The Japanese Knot Bag!

The Japanese Knot Bag is a small and round shaped design featuring uneven handles as the method of closure. This sort of "knot" keeps the bag secure and closed but at the same time is a convenient pleasure to carry! The pattern also does not call for any zippers or magnetic snaps of any types since the handles serve as the method of closure. Thanks to this element, the bag can easily be used in reverse just as well. The Suki Japanese Knot Bag is an easy to make project that beginners can have a fun go at it as well! The versatile features also expand to its pattern too since the product includes TWO pattern variations. A smaller style that can be used on the wrist or as a purse and a larger shoulder bag. Both styles will make a great set!

Suki Japanese Knot Bags

The Rosalia Tote Bag also features 2 different styles. It's a modern Tote Bag with a simple design in combination with leather straps and leather outside. I personally use this bag to carry around library books - especially larger picture books for children!

Rosalia Tote Bag

New backpack and another 1 hour project!

It's common to have a bit of leftover fabric after an enjoyable sewing project. Most of the time, it's difficult to start another project with these scraps as it just doesn't amount to enough... Yet it feels so wasteful to just throw away! Especially the beautiful - and pricey - designer fabrics. This sort of mentality inspired me to hoard a lot of scrap fabric over the years. With these fabrics, I leave just enough to have my own "hobby" time. When your passion becomes your career, sometimes you forget to enjoy the activity again. This scrap bin has been my source of joy and fun with sewing when I need my time off. These small scraps were the perfect candidates for short 1 hour projects after dinner. With it, I could quickly make small pouches - coin cases, pencil case, you name it! The relaxing and stress relief I felt from these simple projects was the perfect way to wind down after a long day.

And today I want to share this enjoyment with you all! The Simone Pouches is a simple 1 hour project that does not require a lot of fabric and only starts at $2.79! The pattern includes 3 different variations - so you'll be getting 3 patterns for this very low price! The coin purse, pencil case, and the general pouch can all be made with a single fat quarter of fabric. Get the Simone Pouches today!

Brendan Backpack PDF Pattern

Siomne Pouches (3 Style) PDF Pattern

Vintage travel bags!

The Esther Bag is an homage to one of my loyalest bag companions throughout the years. Back at around 2011, my friend got me a nice vintage travel bag set. It included a large suitcase, a travel bag, and other accessories. Yet the travel bag was a bit too small to be considered a full on travel bag, but featured a convenient design that I enjoyed to use for sketchbooks and utensils. It served me well for about 3 years until my daughter fell in love with it too so I gave it to her instead. She used it for another 2 years until it wore out too much and now it sits in her closet among the other retired bags.

I loved the basic style of the frame design with its green vintage style leather. As such, the Esther Bag is an homage to this old companion of mine that is now resting in one - literally! - peace in the closet. Those of you who have the option of using artificial leather, I highly recommend using it as the outcome can be drastically different from regular fabric. Otherwise I would use Oxford fabric or flowery prints for the fabric.

Esther Bag PDF Pattern

Sylvia Bag PDF Pattern

New Laptop Design That Isn't Boring!

 For me whenever I thought about "laptop bags", I thought of bags typically made with leather or nylon/polyamide and with a pretty generic boring and formal briefcase design. However recently though, we've been been getting more different styles such as backpack or cross bag style laptop bags. Yet they still used the same boring material and colors. Because of this I started looking for companies that would satisfy my preferences, and eventually I did find some. At first I was so excited but in the end I ended up resorting to the old fashioned black colored laptop bags. The designs of these "less boring" bags ended up being less practical, touting unimpressive designs, or too expensive!

I've been hard at work for a new laptop bag for people like myself who were not satisfied by the market standard! Although it features a standard briefcase design, it touts special aspects that you cannot find in other bags from the market. By using fabrics with geometric prints and a matching leather buckle strap on the front pocket, the project can result in a very elegant feel. If you find it difficult to find the right buckle, I would also recommend a 3/4" inch leather strap. The pattern is perfect not only for yourself but as a gift to your children, significant other, or friends!

