Mail bag purse pattern

A mail bag purse pattern! That's a unique and functional design. Here's a basic pattern you can use as a starting point:

Materials:

• 1 yard of sturdy fabric (cotton or canvas work well)
• 1/2 yard of contrasting fabric for the straps and lining
• Thread
• Zipper or magnetic closure
• Interfacing or stabilizer (optional)
• Measuring tape or sewing gauge
• Sewing machine

Pattern Pieces:

1. Main Bag Piece:
   • Cut one rectangle from the main fabric, approximately 18" wide x 12" tall.
2. Straps:
   • Cut two rectangles from the contrasting fabric, approximately 2" wide x 18" long.
3. Lining:
   • Cut one rectangle from the contrasting fabric, approximately 18" wide x 12" tall.
4. Zipper or Magnetic Closure:
   • Cut a piece of fabric to fit the width of the bag, approximately 1" wide x 12" tall.

Instructions:

1. Cut out the main bag piece: Use a rotary cutter and mat or scissors to cut out the main bag piece from the main fabric.
2. Cut out the straps: Cut out the straps from the contrasting fabric. You can use a serger or zigzag stitch on your sewing machine to finish the edges.
3. Cut out the lining: Cut out the lining from the contrasting fabric. This will help keep the bag's interior clean and provide a smooth surface for sewing.
4. Cut out the zipper or magnetic closure: Cut out a piece of fabric to fit the width of the bag, approximately 1" wide x 12" tall. This will be used to create a zipper or magnetic closure at the top of the bag.
5. Sew the sides: Place the main bag piece right sides together and sew along the sides, from the top to the bottom, leaving a small opening at the top for turning the bag right side out.
6. Turn the bag right side out: Carefully turn the bag right side out through the small opening. Use a blunt object like a chopstick or pencil to push out the corners.
7. Press the bag: Press the bag to create a crisp fold along the seams. This will help the bag lie flat and prevent it from sagging.
8. Topstitch the bag: Topstitch along the edges of the bag to create a decorative stitch and reinforce the seams.
9. Attach the straps: Place the straps at the top of the bag, approximately 2" apart, and sew in place using a strong thread or yarn.
10. Attach the lining: Place the lining inside the bag, right sides together, and sew along the edges, leaving a small opening at the top.
11. Turn the bag right side out: Carefully turn the bag right side out through the small opening. Use a blunt object like a chopstick or pencil to push out the corners.
12. Press the bag: Press the bag to create a crisp fold along the seams. This will help the bag lie flat and prevent it from sagging.
13. Topstitch the bag: Topstitch along the edges of the bag to create a decorative stitch and reinforce the seams.
14. Add a zipper or magnetic closure: Attach a zipper or magnetic closure to the top of the bag, approximately 1" from the top edge.

Tips and Variations:

• Use a sturdy fabric like canvas or denim for a more durable bag.
• Add pockets or compartments to the bag for organization.
• Use a contrasting thread color to create a decorative stitch along the edges of the bag.
• Add a handle or shoulder strap to the bag for easy carrying.
• Use a magnetic closure instead of a zipper for a more secure closure.

I hope this pattern helps you create a functional and stylish mail bag purse!