How to Make a Garment Bag Pattern: A Step-by-Step Guide
Garment bags are essential for protecting your clothing during travel or storage. Creating your own garment bag pattern allows you to customize the size and style to fit your needs perfectly. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a garment bag pattern, from selecting the right materials to cutting and sewing the final product.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you start, gather the following materials:
– Measuring tape
– Fabric: a durable, water-resistant material like canvas or vinyl
– Pattern paper or a large piece of paper
– Fabric marker or chalk
– Scissors
– Pins
– Sewing machine or needle and thread
Step 2: Measure Your Clothing
To ensure your garment bag fits your clothing, measure the following dimensions:
– Length: Measure the longest part of your clothing, from the bottom of the collar to the bottom of the hem.
– Width: Measure the widest part of your clothing, typically across the shoulders.
– Depth: Measure the depth of your clothing, from the bottom of the collar to the hem.
Step 3: Create the Pattern
1. Draw a rectangle on your pattern paper with the following dimensions: length + 2 inches (for seam allowances) x width + 2 inches.
2. Draw a diagonal line from one corner of the rectangle to the opposite corner, creating a triangle.
3. Mark the length of your clothing on the diagonal line. This will be the top of your garment bag.
4. Draw a line from the marked point to the opposite corner of the rectangle, creating the top of the garment bag.
5. Draw a line from the marked point to the bottom of the rectangle, creating the bottom of the garment bag.
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for the opposite side of the garment bag.
Step 4: Cut the Fabric
1. Place your pattern on the fabric and trace the outline with your fabric marker or chalk.
2. Cut out the fabric, leaving a 1/2-inch seam allowance around the pattern.
3. Repeat for the opposite side of the garment bag.
Step 5: Assemble the Garment Bag
1. Place the two fabric pieces right sides together and pin them together along the sides and bottom.
2. Sew the sides and bottom, leaving the top open.
3. Turn the garment bag right side out and press the seams.
4. If desired, add a handle or strap to the top of the garment bag for easy carrying.
Step 6: Final Touches
1. To ensure your clothing stays in place, add a lining to the garment bag. Cut a piece of fabric that is the same size as the outer fabric and sew it to the inside of the garment bag.
2. Press the seams and enjoy your custom garment bag!
Now that you have learned how to make a garment bag pattern, you can create a practical and stylish accessory for your wardrobe. Happy sewing!
