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Canvas/denim Usually

used for the exterior of

bags, canvas is available in

different weights. Choose

the heaviest weight that your

sewing machine can cope

with. Canvas is strong and

it has rugged good looks. Be

sure to use a jeans needle

when sewing with canvas

and denim. I think canvas

looks best on larger bags such

as shoppers, messenger bags,

travel bags and beach bags.

Velvet This is a luxury fabric

that has fabulous depth

of colour and a strokeable

texture. The nicest velvet is

made from cotton. Velvet is

available in different weights

– choose the heaviest weight

that your sewing machine can

cope with. Velvet frays easily

so it’s wise to sew with a

wider seam allowance. If your

velvet is quite thick or you

will be sewing through a few

layers use a jeans needle. Try

using velvet for handbags,

clutches and special

occasion bags. Corduroy is

similar to velvet in its uses

and material qualities.

Wool/suiting fabric Usually

used for the exterior of bags,

wool is fabulous for bag

making. Wool is available in

different weights, patterns

and textures. Its incredible

depth of colour and its yummy

texture make wool a luxurious

fabric to work with and use.

Wool is hardwearing, but for

bag making it usually requires

interfacing of some kind. Wool

has a more open weave so a

strong dressmaking needle

is sufficient. Try using wools

for handbags, clutches and

messenger bags.

Silk/satin Used both as the exterior or

lining, silks and satins are luxury fabrics

that have beautiful looks, texture and

movement. Silk looks gorgeous pleated or

gathered. Try to stick to heavier weight

silk/satin because it’s more durable and

easier to sew with, while fine silk and

satin are very slippery. Natural dupion silk

is sturdy, has a lovely soft-sheen and an

interesting texture from the small slubs in

the fabric. Shimmery satin fabric makes a

glamorous lining in an evening bag. Use a

fine sewing machine needle when sewing

with silk or satin. Try using silk or satin for

any special occasion bags and purses.

Getting Started

Faux/real suede Usually used for the exterior of bags,

faux suede is similar in nature to velvet. Real suede

is dense and harder to sew through than woven faux

suede. If you feel that suede is too fragile for your bags

it can be strengthened with interfacing. Be sure to use

a leather needle for sewing suede. Try using real suede

for smaller special occasion bags and small handbags.

Real and faux leather is similar in its uses to suede but

has a shiny surface, often requiring a non-stick sewing

machine foot.