Nine minutes, PLUS time buying material, PLUS prepping (unrolling, measuring, cutting, pressing (?), folding, organizing) wd make it more like at least 15-20 (30?) minutes per bag. Still $45/hour isn’t too bad. And she doesn’t charge for materials…????!!! Material, thread, straps, scissors, machine… none of that’s free.
All the time unrolling, prepping, cutting, even labelling, tagging, photographing for my website is included in my time. I usually put the clock on, make a certain amount from start to finish, then factor in the time and cost of material. Each time I make a batch, I try to outdo my previous efforts. I don't charge for the material because I received two truck loads (6 tonnes) of fabric still on rolls for free. I only charge for my time, material, and business expenses which are factored into my hourly rate. ie power, thread, maintenance, insurance, taxes, minimum wage rate etc.😁
I am so happy that I found your channel. I am 74 and have sewed since I was a kid. For 34 years I was the head of a Fashion Technology program at El Paso Community College which focuses on clothing design, pattern making, computer aided design, and product development for industry. Now that I am retired, I love to watch brilliant production so you are a delight! Thanks for the fun videos.
One more comment: You are the first person I have discovered on youtube who talks about pricing. 👍👍👍It seems that otherwise a big secret is made of it, for whatever reason. I think it's very important to value your own work enough. Also not to destroy the prices of handmade products. I sold hand-painted silk scarves for a few years and lost the fun of it because I set my prices too low. People should also not underestimate the effort of selling. Running an online shop or selling at markets can take as much or more time than manufacturing the products. It's always a bit of a toss-up as to what price customers will accept. That's why I think your method of setting the price a little higher first is good. As you say, if it doesn't work, you can still go down.
Thanks Sybille. I used to be quite secretive about pricing and sourcing as well. I have no idea why we do it. If more of us shared our "secrets" we'd be a lot less undervalued 😀
Absolutely Mandi. I used to be as secretive as the next person, but in doing that, we're not helping each other flourish or give value to our time and work. I think competition is healthy, and we should all encourage each other instead of competing against one another😀
@@ChristinesHomeAffairs Thx so much! I’m looking for projects to make at home that would sell. Do you have a website that you sell the bags from & do u mail then to people? You’re amazingly cheerful & the video tutorials is very informative.
Impressed in USA!! I've been sewing lined variations of this for almost 12 years for my online business, and never achieved such excellent production time. Can't wait to try out this new (better!) method for my unlined bags.
I have triangles cut from stiff thin board (Masonite) Line up the bottom and side seams , lay the triangle on top and draw a quick sewing line. Different size triangles for different width of box bottoms. I drilled a hole through all of the triangles and keep them on a ring.
You are a great teacher. Even though I've sewn for a long time, your tips and hints are invaluable. Thank you for your generosity in sharing your skill, methods and experience.
When I make bags like this, I don't square the corners off like you did in the video: I make a pleat in the bottom edge, so I push the bottom fold that you have up between the two layers of fabric, so that the raw edges on the side look like a W. I hope that makes sense! Then just sew the side seams and you're done. It gives a very nice shape to the bottom, and it's quick and easy. You could instead just fold the bottom three inches of your fabric up to one side before sewing, then do your side seams, and you'll get a slightly different finish which is also nice. It's worth trying out as I found it saved me a lot of time.
I do plan on trying this out Jane. I'm sure it will save time, but I don't know that I like the finish. I really must do a time trial comparing it to my regular bags😁
I made my first bag today with the most adorable upholstery fabric! If I hadn't found an upholstery fabric outlet, I couldn't afford it at all. Thank you for your help! I've also made a bunch of puppy poo bags. I'm building inventory for local sales. I had to stop sewing for many years due to zero space, then horrible shoulder damage, arthritis and other issues. It's still very difficult and painful, but your videos and this fabric place have awakened my motivation!! Building inventory will allow me to work at a less frantic and painful pace. Thank you so much! I have no idea what to charge, especially with these beautiful fabrics I'm getting, and my geographic location in NE Oklahoma. I'm so happy, though!! 😊 I wish we could upload photos or short videos for you to see!
That's awesome DL. I hope you make loads of sales. If you're on Facebook, I have a group where you can share everything you make with the community. If not, you can always email 😀 facebook.com/groups/1742310746004729
On SS and w inflation & rents increasing w add-on fees and bldg costs, maintnance, trash, costs of paying offline, added on rental insurance, etc. all added at one go, everything is just too expensive to live! I've been trying to think of a way to make money w my machines but I can't sit up very long due to pain from osteoporosis, and I'm a slow sewer anyway. This looks like something I could do as I love to make bags, w your techniques I might be able to do enough to increase my income. Thank you for sharing. You may just have saved another old lady from being booted into the streets!☮❤🙋
Just a thought - when I have a big project (I just made a queen size denim patch quilt), I use bed risers to add height to my cutting table. I'm not very tall but I find it saves my back.
