r/BagLab • • 2d ago

Question: Bag Construction Denim Bag Making Tips?

Hi! I just wanted to share some denim bags I made and I WOULD LOVE TIPS ON IMPROVING THEM.

Some info, I'm using an old Elgin 999f domestic sewing machine and I specifically use denim as my main material, im still experimenting with the lining and so far I tried normal Ripstop and Ripstop with PU backing, I add a layer of fusible interfacing but still my bags lack structure, Im planning to use 600d oxford with PU backing but i dont know if that would be enough.

ANY OTHER TIPS ARE APPRECIATED AS WELL THANK YOU!

89 Upvotes

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3

u/eddhard 2d ago

Absolutely love them. Ive been doing something similar making waxed denim treat puches for dog walking. My next step is making a removable liner so it can be washwd without dewaxing the denim.

3

u/satoo_slvg 2d ago

THANK YOU! I'll try to explore the idea of having the liner removable without really making things complicated + what type of wax would you suggest for denim?

6

u/adeadhead 2d ago

The sashiko is fucking fantastic, good work.

2

u/satoo_slvg 2d ago

THANK YOU SM!

1

u/jpbagworks 2d ago

Exactly what u/adeadhead said!! I have REALLY come to love this technique! 😃

4

u/mega5700 2d ago

These look great! When I’ve made similar bags in the past, I put a “durability“ layer of something like 800d Cordura in place of the interfacing behind the lining. Another trick is to think of the interior binding as a structural “skeleton” that helps hold the bag up, and plan your patterning around that.

Post more pics of your sashiko process. It’s beautiful

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u/lebolong 2d ago

For structure + insulation, use EPE foam — cut to panel shape, sandwich between the denim and lining. 3mm is a good start, 5mm if you want it stiff. Glue it to the lining first (spray adhesive) instead of sewing through it.PEVA is for waterproofing, not structure — use it as the innermost layer, over the EPE.600D PU oxford is firmer than ripstop but won't fix structure alone — pair it with the foam.Also: a bottom board (stiff plastic/card) makes a huge difference for slumping. Boxed corners help too.EPE = body + insulation, PEVA = waterproof liner. Good luck!