I recently made a waterproof-ish zipped bag for a friend that enjoys outdoor swimming adventures. Hopefully it will be handy to keep some valuables dry, even though there are no taped seams or technically watertight.
I decided to use this gorgeous clouds softshell fabric for the outside. Softshell is a dream to sew with and even though it’s not 100% waterproof, it's showerproof and has enough water repellency. The layer of fleece on the back will add extra cushioning, structure and insulation from the elements to the bag.
I used this coated cotton for the lining. Again, it’s not 100% water proof but it has enough water repellency and also I wanted to use a woven cotton for the interior.
insert fabric pic
I was also considering lining it with this waterproof geometric fabric, but in the end, I opted for the cotton just because I preferred for this project.
The reason for this project was to use this cool new watertight zips we stock. My sewing is often motivated by haberdashery. I love haberdashery, and our website reflects that. It’s what takes your sewing from basic home made to out of this world cool handmade.
A cool new haberdashery or a fun new fabric print is usually what sparks an idea or inspires me for starting a new project, very rarely is the need for a new item, but the enjoyment of creating it and the process of it.
I always add some zip end tabs in the form of fabric or bias or tape. In this case I added some fluorescent Satin Bias tape to both ends.
This is pretty much all my pieces for this bag. 2x outer fabric of the softshell clouds, 2x lining, 4x G700 cotton iron on interlining, 1x waterproof zip, 1 x piece of 30mm cotton canvas webbing for the handle.
All the fabric pieces measure the same as above.
Iron all the interlining pieces on to the outer and lining fabrics.
Place and secure the zip right sides together on to the outer fabric, matching the shorter side at the top. 
And stitch in place. Repeat for the other side.
Like so. What a beautiful pattern on this fabric!
This is optional: cut a piece of canvas webbing to attach on the side as a handle. Make it as long or short as you like. Here I made long enough to fit my hand when folded.
Place it into position on the side of outer fabric and stitch in place.
Now carefully topstitch the outer fabric, but making sure not to catch the lining by folding it to the opposite side.
I found it easier to use my blind stitch foot but a standard zigzag foot will work just fine.
I love topstitching on softshell, it creates such a lovely neat finish and it’s so easy too!
I don’t usually understitch the linings on my bags as I think it looks nicer from the outside.
Now open up the sides and gather some clips (or pins) to hold the pieces together.
Pin or clip outer and lining right sides together, and stitch. Remember to leave the zip open otherwise you won’t be able turn it.
Leaving an opening at the bottom of the lining.
Create a gusset with the corners and measure approx 3cm off the tip. I sometimes just eyeball it!
Stitch and cut the corner on both the lining and outer fabric.
Turn it and the lining inside out and stitch the opening on the lining as close to the edge as possible.
Admire your work.
Happy sewing! x
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