Bags for Life

Join Stuart Hillard as he expands his expertise from quilt-making to bag-making.



Not just a sewing book, Bags for Life teaches you the diversity of bags that you can create once you have learnt the basics. With projects for all levels of crafter, you can work your way up from the simpler tote bag to various, more complicated, projects – such as a toiletry bag or overnight bag


With 21 stylish projects for every occasion Stuart provides achievable patterns, fast makes for all abilities and professional looking results. Delving into the anatomy of the bag, take a visual tour of the various parts of different bags, before moving onto the specific details of pockets, zips, piping, binding, straps and handles and even metalwork. Divided into 5 chapters, there is much to choose from – whether you want to make re-usable shopping bags or a crafters bag that holds your yarn, there is something for every crafter out there.


Chapters include:
A Trip to the Market: trolley bags to shop and go; simple drawstring produce bags; expanding market tote; and a wallet.
A Day at the Beach: Convertible tote 'n' towel; splash proof sling and book bag; and multi-purpose hobo perfect for carrying food, blankets and even baby essentials.
A Picnic by the Lake: Picnic bag with insulated interior; bottle carrier; and drawstring games and play mat.
A Meeting in the City: The ultimate workbag with room for a laptop or tables; the overnight attaché; and a don't shoot the messenger bag, an everyday essential.
A Weekend in the Country: The ultimate weekend bag with plenty of pockets; an absolute essentials roll-up pouch; and a multi-pocketed zippered toiletry bag.
A Great Afternoon In (for every crafter!): Knitting bag to store your current project in style; a sewing machine bag; a project pouch; and a drawstring project bag.


With 2 pattern sheets, step-by-step illustrations and lifestyle photography, there really is nothing stopping you from creating a whole host of homemade bags in a fun and sustainable way.