
A crochet bag with a suede insert is the perfect accessory for any outfit, whether you're aiming for a casual or smart look. Not only is it a stylish choice, but it's also a practical one. Adding a suede insert to your crochet bag can give it extra structure, protecting it from stretching and the yarn from pilling. It also gives the bag a more professional, finished look. You can even add a zipper to the lining for added security. With the right materials and a bit of creativity, you can easily make your own crochet bag with a suede insert at home.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Type of bag | Cross-body bag |
Stitch used | Waistcoat or knit stitch |
Yarn weight | 6 weight super bulky yarn |
Yarn amount | Approximately 130 yards |
Hook size | 10mm or size needed to obtain gauge |
Hook type | N/A |
Other materials | Suede leather, fabric, stabiliser, glue, bag closure, sewing machine, thread, d rings, chain, jump ring/lobster clasp |
Bag measurements | Approximately 11” wide, 9” tall, and 2” wide at the bottom |
What You'll Learn
How to add a suede insert to a crochet bag
Adding a suede insert to a crochet bag can be a great way to elevate your bag's look and functionality. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Materials:
- Your crochet bag
- Suede leather piece, approximately 8.5" x 11" (you can adjust the size based on your bag's dimensions)
- Fabric of your choice for the bag lining (optional)
- Fabric stabilizer (optional)
- All-purpose cement or strong glue and a paintbrush
- Sewing machine with a heavy-duty needle
- Sewing pins, needle, and thread
- Bag closure (such as a press lock or zipper)
- D-rings for the strap
- Chain for the strap (approximately 3.5-4 feet)
- Jump ring/lobster clasp
- Rotary hole punch or awl
- Scissors
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Suede Insert:
If you want to add extra stability to your suede insert, cut a piece of fabric stabilizer slightly smaller than the suede leather. Then, cut your chosen fabric for the lining about 0.5 inches bigger than the stabilizer. You can iron or fuse the stabilizer to the wrong side of the fabric for a smoother finish.
Step 2: Assemble the Insert:
Fold the edges of the fabric over the stabilizer and sew them in place, about 0.25 inches from the edge. Then, adhere the fabric-stabilizer piece to the suede leather using the all-purpose cement or strong glue. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area. Sew the fabric to the leather with your sewing machine, using a heavy-duty needle.
Step 3: Attach the Insert to the Bag:
Use your rotary punch or awl to make holes in the suede insert, about 0.25 inches from the edge. These holes will be used to attach the insert to the crochet bag. Align the insert with the back of the bag and use a long piece of yarn and a yarn needle to sew them together securely.
Step 4: Add the Bag Closure:
Decide on the placement of your bag closure (such as a press lock or zipper). Create holes in the suede insert and the crochet bag, if necessary, to attach the closure. Follow the instructions for your chosen closure to securely fasten it in place.
Step 5: Create the Bag Lining (Optional):
If you want to add a fabric lining to your bag, follow the instructions from the sources provided. You can choose to add a plain lining or a zippered lining, depending on your preference.
Step 6: Attach the Strap:
Sew D-rings to the sides of the bag using a yarn needle and yarn. These will hold your strap in place. For a cross-body strap, you can use a chain and weave yarn in and out of it for a stylish touch. Attach the strap to the D-rings using a jump ring or lobster clasp.
And there you have it! Your crochet bag with a suede insert is now complete and ready to be shown off.
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Benefits of adding a fabric lining to a crochet bag
Adding a fabric lining to a crochet bag elevates the bag's functionality and aesthetics. Here are some benefits of adding a fabric lining to a crochet bag:
Added Structure and Stability
Fabric lining provides added structure to crochet bags, which are often flimsy and unstable. The lining helps the bag hold its shape and prevents it from stretching, especially when carrying heavy or bulky items. This ensures that the bag does not distort and that the crochet stitches remain intact.
Yarn Protection
Lining a crochet bag protects the yarn from pilling and separating. Pointed or narrow objects can easily penetrate the yarn and cause irreparable holes. A fabric lining acts as a barrier, preventing such objects from coming into direct contact with the yarn and damaging the bag.
