As soon as I was dreaming up projects to sew using Forage, the Runaround Bag was one of the first on my list. I knew Essex would make a perfect companion to this pattern. The soft gathers and slouchiness of this style bag is just what the cotton/linen blend was calling for. The Runaround Bag has a special place in my heart. It was one of the first few patterns I released and one that I made and carried several versions for myself.

I love the simple design of this bag and I think it’s great for beginners. The gathers and pleats show off the fabric, plus make it really quite forgiving to sew. If you’ve been a reader for long enough you’ve probably noticed that I love binding. It’s such a beautiful detail and I love the way it adds a little bit of interest. If you’re intimidated by making binding look great on your bag, don’t worry! It’s easy once you get the hang of things.

My favorite tool for making binding is my Clover 25mm bias tape maker. It’s just a simple metal tool and does so much!! I don’t know how I ever made binding without one. The other part about attaching binding is that for bag making I like to sew it (in this case) to the lining fabric and then wrap it around to the exterior. That way you’re not having to worry about ‘catching’ the binding in the stitching on the back side as you would using the traditional method of attaching binding. You sew right next to the fold on the exterior of your bag and you’re all set because it’s already attached on the back! Bias tape is very important for this bag because of the curved opening. So a little big of stretching makes for a really clean finish. Plus, a bit of spray starch (my favorite go-to is from Target, always easy to have on hand!) and pressing are your best friend! I was thinking I might make a little video of attaching binding on a curve like this. Would you find that helpful? I hope to continue making this blog a friendly, fun, and educational place!

Pattern: Runaround Bag
Fabric: Forage (by me!) for Robert Kaufman Fabrics (check my Stockists page for a shop near you), binding is Interweave Chambray in Denim (also by Robert Kaufman Fabrics)