When wearing a waist (belt, bum, fanny pack) bag, space is incredibly limited. There is already a nice built-in slip pocket to the Kelly Waist Bag (a FREE pattern you can find here.) But I thought I could kick it up a notch and add some card pockets — perfect for just that ID and credit card for a night out. The smaller slots keeps your cards more secure, yet easily accessible.
Make the Card Pockets
This is a very quick and simple add-on to the pockets. You will need the pattern which you can find here, plus an additional 6″ x 2 1/2″” piece of leather which I’ll refer to as the Card Pockets.
With the 6″ x 3″ Card Pocket, mark a line down the center with right side facing up. Take the Front Pocket piece and lay it right side up and then lay the Card Pockets with right side facing up aligning the bottom edge and corners. Clip into place.
Sew on top of the Card Pockets on the marking attaching the Card Pockets to the Front Pocket and also dividing it into two.
Continue to Step #6 to finish assembling the rest of the pocket.
Project Summary
Pattern: Kelly Waist Bag
Fabric: Sew Sweetness Faux Leather and Cheetah Cork (aff link)
I hope you enjoyed this simple tutorial to add card pockets to your Kelly Waist Bag! You now have an extra layer of storage while being hands-free. Head to the Pattern Resources page for all Love You Sew pattern hacks!
Hugs and Stitches,
Cristy
This post may contain affiliate links which helps keep this website going. You can read all the info regarding these links in my Disclosures.
The Abbey Convertible Backpack is my go-to bag when taking day-trips with my kids. I like having it out of the way but still being able to hold the essentials. But being a designer, I constantly have new ideas and wish there were different features with every bag I own.
On the back of the Abbey, there is a slip pocket. I added the feature with the intention that it would be a quick spot to hold your phone or keys without having to open the main compartment as frequently. But since I happen to wear my bag more as a backpack, I have to swing it around to access the pocket and felt that a slip pocket just isn’t as secure for an expensive smartphone — and BOOM, I have the idea for the back welt pocket hack.
Back Welt Pocket Tutorial
You will need the original instructions and templates for the Abbey Convertible Backpack which you can find here. Additionally you will need:
6″ Zipper
8 3/4″ x 12″ Lining Fabric + Interfacing (this is large enough to fit an iPhone 7+ with a thick Otterbox case.)
To make the Back Zipper pocket, you will omit all of the fabric and interfacing for the Slip Pocket and move through Step #41. (Please note I don’t have connectors added to my handle base at this point since I used leather and added them later.)
Draw a rectangle measuring 6″ x 1/2″on the wrong side of the Pocket Lining centered and parallel to the short side as shown. The Zipper will run vertically. There should be 1 3/8″ above and below the rectangle and 3/4″ space to the right.
Line up the Pocket Lining as shown with the right edge 1/2″ in and up 1/4″ from the sides of the Handle Base. Pin the Pocket Lining in place. Go back and follow Steps #21-28 to finish the pocket! Voila – a chic looking vertical zipper pocket to keep your phone or other valuables a little more safe as you sling the backpack around.
Since the Pocket Lining hangs vertically instead of horizontally, the weight of a phone would make it drag awkwardly and pull on the zipper. So, the Pocket Lining needs to be anchored horizontally so the weight can hang straight down naturally. To do this, flip the back of the bag right side up and sew directly below the Handle Base from corner to corner catching the Pocket Lining. Back-stitch well.
This is the wrong side after securing the Pocket Lining. The weight of the phone is evenly distributed and won’t distort the structure of the bag.
Additional Modifications
You know I cannot resist using leather in my personal bags! I had this great glazed black upholstery leather I got from Tandy which I used to make a few Kelly Waist Bags. The scraps are great for all of Abbey’s accents like the connectors, handle and closure tab.
I also used my other Abbey Backpack Zipper Cover and Button Stud Hacks which you can find here. I like the clean look from the front and just love using button studs with leather.
I hope you enjoy this hack and even use it for other projects! Don’t forget to use #abbeyconvertiblebackpack and #loveyousewpatterns on social media so everyone can see your fabulous makes!
Hugs and Stitches,
Cristy
This post may contain affiliate links which I use to keep this website pumping along. Please visit my Disclosures page for all the info on my affiliate relationships.