Professional Appearance
Adding a fabric lining can significantly enhance the overall appearance of a crochet bag. It gives the bag a more finished and professional look, elevating it from looking homemade to store-bought. This simple addition can increase the perceived value of the bag.
Customization
Fabric linings allow for customization and added features. You can choose from a variety of fabrics, colours, and patterns to match your style. Additionally, you can add pockets, zippers, or other embellishments to the lining, making your crochet bag unique and functional.
Ease of Cleaning
Depending on the fabric chosen, a lining can make it easier to keep your bag clean. For example, if you're using a crochet bag as a market bag, having a fabric lining can prevent sand or dirt from getting caught in the crochet stitches. You can simply remove the lining and wash it separately, ensuring your bag stays clean and well-maintained.
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Plain lining tutorial
Step 1: Cut the Fabric
First, decide on the fabric for your lining. You can use the same fabric for both the main and lining pieces, but using a contrasting fabric can help you save costs, especially if your main fabric is expensive. Cut your fabric to size. The size will depend on the size of your crochet bag. For example, for a simple tote bag, you may cut your main fabric to 33" long and 15.5" wide, and your lining fabric slightly smaller at 29.75" long and 15.5" wide.
Step 2: Sew the Sides
With right sides together, pin the main and lining fabrics together. Sew along the sides using a sewing machine or by hand. If using a machine, use a 3/8" seam allowance. Backstitch at the start and end of the stitch line for added reinforcement. Repeat this process for both the main and lining fabrics.
Step 3: Prepare the Straps
Cut your strap fabric to size. For example, each strap piece could measure 25" long and 1 7/8" wide. Pin one main strap piece and one lining strap piece together with right sides together. Sew along the long edges. Turn the strap right side out using a safety pin and smooth the sides so that the seams are visible. Topstitch along the long edges, approximately 1/8" from the edge. Repeat for the other strap.
Step 4: Attach the Straps
Position the straps under the folded top edge of the main bag body. Place the raw edge of the straps approximately 3/8" under the fold and the outer edge of the straps about 3" from the side seams. Ensure that the lining side of the strap faces the lining side of the bag body. Sew the straps in place by stitching along the top and bottom edges of the folded bag opening, about 1/8" from each edge. Reinforce the straps by sewing a box with a cross inside.
Step 5: Attach the Lining
Place the main bag body inside the lining bag body, ensuring that the wrong sides are together. The main bag body should be slightly longer than the lining. Pin the two pieces together, starting by aligning and pinning the side seams, then pinning around the top of the bag. Fold and press the sewn edge of the main bag body down.
Step 6: Sew the Lining
Hand sew the lining in place. Using a long strand of sewing thread and a needle, stitch along the seam of the lining, going in through the crocheted bag and into the back of the lining, coming up on the seam. Make multiple rounds of hand stitching around the top of the lining, ensuring that it is stable and secure. Be careful not to pull too tightly, as this may cause the fabric to bunch up. Finish off by tying a couple of knots and weaving the ends into the crocheted purse.
Optional: Add a Zipper
If you want to add a zipper to your crochet bag, you can sew it in place before attaching the lining. Hand sewing is recommended for attaching the zipper to the lining. First, insert the zipper between the crocheted bag and the fabric lining, ensuring that everything is centered and lined up nicely. Pin and then sew the zipper in place, moving from right to left all the way around the purse. Hide your stitches by going through the crocheted portion, the zipper, and then the folded edge of the fabric lining.
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Zippered liner tutorial
Adding a zipper and lining to a crochet bag is a great way to elevate your design and make it more functional. Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to create a zippered liner for your crochet bag:
Gather Your Supplies:
First, you will need to gather all the necessary materials. Here is a list of what you will need:
- Crocheted bag
- Fabric (a Fat Quarter is usually sufficient)
- All-purpose or invisible zipper (at least as long as your bag is wide)
- Thread in a corresponding colour
- Iron and ironing board
- Sewing machine (optional)
Prepare the Fabric Liner:
Before cutting your fabric, it is important to wash, dry, and iron it. This step ensures that your fabric is pre-shrunk and ready for sewing. Take your fabric and cut it to size, allowing for a seam allowance. The liner should be slightly taller and wider than your crochet bag.
