We are now LIVE! The Early Bird Sale Price is just $60! That’s like getting 5 online video courses for $12 each! An amazing value!
Sign up before the sale price expires on Sunday, July 31st at 11:59pm EDT.
On August 1st the price goes up to $70! Don’t miss the $10 savings!
Video #3
It’s almost time!! Watch the video above to see all 5 handbags I will teach you how to make in my new video bag of the month club!
Video #2
I’m back with another fun bag making video just as promised! In this video I tell you a little more about my new Video Bag of the Month Club. I also show you my fool proof way to make and install an adjustable shoulder strap! I share another bag design with you- my Kelley Crossbody Bag. It is one of my favorites from my new bag club! So many pockets and can be worn over the shoulder or as a cross body bag! More details coming soon!
If you have friends who want to enter the world of handbag making feel free to share this page with them. If you missed the first video, you can watch it below!
VIDEO #1
Hi there!
If you’re on this page it’s probably because you are interested in more info on my NEW video-based Bag of the Month Club! We are almost ready to open it for registration but wanted to give you an update in the mean time and offer you a FREE tutorial that will come in handy whenever you want to add an inset or recessed zipper to a tote bag project. Watch the video above and be sure to stay tuned for the next video where I will give you another bag sneak peek! Now, I’m of to work on this project to get it ready to go! More coming soon!
P.S.- Feel free to share this post with anyone you think will be interested in this new bag of the month Club.
{If you are new to this page and have not added your email address to the Video Bag of the Month Club e-newsletter list be sure to add it HERE so you don’t miss out on any upcoming details:}
Janice Dinse
Great video, I am super excited to get started! You make everything look so easy. I have confidence I can do this.
Crafty Gemini
You totally can, Janice! Glad you are excited!
Cheryl cornett
Can’t wait for the crossover bag!
Cheryl Littmann
I’m super stoked, only one comment so far, slow down Vanessa. You are such a good teacher, that you forget you are at high gear, some of us are just a little more layed back. I think I will be enjoying this club for sure. I definitely love bags and purses, and hoping you show me some new tricks.
Robbie
Yes, please so down. This grandma out of breathe trying to keep up with you.
sewcraftytoni
Please DON’T slow down! i get so frustrated by the instructors who go slow. You can control the pace by stopping the video and replaying but it’s harder to fast forward when someone is going slow.
Donna C
i understand your point, for me though, I love Vanessa’s high energy and feel inspired by it.
Also, her enunciation is impeccable! Bravo Vanessa!
The beauty of video…just rewind it. ????????????
Karla Braswell
can’t wait. love all the videos so far. I have tried a few. keep it up
Ester aguirre
You inspire me to continue on trying new projects and impress my friends on how good you make me look and build my confidence
Marilyn
I am 91 years young and enjoy your videos. I will try to create one. Marilyn
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
Love it!! So glad you are coming along fro the ride! 🙂
Linda
Marilyn hope you post of photo of your bag?
Zona
Marilyn glad you are going to try, me too I am 83. I live in Australia. I do like watching Vanessa, and over the years I have made many of her projects and enjoyed every one. Congratulations girl don’t let mean or negative comments throw you Vanessa I am along with others happy to be a part of your exciting class.
Kimberlee
I can’t believe that you think you are the ONLY person that makes step by step videos. All you do is brag “ME”, “ME”, “ME”, “I”, “I”, “I”, my teaching style. I’m glad that you are so impressed by yourself but it gets boring. Also, slow down.
Sue
Oh you are not even kidding. She had gotten mighty cocky.
GrandmasBeans
No need to be snippy. Vanessa is a great teacher, and she is very clear and precise in her teaching style. She explains everything in easy to understand language. If these videos don’t suit your needs or your style, why not just leave the site instead of being insulting? It’s like changing the channel on the TV. Simply find something else that suits you better.
nanab128
i agree change the channel
Patty
Crafty Gemma tutorials are a great tool. If you don’t like this style of learning, there are always other ways.
ca
If you don’t like her, then don’t watch!
Happygirllucky
If you can’t post anything nice, please don’t waste the space because it can be used by positive minded people who want to learn from an excellent teacher.
Debbie
Well that was mean of you and really if that’s what you get then that’s a shame! Nobody says you have to watch the videos. I have been watching her videos, and have seen many many others, and have never had such clear instructions. Vanessa gets right to the point and doesn’t just babble on and on.
Linda
If you don’t like it, turn it off.
Hedwig Kassam
It saddened me reading the two horrible comments left by two people! Obviously they had an attack of the green eye monster? With the world falling apart around us, children being forced out of the countries of their birth……on foot I might add….people getting killed whilst enjoying a family Day out…did you two ladies really feel so angry with the world that you had to leave such an unkind comments about a girl who works hard has oodles of energy and enthusiasm and makes the world of sewers a better place. My advise is…go for a long walk come back and write an apology!
mari
I highly agree with you. Love your comment
Rosa
Hedwig Kassam I agree with you 100% you couldn’t have said it any better. They are truly mad at themselves they’re lives must be a disaster and can’t see the goodness in others. Vanessa is full of knowledge patience enthusiasm and I love watching her videos and must admit that I’ve learned so much watching her tutorials. Some people are so negative. If these two ladies (if I can call them ladies) have nothing positive going on for themselves. Find the good in you so that you can appreciate others is what I like to add regarding their terrible comments. Thank you for the goodness in you and may God bless you and yours.
