Patriotic Bunting Bag by Amy Friend

This week we’ll be celebrating the 4th of July! Many of us with celebrate with family and friends while others will celebrate quietly.

This week our talented group of designers have patriotic projects to share with you! Fitting for this week and all year round!

Hi, it’s Amy here today sharing this cute little Patriotic Bunting zippered bag.  The finished bag measures 6 1/2″ h x 9″ l.

To begin, you will need to cut 8 strips measuring 2″ x 9 1/2″ out of a red fabric, and 10 strips with the same measurements from a white fabric.  Sew them together to make two panels identical to the image above.  Those two panels will be the front and back of your bag.

Next, fuse HeatnBond® Non-Woven Craft Fusible Firm to the back of each panel.

Next, pleat each stripe by folding it in thirds and pinning heavily.  Do not pleat the top and bottom stripe.

Next, baste along the pleats on either edge to keep them in place.  Using a piece of Therm O Web Ruler Tape on top and bottom, measure in 2 1/2″ from the left side and stitch a line from top to bottom.  Repeat on the right side.  Do the same for the second panel.

Add zipper tabs to either end of a zipper so that your finished zipper length, including the tabs, is equal to 9 1/2″, the width of the top of the bag.

Before assembling the bag, cut two lining pieces to measure 6 3/4″ h x 9 1/2″ l.  To assemble, place your bag front on the table facing up.  At the upper edge, place your zipper facing down.  Then layer your lining on top, right side down.

Stitch 1/4″ seam along the top, iron back and edge stitch.

Next place your bag back right side up on your table.  Place your bag front on top of it, right sides together, followed by the lining.

Stitch along the upper edge using a 1/4″ seam.  Iron back and edgestitch.

Flip your bag so that the bag front and back are right sides together and the linings are right sides together.  Stitch around the perimeter using a 1/4″ seam, leaving an opening a the bottom of the lining.  Turn the bag through the lining.  Slip stitch the opening in the lining and then press the bag.

The flower was made using the Tim Holtz Tattered Florals die and secured with a button through the front of the bag.

 The pleating adds a neat texture, reminiscent of bunting and perfect for the 4th of July!

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