Congratulations on getting to keep your new machine. You’ve showed us just how useful it is in batch sewing today. I’m fascinated by the way you make repetition easier. The one that amazed me the most was the handle box. Ingenious! 💜👍🏻😮
I love all the little things that you do to make life easier, like the box template for the strapping! You are so clever and you inspire me to sew more. Thank you ❤
Thanks Christine. I am teaching a young girl to sew. Found your channel today and just want to say I'll be sharing with my apprentice so you have saved me a lot of time. Thanks a million.
Thank you Christine for being so generous with your time to video and share with us . Your tips and tricks have saved me heaps of fabric wastage just by how you cut out your pieces. Some people are so cluey, and you are definitely one of them. Your instructions are so easy to follow 👍😀 I just realised that with a one way pattern, I'll have to cut into squares, as the pattern will be upside down on the other side.... still, a great tip if you have plain or geo type fabric.
Thank you so much for sharing! I'm primarily a quilter and bag maker (sometimes apparel maker), and I'm all about doing things as productively as possible, and in batches. Do all the cutting. Sew all the similar pieces. Then the next step, and so on. It goes faster and I find my end product is so much better because I'm doing the same step on repeat before moving on to the next. And you get a rhythm going and don't have to concentrate as much. Muscle memory is an amazing thing! You've really fine tuned this process.
Thank you so much...I enjoyed you presentation. Am a retired teacher, contemplating doing sewing and this is a great opportunity to start with....Thanks for sharing your sewing skills.
Wow! What a creative way to cut the strapping & pin them into place 👏🏻💃🏼.. love your tutorials, really helpful.. I made the shoe bag with waterproof fabric so they can be used as wet bags .. used snaps so they can hanged on our luggage or bathroom rails, for convenience.. thank u from South Africa 🇿🇦
Hi Christine this is the most useful bag making tutorial I’ve ever seen thank you so much. I bought the material in a charity shop so will make bags up and give them to sell. XXXX
You are so informative….I have a lot of upholstery fabric that was given to me and now I know what to make with it now! Phew! Thank you thank you sooooo much ❤
Thank you for sharing your short cuts on batch sewing!! I really like the time saver of moving the seam away from you at the corners and towards you at the top!! I spend so much time checking my seam direction!!
Since you asked for time-saving tips (and I didn't see anyone else mention this): what about just folding up the bottom (e.g. 3.5") before you sew the side seams, instead of boxing the corners after? Note: I haven't used this myself on an actual bag yet, just on a scrap to test the idea (which I saw someone else use and couldn't believe it could be so easy!) I hesitated to even suggest this tip since I figured surely you would have already known about it, considered it, and had your reasons for dismissing it. (Like maybe you prefer the structure that the boxed corners give. Or maybe the overlocking isn't strong enough to hold four layers of fabric long-term... but in that case, wouldn't a quick reinforcement with the regular machine still take less time than boxing the corners?) But then I figured, I've been sewing for decades and didn't know this until recently. So perhaps you don't know the technique yet either. So there you go, if it's useful. Note: during my idea testing, I tried three versions -- after the bag is folded in half, right sides together (like at 10:50 in the video) but BEFORE you stitch down the sides: 1. simply fold the bottom folded edge up by some amount, e.g. 3.5" 2. mark the edge where the bottom fold is. push that point upward, in between the two sides, by some amount, e.g. 3.5". So when done, the side edge looks like a really narrow, squished together W. (the center upward point of the W is the marked point that used to be at the bottom fold. essentially, you've reversed the fold, and created two more.) 3. mark the edge where the bottom fold is. push that point upward, but NOT in between the two sides. instead, let the resulting folds puddle out to each side. so the edge looks like an upside down T, where the marked point is at the intersection of the two lines of the T. Then bring the two outer puddling folds upward, like an arrow, ↓, until they're pressed up next to the side of each bag half. oh my, does that make any sense? this would be so much easier to explain with a simple sketch!!! Anyway, #2 and #3 were much more fiddly to do than #1 and I thought I'd like them better. But I didn't! I actually liked #1 the most. And it was the easiest!
When I get some time, I think I'll do a time trial for the bags. See which is quicker, then see which looks better. I should do it as a video and get some feedback from viewers too😁
What wonderful and strong bags, and I REALLY love the efficiency with which you make them. Well done!! (Also, thanks for sharing your system - very kind of you!)
I always enjoy your videos. The information is so useful and I love how you explain clearly each step. The efficiency to the project is amazing. Thanks for all of your tips and great ideas.
Thank you so much for sharing this video! I appreciate so much your attention to details when sharing what you do and how you do it! I am excited to follow your example!
Congratulations on your new machine Christine and thank you so much for sharing your techniques and wonderful tips. You are so generous with your precious time.