Kathy Beckman
Kimberlee and Sue – Envy is one of the Seven Deadly Sins.
Darlene
I couldn’t agree with you more Kathy, envy and jealousy. You can really tell when people aren’t happy with themselves they post stupid comments. You said it very nice but people like them just don’t get it but the rest of us do. Thanks
Rosa
Absolutely! I agree 100%
mari
You know one of my first lessens growing up was, if you don’t got nothing nice to say you say nothing at all. I agree with all the hate and things happening to us all You two ladies just added to the hate.
GrandmasBeans
You have been invited to join the club – you can certainly refuse to do so if you don’t like the videos or Vanessa’s style. But why get so snippy? It just makes you look immature. Many people love Vanessa’s teaching style, but it’s not for everyone. May I suggest that there are other sites you might find that fit your style better.
nanab128
I Think the way she did the videos are great.
PASCHETTA
Hello I leave in france and I see your videos. I like them. I don’t speak english very well but you are so nice. Thank you. Marie-christine (FRANCE)
Rose
Can’t wait to begin. Thank you for your tutorials. Blessings
Linda
This class went so fast, I can’t begin to follow what you did.
Mary Kowalski
I watched it once. Then I go back and pause, follow the step, play a bit more, etc. That’s what I love about Vanessa’s tutorials. You can do it!
Gwenna
Linda this wasn’t a class it was a video about what she will be showing us how to make during the bag of the month…….dahhhhhhhhh
Silke
Great video. Great idea. Thanks Vanessa.
Is it free of charge?
Kanohealani
I love your videos… so excited to try this zipper technique…you make it easy…Mahalo
Brenda Jerles
I struggle to get a nice topstitch around the top of my bag. Not sure why but that is where I have the most trouble.
Cheryl cornett
Can’t wait! Also was wondering about altering the size of some of the bags, I forgot the name of the one bag that looks more like an overnight bag I would love to maybe enlarge it a little. How hard will that be?
Kathy
One trick for topstitching straight that I use with my students is to use your zipper foot. Move the needle out as far as you can (most will let you move a good 1/4″). By riding the zipper foot along the edge, your stitching will be straight. After you build your confidence a bit, go back to the regular foot. Right now you are in your head that you can’t do it straight. Yes you can!
Liz
I love each and every one of the Craft Gemini videos. I have been making bags for a few months now and would love to get some short cuts. The recessed zipper was fantastic as most ladies ask for a secure closed top.
Nicole Reed
Awesome video, I am so Excited for this bag club…i really can’t wait….I love your style of teaching….I have been wanting to get into bag making for a while…You do make it all look so easy Thank you Vanessa you are a sewing angel “)
kathie carter
This is AWESOME! I plan on joining the club. It all terrifies me but with you doing the video tutorials I KNOW I can do it THUMBS UP!!!
Lenora Dorsey
Your videos are always awesome and easy to understand! Bags and purses are intimidating in general for me.
Courtney McKenzie Hays
Thank you for teaching me another way to do that type of zip! I can’t wait for registration! It’s almost 2 am right now haha I saw your email and thought “Eh, I’ll watch it in the morning.” Tossing and turning in bed later “Why not watch it now?” haha Thanks a lot for putting this together! I’m not new at making bags but I LOVE making them! So, I’m super excited to learn new techniques and patterns!
Erin
Your video’s are inspirational and very motivating…Very keen to start and be a part of this ” Bag of the month Club”
Zips and instructions are not my thing, but watching you for the past 3 years has been tremendous and so helpful.
Ready and waiting….
Avril
Great tutorial zips terrify me but you make it look so easy thanks
Roos
Thank you so much! I’ve made a bag with this kind of closing, but I’ve learned it differently and the last topstitch came out messy everytime.. next time I use this technic ^_^
Claudia
Que bueno verte nuevamente! Gracias Vanessa por está nueva idea! Para mi la parteas complicada es coser los bordes del bolso tratando de que nada se escape.
Carolina Hill
I love this, Vanessa! I have made so many of your tutorials and they are ALWAYS successful as you are so clear with everything! I have made several reusable tote bags as presents and they are a massive hit! (I live in the south of France and those totes are fab for market day)
I would love to be able to make dividers inside handbags, like separations (not pockets) inside. Would that be something you would consider in your tutorials?
Thanks again!!!!
Susan Mei
I second that vote! My brain gets turned around to mush trying to figure out how to make dividers, and not sew yourself into the bag! It can be done with trial and error, but it’s way better if someone just shows you how. 😉 You’re good at that, Vanessa, I know you can do it!
Rebecca Wilson
Another great video! I can’t wait for the Bag of the Month to start and I don’t even like handbags!
Carol maloney
Wonderful video I can,’t wait to do one thank Vanessa
Carol maloney
Wonderful video I can,’t wait to do one thank Vanessa you are so cool
Linda West
So excited! Can’t wait to start! The Staci bag is so cute! ????????
DAnielle
Youre the best instructor, love your videos to learn! 🙂
All the best!
Lisa
Your instructions are awesome! So easy to understand.
