Pattern
Stash and Dash Bags by Amy Butler
Description
Small bags for life’s essentials.
Stash and Dash Bag by Rachel
Materials
Light to medium weight fabric, sew-in interfacing, zipper and thread.
Overall Design
I love little bags. It’s great to be able to throw small things like lip balm and keys into a small bag, then throw the small bag into a larger bag. In the past, I’ve made several plain square bags for just this purpose. When I saw Amy Butler’s pattern for little bags, I thought, “These are so much prettier than my plain square bags.”
So I was excited by the opportunity to review this pattern. The pattern includes three different sizes, so you can pick the size that best fits your needs. When determining which size to make, compare the lining pattern pieces. This piece will give you the best idea on the finished size.
Written Instructions
I don’t need to say a lot. The written instructions were detailed and easy to follow. A beginning sewer could follow these instructions without problems, while an experienced sewer could learn a trick or two.
Diagrams / Images
I’ve always been impressed by Amy Butler’s patterns. The diagrams help clarify the patterns and really bring the written instructions to life. Great asset!
Pattern Pieces
Each bag requires 3-4 pattern pieces to complete. The simple shapes were easy to cut out. If you have access to a cutting mat and rotary cutter, you can cut out the pieces in 15 minutes.
Overall Level of Difficulty
Even though I’ve made several zippered totes in the past, I think this pattern is suitable for beginners. The instructions are easy to follow, there are only a few pattern pieces and the zipper diagrams help explain everything. An experienced sewer would probably modify how they laid out the pattern pieces when cutting out the fabric. Really, this pattern can be made from fabric scraps.
Inside of the Stash and Dash Bag
Modifications and Tips
I made two different sizes, first the make-up bag (medium) and second the toiletry bag (large). With the make-up bag, I used light weight quilting fabric and sew-in interfacing. With the toiletry bag I used light weight quilting fabric and a light weight fusible interfacing.
I believe it was manufactured by Pellon (number 906), but I’m missing the wrapper so I can’t verify that. In the end, I prefer the fusible interfacing. The make-up bag is too stiff. The toiletry bag feels just right. So, don’t be afraid to play with different types of interfacing to find what you like
Fabric Recommendations
I didn’t try using medium weight fabric. However, based on my sewing experience, I think that would work out very well. Another advantage to medium weight fabric is you won’t have to worry about which type of interfacing you should use. But light weight fabrics also work well; just don’t forget to use interfacing. The bag wouldn’t hold up to use without a little reinforcement.
Conclusion
This is a fun little project. If you are looking for a quick and easy project, I say dive in. Also these little bags make great presents. People love them because they’re cute as well as functional. I’ve given away similar bags (with lotion or soap inside) as gifts. They are always well received.