Thanks for showing your techniques. Many of them I think I can adapt to my situation. I don't have a studio, but I have a concrete approach to my garage and it is beautiful this time of year in the Phoenix area of Arizona where I can set up my table. I have a rotary cutter and a 50 year old White sewing machine and I'm in business. I do have a later model of a serger which is kind of temperamental, but will work if I mentally cross my fingers. I have a supply of thrifted fabric, I am ready and excited to get started. I have no hope of being as fast and efficient as you, but my market isn't as good as yours. We are still using plastic bags in our grocery stores. I'm going to give it a go. Thanks for your inspiration.
This is an exceptional video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise. You are an excellent teacher and presenter. I really enjoyed watching this. Your warmth and positivity are great 😊
Congrats on the machine being yours! And thanks for your segment on making the bags - I love to see people batch their work! And you have it down to a science! If I think of any time saving tips I'll pop back in here and add them :D. Have a great weekend!
So excited for you keeping the new machine!!!! Wonderful!! He made a good decision as your tutorials are great advertisement. Loved the tutorial. Liked the idea of cutting out a "bunch" and then sewing as you have time or desire. Seems as though you have this down to a science. You are an inspiration! 👍
Love your batch techniques - I'm curious if anyone can see any ways to improve - I sure can't! Glad you're happy with your machine:) Always love seeing your videos.
Hello Christine, this is my first time here, thank you. You did a great job of showing us how it's done, also, thank you for telling how much you charge for the bags. I was going to ask. I look forward to seeing more of your content. Take care and happy sewing! 🌺
I love your videos! I was just having a conversation with my daughter about making useful things and selling at our local street markets! These bags would be perfect. Thank you so much for your generosity!
As always a excellent video! I’m learning a lot from your videos, but I’m so slow and I make the dumbest mistakes😂 I really appreciate you sharing your videos. Told my husband there’s no way I can charge for my time 😂😂 One of these days the speed will come! ❤
hi Christine, I’m so amazed the great way you saw all those tote bags in just a minutes. I want to start my own bag business in Mexico, trying to help the planet using less plastic bags. You are the top of the top. Thanks for sharing your experience, knowledge and tips, they’re gold for me. THANKD AND GOD MAY BLESS YOU!!!!!1
Hi Christine. Greetings from England. This is the first video of yours that I’ve seen and I am impressed. It’s beautifully demonstrated and your tips and tricks for efficiency are brilliant. Thank you ✂️🧵🪡📍 I’ve subscribed 😊
I love how you make these bags. I have a lot of upholstery material and never used it. Thanks to you I have a plan to use it up. Thank you so much❤👩🏻🎨🇨🇦
I used your method to make much smaller bags for some little girls to put books in. They love them and it took very little time. Thank you so much. And hello from Canada. ❤
Loved your video. I haven't made bags in years. I am newly retired and am trying to think of some things to keep busy. I was going to make welder caps but hubby retired too. So this may very well be my new project. Thanks for the time saving ideas.
you are such a great teacher .. every detail you share is very informative and eye opener .. thank you so much for inspiring me to try and sew a fabric bag..
Thank you so much for your great tutorials. I usually can’t stand American and Australian accents and manner (I’m a Granny in Scotland) but you have a lovely calm manner and way of speaking that is easy to understand and very relaxing. I make bags for charities and I shall definitely absorb and then use these great tips of yours. 🥰 With best wishes, Lynette.
I try to make handmade for family for birthday gifts each year. I go with a theme. That way I can start ahead and work on events coming up. This year I am doing shopping bags. I was given fabric from an estate. Totes and totes of it.😊 I make up four shopping bags then a smaller zip bag with a wristlet strap that they all fit into. The shopping bags each roll up and have an elastic band sewn into the top seam between the straps. The elastic secures the rolled bag and they can all be stored nestled in the wristlet. This makes a great birthday gift. I cut out the fabric for each set of bags in batches then bundle them so I don’t loose anything. I sew on and off as I have time. I rarely get to sit down and sew all at once. I homeschool my kiddos and this is my fun outlet. Sewing something a family member will actually use is very fulfilling. 😊
Smart way to generate additional income during down time at your alteration shop. Very, very smart to keep track of your time on all the steps. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Christine, lovely videos and easy to follow. I learned a lot from you. Could you please do a machine cover and carry bag tutorial? Thank you and keep it up!
Thank you so much for this wonderfull tutorial, with the time saving sewing tips! Whats more, your Tattoo ! I am also allergic to Penicillin, and never thought to tattoo it on my arm! great idea! so much better than risking loosing a medical braclett , or necklace.. so , thank you for both ideas !❤💯
Thanks Grazeei. Tattoo came about after @WimmeraBasehospital ignored my allergy almost killing me. There's a video about it in my playlist. Now nobody can ignore it😀
You’re an excellent teacher.I love all your work. I sell canvas bags, but here in Arizona, people don’t want to pay more than $10, if even that. People here have low wages, and it shows when they shop. I’m glad you can get the price you deserve for your bags
Light and practical, colourful and versatile to snug inside the bicycle basket in front, I've always loved using my totes for handbags instead of the heavier leather ones. Love your beautiful fabrics and great sewing tips esp 😎to the box template for the handle straps!...altho I won't be using this method seeing that I sew mine every now and then. A great tutorial to all the sewing newbies out there!
