DIY Network

Sweet Memories: Memorabilia Travel Bag Wear your memories on your tote bag instead of your sleeve. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-139

Shannon Okey creates a travel tote bag that displays pictures from your travels.

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Memorabilia Travel Bag

Materials (figure A):
1 yd. each fabric of your choice (cotton is always good, and Shannon Okey usually uses two different colors for exterior and lining)
cotton thread
thin clear vinyl (available at sewing or craft stores by the bolt or sheet)
postcards and other memorabilia from your travels
needle and thread

1. Cut the exterior and liner fabric into four rectangular panels the same size (two of each).

2. Arrange postcards and other travel memorabilia on the front piece of exterior fabric (both, if you're putting items on either side). Cut pieces of vinyl to cover and stitch down where desired (figure B).

Figure A

Figure B

3. Place exterior and liner fabric panels with "public" side in. Stitch around three sides, leaving top open.

4. Pick up the bag exterior by the bottom and pull firmly on either side (figure C). This will pinch the bottom corner and form a little "triangle." Sew straight across that triangle (figure D). Do the same thing on the other side (make sure it's the same length across). Repeat with liner fabric bag, making them the same size. The measurement across the bottom of the triangle determines how wide the sides of the bag will be.

Figure C

Figure D

5. Turn exterior and liner panel bags inside out and fit the liner inside the bag.

6. Cut straps from fabric (measuring a favorite bag's straps to determine size is always good) and pin to the sides of the bag.

7. Stitch around the top to connect the exterior, liner and straps together.

8. You can add embroidery, beads or anything else you like for extra embellishment.

GUESTS :

Shannon Okey
Website: www.anezkahandmade.com
Website: www.knitgrrl.com