![1 of 1 messenger bag](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_1024,h_768/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1006-1024x768.jpeg)
Making a mini messenger bag
![make a mini messenger bag](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_1024,h_768/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1018-1024x768.jpeg)
This mini messenger bag is a pattern and design that I’ve always loved. (Watch the short video) As a matter of fact the purse I use every day looks exactly like this one. I’ve made it many, many times over the years for the Beehive Bazaar, a local handmade market in Utah, where I live. When a quilter friend of mine asked me to make one for her, we agreed on a trade and then 3 years passed…
![sewing table](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_901,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1157-901x1024.jpeg)
And now, at long last, I have redeemed myself and actually made (and delivered) her bag.
![messenger bag pattern](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_662,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1158-662x1024.jpeg)
It was fun for me to rediscover this pattern that I’ve tweaked and shifted over the years. It was like revisiting an old, familiar friend.
![zipper pocket on a bag](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_689,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1156-689x1024.jpeg)
This zipper technique of sewing one side of the zipper directly to the bag face is one of my favorite time-saving hacks. Zippers can be tricky to install but this method makes it easy.
![sewing a bag](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_884,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1155-884x1024.jpeg)
I use a heavy interfacing with the lining pieces to add stand up sturdiness to the internal portion of the bag.
![mini messenger bag lining](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_860,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1154-860x1024.jpeg)
The interfacing really gives the mini messenger bag a professional feel and eliminates floppiness.
![internal zipper pocket on a bag flap](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_697,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1153-697x1024.jpeg)
There is another zipper pocket in the flap. A regular pocket wouldn’t work since the flap is constantly being flipped upside down when the bag is opened and closed.
![top stitching bag flap](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_698,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1152-698x1024.jpeg)
Top stitching the flap after sewing it all together- including a hand sewn patch with a bit of color and unique flair. Never underestimate the power of ironing seams before you sew- another trick to a professional quality finished product.
![sewing a leather handle in place](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_647,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1151-647x1024.jpeg)
Use a leather needle when working with leather, it cuts as it punctures and sews. Take your time and remember once a hole has been made in the leather it will always be there and likely visible.
![sewing the lining into a bag](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_686,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1150-686x1024.jpeg)
Placing the outside of the bag inside the lining to sew together can be an adventure. Be patient and take your time lining up seams and stitching. Also, leave a good size gap (about 5 inches) for reaching in and turning the whole thing right side out.
![make a mini messenger bag](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_1024,h_980/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1013-1024x980.jpeg)
The finished bag
Here’s a look at the completed mini messenger bag, with an added oversized snap for complete closure and a professional look.
![zipper pocket on a messenger bag](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_768,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1012-768x1024.jpeg)
Backside view with zipper back pocket. I don’t zipper this pocket closed all the time but it’s nice to have the option.
![mini messenger embroidery detail](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_auto,q_lossless,ret_img,w_806,h_1024/https://noelleodesigns.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/IMG_1011-806x1024.jpeg)
And there are the basics of making a mini messenger bag. Handmade and especially sturdy. I’ve used mine for years with minimal wear and tear and several washings. Try bag making for yourself- let the creativity flow and learn as you go! Watch the short here.
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