The Red Bag Club

If you’ve spent some time online recently, you might have already heard about the unexpected red theory.

The idea is simple: adding a small pop of red can instantly bring something to life: a room, an outfit or a corner of a space that suddenly feels more alive.

My personal version of this theory is that a red bag can do exactly the same thing for an outfit.

It all started with this tomato red Utility Tote by @clairemadeit.

But it quickly became clear that it wasn’t just the Utility Tote: almost any bag seems to work beautifully in red (find the instagram post with everyone's amazing makes here). From structured canvas totes to softer linen bags, the colour always brings the design to life, with only the fabric weight changing depending on the style.

Each one has its own personality, but they all share that same little spark of energy that red seems to bring.

And so, quite accidentally, the Red Bag Club was born and it might be my favourite club yet.

Thinking of Sewing Your Own?

What Are the Best Fabrics for Sewing Bags?

If you’re new to bag making, you might be wondering which fabrics work best.

In general, medium to heavy-weight fabrics are ideal because they give the bag structure and durability.

Some of the best fabrics for sewing bags include:

• linen for a relaxed, textured bag
• cotton canvas or cotton twill for everyday durability
• waxed cotton for structure and weather resistance
• cotton-hemp blends for strength and natural texture

You can also add a contrasting lining fabric to give your bag extra structure (if using a canvas for example) and a little hidden pop of colour inside.

Choosing the fabric is all part of the fun - the same sewing pattern can look completely different depending on the fabric you use! It's just one of the reasons sewing is so cool.

If you decide to sew your own red bag, I would love to see it.

There’s something very joyful about seeing all the different interpretations people create from the same pattern.

Every fabric, sewist and make tells a different story.

So if you make one and you'd like to share please tag me - we’ll all happily welcome you into the Red Bag Club.

With love,

Fleur xx