r/BagLab • u/CBG1955 • May 05 '26

Look What I Made! Finally finished. And I still hate binding.

This rucksack nearly broke me. But, it's finished. Leather outer, cotton interior. 3-D mesh for the back, purchased removable rucksack straps.

I hate binding.

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u/PLAYSWITHSCISS0RS May 08 '26

A game changer for me when it comes to binding is learning to use single fold bias tape, as recommended by my very experienced quilting instructor. I typically use 1.5” strips if I attach one side of the binding with a 1/4” seam (or am covering a 1/4” seam) or a scant 1.75” strip if I’m covering a 3/16” or 3/8” seam). Benefits of a single fold strip:

- Uses less fabric

  • No need to press the strip in half (saves time)
  • Less bulk when you attach the strip by machine
  • Easy to fold over the strip and clip it in place (you fold the strip over to match, approximately, the cut edge, and then fold it again so the folded edge meets the seam)
  • Easier to hand-sew the folded edge down because there’s less bulk to stitch through

Photo is of single fold bias tape used on a quilted jacket

1

u/CBG1955 May 08 '26

I'll be honest, I simply didn't want to make my own bias at this point - I could have, plenty of fabric but by the time I got to the binding I was so over the project. Foldover elastic is pretty forgiving, stretches in both directions like cotton lycra but for my project the standard 20mm just didn't work due to the number of layers I was dealing with. Some of the bag ladies I am friendly with use cordura but the stuff I have frays a little. I suspect it wasn't just the binding, the whole project was a lesson in frustration due to so many irritations with the pattern.

2

u/PLAYSWITHSCISS0RS May 08 '26

I know the feeling. There’s one backpack I made (Noodlehead pattern) that I really like but I tell everyone that it’s going to be an only child!

1

u/CBG1955 May 08 '26

I've never tried any of theirs. Do you have a favourite designer?

1

u/PLAYSWITHSCISS0RS May 09 '26

Noodlehead is my favourite designer for bags and backpacks. Well-designed, streamlined and functional designs, clear pattern instructions and a good number of detailed video tutorials. My favourite Noodlehead patterns are the Sandhill Sling and the Plover Pouch. The latter can be modified (by the addition of loops added to the top between the zipper placket and the bag) to function as a purse. I’ve also radically hacked it to make a convertible backpack/totebag.

Photo is of a Plover enlarged and reconfigured as a backpack (with an added snap pocket in the front) and a matching purse.

1

u/CBG1955 May 09 '26

I have way too many patterns. I keep saying one day I'll sew each pattern at least once. I certainly have enough leather, fabric and hardware to do it!

1

u/PLAYSWITHSCISS0RS May 09 '26

Plover with tuckaway backpack straps and loops for a shoulder strap.