Judith Laptop Bag PDF Pattern

I love the Lorene Bag! It's quickly become my favorite when I'm out and about as the small design makes it comfortable and perfect for just the phone and wallet. I highly recommend this quick to make modern design shoulder bag for all sewers! Requiring not a lot of fabric, simple instructions, and a fashionable design, the Lorene Bag is perfect for all situation

Lorene Bag PDF Pattern

Special 1 Hour Projects for Everyone!

This week I thought about opening a brand new category for all our avid sewers! Geared towards beginners and sewers short on time! The projects are quick, easy, convenient patterns for everyone!

Mei Kimono Bag

To celebrate, the Mei Kimono Bag is another pattern that I would recommend for new sewers as the easy to understand process is perfect for grasping some important sewing concepts. For the fabric, I recommend oriental style inspired fabrics and materials for the best results. There were suggestions in adding this to our 1-Hour Project collections, however due to the total length of the product it was excluded from the set but I would still recommend it to any sewers who want a unique looking Kimono Bag!

Brenna MacBook

As for the Brenna Macbook Bag, I feel like this is one of my personal favorites of the recent releases. I like to carry around my Macbook around - still prefer a real keyboard over the touchscreens on iPads or phones - and as such this bag as served me very well so far! Although named as the Macbook Bag, the pattern is designed to also be used as a casual cross bag. Using the right set of fabrics can also make it a school bag or a companion for the office.

Casual Bags for Casual Days!

Both the patterns this week are for any "casual" day as they are "casual" bags! The patterns are best suited for teens and any time you need a casual look for the day. I especially loved this project not just as the perfect gift for teens but the opportunity it created for my daughter and I when she was learning to sew. As a great introductory project, if you have any children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, or any young spirit looking to sew use the Chloris Bag or the Danica Bag! The unique experience from choosing the fabric together up to the creation of the bag will stick with the child whenever they wear the bag!

Chloris Bags (2 Sizes) PDF Pattern

Chloris Bag and the Danica Bag (2 Styles) all are catered towards this sort of purpose. The Danica Bag features both a zipper styled bag as well as a flap closing. It includes two different instructions so it's like getting two patterns for the price of one! On the other hand, the Chloris Bag is the perfect balance between beginner and intermediate sewing levels. The small size of the Chloris Bag is especially adorable on kids and the bag is perfect for all seasons!

Danica Bags(2 Styles) PDF Pattern

The combo this week will feature both new releases as well as the Joyce Pouch - a perfect companion for both bag styles for 55% OFF! The Joyce Pouch also features 2 distinct styles so in total you'll get 6 patterns for $9.90! Don't miss out on this awesome chance!

Simple and Lazy Patterns I love!

I personally love patterns and instructions for lazy sewers. Quick and simple projects that can be completed in an afternoon is precious to me - maybe because I'm lazy or due to a lack of time. As such my patterns and instructions follow a certain philosophy that if it could be simple. I personally love patterns and instructions for lazy sewers. Quick and simple projects that can be completed in an afternoon is precious to me - maybe because I'm lazy or due to a lack of time. As such my patterns and instructions follow a certain philosophy that if it could be simple.

1262 Irene Bag PDF Pattern

However after completing the sample, instructions, and almost near release I had a lot of questions. The number of pages on the instructions were numerous and the processes were long. Even I skipped a step or two during the making process! But in the end I decided to release it because of the fantastic design. I am especially proud of this one. The bag features a professional look and feel with a modern design and the instructions come with over 80 pictures and illustrations to help you through the whole process. Get the Irene Bag for 50% off during the new release sale!

1263 Meredith Bag PDF Pattern

Two Bags & Clutch Combo PDF Pattern

1265 Baby Present Combo

More Casual bags!

The Kenzie Cross Sling Bag last week had one of the best receptions on my site! Thank you all for that! Not only that but people have been asking for more casual bags like that than ever! I hope to satisfy those people with my next bag!

