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Whether you’re heading off on a weekend getaway or simply need a little extra organization for everyday adventures, having a few coordinating bags makes packing so much easier. For this project, I created a travel trio using the beautiful Boho Batiks by Jennifer Long collection, combining the Patchwork Duffle by Knot + Thread Design with two smaller pouches from my own patterns.
I used HeatnBond VersaFoam Single-Sided Fusible Foam Stabilizer to give each piece a little extra structure while keeping the bags lightweight and easy to handle. With three different sizes, this set is perfect for keeping everything organized, from larger essentials in the duffle bag to smaller items tucked neatly into the pouches.
Let’s get started and create a coordinated travel set that is as practical as it is pretty!
6. Use HeatnBond PeelnStick Double-Sided Basting Tape to help with zipper installation. I have to say, PeelnStick has been a lifesaver for me when it comes to installing zippers and positioning straps. It keeps everything securely in place while sewing and makes these steps so much easier.
7. Continue assembling the bag following the instructions in the pattern. The hard part is done, and you’re almost there! .
These little pouches are more of a freestyle project than a traditional pattern. You can easily make them whatever size you need by simply changing the number of 2½" squares you use. I also added a clear vinyl window to the front of each pouch, making it easy to see what’s inside without having to open it. For this trio, I made two different sizes, with the smallest pouch measuring 5 squares wide by 4 squares high.
9. For the front of the pouch, use the same width, but replace one row of 2½" squares with a strip of clear vinyl.
10. Once you’ve decided where the vinyl strip will be placed, trim the bottom edge of the upper patchwork section and the top edge of the lower patchwork section by ¼". Use your quilting ruler and rotary cutter to get nice, even edges.
11. Cut 2¼" wide strips for the binding. These strips will be used to cover the raw edges along the bottom of the upper patchwork section and the top of the lower patchwork section, creating a clean, finished edge around the clear vinyl opening.
A couple of tips: Use a walking foot or Teflon foot to help move your work along. The vinyl tends to stick to the presser foot, making it difficult for the feed dogs to move the layers through the machine smoothly.
13. Use the same binding method to finish the top edge of each patchwork section on both the front and back of the travel pouch. This will give you a nice, clean finished edge to use when attaching the zipper. Once the binding is in place, attach the zipper following your preferred zipper installation method.
15. Before finishing the pouch, it’s time to add something fun and original! I created a personalized tag using cotton twill tape and also added a little design to the inside of the pouch that can be seen through the vinyl window. To create the design, use the Boho Batiks Sparkle Stencil, a coordinating colour of Sparkle Paste and a clean painter’s spatula. Apply the Sparkle Paste through the stencil, then carefully lift the stencil away to reveal your design. Be sure to wash your tools in warm water right away, and allow the Sparkle Paste to dry completely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the complete drying and curing process to achieve the best results.
16. Fold the pouch at the zipper, with right sides together, and sew the side seams using a ¼" seam allowance. Sew the bottom seam using a ¼" seam allowance.
17. Cut a ¾" to 1" square from each bottom corner to create the boxed corners.
Bind the side seams and bottom seam to cover the raw edges and give the inside of the pouch a clean, finished look.
18. Open up one of the cut corners and bring the two seams together, aligning the bottom seam with the side seam. Pin or clip the edges together. Sew across the opening using a ¼" seam allowance to create the boxed corner. Repeat on the other side.
19. Bind the seams of the boxed corners to cover the raw edges and give the inside of the pouch a nice, clean finished look. Turn the pouch right side out and gently push out the corners.
20. Now that your Travel Trio is finished, it’s time for the fun part, plan a weekend getaway so you can put your new bags to good use!
Thanks for joining me in creating this fun Travel Trio using the beautiful Boho Batiks collection. I hope this project inspires you to play with patchwork, add a little sparkle and create bags that are not only useful, but uniquely your own.
If you enjoyed this project, I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to stop by my Instagram and say HI, I would love to see what you’re creating!
By Deb Zaleski
