Learn Sewing: Market Bag Class

Learn how to make a historical carry-all and the best grocery bag you’ll ever have! This tote style is modeled after the common, historical “Market Wallet” of the 1600-1800’s. These bags are rectangular with a central opening and can be made by hand or with a machine.

This class is perfect for those who have a machine and want to learn how to use the two most common stitches for beginner projects. By making this bag, you will gain experience with sewing straight seams, finishing seams, and top stitching.

A basic knowledge of hand-sewing is enough to construct this bag without a machine. You can make a historically-accurate market-wallet, suitable for living history events, by using a running stitch and backstitch.  The instructor will demonstrate period-correct felled seams, French seams, and how to do a narrow “rolled” hem by hand.

Materials will be provided to make a historically accurate wallet in linen. If you’d like to make a colorful, modern version instead, bring 1-2 yards of 100% cotton quilting fabric or medium-weight linen and matching thread. Again, while this is a great beginner hand sewing project, the instructor will have a sewing machine available and participants are welcome to bring their own sewing machine if they wish.