Not many people keep track of their time to make the project and that is incredibly important.😊😊
It sure is Shelley. 😃
9 minutes a bag! It takes me about half an hour per scrunchie! 🙈😂😂
Great tutorial, very in depth. Thank you!
Haha, thanks Linzi 😊
Nine minutes, PLUS time buying material, PLUS prepping (unrolling, measuring, cutting, pressing (?), folding, organizing) wd make it more like at least 15-20 (30?) minutes per bag. Still $45/hour isn’t too bad.
And she doesn’t charge for materials…????!!!
Material, thread, straps, scissors, machine… none of that’s free.
All the time unrolling, prepping, cutting, even labelling, tagging, photographing for my website is included in my time. I usually put the clock on, make a certain amount from start to finish, then factor in the time and cost of material. Each time I make a batch, I try to outdo my previous efforts.
I don't charge for the material because I received two truck loads (6 tonnes) of fabric still on rolls for free. I only charge for my time, material, and business expenses which are factored into my hourly rate. ie power, thread, maintenance, insurance, taxes, minimum wage rate etc.😁
I am so happy that I found your channel. I am 74 and have sewed since I was a kid. For 34 years I was the head of a Fashion Technology program at El Paso Community College which focuses on clothing design, pattern making, computer aided design, and product development for industry. Now that I am retired, I love to watch brilliant production so you are a delight! Thanks for the fun videos.
Thanks so much Trish. I love production sewing 😀
One more comment: You are the first person I have discovered on youtube who talks about pricing. 👍👍👍It seems that otherwise a big secret is made of it, for whatever reason. I think it's very important to value your own work enough. Also not to destroy the prices of handmade products. I sold hand-painted silk scarves for a few years and lost the fun of it because I set my prices too low. People should also not underestimate the effort of selling. Running an online shop or selling at markets can take as much or more time than manufacturing the products.
It's always a bit of a toss-up as to what price customers will accept. That's why I think your method of setting the price a little higher first is good. As you say, if it doesn't work, you can still go down.
Thanks Sybille. I used to be quite secretive about pricing and sourcing as well. I have no idea why we do it. If more of us shared our "secrets" we'd be a lot less undervalued 😀
I might add: Proudly made in the USA!
@@cynthiamackenzie2273 Is she American? She sounds Aussie to me, I might need my ears cleaned lol.
Nothing wrong with your hearing Noodles. I'm in Australia😁
Absolutely Mandi. I used to be as secretive as the next person, but in doing that, we're not helping each other flourish or give value to our time and work. I think competition is healthy, and we should all encourage each other instead of competing against one another😀
How incredibly generous of you to share your sewing skills, tips, and tricks -- I'm off to set up my machine and start sewing!
That's awesome Carol. Happy sewing! 😀
@@ChristinesHomeAffairs Thx so much! I’m looking for projects to make at home that would sell. Do you have a website that you sell the bags from & do u mail then to people?
You’re amazingly cheerful & the video tutorials is very informative.
Thank you June. Yes, I do have a website with some of my items, but not all. stitchthis.com.au/ 😀
Beautiful teaching.
Can those bags be done with African fabric without a lining?
Impressed in USA!! I've been sewing lined variations of this for almost 12 years for my online business, and never achieved such excellent production time. Can't wait to try out this new (better!) method for my unlined bags.
Thanks Jordan. Hope it has helped with your production times 😀
I have triangles cut from stiff thin board (Masonite) Line up the bottom and side seams , lay the triangle on top and draw a quick sewing line. Different size triangles for different width of box bottoms. I drilled a hole through all of the triangles and keep them on a ring.
Thank you Jane. This is a brilliant idea. I hope you don't mind if I share it in an upcoming video 😀
Nice to know. Thx
@@ChristinesHomeAffairs select
Great idea! Looking forward to a diy video!
Do you have a video of it?
You are a great teacher. Even though I've sewn for a long time, your tips and hints are invaluable. Thank you for your generosity in sharing your skill, methods and experience.
Thank you so much😁
When I make bags like this, I don't square the corners off like you did in the video: I make a pleat in the bottom edge, so I push the bottom fold that you have up between the two layers of fabric, so that the raw edges on the side look like a W. I hope that makes sense! Then just sew the side seams and you're done. It gives a very nice shape to the bottom, and it's quick and easy. You could instead just fold the bottom three inches of your fabric up to one side before sewing, then do your side seams, and you'll get a slightly different finish which is also nice. It's worth trying out as I found it saved me a lot of time.