Jeannie Myers
I would live to sign up. Can’t wait.
G
Excitied about the bag of the month tips and tricks. I would like to see the card holder organizer pocket for the front of a handbag. Thanks
carol kennedy
I love this video I know what Im doing today 🙂
Kim
Hi Vanessa.
I am really excited to learn how to make even more hand bags. I have made so many of the Big Ol Tote bags from the quilt club!!! The one thing that intimidates me are zippers!!!! I
This was another awesome tutorial especially for me since I am a very visual learner.
I will be not so patiently waiting for more great tutorials!!!
Hedwig
Your lessons are such a delight to watch and your enthusiasm is wonderful. I like to thank you for all your tips and instructions. I have been watching you for quite a long time and loved every video lesson. I wish I could invite you for a cuppa tea in England! Whoever films you needs a compliment too because he or she knows excactly how to get at the right angle to show us how it’s done! Keep going my dear, you are a breath of fresh air compared to other video lessons!! Take care and many thanks Hedwig from the UK xx
Mary Kowalski
I think Vanessa is filming her own tutorials some of the time. She thought of having the angle be our view years ago and I think that’s one of the reasons her tutorials are so understandable. They aren’t backwards to us so we can imitate her moves and have success. I have overcome my fear of zippers thanks to practicing on the projects.
Alison Heath
Your enthusiasm is infectious Vanessa, love your videos !!!
Odie Taylor
Looking forward to starting this project. Zippers are my downfall!
Susie Dillion
I’m excited to learn different techniques. I love making them wan want to do other designs.
Lachresia Bogardus
Thank you for the great video . Iam excited to make these bags.
Carla Diegel
Enjoy your teaching style. Very clear and no waste of time.
Marlene Scraders
Excellent tutorial Vanessa, I’ve done zipper inserts before, but I find this is the most simplest way of doing it. Thanks for sharing.
Vickie Preston
I really like your videos. I’m looking forward to the bag of the month series. You make the process easier.
Karol faride
Excelente manera de enseñar, nunca lo vi tan sencillo. Muchas gracias y espero el proximo video.☺
Sylvia Brown
I LOVE YOUR WORK AWESOME
Karol Stants
I have gotten spoiled by your teaching videos. I can’t wait for bag of the Month.
Julie Savard-Vantran
I can’t wait for this BOM to start. Thank you SO very much Vanessa!! Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I could make bags, ones that people actually carry around!!!! Thank you to the moon and back!!
Erica
I love making handbags and I think all of your videos are really fantastic . I like the fact that I can go back and look at a video whenever I need to..
Thunder
Zippers intimidate me… and feet… and grommets.
You are an inspiration, you sure make things look and feel “do able “. Thanks
I want to stay home from work and make a bag, with a zpiper 😉 . Ahhh but I can’t. Duty calls.
Y’all have a great day.
GabiP
Can not wait for The Bag Of The Month Club! This is going to be so great! Thanks for this zipper info – I like a closed tote. Vanessa, you are the best! Literally.
Timothy Loy
Do you know when we can sign up I hope not till the 3 rd of August that when I get paid you are a great teacher with what every you do
Donna Krueger
My first watch and I am very impressed! Love to make all kinds of bags.
Denise Harris
Oh I love the video explanation of the recessed zipper!!! That definitely intimidated me before. Not anymore!!! Thanks Vanessa!!
Aprille Sweatt
Even though I have made several bags, I never carry a purse (security reasons), but so many of my friends still carry them. I was going to skip the Bag of the Month Club, but your last live video on the Crafty Gemini Quilt Club convinced me to join. I am sure that I will make bags for my friends, and I especially like the large duffel bag with the added hidden magnet closures on the sides. I enjoy ALL of your video tutorials! Thanks for this great “freebie”!
Ronnie Skinner
Vanessa, I can’t wait! I am so excited. I love the way you teach. What intimidates me? The idea that it will be professional looking.
We always want to give away something that doesn’t look “homemade” but are so proud to be able to tell people that it actually is.
carol
I love all of your videos. You have such a talent to teach. I am interested in your bag of the month club.
Jean Wiegand
I loved this tutorial/video. Another excellent technique by Vanessa! There is no end to your ideas and creativity. So glad I found you several years ago. Love the inset zipper technique and if I did not have a video to refer to, I would be totally dumbstruck about how to do it. Somethings just translate better in a video than the written word. Especially if you are like me, a totally visual learner. Love it, love it, love it! Sign me up for this Bag of the month club!!!
Melissa
love this, can’t wait!!
Christine M
Looking forward to the Bag of the Month Club. I’ve recently begun making clutch bags. They’re a lot of fun to do.
Mary Kowalski
You KNOW i love the Crafty Gemini Quilt Club so you can be sure I am chomping at the bit, waiting to sign up for this class. That Staci bag is so cute and will be perfect for some fabric in my stash. Thanks, V!!!!!
Susan Olson
I’m curious, in your bag videos, will you show how you actually measure and cut out the fabric, that seems to be the hardest for me?
Lisa
I sure hope so cause that will be a problem for me too????
Pauline Springett
Great video Vanessa can’t wait????????????????????????????????????????
calif
I don’t use purses with handles. Hoping that most of the purses your doing will have straps. I would like if you could not do the fast forward when your sewing and turning. We have that option in the menu. I like to see that process.