All of my sewing patterns are named after my nieces. Once a pattern releases, the namesake always gets a complimentary bag of her very own. But then, I was in a bit of a predicament when I named theMaya + Harper Travel Changing Set after my 4 and 2 year old nieces. What were were they going to do with full-size diaper changing sets???
I checked with my sister and she assured me there would not be a need for additional sets for her personal use. (Haha – Wishful thinking on my behalf!) But shortly after the pattern’s release, my nieces got their first Bitty Babies and the light bulb went off. I would make Maya and Harper “play” versions for their little babies!
First, you will need the Maya + Harper Travel Changing Set found in my pattern shop here. You will need the instructions for reference and the pattern templates. I highly suggest you make a full Changing Set first to understand the construction and assembly of the Pad and Clutch. Once you get comfortable, you can make the following changes to make this pattern kid-friendly.
Make the “Play” Changing Pad
First thing’s first. You will need to print out the pattern templates at 85%. This will shrink down the pattern enough for most typical baby dolls. Unfortunately, my kids were more into stuffies than dolls, so this 12″ bear will need all the diaper changing 😉
All construction steps remain the same. You will align the closure to the bottom line of the “Tab Placement” and cut your hook and loop fastener to match the Tab width. The finished measurements of the Pad should be approximately 20″ x 12″.
Make the “Play” Diaper Clutch
As with the Changing Pad, you will print out the pattern templates at 85% and cut out all the pieces except for the Strap (you will cut an entirely new piece.)
For Supplies:
Use a 7″ Zipper (at least 8″ overall) and omit the 9″ Zipper
Omit the D-Ring, Swivel Clasp, and Magnetic Snap (for a less fussy look, but feel free to add them back in for a fancier set!)
Add 2″ piece of hook and loop fastener
Cut 13″ x 3″ fabric and interfacing for a sew-in Strap
To make the Strap, follow steps #1-5 to double-fold and top-stitch it. Fold it in half with raw edges aligned. Baste ends together at 1/8″ and set aside.
Starting at step #12, make the Welt Pocket as instructed with a 7″ x 1/2″ Zipper opening and use the 7″ Zipper.
Since the Magnetic Snaps have been omitted, start at step #22 to center the hook and loop fasteners at the snap placement points with the length running parallel to the Zipper. Sew 1/16″ all-around the fasteners.
At step #26, replace the Strap with the D-Ring Tab. Keep the raw edges aligned so the Strap will be completely sewn-in later.
Finish the rest of the clutch by folding up each pocket by 4 1/2″ instead of 5 3/4”. Top-stitch, press and you’re little one is ready to practice parental duties!
Although my sister didn’t need another Travel Changing Set, I think this would be a great Mommy and Me set for yourself or for a friend who is expecting her 2nd+ child! I hope you enjoy making Maya and Harper Changing sets for all the kids (and parents) in your life!
The Claire Fold-over Clutch was my very first published pattern just over a year ago. I can’t believe it’s been that long already. I put my own twist on the popular bag style with a large easy access pocket on the back and the simple use of leather one side of the bag – making it easier to sew. You can read more about my design here and see lots of different versions with #clairefoldoverclutch on Instagram.
My designs are meant to be practical, but also chic enough to work with new trends and fashion with just a change of fabric. This is the case with the Claire. Although it was written to use both fabric and leather, I thought it would be fun to make a full leather version — in cobalt blue for a real statement bag. This blue leather is pretty edgy and gave me rock ‘n roll vibes right away. So, I thought a guitar strap would give the bag a new look all on it’s own…even after making dozens of other Claire Fold-over Clutches!
This amazing woven tapestry-like ribbon was found at a yard sale a few years ago. I think I bought it for $1-2 and was drawn to the bright blue edges contrasting against that moody floral motif. I like mixing up new and old looks, so this trim was definitely all me. The leather was picked up from a destash group and so I was able to grab an amazing deal. The seller was getting out of her baby shower business and had so many pretty pieces of leather to get rid of. Her loss was definitely my gain!
