Got to say I’m pleased with how this has turned out! 😊My first attempt at making a ‘Trifecta Zip Bag’ using the pattern and internal frame set from Emmaline Bags.

I’ve seen similar bags, called Retreat Bags, made using larger internal frames and been intrigued by their construction but never been moved to make one. Then packs of smaller size frames arrived in the shop, triggering me into action. Yet another MEANDER in my sewing year was underway 😀

Here’s the key information about the Zip Bag:

• Pattern: Trifecta Zip Bag – pattern available from Emmaline Bags – instructions to make the Bag in six sizes, three using the small Style ‘D’ Frames, three using the medium size Style ‘A’ Frames. The pattern is available as a pdf download and costs $9.50 (around £6).
• I used a pair of Style ‘D’ Frames to make the ‘Small Set Version B’ Bag which measures approx. 9″ wide x 5″ high x 3.75″ deep.
• I used three cotton prints from the Eden collection by Sally Kelly and choose a 50wt Aurifil thread, 2865, for the top stitching.
• I used medium weight fusible interlining and fusible fleece.
• The zipper is a size 5 continuous zipper (the teeth look metallic but are nylon making them easy and safe to stitch over).

I still have a lot to learn about bag making. This being the first time I’d used internal frames I was particularly grateful for the link the Emmaline Bags website provided to a comprehensive video tutorial by Jess of Oklaroots. I followed the printed pattern whilst playing and pausing Jess’ video through the whole of my bag making process (NB. the tutorial proper starts 5 minutes into the video).

The internal frames give the bag a lovely stable, wide opening when unzipped and extra structure when the zipper is closed.

As the packs of Style ‘D’ Frames contain two pairs of frames I’ve prepared my left over fabrics in readiness to make the smallest size Zip Bag. A little project to take on the Sewcial Retreat this weekend 🙂

Have you tried any new hardware or gadgets recently? Were you pleased with the results?

Linking with Sum of Their Stories for Handmade Monday.

Allison