Terry Ivey
Love the idea of video support for handbag patterns ! Was wondering though, for those of us with some disability…will there be a printable cutting list? I am afraid of joining something I can’t use. It’s hard to watch someone say what to cut…move away …and poof! All gone!! LOL and yes, my memory can be that short. I’ve been watching your utube for years , and somedays,you’re my favorite company. Guess you never knew you joined me for afternoon coffee 🙂
Melanie Hoadley
I love being able to pause and rewind Vanessa’s videos, but she does usually have printable PDFs for her more involved projects.
The hardest part of bag making for me is knowing the shape and size I want to end up with but visualizing what 2 dimensional pieces I need to get there. Also choosing the right stabilizer. The store I go to might not have what the pattern calls for so I have to guess what to substitute with but without knowing what I’m trying to buy. I hope that makes sense. Even if I want to design a ban I don’t know which stabilizer is appropriate for what I want the bag to turn out. I have made so many boring rectangle bags with plain old batting inside and I’m ready to move on to something more involved
Linda
Yay!!! Maybe I can actually do this, you were clear in the video, it’ll be the very first time that I’ve ever put a zipper in!!! I’m excited and a little apprehensive!!!!
Mary Kay Harman
You make everything look so easy. For those of us who don’t have enough self-confidence that is important. I hope I will be able to join the “Bag of the Month Club”. I have watched so many of your videos that I have lost count. Thank you for your enthusiasm and your ability to make hard things easy.
Cathy
Thank you very much Vanessa. I love this Video and all your Videos. I am a newbie but all your video’s help me and make me feel confident
Lisa
Love your easy step by step instructions. Most instructors just assume you know what they are talking. Thanks for everything you do!
Susan Belohlavek
Another awesome video tutorial. I have wanted to tackle a recessed zipper but haven’t found clear instructions up until now. Can’t wait for Bag of the Month Club!
Dee Adams
Awesome! I love making bags but I have only made simple ones and you have made installing this inserted zipper seem simple, I can hardly wait to give it a try. I hope that I will be able to join the bag of the month club. Thanks for doing this!
Leslie Thomas
Vanessa, I’m really excited to see all of the variations that will come as each person makes their own version of your beautiful bags. I’m really looking forward to this!
Rosemary Castillo-Sartin
Where was this video in May when I needed it!? This was the second bag technic I learned since April. Have only created 2 bags and a zipper closure is a must. Looking forward to the series!
Vivian Dixon
Getting the straps from twisting stumps me whenever I make a tote. I carefully to place between bag and lining, stitch and end up with my signature handles. I will be looking forward to tips on this procedure. Thank you for your tutorials.
Ivonne
Super Duper excited to get started with the Bag of the month club!!!???????????? Thanks Vanessa. ????
Bonnie Thiem
This is such a great idea. I’ve made purses and bags where there was no illustration or photo to explain what was written. It would take myself and my girlfriend to try to figure out what was being said and then we don’t always do figure it out so we have to improvise. I can’t wait to start watching your monthly bag videos. I’m really excited.
Pat Lawson
Can’t wait! Time to start listening Okinawa at all the cute novelty fabrics!
Pat Lawson
I don’t know where “listening Okinawa” came from! I typed looking!
Louise
Vanessa I am really interested in making these bags. Thank you for showing us how to do the inset zipper. Very good tutorial. Can’t wait to see the next one.
Anne Moore-Fisher
Yay I need to do this for my July Swap and all the You Tube one’s that I watched were really confusing or they go away and come back on the hard parts and the written instruction ones well needless to say having the video and the written is going to be super, you have made something that looks complicated really easy to do, thanks Vanessa !!!
Pat Oberg
You are so cute and energetic that it’s infectious, and I’m hoping to be able to partake in your purse of the month club. I am slow to understand directions so your video will be most welcome by me. I am a visual sewer and if my mind doesn’t understand a direction, I’m lost. Your videos are an essential part of my completing a project. Looking forward to more info about the club. Thank you for being you!
Diane
as always great tutorial so glad you are back on miss your new tutorials looking forward to them
Phyllis Prom
I loved the video and am looking forward to the Bag of the Month Club. Thank you for always explaining your process and what you are doing so well, we all appreciate your enthusiasm. You are a great instructor.
Barbs Ferris
Thanks for all the great info and the wonderful video. So much info about adding a zipper!
You’re right, videos are just the greatest teaching tool and boy do I need that help. I’d only made s few notes and bags. I did purchase a tailor’ s ham and found it to be very helpful.
You’re right (again) as far as all those interfacings for the totes and purses should hope you talk about them too.
Thanks again!
Carol Maynard
Live your teaching. I am a novice it’s easier for me when I can see what you’re doing rather than ready and understand especially paper piecing which I’ve never tried it’s intimidating. I followed your instruction for the mug rug it was a success. Now I’m more confident with the bag making. I’m excited to get started.
Thanks for the positive energy
Wanda Goldfarb
Vanessa, I CAN’T WAIT for this club to launch! Thank you for the recessed zipper tutorial. I kept putting off trying one but no more!
Marty Cuervo
Have used many of your videos. Enjoy your work. I can never find the thumbs up. The most intimidating part of bags are the zippers so thank you for the help. One of your past tutorials where you made a zippered wrist handled make-up pouch was the best and gave me the courage to work with zippers.
