Frankie Bacon ties up this bag in a stitch.
Mar-May 2007
Required items:
- 2 x men’s ties (preferably the same width and length)
- Some funky fabric (think creatively, scarves, cloth serviettes, pillow cases)
- Bias binding (about 3 metres), you choose the width
- 1x button
- Piece of chord (or rope or ribbon…½ metre long)
- Any other accessories (beads, decorative buttons, ribbon, lace)
Now, I’m not big on complicated patterns, I hate them — but to make this bag — some sort of shape needs to be established. For this particular bag cut out a shape like a horseshoe (about 23cm wide and 20cm deep).
Instructions:
Step 1: Cut out the shape four times, to make both the outer layer and lining of bag. Allow for the hem, which means sewing 1cm from the edge. If you want to get creative and add some fancy bits — for example, sewing on a piece of ribbon, adding some pretty buttons or sewing on a badge — do this now on the outer layers of the bag before sewing to the tie.
Step 2: This is a new step conceived after completing the bag and involves sewing bias binding to the top of both the outer layer and lining from step one (both sides). Take bias binding and iron in half (if you are the ironing type). This may sound arduous, but it makes pinning it much easier. Now my ma has only just enlightened me on how to use this stuff properly, which involves far too much sewing — so I’m going to stick to my way.
Iron in half, then place the edge of the fabric in between the bias binding fold, pin and then sew, making sure to catch both sides of the bias binding. Do the same to other edge of the outer layer and the lining.
Step 3: Take one of the ties and the fabric you want to use for the outer layer matching right sides together and starting at the fat end of the tie, pin the fabric to the tie, as shown. Sew straight stitch fairly close to the edge. If you are using easily frayed fabric then zigzag both edges after straight sewing.
Step 4: Repeat step 3 for the other side of outer layer.
Step 5: Once sewn, turn the bag the right way out and the body of the bag is completed (usually at this point I hold the bag out in front of me and nod my head in some weird proud acknowledgement of my effort thus far!). After some time out to congratulate yourself on a job well done, sew the button (to do the bag up) on what will be the front of the bag before the lining goes in.
Step 6: The lining (always a crowd pleaser) is really, really easy. Repeat steps 3 and 4, but once sewn do not turn right way out, leave as is — It’s surprising how many times this has tricked me…or maybe it’s only me).
Step 7: Insert lining into outer layer and pin tops together.
Step 8: Place looped ribbon in the centre of back side of bag (make sure it is line with the button on the front and that the ribbon reaches), and pin in place, then sew the outer layer and the lining together, straight stich close to the edge.
Step 9: Now to sew the ties (straps) together. Pin together and sew a line on both edges of the ties or one down the middle, up to you…and then wahlaa!
DIY is great, but if you can’t be assed to actually Do It Yourself, you can order a one-off bag (in different sizes and shapes) or even a wallet or clutch purse using unique recycled and vintage fabrics. Just email Amy at frankiebacon@gmail.com.
