Strapless and handleless clutch bags are increasingly gaining popularity in the world of handcrafts. Responding to this move, a popular blogger, Yuki Inomata came up with an attractive bag for today’s project using “Alice in Wonderland” themed fabric from nunokara x Etsuko Furuya collaboration series.
Fabric shown for this sample:： ：
（Outer Fabric A)nunokara× Etsuko Furuya HFG100-1 (A)
（Outer Fabric B)nunokara× Etsuko Furuya HFG100-2 (A)
（Lining Fabric）nunokara× Etsuko Furuya HFG100-2 (B)
Materials：
□Fabric（Outer Fabric A）：40cm×30cm
（Outer Fabric B）：40cm×30cm
（Lining Fabric, Pocket）：70cm×60cm
（Edge Fabric）：10cm×10cm
（Tag）：10cm×10cm
□Interfacing：40cm×60cm
□Zipper：One zipper (length 35cm)
We interviewed Yuki about her creation:
Kokka Fabric（KF) : What did you think of the fabric you used for this project?
Yuki Inomata (YI): The overall fabric is so cute that I did not even know which portion to use. I made a point of choosing the design where Alice and the rabbit appear together. A large pattern comes alive when you use it like a big illustration rather than using it for small items.
KF: Can you tell us any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
YI: The clutch bag was selected since the canvas fabric has tension and is suitable for a well-tailored item like a bag. You expect this type of bag, which is carried under your arm to securely hold the items inside, to be somewhat solid yet not too soft. An interfacing is adhered to the fabric to give it more body.
KF:What are some tips for making this bag?
YI: What seems most difficult in the making process is attaching the zipper, which is an important element. How do you handle this? Your sewing machine most likely came with a zipper foot attachment. If you have it, please use it as it will ease the process and will lead to a clean finish. If you don’t have it, you might as well purchase it this time.
KF:How should we use this bag in everyday situations?
YI: A4 (210mm × 297mm) size documents and items fit perfectly in this bag. It is convenient to use as a case when carrying important documents in a tote bag. You can also use it as a secondary purse in addition to a main bag. Clutch bag is a modern interpretation of what we used to call a second bag. While the only difference is how you call it, the clutch bag gives such a classy impression. I wonder why?
KF: Thank you very much, Yuki! Here are sewing instructions along with step by step photos from her. Enjoy crafting!
How to Make Clutch Bag
1.
Place the edge fabric at both ends of the zipper and sew together.
2.
To make it even to the width of the fabric, cut off the excess after sewing.
3.
With front/outer sides facing each other, sew together the zipper and outer fabric at 7mm from the edge. It is convenient to use a zipper foot attachment. Switch it to the left or right, depending on the side of the zipper,
4.
After sewing, to secure the seam run stitches at 2mm from the edge. Repeat the process on the other side.
5.
Place the tag and baste it to the fabric.
6.
With front/outer sides facing each other, sew the bottom first and then sew both sides together. Turn it inside out.
7.
Make a pocket to be attached to the lining fabric. With front/outer side facing inside, fold the fabric like a loop. Leaving a small opening for turning, sew all the way around and turn it inside out.
8.
After turning it inside out, run stitches at the pocket opening. Align it with the center of the lining fabric and pin it to the lining fabric. Attach the pocket onto the lining fabric. Repeat the same process as in Step 6 and make a bag.
9.
Fold for 1cm at the top opening and run stitches around the opening.
10.
Place the lining bag over the outer bag from Step 6. Using a ladder hem stitch, sew along the zipper stitch lines to put both bags together to finish.
Backpack
Clutch Bag
Clutch Bag