Carole
Bonjour Vanessa!
I have made 15 of your Triangle Zippered Pouches as thank you gifts for my granddaughter’s birthday guests. I’ve filled the pouches with a note that said “Thank you for coming to Meagan’s birthday” + homade frienship bracelets, lip balm, candies and gum. They loved it! And so did the moms.
I can’t wait to start on your bags. They will be a huge success, I am sure.
So, from Canada, I’m telling you ”Lâche pas, tu es super!”
mgreen2427
I love the bags we get peeks of during your travels! Can’t wait to make some of them. Thanks for the easy to follow tutorials.
Simone
As a newbie I am excited and intimidated by this club, that being said I love bags and I am excited to join. You had me at Bags! I guess what intimidates the most is messing something up but I know that is apart of the process, I’m trying to get the Vanessa skills when I grow up ????.
Allison Kane
Hi, Vanessa,
I enjoyed your video about the recessed zipper, and it’s very straightforward as long as rhe lining is square or rectangular. But how do you do it if the lining is rounded or contoured? I want to add a recessed zipper to a bag like this. Please let me know if you get a chance. Thank you for a very useful video.
Sylvia
Vanessa I found your site a while back via Jenny Doan of Missouri Quilt Company where you showed Jenny your method using fusible backing, and I was hooked. New to quilting I was inspired to try and make this bag. I surprised myself, but I watched your video over and over and was thrilled with the result. I am on my third one now and have friends who have made these bags as well. I now feel I would like to move on, and a zip closure is something that after watching your video I could attempt.
I love your bubbly personality and your love of what you do. I look forward to your videos.
Elizabeth Benedict
Wish you the best looking forward to the bag of the month.
Lisa
Awesome tutorial Vanessa. I’m limited right now on what I can do, but I love your easy and concise instructions.????????
Georgia Clough
Vanessa I love your videos and the wonderful part is you can pause and replay but this one was really very fast. I am a seasoned bag maker and you even got me.
geraldine darden
I think i can, I think I can, I will even at 78 yrs I love learning from you keep it up
Idarean
This is a very interesting making a bag a month helps me to increase my skill on making a bag.I also need this direction to come back to email address. U know u can make one mistake and lose everything. This what has happen.
I love your teaching still as teacher.
Thanks
Idarean
I like this making a bag a month helps me to increase my skill on making a bag
.I also need this direction to come back to email address. U know u can make one mistake and lose everything. This what has happen.
I love your teaching still as teacher.
Thanks
Phyllis Brucker
Love all our videos. You explain and show how tos …you are the perfect teacher
kat
I would be interested in those wood handles that you can wrap the fabric around.
I tried making one- but didn’t quite get how to wrap the fabric around them- so just sewed them in.
But now- how can I wash it?
Tamara Lee
So excited for this to start! Thanks for all you do to make this possible. Your video tutorials & teaching style give me so much confidence & make it fun to create. Can’t wait to see your bags & all the wonderful & creative bags everyone will be making from your BOM club!
caren holder bradshaw
Love all your video. Thank you.
caren holder bradshaw
Love it.
Allyson Tuttle
Hi Vanessa:
I looked at the video and found it new and interesting. I think I could make one of these so I will be searching for the right materials to make a hand bag and
then follow your precise instructions. It is great to have a good teacher like like you that will help with knowing the way to make it look professional.
Thank you Vanessa, God Bless,
Allyson Tuttle
Joy
Vanessa, your videos are great. Do you teach pattern drafting from scratch?
Lisa
Can’t wait to make one with a zipper! Thanks!
Ann Miville
I’ve found inspiration from so many of your projects and tutorials through your blog, you tube channel and craftsy! Some women like shoes . . . I adore bags, purses, etc. and cannot wait to begin! Thank you for all that you do!
Laura Ningen
Love your tutorials! Would love to see how to put that recessed zipper into a bag I have already made….I’m sure it can be done. Looking forward to the bag of the month club too! Thanks for keeping sewing current!!
Linda Bridges
You have so much energy. You are amazing to watch and learn from. Thank You.
Henri
Great Job Vanessa. Looking forward to the club.
Faye
Great Video, thank you. Would suggest you also have pdf downloads with notes and diagrams for us too. I’m deaf, you have no closed captions. You talk too fast for me to lipread you. LOL
Sharon Hemker
I cant wait!!!! I love all of your tutorials. You make learning fun, fun, fun.
Susie
I see you using glue to hold things in place before you sew. Whenever I use any kind of adhesive, it gums up my needle and creates a huge mess. How do you avoid this?
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
The key is to set the glue with a dry iron… and not to use much, of course. The heat from the iron sets it dry and there is no gumming up of the needle. You just don’t want to add moisture to the already wet glue with steam. Hope that helps!
Mary
How about a Diaper Bag which could later be used as a beach or picnic bag later.
Clovis Perkins
I enjoyed the video. Zippers give me the most trouble. Sometimes directions of patterns are not that good. I will try to do the zipper the way you did it. It looked so simple.
Cinzia
I love your tutorial and i coonot wait to begin!!!????
