Workshops Make a Messenger Bag

The bag has a front flap with magnetic closure, a front pocket, and two inside pockets. One of these inside pockets has a zip to keep your valuables safe. The exposed zip is common in bag-making so it’s a great thing to know how to do. The bag doesn’t take much fabric either so it’s useful for using up small quantities of leftovers for the flap and pocket linings. The main body of the bag is made in denim or cotton drill, while the contrast used for the flaps and pockets can be made from craft cotton. The shoulder strap is made in fabric or you can use purchased webbing. It’s stitched in to the sides so there’s no tricky hardware to fiddle with.

There is a choice of 3 sizes. I’ll advise the fabric requirements when you book.

Who is this aimed at?

This is an achievable project if you have confident sewing skills. The challenges here include zipped pockets, adding a lining and decorative topstitching. Once you’ve made one messenger bag, you’ll understand how to alter the size too so you can make others at home.

What will I learn? Lots of valuable craft sewing skills:

how to make a lined front flap and pocket
making and attaching lined patch pockets
creating rounded corners and gusset
a inner lined, exposed zipped pocket
attaching a magnetic fastening

Location details

St. Margaret’s House – Sixth Floor
St. Margaret’s House, 151 London Road
Edinburgh EH7 6AE

How to find St Margaret’s House

Directions