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Wish your favorite tote bag had a zipper closure? Discover why this simple upgrade makes everyday totes, diaper bags, travel bags, and work bags more secure, plus get a sneak peek at Amanda's upcoming zipper closure workshop.
If your zipper tabs disappear into the seam instead of standing out, this simple sewing tip will help you create cleaner, more polished zipper pouches every time.
Plain cotton webbing is practical, durable, and easy to sew—but it doesn't have to look plain. Learn how to transform basic webbing into beautiful custom bag handles with this beginner-friendly technique.
Want to see exactly how these handles come together?
In this step-by-step tutorial, I'll show you how to make Fabric Overlay Handles from start to finish using cotton webbing, quilting cotton, and Pellon 809 Decor-Bond. It's a simple technique that gives your bags a polished, custom look without adding unnecessary bulk.
If you've ever looked at a strip of cotton webbing and thought, "This works...but it needs something," you're not alone.
Fabric Overlay Handles are created by stitching a strip of fabric directly over the center of cotton webbing, leaving the webbing visible along each edge.
The result is a handle that's still strong and durable but looks far more custom than plain webbing alone.
There are plenty of ways to make bag handles, but this has become one of my favorites.
It adds just enough structure to softer webbing while creating a beautiful decorative accent that ties your handles into the rest of your bag.
Some of the benefits include:
For this technique, I prefer Pellon 809 Decor-Bond.
It adds stability without making the handle thick or bulky, which helps keep the finished handle crisp while still allowing it to bend comfortably.
Could you use something else?
Absolutely.
A lightweight woven fusible interfacing is another good option.
Interfacings with loft—like fusible fleece, Thermolam, or foam—can certainly be used, but I find they create more bulk than I want for this particular technique.
One thing I love about bagmaking is that tiny details can completely change the finished project.
Here are a few things I cover in the video:
These little details only take a few extra minutes, but they really elevate the finished bag.
👉 Shop my favorite bagmaking supplies here:
If you're comfortable sewing a straight line, you can make Fabric Overlay Handles.
Because you're working with cotton webbing instead of constructing traditional fabric handles, this is an approachable technique for beginners while still creating a professional-looking finish.
Even better, it works on a regular domestic sewing machine.
If you're just getting started, these resources will help.
👉 Download my Bagmaker Starter Kit
👉 Browse my PDF sewing patterns
👉 Visit the Beginner Bagmaking Collection
Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference.
Fabric Overlay Handles are a simple way to upgrade plain cotton webbing into something that looks custom, coordinated, and beautifully finished.
I hope you'll give them a try on your next project!
If you do, I'd love to see what you make.
Happy sewing,
Amanda
Learn how to sew a keychain wristlet (key fob) two simple ways—stitched or riveted. This beginner-friendly sewing project comes together quickly and is perfect for using up scrap fabric while creating something you’ll use every day.
If you’ve ever stared at a zipper pull wondering why such a tiny step feels so hard, you’re not alone.
Installing zipper pulls is one of those bagmaking skills that looks intimidating—but once you have the right setup, it becomes quick, predictable, and honestly… kind of satisfying.
In this post, I’m sharing the exact method I use to install zipper pulls on zipper tape, plus the simple tool that makes all the difference.
Most zipper frustration comes from one of three things:
The zipper tape shifts or splits.
The pull goes on crooked.
You feel like you need three hands to make it work.
I use a zipper jig when installing zipper pulls on zipper tape.
It holds the pull steady, keeps the tape aligned, and removes the guesswork—especially when working with #3 or #5 zippers. Once you use it, installing zipper pulls feels simple instead of frustrating.
See the zipper jig I use here.
(Some links may be affiliate links. I only share tools I personally use.)
In the video below, I show how to position the zipper pull in the jig, which side to use for size 5 zippers, how to feed the zipper tape cleanly, and when to cut the tape once the pull is installed.
No overcomplicating—just a clean, repeatable method you can use again and again.
Click here to watch the video tutorial, or click the photo below.
In the video, I’m using natural zipper tape with a gold coil and size 5 zipper pulls from Sallie Tomato. It has a faux metal look with nylon teeth, which makes it a great choice for bags and pouches.
If you ever feel unsure about which bagmaking tools and supplies are actually worth buying, I put together a simple reference to help.
Grab my free Mini Bagmaker Resource List HERE.
If zipper pulls have ever slowed you down or made you hesitate mid-project, mastering this one skill can be a huge confidence boost.
Bagmaking doesn’t have to feel hard. Sometimes it’s just about knowing which tools make sewing feel easier.
Happy sewing,
Amanda
Bulky zipper ends? The fix is simple—zipper tabs. This quick beginner tip makes sewing zippers easier and your bags look store-bought.
Give your handmade bags a polished, professional touch with this easy rolled handle upgrade. Perfect for beginner bagmakers using fabric or webbing straps—no hardware needed!
Struggling with crooked zipper pockets? Learn how double-sided sewing tape keeps your zipper perfectly in place while you sew for cleaner, more professional-looking bags.