Pam Kramer
Love your videos. I am a visual person, and you make the videos so easy to understand. Can’t wait for you handbag tutorials. Also I love your pink lipstick. What color and type do you use? Thank you for everything you do!
Mary Rogers
Loved the tutorial on the inset zipper. I will be able to adopt this into regular open top bags and feel secure that the contents will not fall out.
Looking forward to the hand bag of the month tutorials. Great concept. What will be the cost ?
Kim
I’ve been making bags for yrs but never really knew how to do the zippers like u are doing, Love the way it looks on the bags…you teach very well on all your tutorials…..ty
June Townsend
Looking forward to your bag of the month tutorials.
Cathy Hoover
Hey. I just watched the 2nd video and there was a glitch at about the 10:20 point. I backtracked several times and it always happened at the same place. It may just be my computer but thought I would let you know just in case. Love your videos. I got my first sewing machine for Christmas in 1964 and still enjoy learning new things.
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
Thanks for the heads up. It was a glitch! Just fixed it! Thanks!!
Barbara
Thank you, Vanessa, I make bags and always wanted to do an adjustable strap. Your instructions are very clear and easy to understand. Looking forward to joining bag your bag of the month club
Susan Mei
Vanessa, love the videos. Very helpful. Thank you so much. I don’t know if anyone else asked this, since there are about 40,000 comments here, but when you tell us more about the bags, will you also tell us the measurements? I know you said we can adjust the size, but I would like to know the starting size of the prototypes, if you don’t mind. 🙂 Thanks a million!
Debra M. Connis
Good Evening, Miss Vanessa.
I love your tutorials. They are so informative. I was wondering what brand and model number your iron is? I was trying to freeze it and look at it but, I am tooo slooowww. Lol
Thank you for your help.
Debra
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
Hi Debra. Glad you’re enjoying my tutorials. The iron I was using is this one: http://amzn.to/2ajgj8i Hope that helps! 🙂
Susan Mei
Vanessa, will we be able to pay a portion of the price each month with PayPal, like we do with the quilt club? That would be really helpful for those of us on a tight budget, as well as those already paying for the quilt club, each month. I hope, I hope . . . .Pretty please???? Thank you. 🙂
Elizabeth Sawyer
Great video as usual and excellent teaching with brilliant camera angle. Well done yet again Vanessa.
Delores Junior
just love you videos i learn so much now i have a chance to make my own bags thank you looking forward to the club you are so clear and easy to learn from thank you
Rhonda Head
I have made several bags that I would never have tackled if I didn’t have your videos. I’m excited to learn more. One question the glue you use looks like regular elmers glue. Is it or is there a special kind of glue to use sewing?
Edie Warren
Even though I am an experienced bag maker, I am truly looking forward to this new BOM club. I’m sure you’ll be showing me something I don’t know or even just refresh my memory. Keep up the excellent work……and go ahead and brag if you want to!
Valerie Herrington
I have been making for many years. So nice to see an adjustable strap finally explained clearly. Just happen to have one to try this method. It is a birthday gift for my sister. Also wanted to thank you for your Missouri Star video tour. My sister in law and I just came back from a retreat there last week. One more thing off our bucket list!!! Hope to take a “live” class from you very soon. I’m in Jacksonville.
Valerie Herrington
Correction–have been making bags for many years. In old!!!LOL
Shirley Elfstrom
I do enjoy your videos and am looking forward to the Bag of the Month club.. one question, what do you use for your basting glue? is it just regular Elmer’s? Oh, and also, I can’t find a thumbs up to click on for you..
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
Hi Shirley. Yup! I use just regular ol’ white washable Elmer’s Glue. 🙂
Mira Sasson
I like the projects that you displays on your youtube channel. and the way you explain the process . it is charming . good job.
Mira.
Ester aguirre
Love your ideas. Made projects for friends and they love what they get. You make me look good and make a friend happy. Thank you.
Marie
Can’t wait for the bag of the month starts, I’m so excited! I made a triangle bag from your video for my 3 year old great grandson Tyler and I put 2 little Match Box cars in it. He’ll learn how to manage zippers and have fun with his cars. Thank you for your method of doing things, it’s simple and precise and very easy to follow. Keep up the good work!
Marie
Dorene Locke
Thank you so much I am learnimg so much from your vidios. Great tips too. So east ti follow.
Darlene Gardner
I love your video’s, Vanessa. They are the best and easiest out there. I have learned so much from you and would like to thank you for all your hard work. I just finished a purse with your zipper video and it turned out great. I will be doing a lot more of these. I would have sent a picture but wasn’t sure how to add it on here. Thanks again an can’t wait for more video’s.
Phyllis Chambliss
Thank you for this video, i put a zipper in a bag after i made the but it not look like that. Thanks for sharing.
Sharon Hawkinson
Vanessa, I love you tutorials and am glad you will be doing all of the bags. My biggest challenge is getting the lining to lay flat in the bag and recessed zippers. Looking forward to solving those problems with you.