Loren Buck Backpack

The Loren Bucket Backpack features a chameleon design that can either express a casual or formal feel depending on the choice of fabric used. In essence, the bag is is on the smaller end of backpacks while still featuring an in depth pocket to allow a sizable storage. It's perfect for those outings when you do not need to carry a laptop or a tablet. I would recommend this as a companion to the gym. I especially paid attention to the design so both men and women can use it interchangeably.

Krista Bag

This week's special though is the Krista Bag! The shoulder bag was designed with leather materials in mind. If you would like to skip the leather material all together and go for a smoother look, you can use interfacing to provide for the shape instead.

More Bags Please!

As I prepared the Blake Backpack last week it became clear to me that the pattern would be a perfect fit for babies and toddlers. In addition to that, we have not released any baby/toddler patterns in a long time so I thought this was a good enough inspiration - or excuse - to convert this into an adorable companion piece for parent and child! I wanted to keep the word "baby" in the title for the product but the pattern is best suited for children that can are already accustomed to walking. Instead, we opted for the Blake Toddler Backpack instead!

Blake Toddler Backpack

Irina Bag

The Irina Bag is a quick project you can finish with only 1/4 yard exterior and 4 leather blocks that will be practical anywhere you go. Unlike the Irina Bag though, the Anna Bag was originally a pain for me to design. I got the sizes came out all wrong from what I envisioned as it would be too small to store anything or too big to be comfortable... But after much tribulations I found the perfect ratio between storage and portability! Get them both as a combo this week!

Anna Bag

Travelling? Heres a Free Bag!

Recently our family decided to on a spontaneous trip, due to that it got me thinking and I ended up making a large bag that could fit a bunch of things that I would need on a trip. And I when I say a large bag, I mean a really large bag. To do this, I stripped the bag any of linings or interfacing. Because of this the bag can be made within one hour!

Sharon Bag

The Sharon Bag (and it's 2 variations) is the perfect companion for your trip to yoga, gym, or even for swimming and other wet conditions if made with water proof fabric. The two size variations provides you with the choice depending on your needs - large traveling bag or a light companion!

And the best of all? It's free! For all previous buyers and new buyers, check our our free patterns here. The iThinkSew free pattern library includes 17 patterns for all members and 15 more for any buyers. Check it out now!

Jacqueline Bag

The Jacqueline Bag also comes in two size variations and is a project best suited for beginners. Other than zippers, the pattern does not require any special materials so it is perfect for new sewers. I would recommend using fabric with basic geometric designs and a simple leather tag for a simple yet modern bag.

Items for the Spring!

It's started to get warmer here! Although no where near the levels of summer yet, the weather has become so nice it's become a waste to just let it pass. As such we've been busy at something appropriate for the season change. The Lacy Bag's fabric choices were deliberate in aiming to make a sleek spring look. The multiple pockets inside the bag make it a perfect companion for a storing numerous belongings in an organized fashion. I especially recommend the bag for mothers with baby's as it makes for a great diaper bag with the bag featuring a large and easy to use opening for quick access.

Lacy Bag

The Jody Baby Overalls were actually released before however was pulled for instruction and pattern revisions. Now they are ready for the spring season! Yet last week I received an inquiry regarding the state of the pattern. Although it was in the lower part of the totem for a long time, we decided to go ahead and complete the revision so we can release it! Please note that the pattern was featured in "Fabric by Fabric, One Yard Wonders: 101 Sewing Projects Using One Yard (2011)". If you own the book no need to purchase the pattern again!

Jody Baby Overalls

Finally the Bridget Baby Shoes was designed for both boys and girls and is perfect for the sunny weather!

Bridget Baby Shoes

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Scandinavian Styled Bags!

Recently I have been occupied with making traditional dresses from all over the world. One of the most inspiring ones came from while researching through the Scandinavian style.While under this Scandinavian spell, I had made a trip to my local IKEA and a particular set of cushions just caught my eyes! Although the cushion itself was awesome, what caught my attention was the fabric. After the trip, I found myself surrounded by numerous cushions, blankets, and just plain fabrics.