I do plan on trying this out Jane. I'm sure it will save time, but I don't know that I like the finish. I really must do a time trial comparing it to my regular bags😁
I made my first bag today with the most adorable upholstery fabric! If I hadn't found an upholstery fabric outlet, I couldn't afford it at all. Thank you for your help! I've also made a bunch of puppy poo bags. I'm building inventory for local sales. I had to stop sewing for many years due to zero space, then horrible shoulder damage, arthritis and other issues. It's still very difficult and painful, but your videos and this fabric place have awakened my motivation!! Building inventory will allow me to work at a less frantic and painful pace. Thank you so much! I have no idea what to charge, especially with these beautiful fabrics I'm getting, and my geographic location in NE Oklahoma. I'm so happy, though!! 😊
I wish we could upload photos or short videos for you to see!
That's awesome DL. I hope you make loads of sales. If you're on Facebook, I have a group where you can share everything you make with the community. If not, you can always email 😀 facebook.com/groups/1742310746004729
Can i ask what fabric outlet you bought your fabric from? Thanks
You might ask upholstery shops for discontinued samples. They're big enough for small zipper bags
On SS and w inflation & rents increasing w add-on fees and bldg costs, maintnance, trash, costs of paying offline, added on rental insurance, etc. all added at one go, everything is just too expensive to live! I've been trying to think of a way to make money w my machines but I can't sit up very long due to pain from osteoporosis, and I'm a slow sewer anyway.
This looks like something I could do as I love to make bags, w your techniques I might be able to do enough to increase my income.
Thank you for sharing. You may just have saved another old lady from being booted into the streets!☮❤🙋
Oh GC, I do hope this helps boost your income. I wish you good fortune 😀
Just a thought - when I have a big project (I just made a queen size denim patch quilt), I use bed risers to add height to my cutting table. I'm not very tall but I find it saves my back.
That's a great idea Louise. I have a better one at the shop and in my studio. This was just because I was in the same room as the fabric 😁
Good answer
I've NEVER seen such a fabric cutter! Electric WITH a protective bottom shield? Thank you! I'm going to buy one for sure.
They're fabulous Susan 😀
Congratulations on getting to keep your new machine. You’ve showed us just how useful it is in batch sewing today. I’m fascinated by the way you make repetition easier. The one that amazed me the most was the handle box. Ingenious! 💜👍🏻😮
Thanks Narelle. The old soap box was the perfect length 😁
Genius…
Fantastic!! I make tote bags for a charity and will definitely have a go at your version.
Thanks Margaret. Happy sewing!!😀
Thank you so much for sharing to skill sets and time saving techniques, you have a wonderful personality also. I'm getting back into my ribbon bows.
Love it, thank you! From Indiana USA. 😎👍😄
Welcome Lisa 😀
Such a joy to watch you Christine.
Thank you so much Brenda😁
I love all the little things that you do to make life easier, like the box template for the strapping! You are so clever and you inspire me to sew more. Thank you ❤
Thank you so much Trish😀
What an ingenious idea for cutting the straps in bulk! Thank you, again!
Thanks Loraine 😀
Thanks Christine. I am teaching a young girl to sew. Found your channel today and just want to say I'll be sharing with my apprentice so you have saved me a lot of time. Thanks a million.
That's awesome Mandy. Thank you 😀
Sew happy it's yours now Christina, congratulations, because you're worth it!
Thank you so much Claire 😊
Very industrious, Christine! Congratulations on the gorgeous new sewing machine! 👏
Thank you so much Margie 😀
Thank you Christine for being so generous with your time to video and share with us . Your tips and tricks have saved me heaps of fabric wastage just by how you cut out your pieces. Some people are so cluey, and you are definitely one of them. Your instructions are so easy to follow 👍😀 I just realised that with a one way pattern, I'll have to cut into squares, as the pattern will be upside down on the other side.... still, a great tip if you have plain or geo type fabric.
Thanks so much Kamila. I do the same when I have a directional print. Though it's much quicker when they can go either way😀
Thank you so much for sharing! I'm primarily a quilter and bag maker (sometimes apparel maker), and I'm all about doing things as productively as possible, and in batches. Do all the cutting. Sew all the similar pieces. Then the next step, and so on. It goes faster and I find my end product is so much better because I'm doing the same step on repeat before moving on to the next. And you get a rhythm going and don't have to concentrate as much. Muscle memory is an amazing thing! You've really fine tuned this process.
Thank you. I totally agree. I find it very theraputic to have my systems in place. I just love the order of things 😀
Thank you so much...I enjoyed you presentation. Am a retired teacher, contemplating doing sewing and this is a great opportunity to start with....Thanks for sharing your sewing skills.
It was a pleasure Joan. Thank you😀
Wow! What a creative way to cut the strapping & pin them into place 👏🏻💃🏼.. love your tutorials, really helpful.. I made the shoe bag with waterproof fabric so they can be used as wet bags .. used snaps so they can hanged on our luggage or bathroom rails, for convenience.. thank u from South Africa 🇿🇦
That's a great way to make the bags Sadia 😁
Great idea!❤
Hi Christine this is the most useful bag making tutorial I’ve ever seen thank you so much. I bought the material in a charity shop so will make bags up and give them to sell. XXXX
That's so kind Wendy. Thank you😁
You are so informative….I have a lot of upholstery fabric that was given to me and now I know what to make with it now! Phew! Thank you thank you sooooo much ❤
That's awesome. I love sewing with upholstery fabric. I have another bag video coming with more swatch fabric this week 😃
I liked the strap cutting hack. I see the machine is moved over into the prime real estate. Thank you
Absoluely Cynthia, I couldn't wait to get everything in place. 😁
Thank you for sharing your short cuts on batch sewing!! I really like the time saver of moving the seam away from you at the corners and towards you at the top!! I spend so much time checking my seam direction!!
