Originally Posted by MommaDorian
My first question...do I have to quilt the fabric? Or can I use it as is?
Yes, you have to quilt it as instruct ed. Use a fusible fleece - it has more support than regular quilt batting. I also use "Shirt Tailor" too as extra support. You don't want the sides to fall down. Also, in the instructions, it tell you to sew the bottom of the front pocket and flip it up. That will work fine, but I sewed it IN the seam when you join the top and bottom. You'll have to move it out of the way when you quilt your fabric, but I liked the look better. I did my first one the way they say. I also added the accent strip (tan) that they don't call for, and the rings on the handles like my leather bag has. It's a fun place to practice FM quilting, becasue the area is not too big. It's hard to see, but I outlined the snowmen and stitched in big snowflakes.