21 Sensational Patchwork Bags

Acclaimed author and quilter Susan Briscoe presents an irresistible new collection of patchwork bag designs to excite and inspire bag-lovers everywhere. From exquisite evening bags to practical portfolios and robust rucksacks, each project is presented with full step-by-step instructions and illustrations, allowing you to create your own unique accessories with ease, and prompting the question wherever you go, 'where DID you get that bag?!' The book features 21 gorgeous patchwork bags produced from 13 basic designs, specifically with quilters in mind. Each bag is shown with variations in colourways or adapted for a different purpose, to inspire you to take the designs further. These bag designs allow quilters to explore several new techniques on a small scale, while making something useful and beautiful at the same time. Essential information is also included on fabric selection, secure fastenings, and comfortable carrying straps and handles. With this book you will be able to: make practical bags for your quilting essentials; produce exquisite gifts for friends and family; embellish away with charms and creative stitching techniques; create designer solutions to your carrying needs; and add a unique twist to old favourites. Beautiful photography of the finished bags is accompanied by detailed step-by-step photographs and piecing diagrams to guide you through each design, while a useful techniques section at the back of the book covers patchwork techniques including cutting fabric strips, machine piecing patchwork and how to create patchwork blocks such as Seminole, triangle squares, flying geese, log cabin, as well as foundation piecing and crazy patchwork. Applique and quilting techniques, both by hand and machine, are also included, along with specific bag making techniques such as making and attaching bindings, how to insert a zip, making straps, adding pockets and inserting linings. A stitch library of decorative stitches you can use to embellish your bags, advice on fabric colour themes and a patchwork block library complete the book.