Make the Claire Fold-over Clutch
To make the bag itself, you will need the pattern and instructions from my shop here. The main modification I made was to use leather on both sides of the exterior, instead of just one. (I would only recommend this ONLY if you have a machine strong enough to handle all of the layers.) But if you are just beginning, try out an all fabric version or one with very thin leather/vinyl.
Since the bag is made of solid color all around, I made sure to add in some accents and interest with metal. I used metal zippers (which I actually installed at the wrong places — I should definitely remember to read my own instructions…but I thought going from memory was good enough. Wrong!) If I was using fabric, I would have swapped out the zippers, but with leather, the needle holes are permanent and I didn’t want to mess with all of that and just moved on! In light of my zipper faux pas, I added a line of rivets along the top zipper (through the lining) to play with the same edgy feel of the cobalt leather. What do you think?
Make the Guitar Strap
For the strap, you will need the pattern pieces below. I drafted the ends for 1 1/2″ or 2″ wide straps. Anything else more narrow won’t give you that guitar-strap, but feel free to widen/narrow the pattern for your own look!
Instructions:
1. Use the templates to cut out pattern pieces based on whether you have 1 1/2″ wide or 2″ wide strap. You will have (2) Strap ends and (2) Reinforcements.
2. With each Strap End wrong-side facing up, center a Reinforcement as shown with wrong sides together. Glue baste in place. It’s tempting to skip this step, but this will help your leather from stretching and distorting with time and wear.
3. With the leather needle installed, stitch 1/16″ around all four sides of the Reinforcement. Repeat with other Strap End.
4. Take Ribbon and center it on one half of the Strap End with wrong sides together, aligning it to the Reinforcement. (You may need to cut off the ribbon’s corners so they don’t hang out of the Strap Ends.) Clip or glue into place. Repeat with other Strap End.
5. Slide one Swivel Clasp onto the Strap End. Repeat with other Strap End.
5. Flip the other side of the Strap End up so it is folded in half with wrong sides together, encasing the clasp. Clip or glue together. Repeat with other Strap End.
6. Use your Zipper Foot to sew a seam to secure the Strap End onto the Swivel Clasp, sewing as close to the clasp as possible. Back-stitch well. Repeat for the other Strap End. TIP: Add washi tape under the foot if you don’t have a Teflon Zipper Foot like me.
7. Switch to a Teflon or Walking Foot and top-stitch each Strap End together with the Ribbon using the stitch guide on the template. Repeat with other Strap End.
8. Finish with rivets, if desired. Congratulations on your new guitar strap!
It doesn’t stop here! I’ve been seeing beautiful striped belt strappings used on designer bags like here on my Pinterest page. I’m already planning out my spring bags with these looks! You can use this same method to easily update any bag for the changing seasons or add new life to a great hand-me-down or thrifted find. The options are really endless. Enjoy and let me know how you like the tutorial!!!
Happy Sewing Friends!
Cristy
This post may contain affiliate links. Please visit my Disclosures page for all details.
Right before I left for a college football game last year, there was just something that made me check the stadium’s bag policy, even though I’ve attended games at the same venue for years. Thank goodness I did because it turned out, I couldn’t bring in the bags I always used to! I could either bring in a small wristlet that couldn’t even fit my phone, or opt to bring in a clear bag to accommodate more of my stuff. With this game being out of state and lots of walking around the campus, I knew I had to bring a clear bag. With some remnant vinyl and scraps of canvas from my stash, the Emma Stadium Bag was born.
At first, I didn’t think this bag would be a pattern. It was a just a quick late night project based on need rather than want. But with public safety on the forefront of large gatherings, there has been a continuous change of bag policies across other public venues and schools. We are seeing the need for more and more clear bags to ensure safety for all. Even with this movement, I know us, bag-makers still love to add our own personal spin to a make. We have the power to make things our own and I hope you are able to use the Emma Bag to keep your own style and show off your personality while out and about.
Original from Fall 2018 – I didn’t have the right hardware late & improvised with leather and plenty of rivets
The Namesake
As with all my bag patterns, they are named after one of my eleven nieces. Emma is the youngest girl on my husband’s side of the the family but she is far from the “baby” of the bunch. This young lady has so much grit and confidence from being her household’s resident jock. Emma has played travel, club, and high school soccer which allows her to criss-cross the midwest for tournaments. She is also an incredibly talented track star, so it’s only fitting that the bag inspired by sports venues is named after my strong and beautiful Emma.