Jeannette franklin
Well that was great can’t wait for the bag club to start, love all your videos so keep them coming
Becky B
Thank You for all you do Vanessa! I want to learn it all, nervous about hardware zippers etc..but I will say that so far everything I have learned I have learned from you. Don’t change your teaching style I love it, I a,pm a visual learner and without you I wouldn’t know how to sew. I have tried ,many times to learn patterns etc and gave up. I can go on and on. So Yaaasssss! I a, excited to say look I made this yup zipper and all. So glad your. Clouding the hardware your just th best ever.mthank you
Ryna
Great tutorial
Ryna
Great
Angela Findlay
I am in Australia and a new comer to sewing and I can’t wait to start these bags. I have been making lots of things from your utbe channel and l have learned a lot from you. Thank you
Angela Findlay
Thanks
LISA STEWART
I LOVE the way you teach!! No one is as clear and detailed as you. I can sew because of you Vanessa. I am so excited to join your bag of the month club!!!
Thank you for sharing your amazing skills!!
Lisa
Susan Mei
You’re really great at marketing, I gotta tell Ya! 🙂 very cute bags, but you forgot to show the insides of the last several. Do they have interior pockets, etc.? Thank you.
Sandra
I do not have a printer, do I need one for class?…
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
Hi Sandra. You will need to be able to print out the templates for the bag designs so if you don’t have one you could go to a local print shop or have someone else print it out for you. But yes, a printer is crucial for getting the pattern pieces at the correct size. 🙂
Kathy Kauth
Thank you Vanessa really enjoyed this video and so looking forward to the 5 bag episodes coming. I never thought of using Elmer Glue to act like basting, interesting.
Rachel George
Love your tutorials…well explained and easy to follow….
Maite Castro-Chaca
Excited to start. Anticipation is making me wait. Lol
Zhila
Well we be getting the fabric with the kit?
robo
I sure hope that this will not be an expensive course. It makes me nervous that you have not mentioned the price yet!
Traci King
I am new to your videos and although I have not tried to do any of them yet, I love your enthusiasm and your clear tutorials. I love bags and I am starting a new shop for jewelry, which I have made by hand for years, and sewing, which I am just learning. Can’t wait to get started.
fran renzi
Hi Venessa love your videos .i hope when you do the bag of month that you say and show how to cut the bag am a biginner and not sure how to cut material which way you lay out the fabric before you cut .how much does this cost? thank you
Nancy Bowers
Oh Vanessa — you are so-o-o “CRAFTY”. You’re such a good instructor with everything you do and we love it. Keep up the good work !!
Libby
So excited, can’t wait.
LaVonne
Your enthusiasm and to the point instructions make learning fun‼️ Keep up the fabulous work. Love it‼️
Sandra Gleason
Hello! Zippers are my hang-ups. But you do it in such a way that I understand and can follow…..Thank you!!!!
Will there be written instructions as well? I think your supper and bless you for sharing.
Cathy Westrich
Hi Vanessa,
I am definitely excited to join your club. I’ve been sewing for years and I love having a video and written instructions. That makes sewing much more fun for me.
I love your enthusiasm! Keep up the good work.
Cathy
Ken
Hi Vanessa….
Ken here….I am a seasoned Man Sewer…… Not my first rodeo LOL!!!.
I have designed and made bags in the past….and enjoy doing so. I mostly make table mats, runners, some pillows and quilts up to lap size or maybe larger. Lots of cloth ornaments many of my items are PRIMITIVE style as well. I find that your techniques and your video tutorials are the BEST on-line and I mean that. You are the CLEAREST Instructor as far as Voice loudness, your pronunciation on top point…and your energy presenting and moving right along. Which tells me that you “know what you are doing and talking about”. I really enjoy instruction that moves along and gets right down and to the point. I get bored to tears as most of the ladies may say, when someone just lags on, stumbles to death…and says: Ummm Umm Umm Umm , Umm Umm Umm….472 times throughout their videos….YOU DO NOT……Crystal Clear speaking and you are right at it from the get go…
Ms Vanessa…I am at my BEST when I can rely on you to bring me the instruction or simply just talking period…snap right to it….none of this lolly gaggin’ around the bush. For me, You get a TOP #1 Trophy for the best in presenting your videos. I mean that with all of my Man Sewing Heart. We guys like to have things just move along and get on with it. I feel very sad that folks have to be so mean… The sole PURPOSE of videos, apart from the instruction, is the very fact that you can “PAUSE” or hit replay, back it up….whatever floats one’s boat…..and re listen again and again.
I have watched / listened closely…and being hearing impaired myself, your videos PROVE to be the most energetic, top notch in volume , allowing us the listener the ability to turn our volume down if we wish to, as opposed to someone recording so low and take the choice away from us, the listeners ability to control the volume. Your energetic personality is the BEST on here. You are EXCITED in what you are doing and I cannot praise your videos enough. I have never heard an instructor pack so much information into one short video…it is amazing. This is the PERFECT FORMAT for myself. As a Man Sewer…I can appreciate the swift – move it along type approach in your videos. You KEEP my attention and my focus is GLUED to the project at hand. You my dear “Coach” are the best at what you do on here.
