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From: sandra237
Date: 05-28-2007, 05:25 PM (1 of 11)
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I have been toying with the idea of making some purses and was wondering if anyone has some information or know where I might be able to view a tutorial on installing zippers in purse. I have seen the tutorial on how to install a zipper in the lining but not the top closure of a purse. thanks Sandra |
User: sandra237
Member since: 04-12-2007 Total posts: 23 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 05-28-2007, 06:30 PM (2 of 11)
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Sandra, my problem is my brain is full to the brim with thousands, maybe millions of bits of trivia, but most of it is in little bits.. I do know that everything I've ever read or seen says "do it in the flat" because it is so much easier.. I started years ago making clutch bags (envelope style) by watching Shirley Adams on TV.. She made it easy.. Insert zipper in 2 rectangles, then unzip the zipper part way, and rst sew the sides and bottom together, then turn thru the zipper where you left it unzipped.. At the time , I was making evening clutches and I quilted the pieces first, so when I finished the quilting and put the 2 pieces together , it was a finished product.. No handles or change purses or extra compartments to worry about, which made them sooo easy...(the clutches, that is) Maybe someone here will give you some real help.. I'm sure they will..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: sandra237
Date: 05-28-2007, 06:36 PM (3 of 11)
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That sure sounds easy enough. My brain is in high gear when I get home from work and then I dash of to the sewing room to see what I can master. I cannot wait until my 7 months of work is done so I can retire and spend more time doing my crafts. I will try this method of putting a zipper in and let you know how I make out. Thank you so much, appreciate the help. Sandra |
User: sandra237
Member since: 04-12-2007 Total posts: 23 |
From: sewmuchfun
Date: 06-08-2007, 10:59 AM (4 of 11)
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Sandra What type of bag are you making. Different styles would require different techniques. I totally agree with the flat method though. It's so much easier if you don't have to keep pushing and pulling as your sewing.. MM Marilyn
Sewforme Stashaway |
User: sewmuchfun
Member since: 07-22-2005 Total posts: 67 |
From: sandra237
Date: 06-08-2007, 11:14 AM (5 of 11)
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Hi Marilyn I am making a denim purse. I cut my strips of denim and sewed the strips together to make each square approx 12" wide. one set for the front and one for the back. I tried laying the pieces flat and got the zip basted but with the seams on the denim strips being thick I think it was too bulky and my zip foot moves and the sewing does not look good....sort of squiqqly. So I tore that out and thought I might install the zip on two strips of denim about 1" wide and then piece this onto the 12" pieces laying flat. I am in the process of making purses using the felted method too and want to put zips in those too but will cross that procedure when I get there. thanks Sandra |
User: sandra237
Member since: 04-12-2007 Total posts: 23 |
From: paroper
Date: 06-08-2007, 11:30 AM (6 of 11)
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If you are doing it on flat fabric, your zipper stitching doesn't have to show. You can just sew the zipper in as you would any other seam. The weight of the purse will pull the stitching away from the zipper line. YOu can also fold a little square of fabric and put it at each end of the zipper as you sew it in. The finished edge makes a nice look to the zipper and takes the zipper out of your seamline when you are working. The little squares do not have to be much wider (folded) than your seamline. When adding pockets, add it first to the flap portion of the pocket, then attach it from underneath to the sides, unless you want to zipper further down the pocket, then you just attach it between strips...the same thing works if you want zipper pockets on the outside of the bag. I fyou are putting some sort of wrap around handle on the bag you can just encase the zipper ends under the handle (strapping) as you sew in on (for outside pockets). End pockets with or without zippers can be caught in the side seams, as can any outside pocket that is not hidden by strapping. Just look at your purse and see where things can be sewn without interferring with other things..you can come up with amazing ideas...and they are ALL YOURS!!!!
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: sandra237
Date: 06-08-2007, 11:42 AM (7 of 11)
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Thanks Pam I was wondering on how to do the pockets and have another purse on the go as well and wanted to take the plain look of the purse by putting in some pockets with flaps. One can do so much with sewing and making patterns their own. I have so many ideas in my head and until I retire, not much time to do them. I will give your idea on doing the zip a try. At this point I am willing to try anything just to get it finished. thanks for the tips Sandra |
User: sandra237
Member since: 04-12-2007 Total posts: 23 |
From: sewmuchfun
Date: 06-09-2007, 10:17 AM (8 of 11)
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A little tip for sewing with denim, leather or suede. If I'm turning leather suede or denim under for a topstitch I use a rubber mallet and pound the fold it's makes it a lot less bulky.. Hope this helps Marilyn Marilyn
Sewforme Stashaway |
User: sewmuchfun
Member since: 07-22-2005 Total posts: 67 |
From: paroper
Date: 06-09-2007, 10:22 AM (9 of 11)
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I use a heavy marble rolling pin for sequined fabrics.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Shrew1
Date: 06-12-2007, 12:42 PM (10 of 11)
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Hi all! As a novice in front of the sewing machine, this site has been very helpful! I just wanted to share that my local library contains a few shelves full of sewing-related books . . . from the basics in getting started, to MANY books on purses, tote bags, and other accessories. I was able to pick up many tips and techniques for installing zippers and pockets. Most of the books display step-by-step color photos that are really helpful! I have gone a little purse/tote bag and pillow crazy -- but they are wonderful starter projects and make handy gifts! You may be able to locate many fine resources in your own local library that may be of help! Good luck! |
User: Shrew1
Member since: 05-24-2007 Total posts: 4 |
From: sandra237
Date: 06-12-2007, 12:50 PM (11 of 11)
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SHREW1 thank you for the tip. I will check out the library. It is amazing how you get so mind set on just surfing on the computer for tips and hints and the local library can carry such books to help you out especially with visual content too. I haven't gotten into the pillow craze yet but had thought of it. It would be fun. thanks Sandra |
User: sandra237
Member since: 04-12-2007 Total posts: 23 |
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