Are you looking for a fun, creative, and rewarding new hobby? Have you ever wanted to make your own bags? It’s more than just sewing; it’s an opportunity to make something truly unique, for yourself and others. Here are ten reasons why you should grab some fabric and start stitching your way to your favourite new hobby (I’m not biased or anything!)
1. Unleash Your Inner Designer
Fed up of all the samey bags out there? When you make your own, you become the designer. You get to choose every element – the fabric, the lining, the hardware, the pockets, the straps. You can even decide if you want it to be structured or slouchy, and what pockets you want to include. Your imagination is the only limit, and you can create a truly unique accessory that perfectly reflects your personality. Imagine carrying a bag that no one else in the world has. Trust me, it feels great!
2. Customization is King (or Queen!)
Have you ever wished a bag had an extra pocket, a different strap length, or was just slightly bigger? When you make a bag yourself, you can customise everything to your exact needs and preferences. Need a specific slot for your phone, a secure place for your keys, or a water bottle holder? You can add it! Your bags will be as functional as they are fashionable.
3. A Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Choice
As you know, sustainability is important! And making your own bags is great for sustainability. You can upcycle old jeans, repurpose fabric scraps, or choose eco-friendly materials. It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste and create something beautiful and useful at the same time. Plus, a handmade bag is built to last, reducing the need for constant replacements. Just be sure to use good quality materials when making your bags, so they live their longest life.
4. Develop New Skills
Bag making involves a variety of skills, from cutting and sewing to understanding different materials and hardware. As you progress, you’ll learn new techniques, improve your precision, and gain confidence in your abilities. And let’s be honest, there’s a huge sense of satisfaction (and bragging rights) that comes with saying, “Thanks, I made it myself!” Don’t be put off because you think you don’t have sewing skills. I first started making bags because I was so terrible at sewing clothes and wanted to try something that didn’t require me to adjust sizes and shapes. So if you don’t enjoy sewing clothes, don’t let it stop you from giving bag making a try.
5. The Perfect Gift for Friends & Family
A handmade bag is a very unique and personal gift. Imagine how you’d feel if a friend gave you a custom-made tote bag in your favourite colours. It shows you’ve put time, effort, and love into creating something special. And unlike clothes, one size fits all when it comes to bags, so it’s much easier to gift!
6. Boost Your Creativity and Mindfulness
The process of choosing fabrics, planning your design, and stitching your bag together is incredibly therapeutic. It allows you to tap into your creative side, focus your mind, and enjoy a calming, meditative activity. It’s a wonderful way to de-stress and unwind, focusing completely on something positive and constructive. It’s a great escapism when you need a break but don’t want to sit in front of the TV.
7. Save Money in Style
Top end, high quality bags are expensive. By making your own, you can create designer-level bags without the hefty price tag. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to produce stunning bags that look incredibly professional, all while keeping your budget happy.
8. Join a Supportive Community
The bag making community, both online and offline, is vibrant and welcoming. You’ll find countless tutorials, patterns, workshops, and fellow enthusiasts eager to share tips, tricks, and encouragement. There’s loads of free sewing patterns available to get you started. Try joining one of the many bag making Facebook groups. It’s a fantastic way to connect with like-minded individuals and make new friends.
9. Endless Variety and Projects
From tiny coin purses to spacious tote bags, practical backpacks, and elegant handbags, the world of bag making offers an endless variety of projects. You’ll never get bored, as there’s always a new style, technique, or challenge to explore. In my patterns I like to include different methods and techniques so we keep trying and learning new things with every bag. Unlike other hobbies, the learning process of bag making never ends!
10. Express Your Unique Style!
Ultimately, bag making is about self-expression. It’s an opportunity to create accessories that perfectly complement your wardrobe and showcase your unique taste. Why follow trends when you can set them? Make a statement with a bag that is truly, unequivocally you.
So I hope I’ve convinced you to give bag making a try! Grab some fabric, thread, and your sewing machine, and embark on the wonderfully fulfilling journey of bag making. You might just discover your new favourite passion (and a serious addiction). I’m Jo, the pattern designer behind Country Cow Designs Ltd. I’ve been designing bag sewing patterns since 2019 and together with my husband I run a small sewing shop in Cornwall, UK.
If you’re new to bag making, the simplest way to get started is to grab a complete bag making kit. It’s a great way to ensure you have everything you need for a specific bag, and to give bag making a try. I’m confident that after your first bag you’ll be hooked on this incredible hobby. In the USA, check out My Handmade Space for amazing bag making supplies. In the EU, check out Zipper Zoo. Or in the UK, check out my shop at CountryCowDesigns.Com
