Level: Advanced Beginner
I love the diagonal lines and unusual cut out of the Vespera Tote and optional (included) Vespera Pouch and the opportunities it affords for color blocking, showcasing favorite fabrics and experimenting with multiple fabric designs and bases. The finished bag is 13” wide x 11” tall x 5” deep, making it a perfect bag for everyday wear or for a day out or for a shopping trip. The pouch is an added bonus and provides a canvas for mixing up your fabrics. And if you like pockets, the Vespera Tote has multiple pocket options! The Tote features a special, easy access slip pocket, carry handles and an adjustable crossbody strap. You also have the choice to include the pockets or not. It’s your bag!
In the class, you will learn how to customize this bag to fit your needs. We will explore options for adding zippers and zipper pockets, using creative handle attachments and customized decorative elements such as a quilted design (even some free motion quilting) or an embroidery design for those of you with embroidery machines. I am considering adding some embroidered leaves, or maybe some cat-themed embroidery elements. If you make it bigger, it could make a great pool tote. We will also consider various options for how you will interface the bag, depending on how you want your finished bag to look. You will also learn how to install various hardware to give your bag a more professional finish.
Approximately two weeks before the class, I will distribute my modifications/ supplement to the pattern to all class enrollees.
Prior to class (homework), please have your pattern pieces (including interfacing) cut out according to the pattern instructions. It is very important to have your bag cut out before class so that you have time to complete your bag in the allotted time.
Supply List:
- Sewing Machine in good working order
- Standard machine foot
- Zipper foot
- Edge foot is helpful but not required
- If you choose to use vinyl, I recommend a Teflon/non-stick foot. (If you don’t have one, I have work arounds that will address the sticking issue)
- The Vespera Tote pattern available at: https://www.rlrcreations.com/pdfpatterns/vesperatote?rq=vespera. You will need to purchase the pattern even if you choose to make the wallet from quilting cotton following my pattern supplement.
FABRICS AND INTERFACINGS:
- 1 yard 44” wide Quilting Weight or Décor Weight- Main Fabric
- 1 ¼ yard 44” wide Quilting Weight- Lining Fabric
- 1- piece at least 18” x 32” Contrasting Fabric – This can be a coordinate, vinyl, leather, or cork.
- 1 ¼ yards Fusible Pellon SF 101 or a woven shaping Interfacing – Light Interfacing
- 1 ½ yards Fusible Décor Bond - Pellon 809 Firm Stabilizer or Decovil Heavy- Heavy Interfacing
- ¼ yard Fusible Fleece - TP971F-Pellon Fleece Thermolam Plus OR ½ yard foam interfacing – I like By Annie’s Soft and Stable or 20” Pellon FF 77 Fusible Flex Foam. You may want to substitute Decovil Light for the fleece for a sleeker, firmer look.
- 1 Piece Peltex 72f Ultra Firm 1-sided Fusible at least 9 ¼” x 4” or Decovil Heavy
ZIPPERS:
- 10” or longer – Interior Pocket Zipper
- 2 - 9" Zippers (for optional pockets)
- Or Zipper by the yard for all zippers, available at Pocono Sew and Vac
HARDWARE: If you have trouble, or do not want to source your own hardware, I will have hardware kits available for purchase in a variety of finishes. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your preferences.
- 4- 1” Rectangle Rings
- 2 -1” Swivel Hooks
- 1- 1” Slider
- 4- 1” Round Grommets
- 2- 1” Gate Rings
- 2- Large Magnetic Snaps
- 1- 1” Swivel Hook
OTHER:
- Coordinating thread with a fully loaded bobbin. (I recommend general purpose polyester thread because it is durable than cotton thread)
- Chalk or erasable fabric pen
- Quilting ruler and rotary cutter
- Sewing shears
- 90/14 Universal needle
- Jeans or Topstitching needle
- Double sided tape
- Clover clips or the equivalent
- Pins
- A printed out copy of the pattern and pattern pieces
- You can reach me at [email protected] with any questions.
Class Cancellation Policy
To reserve a seat, all Pocono Sew & Vac classes must be paid in full upon registration. In the event that a student needs to cancel their reservation for a class, they should notify PS&V at least 7 days in advance (by phone) to be eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 7 days before class will not be issued a refund.
If a class does not have the minimum number of participants 7 days prior to class day, the teacher will cancel class. The customer will be fully refunded within 7 to 10 business days. Any questions call PS&V at 800-442-8227.
Some classes require homework to be done before class, such as cutting/prepping fabrics. If homework is required, it will be posted in the class description. Please read the class description thoroughly before signing up before a class. If homework is not done by the start of class, you will not be able to attend, and a refund will not be issued. If you have any questions regarding class homework, please call the store and we will be happy to help.