handmade one. Choose from handbags, purses and
clutches with a variety of shaped flaps, pocket options and fancy
details to cover all the occasions you can think of. Many make use
of scraps left over from other projects, ideal for the greener
crafter as well as anybody who hoards fabric and/or wants to make a
bag to match an outfit they have made. This is a lovely book for
the keeper shelf and my favorite to date from this talented
author.
*myshelf.com*
New from Debbie Shore - the first book in her brand new Build
a Bag series. Create 15 stunning occasion bag designs using just
two reusable, templates (included with the book). The two
easy-to-use templates are durable, reusable, wipe-clean and perfect
for fussy cutting, plus simple to position with no need to pin.
Debbie also gives clear advice on how to adapt and create your own
unique designs.
*The Collection 2018*
Yet another excellent book from Debbie Shore. The instructions are
easy to follow and there is a corresponding photograph for each
step. The templates are fab too, sturdy and you can mix and match
to make a multitude of bag variations. The book takes you through
fabric and interfacing choices, what hardware to use, with an
explanation of different techniques and a glossary of terms, this
book is suitable for everyone, from the beginner who has never made
a bag to those of us who have made several and want to expand our
range. Highly recommended.
*Amazon*
Yet again Debbie scores with a book with easy to follow
instructions and endless variations. Useful hardback folder
covering the soft back book, containing great templates, with
simple instructions. This book is one of several Debbie Shore books
I own and it doesn’t disappoint. Beautifully illustrated and well
laid out. The book is useful for beginners, as well as the more
accomplished sewer.
*Amazon*
Well Debbie Shore never fails to deliver, this time she has even
surpassed herself and previous publications. A book to delight the
senses from the cover and throughout. So well thought out and
executed and takes you through every step you need to produce a
fabulous bag.
*Amazon*
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