Fold the fabric with the right sides together and sew up the sides, creating a pouch. You can use a sewing machine or hand-sew this part. Make sure to measure the inside opening of your bag to ensure the liner fits snugly inside without being too bulky.
Prepare the Zipper:
Lay your zipper next to your bag. It should be slightly longer than the width of the bag. If it is too long, you can shorten it by sewing around the zipper teeth to create a new "stopper" and fastening it with a knot.
Attach the Zipper to the Liner:
Place the zipper fully open, with the stopper end inserted between the crochet and the fabric liner. Ensure everything is centred and lined up nicely. Pin each side so that the zipper meets in the correct spot on the opposite side.
When pinning, maintain an even distance between the zipper teeth and the fold of the fabric. You will need to tuck in the portion of the zipper near the stopper to form a 90-degree angle. Pin through all layers of fabric and zipper. Check for any puckering or uneven areas, as it is easier to re-pin now than to rip out your sewing later.
Sew the Zipper to the Liner:
Using a needle and thread, sew the zipper to the liner. Insert your needle in an inconspicuous place so that the knot is hidden. Sew through the folded-over portion of the zipper securely. You can sew by hand or use a sewing machine for this step.
Attach the Liner to the Crochet Bag:
With your zipper attached, you are now ready to pin and sew the liner to your crochet bag. Ensure that the liner is centred and fits snugly inside the bag. Hand-sew the liner to the bag, using the seam of the liner as a guideline for your stitches.
Make sure to sew through the middle of the stitches of the crochet bag to avoid your stitches showing on the outside. Sew multiple rounds around the top of the liner to ensure it is securely attached.
And there you have it! Your very own crochet bag with a zippered liner. Feel free to add any additional embellishments or personal touches to make it truly unique.
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Outfit ideas for a crochet bag
A crochet bag is a versatile accessory that can complement a variety of outfits and styles. Here are some outfit ideas to pair with a crochet bag:
Smart Casual Look
For a smart casual look, pair your crochet bag with a navy denim jacket and beige knit wide-leg pants. Finish the outfit with a pair of dark brown suede mules for a touch of glamour. This outfit is comfortable and stylish, perfect for a day out or a casual meeting.
Summer Dress
A crochet bag can also be paired with a dress for a more feminine and elegant look. Try a grey lace fit-and-flare dress with a beige crochet tote bag and gold leather ballerina shoes. This outfit is easy to adapt and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Statement Dress
If you want to make a statement, opt for a yellow crochet midi dress and style it with a white crochet clutch and beige leather gladiator sandals. This outfit is stylish and functional, perfect for a summer event or a day out in the city.
Polished and Professional
For a more polished and professional look, pair a black blazer with a black ruffle sheath dress. Add a black crochet tote bag and gold leather heeled sandals to complete the outfit. This ensemble is perfect for a business meeting or a formal event.
Casual Chic
Crochet bags also go well with casual outfits. Try pairing a white crew-neck t-shirt with a hot pink turtleneck and a white polka dot midi skirt. Add a white crochet tote bag and silver leather heeled sandals for a chic and stylish look. This outfit is perfect for running errands or meeting friends for coffee.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a crocheted bag, suede fabric, a sewing kit, and some glue. Cut the suede to size, sew up the sides, and glue the insert into the bag.
Adding a suede insert to a crochet bag gives the bag structure and helps it hold its shape. It also protects the yarn from pilling and separating, and gives the bag a more professional, finished look.
It is best to use real or faux suede fabric that is thick and sturdy, to provide structure to the bag.
You can attach a strap to a crochet bag by sewing it on securely with yarn and a yarn needle. You can also weave yarn or a chain through the strap to attach it to the bag.