Are you looking for a stylish and practical sewing project that gives new life to old materials? This round crossbody bag tutorial is perfect for both beginners and experienced sewers who want to create something unique from recycled fabrics.
Materials Needed
- Recycled fabrics (old jeans and bed sheets work great!)
- Foam interfacing
- Zipper (approximately 15 inches)
- Cording (approximately 1/8 inch diameter)
- Sewing machine and basic sewing supplies
- D-rings for the strap attachments
- Optional: Jean pockets for exterior details
- FREE pattern download (use link below)
The Beauty of Upcycling
One of the best aspects of this project is the opportunity to repurpose materials you already have. The tutorial uses an old bed sheet and a pair of jeans that have been backed with foam interfacing. Not only does this approach save money, but it also gives your bag unique character and reduces textile waste.
Step 1: Create the Piping
The piping adds a professional touch to your bag's edges:
- Cut fabric strips approximately 1¼ inches wide
- Place cording in the center of the fabric strip
- Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and sew close to the cording
- The finished piping will be attached around the circumference of your circular pieces
Pro Tip: Make your piping slightly longer than needed to allow for overlap when attaching to the circle.
Step 2: Prepare the Exterior Pieces
- Cut two circular pieces for the exterior of your bag
- Attach the piping around the circumference of one exterior piece
- Add recycled jean pockets to both exterior pieces for added functionality
- Remember to position the pockets in the same direction on both sides
Step 3: Create the Lining and Slip Pocket
- Cut three circular pieces for the lining (same size as the exterior pieces)
- Create a slip pocket using one of the lining pieces
- Attach the slip pocket to one of the remaining lining pieces
- Match the exterior and lining pieces (wrong sides together) and sew around the perimeter
Step 4: Prepare the Zipper Panel
- Cut rectangular pieces for the zipper panel (two exterior, two lining)
- Place one exterior piece right side up, then place the zipper face down on top
- Place a lining piece right side down on top of the zipper (creating a sandwich)
- Sew along the edge, then fold the pieces away from the zipper and topstitch
- Repeat with the remaining exterior and lining pieces on the other side of the zipper
Learn how to make the round mini bag
Step 5: Create the Base and D-Ring Tabs
- Prepare the circular base piece with foam interfacing
- Add your label to the base if desired
- Create tabs for the D-rings by folding fabric strips multiple times
- Attach the D-ring tabs to the base where you'll connect your strap
Step 6: Assemble the Bag
- Attach the zipper panel to the base
- Topstitch along the seam for a professional finish
- Attach the exterior circular pieces to the assembled gusset
- Finish the raw edges with binding
Final Touches
Once your bag is complete, you can add a crossbody strap. For extra versatility, consider adding a smaller bag that can be attached to the strap as shown in the tutorial.
Why You'll Love This Bag
- The round shape offers a unique, stylish look
- Multiple pockets provide organization
- Upcycled materials give it character while being eco-friendly
- The size is perfect for everyday essentials
- You can customize colors and fabrics to match your style
This project is a wonderful way to breathe new life into old fabrics while creating a functional, fashionable accessory. The detailed steps ensure even beginners can achieve professional-looking results.
Happy sewing!
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