Make a Merchant and Mills Sturdy Tote Bag

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Maximum Class Size 6

Level: Confident Beginners and up

An Introductory Sewing Workshop in which you will master a whole heap of sewing skills and make your own version of this sturdy, lined tote bag with inner pockets and turned through handles. This bag is designed to be made in thick cloth so it keeps it shape well. Using a medium weight lining will also aid this shape. 

Whether you just want to master some basic sewing techniques or you’re keen to advance to higher levels, we will start right from scratch, familiarising you with the sewing machine itself, showing you how to wind a bobbin, thread the machine up and change the tension. 

In this class you will cover the following techniques:

- Sewing straight lines and curves, and how to deal with corners.
- Using seam allowances.
- Laying a paper pattern, pinning and cutting fabric. 
- Pressing and finishing seams.
- Working with heavier fabrics.
- Create a bag-out lining.
- Turn through and attach handles.

Materials: The pattern will be provided but you will need to bring fabric for your bag. 

Outer - 1m (150cm wide) Drywax cotton (recommended), mid-heavy weight cotton canvas or drill, mid weight denim (8-14oz), oilcloth.
Lining - 1m mid-heavy weight woven cotton, twill, canvas, heavy calico.


Please have a read through our cancellation policy before booking: Unfortunately our classes are non refundable. Due to our small class sizes it is also very difficult to transfer your booking to a different date. If you cannot attend a class and are able to notify us at least two weeks before the class starts, it may be possible to fit you in on another date but this is not guaranteed so please give us as much notice as possible to increase your chances. In the event that we are forced to cancel a class, we will endeavour to give you as much notice as possible and offer either a full refund or swap your booking to another suitable date.