My First Makeup Bag

Hi everyone,

I took the plunge and made my first self-sewn makeup/toiletry bag. The pattern is from CP. I was torn between two patterns but ultimately chose this one because the bag has a wider base. That way, it stands up perfectly. I’ll post the pictures in the photo gallery later, and I’ll include a link to the pattern there, too.

Actually, I don’t think it turned out too bad for a first try—it’s just that the zipper is a bit wavy. But that didn’t happen until the very end. Right after I sewed it in, it was still nice and smooth. Maybe I should have used a longer stitch length when sewing the outer fabric and lining together. That seam right next to the zipper—which was already sewn in—might have pulled it together a bit.



Now I’m looking for a decorative charm in my junk box to attach to the zipper. I’m still missing some kind of pull, though. It wasn’t included in the pattern—and since I followed the pattern to the letter—there isn’t one. But I’ll add one myself.

All in all, I can say it’s not that easy to sew a bag like this for the first time. I wouldn’t have been able to do it with the superficial instructions I found online. Especially for your first bag, you need a good pattern that guides you step by step. That’s why I’m also giving the pattern a 5-star review.

Now you can finally take a look :-)

Best regards, Ina

I chose a colorful cotton fabric with a paisley pattern. I paired it with a pink continuous zipper.



The lining is also cotton. I reinforced both fabrics with iron-on interfacing to give the bag more structure.



I shortened the continuous zipper and finished the ends with a piece of bias tape. Since I didn’t have any, I cut a suitable piece from some pink cotton fabric.



Thanks to its wide base, the bag stands up well, and of course, it holds quite a bit.



This definitely won’t be my last bag. There are so many beautiful fabrics out there that are a delight to the eye. And you really don’t need much fabric. I don’t think I’m ready to tackle a smaller bag yet—it’s all a bit fiddly. But the size I sewed is ideal for me. And it’s completely washable, too.

Okay, enough chatting for today. I’d love it if you’d show me the makeup or toiletry bags you’ve sewn, too. Maybe you could also write a bit about your sewing experiences with them. I’m always happy to learn more.

Best regards, Ina

Great job, Ina! Little bags like this are quick to sew and make lovely little gifts.

Best regards, Inge

Oh, Inge, I don’t sew them that quickly. It took me 3 hours. It was my first one, after all—you’re not quite used to it yet and have to think things through more. But it definitely won’t be my last.

Hugs, Ina

Wow, Ina, this is another masterpiece from you. I’m really impressed that you dare to tackle such complicated projects and pull them off so brilliantly. Awesome!

Ina, your makeup bag turned out really nice—just like all the other things you sew😊. I just never seem to have the time to write, but it’s great to see how well you handle sewing.

Ina, I’m impressed. Your makeup bag looks so great, and the pink zipper goes perfectly with the print.
Whatever you set out to do always turns out so beautifully. You’re inspiring us all with your sewing skills. You’re even giving Inge a run for her money😃

I’ve got plenty of fabric lying around, too (since I hardly ever sew). Maybe someday, when my hands aren’t as good at crocheting anymore.

So keep on crafting, everyone, so we’ll have something new to marvel at.

Best wishes, Andrea

It turned out beautifully ❤️

I’m always fascinated by how similar your steps in the world of sewing are to mine from 12 years ago. That’s exactly how I felt my way through it too 😊

And you’ve got talent!!

Best regards - Nina

The bag turned out so beautifully, Ina. I would have bought it right away in a store.

I’m always amazed when I see your new creations. It’s great that you’re always taking on new challenges.

Best regards, Marlies

Thank you so much for your kind comments. I’m really happy that you’re following my sewing projects so closely.

Best regards, Ina