Clara Toiletry Bag
Discover the Clara Toiletry Bag, a new project from Lulu Ferris, our sewing academy. Make it in two sizes and learn different ways to organize the interior. It’s perfect for personal care items, makeup, or even as a pencil case or sewing kit.
Project preview
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
The Clara is a structured toiletry bag offered in standard and large sizes for toiletries, makeup, sewing supplies or stationery.
Two zippers allow the top to open fully, providing a clear view of the contents. A sturdy handle makes the case easy to pick up or hang.
A mesh pocket sits in the lid, and a hook-and-loop tab keeps the case closed.
The main compartment can hold divided fabric pockets, elastic organizers or a combination of both.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Build a rounded lid around two zippers.
- Finish and attach a mesh lid pocket.
- Create divided lining pockets with inverted pleats.
- Add an elastic organizer with custom spacing.
- Form the dimensional base and join the layered sections.
- Attach the handle and hook-and-loop closure.
- Secure the lining at the base.
Fabric and structure
The samples use waterproof fabric, which is easy to clean but more demanding to sew. A Teflon presser foot is recommended for this material.
For a more approachable version, use canvas outside and poplin for the lining. Overcast fabrics that fray before assembly.
Medium-weight interfacing, batting or a firm stabilizer can provide structure. Firmer products create a stiffer case but add bulk during construction.
Closed-ended zippers are easier to manage than continuous zipper tape because the stitching does not need to cross the teeth.
Make it your own
Choose fabric pockets, elastic organizers or one of each. Either organizer treatment can also be repeated on both interior walls.
Set the pocket divisions and elastic spacing around what you plan to carry. Softer elastic can lie flat, while firmer elastic may need extra room around containers.
Replace the mesh lid pocket with clear or translucent plastic, another type of mesh or fabric.
An optional rigid insert can sit beneath the lining or be covered separately to give the base more support.
Finished sizes
- Standard: approximately 25 cm long, 11.5 cm high and 12 cm deep.
- Large: approximately 35 cm long, 14.5 cm high and 17 cm deep.
The video class demonstrates both interior organizer styles. The accompanying PDF provides dimensions, cutting information and materials for both sizes.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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