Bethan Bag PDF Pattern

Sylvia Bag PDF Pattern

With the Scandinavian influences the Bethan Bag and the Sylvia Bag were both born! Although every single sample was made using IKEA fabrics, I promise I was not sponsor
ed by them - I just love their fabrics!

Two Bags & Pouch Combo PDF Pattern

Free Jessa Bag For the Dory Bag!

Buying the Dory bag means you can get the Jessa bag for free until March 4th, 2017! My plan originally was to have the bag ready by Valentines Day but I could not get it done by then, So I decided to give out for free for the next two weeks! A belated Valentines gift for everyone!

Dory Bag

The Dory Bag is a messenger bag that is perfect for electronic tablets or small documents. Just on the exterior, the bag has four different pockets for all your needs! The extended number of pockets does extend the time it takes to build the bag, but the process is easy enough for beginners to take a try! The Jessa Bag is casual and formal for all occasions. I personally love the slight pleats on the gusset providing a subtle emphasis to the bag.

Jessa bag

Warm Shoes for Mothers and Babies!

The Abella Shoes was also another creation just like the Vina Boots - from cold feet! However, unlike the Vina Boots, the Abella Shoes are not booties! My daughter, Veronica, preferred shoes with lower heels as they are in general less of a nuisance. Just like last week's boots, the Abella Shoes is a quick and easy project for most - if not all - sewing levels! I honestly believe it is the easiest room shoes pattern I have designed up to date. I want to bring special attention to the teddy bear fabric that was used for the baby version. Veronica chose the fabric and the suede sole providing the perfect combination for the baby shoes!

The Abella Shoes come in both women's and baby sizes! Get them now together in a great combo.

Abella Baby Shoes

Abella Women's Shoes

Abella Mom & Baby's Shoes

Vina Boots & Abella Women's Shoes

Vina Boots & Abella Baby Shoes

New Bags for New Comfort!

It might just be me, but near the end of January is when it really feels like the new year and the holiday season has ended. With it already being the third week, I get a feeling that winter is now over!

The Gabrielle Bag features easy to access phone compartment as well as a convenient size to fit all of your belongings yet still comfortable on the shoulders. It's always difficult to find the perfect balance between comfort and storage space but I believe Gabrielle Bag found the perfect balance! On the other side, we also have the Camille Bag which is more suitable for a quick trip just with the phone and the wallet.

Gabrielle Bag

Both bags during the photoshoot had an extra guest cameo! While shooting, my cats just could not help but to be in the shots. Take a closer look and find the cats from our bag pictures!

Camille Bag

The Quick Elegant Bag!

I started the Sandra Bag project around 2 weeks ago for my own use. I spilled coffee onto my personal bag and I could find any replacements. So quickly tried to make another one. And after some thinking I just went for a simple design with the most practical use.

Sandra Bag

The multiple elastic pockets with its heightened position provides ease of access to your phone when fishing for it. Perfect as a diaper bag, the end product was something beyond my best expectations. I also had the opportunity to try out the custom design fabric I made for the Sandra Bag! Intended for babies, the material is still a work in progress.

Meryl Bag

iThinksew Happy New Years Celebration!

For the 2017 celebration the Lucilla Bag is free on ithinksew til January 20, 2017! This is hopefully a sign for more patterns to come! I look forward to this new year and hope its a great one for everyone! Please enjoy the free pattern during any winter! As it was designed for warmth and comfort in the cold weather!

Lucilla Bag

The Lucilla Bag is a stylishly designed and simply made bag that is perfect for the winter season! Due to its unique material, the bag compliments your winter coats and boots and is an a great addition to your wardrobe! This bag ranges from beginner to intermediate sewing levels. You can make this bag with leather, suede or cotton and still end up with a great result. Further, the bag’s versatile design allows the sewer to combine fabrics and other materials with ease. A perfect companion in any occasion! Don’t hesitate and start this cozy bag today!