I know that in your couple of videos, like the inset zippers etc. I have already picked up new and quicker tricks from your videos. I am 66 yrs old, and I am retired Finance Mgr from the Vaults at Disney World, also taught school for well over 12 yrs during the same time as Disney. I worked two full time jobs. My wife worked also, as we raised our two sons. I also coached soccer for city young boys league, Scout leader for over 12 yrs…Council level adult trainer as well for many years…..just saying I was very energetic as a dad raising sons, and participating with them and being there, not just dropping them off all of the time. It was important for me to be a part of their growth in everyway possible. I was at Disney for 24 yrs and retired 22 yrs ago. ALso retired from teaching. Opened up our own Gifts / Crafts shop which quadrupled in 2 yrs time. Wife kept working and I was the sole employee / operator of our shop. Tons of crafts we both made for our shop, besides mdse I would order from trade shows like Atlanta, Chicago, Newark, Kansas City…..over 100,000 pieces in our shop. during the middle of BEANNIE BABY CRAZE. LOL….
Now I do quilting and paint wooden signs….have made several bags, have sold ALL of them…and looking to make more as time goes on. No stranger to doing crafts. But as a Man sewer, I am not afraid to tackle anything that will keep me busy, perhaps bring me a couple of bucks along the way….and simply just enjoy life and meeting a lot of nice folks who are doing the same thing, along the way.
Please keep up the Great work that you do, showing us your talents in video, and keep your head up and STRONG Ms Vanessa….there will always be that certain someone out there you CANNOT PLEASE…..but that is their loss if they somehow miss the boat. Your Boats are the easiest to sail….
Thanks Ms Vanessa….for all that you do for us.
Sincerely,
Ken
Orlando, Florida, USA
Donna C
You rock Ken! So many great accomplishments ????
My hubs is a woodworker, so we don’t use the same materials, but I know he really appreciates my quilts, scrapbooks, cards and any other crafty endeavor!
He knows what goes into making something with your hands.
Helen-Louise
Really am anxious to get started with your Bag of The Month Club. I have appreciated your style of teaching since I first found you on You Tube years ago, and it’s because of you that I got started sewing again after retiring. I’ve made so many items both from the free You Tube tutorials as well as lessons that were extremely reasonably priced that I purchased from you. Several were Christmas gifts given as well as projects completed throughout the year. You’re the best and I really count on you and hope you don’t stop what you’re doing!
Vicki
I have made two of the improv totes and love them. Enjoyed the video and am interested in four of the five bags. Will we get a list of items needed. I’d like to try some of the other products you’ll be using but use my own fabric. Looking forward to the early bird window
Deanna
Love this idea! Prices please!
Betty
Can any of the bag patterns/pdf be purchased separately?
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
They will be available for individual purchase starting January 1, 2017. Thanks!
Patricia
Can’t seem to get video to work!
Pauline
Just signed up , can’t wait to get started, love your teaching style????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
Connie
I love your videos and teaching style. I bought several of your patterns and watched a ton of your videos, you have taught me a lot. Do you know yet what the cost of each bag pattern/pdf will be in January? I’m not sure I want to make every bag. If we sign up for the video bag club, do we have to pay for the entire course at one shot, or can we do it monthly?
Peggy Merk
I am a follower of your tutorials and a member of your Quilt Club. You are absolutely, hands down, the best tutorial presenter I have seen yet which is why I read and watch everything about you and from you. I love your style and enjoy every tutorial/video lesson you have done. I have been anxiously waiting for your bag of the month club! I can’t wait for your fabric line to come out so my local quilt shop can purchase it! Thanks for all you do for us and inspiring me!
Jean Tomey
I will be signify up definitely! I have several purse patterns that I am afraid to try on my own so I hope to gain the confidence I need through your classes and get some nice handbags in the process!
As for Kimberly and Sue , ..how hateful can you be to put such comments on someone’s website! You know, Vanessa and her husband have worked very hard to get where they are…..it didn’t just come to them overnight! If you took the time to learn about Vanessa and her family you would know that! If you don’t care for her or her style then DON’T WATCH!!! Not only are you two hateful ….you have no class!
Vanessa, keep up the good work! I wish you and your family well. I hope you do well with all future endeavors!
Idarean
Vanessa I have a sewing class and they might want to get in on this bag of month but class not till sept. and will be to late for them to get involved. Now how will this work for us.
Terry
Vanessa, I wish you much success with this multi project bundle – great idea! I apologize if this is mentioned somewhere but I didn’t notice. Are the interiors of all the bags lined in such a way that there are no visible raw edges? That’s an important factor for me. Thanks in advance!
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
Hi Terry! Thanks for your interest in my new bag club. Yes! All the bags are fully lined and professionally finished on the inside. No raw edges! Hope you’ll join us!
Terry
Fantastic! You can count me in.
carmen
I just love her. I have been following Vanessa for 3 years and I have to say my sewing has gotton so much better. I can’t wait for the new bag making venture. Thank you Vanessa! you are an amazing teacher
Colleen
Hi all I have been trying to do do the zipper thing and have got that part right but when I go to attach the bag lining it all goes belly up. I have tried to follow the video instructions but that is a bit speedy for me. I follow the directions as best I can understand but it still does not come out right. I did a practice run and had to unpick that. How far up do I see the the gusset to. Is it right to the zip? Or before that. I really do need help here. Can some kind person advise me please. Love all the videos and stuff but this one I find really hard. Cheers
karroll
I cant get on your bag vidio the bag of the month club
Joy Langley
Where can I buy just 1 of the handbag tutorials?
Vanessa Vargas Wilson
hi Joy! The individual bag course are listed in my online shop here: http://craftygemini.com/shop