Thanks Sally. I used to always forget which side my seams went😀
Since you asked for time-saving tips (and I didn't see anyone else mention this): what about just folding up the bottom (e.g. 3.5") before you sew the side seams, instead of boxing the corners after?
Note: I haven't used this myself on an actual bag yet, just on a scrap to test the idea (which I saw someone else use and couldn't believe it could be so easy!)
I hesitated to even suggest this tip since I figured surely you would have already known about it, considered it, and had your reasons for dismissing it. (Like maybe you prefer the structure that the boxed corners give. Or maybe the overlocking isn't strong enough to hold four layers of fabric long-term... but in that case, wouldn't a quick reinforcement with the regular machine still take less time than boxing the corners?)
But then I figured, I've been sewing for decades and didn't know this until recently. So perhaps you don't know the technique yet either. So there you go, if it's useful.
Note: during my idea testing, I tried three versions -- after the bag is folded in half, right sides together (like at 10:50 in the video) but BEFORE you stitch down the sides:
1. simply fold the bottom folded edge up by some amount, e.g. 3.5"
2. mark the edge where the bottom fold is. push that point upward, in between the two sides, by some amount, e.g. 3.5". So when done, the side edge looks like a really narrow, squished together W. (the center upward point of the W is the marked point that used to be at the bottom fold. essentially, you've reversed the fold, and created two more.)
3. mark the edge where the bottom fold is. push that point upward, but NOT in between the two sides. instead, let the resulting folds puddle out to each side. so the edge looks like an upside down T, where the marked point is at the intersection of the two lines of the T. Then bring the two outer puddling folds upward, like an arrow, ↓, until they're pressed up next to the side of each bag half. oh my, does that make any sense? this would be so much easier to explain with a simple sketch!!!
Anyway, #2 and #3 were much more fiddly to do than #1 and I thought I'd like them better. But I didn't! I actually liked #1 the most. And it was the easiest!
When I get some time, I think I'll do a time trial for the bags. See which is quicker, then see which looks better. I should do it as a video and get some feedback from viewers too😁
This is gold! Thank you for taking the time to show this ❤
You're very welcome Dee😀
What wonderful and strong bags, and I REALLY love the efficiency with which you make them. Well done!! (Also, thanks for sharing your system - very kind of you!)
You are so welcome janis. Thank you😀
Congratulations on your new machine!
Thanks Robin ☺️
FABULOUS Tutorial. Thank you so much. Very clear instructions both verbally and visually. Great pace to your video. 🐦🐦🐦
Thank you so much Lynn 😊
Fantastic video, Great tip on the serger tails on the flaps, Never thought to sew them in to secure ❤
Thanks Sally-Anne. It's one less thing to pick up off the floor 😄
You are a natural teacher! I loved this video.
Thank you so much!😀
YAY you kept the machine! Thank you so much for your videos. I just did 2 bridle bags for my friend's horses yesterday.
That is awesome! 😀
I’m a quilter ..and other crafts from material..I am like you…speed cutting. ..sewing..assembly..for your business it’s a must to get good production
Absolutely Caren. The time it takes to do a task is so important😀
Fantastic. You're so talented and generous showing how you make these beautiful bags ❤
Thanks Alexandra. It was a pleasure😀
Great tutorial, thank you for your advices! Many of us really appreciate 🙏 May God bless you 🌻
You are so welcome Susana😁
Congratulations on the new machine I was rooting for you to keep it. Thanks for sharing your time management tips. Love your market tote.
Thanks so much Claudette 😀
Thank you so much you are a true inspiration. I haven't been sewing long and learning so much from you.
That's fabulous Julie. Thank you so much😀
I always enjoy your videos. The information is so useful and I love how you explain clearly each step. The efficiency to the project is amazing. Thanks for all of your tips and great ideas.
Thank you Sue 😀
Thank you so much for sharing this video! I appreciate so much your attention to details when sharing what you do and how you do it! I am excited to follow your example!
Thank you Meghan😊
Congratulations on your new machine Christine and thank you so much for sharing your techniques and wonderful tips. You are so generous with your precious time.
Thank you so much Jess 😀
❤❤❤thanks 4sharing
Thank you for showing us your assembly process.