Features
The Emma Stadium bag is based on using clear vinyl as the main body with a fabric zipper top. This makes the zipper easier to sew on and allows you to use your favorite fabric to stay unique and stand out from the crowd. Not only does the zipper keep your belongings from falling out, it keeps strangers’ hands out too. It helps protects your phone and wallet from the elements, as well as from that possible beer spill 😐
This is my first pattern offered in multiple sizes. I did a little crowd-sourcing on Instagram and asked all of you about my ideas for this bag. Initially, I thought I would write a pattern for the maximum sized bag allowed in the NFL – thinking you would want to maximize your space. But you told me smaller was actually better! So, I listened hard and have THREE different sizes available for all of your needs.
Small with Wristlet strap – This size is for the light packer who just needs the essentials. It fits a cell phone, sunglasses, a small wallet like the Shuffle Cardholder, plus tissues, keys and lip balm.
Medium with Cross-body Strap- This a great size to hold more items while still having the ease of a cross-body. You can hold items for a whole day’s worth of activities from tail-gate to the game. I like this size in colder weather to hold earmuffs, hand warmers, and gloves.
Large with Shoulder sStraps- The large bag, will hold the most when you want to bring in all of the above plus an extra sweatshirt or blanket. It can hold seat cushions and all the game-day merch you want to buy! *While it does not exactly conform to the NFL/PGA policy. It IS the same on a volume basis. I don’t know if you would run into issues, since all security is different. You can open the zipper when going through security if they ask to measure the bag.
Although each size has it’s own instructions for straps, you can mix and match the styles along with two different ways to attach D-ring tabs. There is a short optional that leaves an “ear” on your bag while the long option sews the tab back onto the body for a smooth side silhouette.
Pockets – The medium and large sizes include instructions to include slip pockets for extra organization. This is perfect for your tickets and slim wallets.
Vinyl side seams are sewn down for smooth interior – Your hands won’t be scratched by hanging seam allowances, especially if using a more rigid vinyl.
Fabric Zipper Top completely encloses the vinyl body for a clean finish inside and out
The Emma Stadium Bag is definitely not just for sporting events. Many concert halls have similar policies and many schools are adopting a clear bag policy. If you’ve ever worked in retail, there has generally been a clear bag policy to avoid theft. The large size can double as a school/work bag with its generous sizing. The medium size makes for a great project bag for yourself or the kids! It can hold lots of art supplies and you can easily wipe down the sides. It’s also a great toiletry bag for travel and the gym. With the TSA a permanent fixture at airports, the small can be used in lieu of all of those quart sized bags – saving the planet and your contents from spillage!
Fabrics
The body of the Emma Stadium Bag is about 2/3 vinyl, so there is not much fabric involved to make this bag. The zipper top was designed to use Quilt Cotton and other similar weight woven fabrics. This allows you to use your favorite fabrics and customize each of your makes. All of my examples are using a waterproof lightweight canvas which makes them great for the outdoors and for my traveling adventures with the family.
Vinyl thickness is measured by gauge number – with the smaller number being thinner compared to a larger number.A 20 gauge will provide a more rigid bag, but a 12 gauge is easier to sew and more pliable when trying to manipulate your bag under your sewing machine.
Vinyl – Clear 12 gauge purchased from Joann Fabrics and the fun Rainbow 12 gauge purchased from Sew Hungry Hippie – This shop has SO many great colors available! (aff link)
Check out all of the amazing tester versions of the Emma Bag. I love their uses of different fabric and how they decided to use their bags. Click on each image to find the maker on Instagram.
Medium by Nela
Medium by Maggie Ann
Large by Michele
Small by Maggie Marconi
Large by Yasmin
Small by Meagan
Large by Tiahna
Medium by Sherrene
Small by Mallory
I hope you enjoy making the Emma Stadium Bag as much as I have loved designing it! You can find other examples of the bag by following #EmmaStadiumBag and find my other patterns with #LoveYouSewPatterns.
Hugs and Stitches!
Cristy
This post may contain affiliate links. You can read about my Disclosures here.
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