Melford Messenger Bag sewing pattern
The designer of this bag is one of the most accomplished purse designers in the bag-sewing world.
Here she brings us the Melford Messenger Bag. This bag takes its inspiration from the 1940s ARP (Air Raid Precautions) wardens’ bags. This style of bag combines a sensible size with an unusual shaped front pocket and flap making it a practical accessory with vintage appeal.
The Melford Messenger can be made with a self-fabric strap or a purchased strap attached with self-fabric tabs. The style makes up beautifully in two contrasting fabrics ranging from wool tweed, tartan and moleskin to contrasting patchwork fabrics with a retro feel. If you aren’t used to working with those sort of fabrics, or they aren’t your style, this purse would work equally well in a denim, linen or quilting cotton. The designer includes a template for a shaped interior patch pocket.
When finished this beautiful bag measures approximately 14” (35cm) high by 12” (31cm) wide at the base by 2” (5cm) wide.
What you will need to make the Melford Messenger Bag:-
- 2/3 yard (60cm) of 60” (154cm) wide or 1 yard (95cm) of 44” (112cm) wide exterior fabric,
- 2/3 yard (65cm) of 44” (112cm) wide lining fabric,
- ½ yard (50cm) of 44” (112cm) wide firm sew-in interfacing,
- 2/3 yard (65cm) of 36” (92cm) wide fusible interfacing,
- 40” by 5” (105cm x 14cm) of fusible web,
- One magnetic snap – see our resources page for recommended hardware suppliers,
- Three big buttons (approx. 1½”/4cm diameter),
- Optional – long leather or vinyl strap ¾” (2cm) wide and approx. 36” (92cm) long,
- Thread to match the fabric,
- Basic sewing supplies,
- Sewing machine.