It was a pleasure Jo Ann. Thank you😀
Thanks for showing your techniques. Many of them I think I can adapt to my situation. I don't have a studio, but I have a concrete approach to my garage and it is beautiful this time of year in the Phoenix area of Arizona where I can set up my table. I have a rotary cutter and a 50 year old White sewing machine and I'm in business. I do have a later model of a serger which is kind of temperamental, but will work if I mentally cross my fingers. I have a supply of thrifted fabric, I am ready and excited to get started. I have no hope of being as fast and efficient as you, but my market isn't as good as yours. We are still using plastic bags in our grocery stores. I'm going to give it a go. Thanks for your inspiration.
Thank you Reba. The old vintage machines are perfect to use. They're so robust and easy to maintain. Good luck with your bag making 😀
So impressed with your generosity! You are a born teacher and appreciate all that you share!!! Thank you isn’t enough!!❤
That's lovely. Thank you so much😀
Congrats on your new machine! Love ALL your videos! Especially how to be time efficient! Thank you for showing us your process! 😊 ❤
You're very welcome Michelle 😀
This is an exceptional video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and expertise. You are an excellent teacher and presenter. I really enjoyed watching this. Your warmth and positivity are great 😊
Thank you Ant. 😀
Congrats on the machine being yours! And thanks for your segment on making the bags - I love to see people batch their work! And you have it down to a science! If I think of any time saving tips I'll pop back in here and add them :D. Have a great weekend!
Thanks Gina. Definitely interested in more time saving techniques 😁
You do a very good video. Lots of Sales..
Thank you Arlene 😀
So excited for you keeping the new machine!!!! Wonderful!! He made a good decision as your tutorials are great advertisement. Loved the tutorial. Liked the idea of cutting out a "bunch" and then sewing as you have time or desire. Seems as though you have this down to a science. You are an inspiration! 👍
Thanks so much karen. Doing them in smaller batches helps keep me interested. Otherwise they'd drive me batty 😁
I love how you showed all your time saving ideas. Great help and wonderful ideas. Thanks
Thanks Lisa. I'm glad you enjoyed it😀
Love your batch techniques - I'm curious if anyone can see any ways to improve - I sure can't! Glad you're happy with your machine:) Always love seeing your videos.
Thanks Vikki 😀
@ChristinesHomeAffairs Can you tell me why in the bottom corners you don’t use the overlocker, and instead use the regular sewing machine.
I am very impressed doing well.
Thank you Sakera😁
Hello Christine, this is my first time here, thank you. You did a great job of showing us how it's done, also, thank you for telling how much you charge for the bags. I was going to ask. I look forward to seeing more of your content. Take care and happy sewing! 🌺
Thank you so much Loretta. Welcome 😀
I love your videos! I was just having a conversation with my daughter about making useful things and selling at our local street markets! These bags would be perfect. Thank you so much for your generosity!
You're very welcome Claudia😃
As always a excellent video! I’m learning a lot from your videos, but I’m so slow and I make the dumbest mistakes😂
I really appreciate you sharing your videos. Told my husband there’s no way I can charge for my time 😂😂 One of these days the speed will come! ❤
I used to think the same Sheila. Just be confident in your abilities, even if you have to fake it 😄
hi Christine, I’m so amazed the great way you saw all those tote bags in just a minutes. I want to start my own bag business in Mexico, trying to help the planet using less plastic bags. You are the top of the top. Thanks for sharing your experience, knowledge and tips, they’re gold for me. THANKD AND GOD MAY BLESS YOU!!!!!1
Thank you so much Letie. I hope you have great success😁
Hi Christine. Greetings from England. This is the first video of yours that I’ve seen and I am impressed. It’s beautifully demonstrated and your tips and tricks for efficiency are brilliant. Thank you ✂️🧵🪡📍 I’ve subscribed 😊
Thank you Sally. Welcome😀
I love to sew!!! Thank you :)
Thanks Grace. It's my favourite past time too😁
I love how you make these bags. I have a lot of upholstery material and never used it. Thanks to you I have a plan to use it up.
Thank you so much❤👩🏻🎨🇨🇦
You are so welcome!😀
What a lovely video!! Thank you so much!!
You are so welcome!😀
I used your method to make much smaller bags for some little girls to put books in. They love them and it took very little time. Thank you so much. And hello from Canada. ❤
I'm so glad they loved them Laura. Thanks for sharing😀
Loved your video. I haven't made bags in years. I am newly retired and am trying to think of some things to keep busy. I was going to make welder caps but hubby retired too. So this may very well be my new project. Thanks for the time saving ideas.
Thanks Barbara. These are great for gifts, travelling, welding caps.... 😁
. I've learned a lot from you. I love watching your videos. Thank you so much for sharing.
You are so welcome Margaret ☺️
you are such a great teacher .. every detail you share is very informative and eye opener .. thank you so much for inspiring me to try and sew a fabric bag..
Thank you Reem. Happy sewing!😁
Thank you so much for your great tutorials. I usually can’t stand American and Australian accents and manner (I’m a Granny in Scotland) but you have a lovely calm manner and way of speaking that is easy to understand and very relaxing. I make bags for charities and I shall definitely absorb and then use these great tips of yours. 🥰 With best wishes, Lynette.
