Advice from bag makers please...
#12
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Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,131
My guess is that the red fabric was used for curtains or drapes. The right side finish on it is simulated smocking. I would serge or zigzag the cut edges, then wash & dry it and the lining before cutting out anything. Braiding the cord does sound like a good idea because a single cord can cut into your hand or shoulder. Fray-check is another option for finishing the cord ends, but a few matches cost less. I like to sew with decorator fabric for bags, pillows, vests, etc.
#17
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Join Date: Sep 2014
Location: Victorian Sweatshop Forum
Posts: 1,271
Well it turns out braiding that macrame cord is quite the challenge!! I cut 3 pieces and sewed the ends of them together (a challenge in and of itself!!) Then I hung the cord from my clothesline, braided it and tried to sew the other ends together (another challenge).
It looks ok but I'm afraid the ends are a bit lumpy for my bag. They will be hidden between the outer fabric and the lining but they are still quite lumpy.
Any simple suggestions for me? Am I missing something obvious. Thanks!!
PS. Thanks HillCountryGal for the fabric ID. I had no idea what it was!
It looks ok but I'm afraid the ends are a bit lumpy for my bag. They will be hidden between the outer fabric and the lining but they are still quite lumpy.
Any simple suggestions for me? Am I missing something obvious. Thanks!!
PS. Thanks HillCountryGal for the fabric ID. I had no idea what it was!
#19
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Join Date: Sep 2014
Location: Victorian Sweatshop Forum
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I tried to sew them flat next to each other. I did small stitches. When I reached the end, I turned the cord and tried to go back but the 3rd cord would always get out of line. Going backwards didn't work well either. It was much trickier than I thought it would be. I broke a needle trying to sew them laid on top of each other. That was my first attempt. Then I laid them flat.
#20
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Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Slidell, Louisiana
Posts: 6,951
I agree with MsHeirloom, maybe try covering the macrame with fabric. Don't know anything about that fabric other than it is pretty. I made a tote the other day, will post someday, love making totes!
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