Looking for a simple way to add organization to your handmade tote bags? Learn how to sew a customizable slip pocket into any bag lining with this beginner-friendly tutorial. Perfect for storing your essentials and giving your bag a professional touch—plus, I’ll show you how to pair it with the Easy Charm Tote pattern and the right interfacing for a polished finish!
Are you a beginner bag maker looking for a way to make your bags stand out? Let me introduce you to Chenille It, a magical product that can add texture, dimension, and a touch of whimsy to your handmade bags. I’ve recently tried it with my Easy Charm Tote Pattern and Sunset Zipper Pouch Pattern, and the results are nothing short of fabulous! In this post, I’ll guide you through how to use Chenille It and share some tips for incorporating it into your projects.
Chenille It is a soft, precut fabric strip that fluffs up when washed, creating a textured, chenille-like effect. It’s perfect for adding a cozy, quilted vibe to your bags while keeping things simple and beginner-friendly. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, and a 3/8" or 5/8" width option, so you can customize it to suit any fabric or design.
Choose Placement: You will want at least 2 strips of Chenille It for each area you choose to add texture. The more strips you use, the fluffier the project. For the Easy Charm Tote, I recommend applying it to the charm square and top border seams.
Stitch it Down: I used a glue stick to apply glue to the center of the seams, then placed 2 strips of Chenille It on top. Sew the Chenille It strips in place using a straight stitch down the center of the strip. Make sure it’s securely attached but not over-stitched.
Here's a completed exterior panel with Chenille It applied:
Fluff It: You can achieve the fluffy, signature texture in one of two ways. Chenille It is designed to fluff when you wash and dry your project. You could wash and dry the tote panels to get the fluff. However, I'm not patient enough, and have found that using an old wire eyebrow brush achieves the same look in a fraction of the time.
I simply place the wire teeth of the brush and gently scrape in a back and forth motion until the tape "blooms". Do this gently, if you are too rough, you will end up scraping it all off. But, if you do, it's very easy to sew more on and have it look seamless. Here's a quick video showing you how to do it:
Finish Your Bag: Complete the assembly of your Easy Charm Tote as per the pattern instructions.
For the Sunset Zipper Pouch, Chenille It works wonderfully along the striped pattern for added flair. Follow the same steps as above, adapting the placement to your pouch design.
I’d love to see how you use Chenille It to enhance your Easy Charm Tote or Sunset Zipper Pouch! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me @bemandythings. Who knows? Your creation might inspire the next beginner bag maker!
With Chenille It, leveling up your bags is easier and more fun than ever. Whether you’re making a tote for a weekend market or a pouch for your everyday essentials, this simple addition can take
Chenille It is a soft, precut fabric strip that fluffs up when washed, creating a textured, chenille-like effect. It’s perfect for adding a cozy, quilted vibe to your bags while keeping things simple and beginner-friendly. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, and a 3/8" or 5/8" width option, so you can customize it to suit any fabric or design.
Choose Placement: You will want at least 2 strips of Chenille It for each area you choose to add texture. The more strips you use, the fluffier the project. For the Easy Charm Tote, I recommend applying it to the charm square and top border seams.
Stitch it Down: I used a glue stick to apply glue to the center of the seams, then placed 2 strips of Chenille It on top. Sew the Chenille It strips in place using a straight stitch down the center of the strip. Make sure it’s securely attached but not over-stitched.
Here's a completed exterior panel with Chenille It applied:
Fluff It: You can achieve the fluffy, signature texture in one of two ways. Chenille It is designed to fluff when you wash and dry your project. You could wash and dry the tote panels to get the fluff. However, I'm not patient enough, and have found that using an old wire eyebrow brush achieves the same look in a fraction of the time.
I simply place the wire teeth of the brush and gently scrape in a back and forth motion until the tape "blooms". Do this gently, if you are too rough, you will end up scraping it all off. But, if you do, it's very easy to sew more on and have it look seamless. Here's a quick video showing you how to do it:
Finish Your Bag: Complete the assembly of your Easy Charm Tote as per the pattern instructions.
For the Sunset Zipper Pouch, Chenille It works wonderfully along the striped pattern for added flair. Follow the same steps as above, adapting the placement to your pouch design.
I’d love to see how you use Chenille It to enhance your Easy Charm Tote or Sunset Zipper Pouch! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me @bemandythings. Who knows? Your creation might inspire the next beginner bag maker!
With Chenille It, leveling up your bags is easier and more fun than ever. Whether you’re making a tote for a weekend market or a pouch for your everyday essentials, this simple addition can take your project to the next level. Ready to give it a try? Grab your pattern, pick up some Chenille It, and let your creativity shine!
Want to design pillow covers that actually match your space and your style? This step-by-step tutorial shows you how to create beautiful, customizable pillow covers using fabric you already love—no pattern needed. Whether you're decorating for a season, a holiday, or just refreshing your space, this project is quick, beginner-friendly, and totally addicting.