Thanks so much Lynette. I'm so glad my voice is ok, as my singing is atrocious🤣
I love your videos
Thank you Dorothy😁
Thankyou your videos are great. You are an excellent teacher. Have made lots of tote bags copying your techniques x
Thanks so much Karen😊
Genius! Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge, was wondering how to make my job of sewing bags faster!
You are so welcome!😀
I try to make handmade for family for birthday gifts each year. I go with a theme. That way I can start ahead and work on events coming up. This year I am doing shopping bags. I was given fabric from an estate. Totes and totes of it.😊 I make up four shopping bags then a smaller zip bag with a wristlet strap that they all fit into. The shopping bags each roll up and have an elastic band sewn into the top seam between the straps. The elastic secures the rolled bag and they can all be stored nestled in the wristlet. This makes a great birthday gift. I cut out the fabric for each set of bags in batches then bundle them so I don’t loose anything. I sew on and off as I have time. I rarely get to sit down and sew all at once. I homeschool my kiddos and this is my fun outlet. Sewing something a family member will actually use is very fulfilling. 😊
I love this Heather. Thanks so much for sharing😁
Thanks!
Thank you so much YoVdos 😊
Veryni ce&v.useful.vidio
Thenks
Thanks Maleka`😊
So useful! Well done!
Thanks Lucy ☺️
Thank you for the tutorial!!!❤❤❤ Very helpful.
You're very welcome Diane. Thank you😀
Christine those bags are awesome thanks 👍
Thanks Lorraine😁
Thankyou for sharing your knowledge, so interesting, this is wonderful
Thank you Amanda😁
I like your ideas mam.iam your follower.waye of telling how to stitching mesrmentes are too clearer. Tq mam
Thank you Aluvelu 😀
Smart way to generate additional income during down time at your alteration shop. Very, very smart to keep track of your time on all the steps. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much😀
You’re phenomenal! Thanks for wonderful tutorial.
You are so welcome! Thank you Lisa😁
You’re fantastic loved your video… you taught me some great tips. Appreciate your super skills
Thank you so much 😊
These are wonderfully made! I love your techniques. Thank you for your instructions!❤😊
You're welcome Judith. Thank you😁
Love your enthusiasm learnt a lot. Thank you from India. Delhi. .
Thant's fabulous Nirupa. Thank you😀
Fantastic video. Thank you.
Thank you Claire 😀
Hi Christine, lovely videos and easy to follow. I learned a lot from you. Could you please do a machine cover and carry bag tutorial? Thank you and keep it up!
Thank you Savita. I do have plans for a machine cover. Hopefully soon😁
Thank you so much for this wonderfull tutorial, with the time saving sewing tips!
Whats more, your Tattoo ! I am also allergic to Penicillin, and never thought to tattoo it on my arm!
great idea! so much better than risking loosing a medical braclett , or necklace..
so , thank you for both ideas !❤💯
Thanks Grazeei. Tattoo came about after @WimmeraBasehospital ignored my allergy almost killing me. There's a video about it in my playlist.
Now nobody can ignore it😀
How crazy is this, i was watching this video yesterday and the mail dropped off the shopping bag i won from you! It is awesome! Thank you very much!
How funny is that. I'm glad you like your bag Karen😀
Hey dear Christine, you are genious🤩🤩🤩. Big loves from Luxembourg/Europe😙
Wow, thank you Jacqueline 😀
Brilliant tips and short cuts!
Thanks Amy ☺️
You’re an excellent teacher.I love all your work. I sell canvas bags, but here in Arizona, people don’t want to pay more than $10, if even that. People here have low wages, and it shows when they shop.
I’m glad you can get the price you deserve for your bags
Thank you so much Marie ☺️
Tremendously Fabulous Methodology! Thanks so much ‼️ ‼️ ‼️
Thank you so much Gloria 😁
Thank you for showing how you make your bags ,Very good instructions 😊
You're very welcome Darlene 😀
Greetings! I've just found your channel n would LOVE to do what you do! But I'm basically writing to say I love your hair. It's beautiful.
Thank you Gill. Welcome!😀
Light and practical, colourful and versatile to snug inside the bicycle basket in front, I've always loved using my totes for handbags instead of the heavier leather ones. Love your beautiful fabrics and great sewing tips esp 😎to the box template for the handle straps!...altho I won't be using this method seeing that I sew mine every now and then. A great tutorial to all the sewing newbies out there!
Thanks so much Robin😀
Thanks for this video.. I think I have found an idea for Christmas 2023 gifts!!
These are great for gifts Carol. Many of my customers purhase these each year to put their gifts inside. 😃
Wow! Wow!.. Very impressive!.. Love this idea! THANK YOU CHRISTINE!
You are so welcome Fran😀
LOVE THE BAGS!
Thanks Sherry ☺️
I enjoy your video. 👍
Thank you Velma 😀