Today I have two exciting things to share with you! First, the March Bag is back (can I get a hallelujah?!?). It’s been refreshed and updated!
Second, my next online video sewing course is now LIVE! I’m teaching you how to make my round bag sewing pattern, the Alice Bag. Keep reading to find out more about both.
New Bag Sewing Pattern, the March Bag
Last year I started updating my bag sewing patterns. They were in need of an update. The measurements and patterns were good, but the formatting and photography needed to change.
One of the patterns that I left “as is” for the moment was my March Bag. After I finished updating the first round of patterns, I looked at my March Bag pattern and realized it was not quite on the same level as the new patterns and “pulled it”.
My intention was to do a quick refresh and have the new pattern out in about a month. Well, that was over a year ago *eeekkk*. Things just kept popping up.
The last thing I wanted to do was to rush the process. I wanted to make sure that I took the time to do it the “right way”. So for all of you that have been emailing me asking when it’s coming back, I’m sorry it took so long!
Well today, it’s BACK! I looked earlier today and it originally came out in 2010! Holy moly, where does the time go? I don’t even want to talk about how much my “model” (aka daughter) has changed in those eight years!
About the March Bag Pattern
The March Bag is a handbag sewing pattern with one large “kangaroo style” pocket in the front and another smaller pocket inside.
It features an optional magnetic snap closure and is made with 4 different handles! The green bag above is stitched up in fabrics from my Safari Party line, and Riley Blake woven gingham.
Bag Strap Options:
Purchased Leather Handles:
The green bag on the cover is made using “sew on” purchased handles. I got mine on Amazon, the ones I bought are showing as sold out. But you can find similar ones still, mine were 23″ long.
Just click HERE for the list. I also spotted some on Etsy, just CLICK here for the Etsy list. (both are affiliate links)
Bag Straps You Sew Yourself (instructions in the pattern):
You can also sew your own straps for the bag:
Bamboo Purse Handles:
Simple Leather Handles:
Instructions for all of the versions of the bag straps are included in the pattern.
The bag is in the NEW and UPDATED shop! You can also purchase it here:
If you prefer a print version you can get it in the shop as well.
How to make a Round Bag; a Video Course for our Alice Bag Pattern
Last June I had the privilege of filming another tutorial for the Riley Blake YouTube Channel! I chose to teach you how to make my Alice Bag.
I know that the round shape and extra details on the bag can seem intimidating to some so this bag is a great one for a video tutorial.
You will need to purchase the pattern before you take the class on YouTube. You can find it in the shop HERE.
The class is broken down into steps. On the YouTube page, look for the playlist of the Alice Bag and it will link you to all of the tutorials.
The video includes step by step instructions to make the WHOLE bag. Including the version with the bunny ears and face. All 4 handle style options.
You can make the bag in one of 3 sizes it’s up to you.
I really wanted the class to be a “skill builder” class.
What’s Included in the Class
-Inserting a Zipper
-Sewing piping on the outside of the bag
-Working with interfacing
-Working with bias tap
-How to sew your own purse handles
and more!
To take the class, purchase the pattern through the links above and follow the instructions on the linked YouTube channel.
Danita Courtney says
Dear Melissa,
Thank you for this opportunity! I really have enjoyed following your blog. I admit I recently found it from Pinterest while looking for little girl night gowns. I then enjoyed visiting your site and noticed all the varieties of quilts you have, including ones for beginners! Currently I am sewing for my grandchildren and myself, but quilts are on my bucket list!!! So I am coming to you for that! I love how you present them and show just how easy they really are! To be honest, I am yards and yards away form that goal, but I will continue to follow your amazing site and appreciate all the great offerings you have! What a wonderful job you have done! I know it’s not always easy, but your hard work shows and more people really do admire your work than you could possible ever know! I just wanted to take a moment and remind you of that! It’s not a secret, just an amazing fact just for YOU!
Pam McDonald says
Thank you Melissa 🙂 i love your bags!! I love your site too, it is always a treat to sit and read in the mornings with coffee.
Cheryl says
I absolutely love your patterns, especially the Alice bag. That does intrigue me. Unfortunately, I have already spent my budget this month (soc. security doesn’t go very far), but I hopefully will be able to come back next month. Do you plan on having any sales in the near future. If so, maybe I can also purchase the March bag. I don’t usually look at bags to sew, I’m more a clothing sewist,but yours are so interesting. Have a wonderful day and thank you so much for your hard work. Hope to visit next month. Cheryl
Fiona White says
I am trying to purchase a Melissa bag pattern but I cannot enter country details ( its fixed on the United States). Does this mean the pattern cannot be purchased from the UK. Please help as I have fallen in love with your pattern and I am desperate to make it. Loving your blog.