Half Yard™ Bags & Purses

Leading craft publisher Search Press has many titles that are perfect for gifting. The book contains 24 projects, with 12 bags and 12 matching purses. Designs include flowery patchwork totes, backpacks with faux leather detailing, clasp-top clutches, cute floral message bags, practical folder holders and a stylish business travel bag. Each purse is made in the same style and fabric as its corresponding bag, requiring no more than half a yard of outer fabric together with hardware, trimmings and lining. The instructions are provided in Debbie's clear, friendly style, along with easy-to-follow photography. Each template is included at full size, and there are QR-coded video links that provide additional support from the author. 

* Craft Focus Magazine Dec 2018/Jan 2019 *

I was super excited to receive a copy of a new book in the 'Half Yard' series by @debbieshore for @searchpress (number 7 now!! Woweee!!) I started flicking through the projects (from back to front) and, as a novice to bag making, was very daunted by the projects! What I should have done (as any normal person would do) is start at the beginning as Debbie takes you through the different hardwares (handles/frames/fastenings) used in the book as well as instructions for sewing piping, making straps, fitting clasps/twist fastenings, adding pockets, and zipped pockets! Then, once Debbie has covered these top tips/techniques, the world is your oyster! The book has 24 projects (12 bags & 12 matching purses) for you to make! Each project has beautiful photos and clear instructions! Most of the projects are very traditional and not necessarily for the modern sewist....but you can easily change the fabrics and make it your own! What I REALLY like about this book is that there are 8 associated QR-coded videos so, using your phone, you can scan the code from the book to see the corresponding video guidance (including piping, attaching a zip, attaching a purse frame and bias binding)! This is a fantastic way of combining the traditional craft of sewing with the modern world of digital media! 

-- Naomi Clarke * @naomialicec - Instagram *

Debbie's books are always hugely popular and this delightful book is no exception. Beautifully illustrated with clear instructions and cleverly only requiring half a yard of fabric this book is an absolute delight and perfect for creating beautiful bags and purses for the summer. 

* Hot Brands Cool Places *

I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!

I want to make everything that is in it and I want to make them all again for everyone I know.

A bag for every occasion complete with matching purse are beautifully showcased with stunning glossy photographs, I am in love with them all.

Debbie Shore has outdone herself with this fabulous book, and if you love sewing then you will not be disappointed.

Full instructions and a few full sized templates are given. The project order is easy to follow and what I love with Shore's books, is that even beginners can accomplish a usable and beautiful item. What you need, sizes and 'how to' is in simple language and include some helpful hints and tips for that professional look and finish.

With no more than half a yard of fabric, totes, clutches, and more can be made from cotton, felt and faux leather. I adored the Twisted Thread Bag, and even though it looks quite difficult, the ease of the demonstration means that I will have no bother achieving a fabulous result with a stunning effect.

In this book, there is a QR Code. this can be scanned with your phone and takes you to videos, tutorials and helpful advice. This is a genius idea and is why I love Ms Shore, she thinks about everything and everyone.

Highly recommended and quite superb.

-- Postcard Reviews * Tracy Shephard *

This is TV presenter Debbie’s latest book in the excellent ‘Half-Yard’ series and is packed with gorgeous must-have bags and purses that will be used again and again.  Be it a casual tote for travel, a practical carrier for the working day or a smart and stylish bag for that special occasion, Debbie has it covered, and as always, her instructions are clear and detailed.  With the addition of QR codes for bonus technique videos, the designs are suitable for all abilities.  Those with more sewing experience can, however, personalize their bags with additional pockets, zips and applique.  A fabulous book – the most difficult thing is deciding which bag to make first!

-- Embroiderers Guild * Embroiderers Guild *

Make twelve bags and twelve matching purses using only half yards of fabric.  All you need is this amount for the outside of the item plus lining, decorations, notions and hardware.  You don’t even need a lot of sewing experience with the easy to read instructions with plenty of staged photographs, although a good knowledge of the basics is a must.  There is a page of tips for the “complete beginner” but personally I would rate this for improver level as there is a fair amount to master.  One of the features is that most of the projects feature bag hardware in the shape of buckles, frames, chains, D-rings and carabiners.  This gives the bags a professional finish and instructions are given on how to attach them.  At the front there is a list of what you need to embark on making bags plus several pages of basic techniques including stitches, making straps and your own bias binding, adding pockets and putting in zips.  There are no patterns in this book apart from a page of templates; each project has a cutting list of the simple shapes you require, plus a list of everything you need and a finished size.  You can expect plenty of Search Press’ trademark photographic stages for a pretty foolproof project, and a good range of different bag and purse styles.  Choose from casual tote bags, shoulder bags, formal handbags and bags to take to work as well as various purses and wallets to match.  My favorite feature of the book is the emphasis on using up what you have; it really shows how to do a lot with a little.  From an ingenious use of an old cork to a brilliant way of using up lots of spare threads there is a way of using the smallest scraps.  I love the Charles Rennie Mackintosh style rose made from “iris folding” strips of fabric – very pretty and effective.  I was also impressed with the range of fabrics used, not only quilting cottons but leather, felt, tweed and all-over lace. This is the sort of book that you can dip into again and again for bags every time you have a new outfit.  My current favorite from this excellent series.

-- Rachel A Hyde * myshelf.com *

Just received this book over the weekend. I have sat engrossed for a couple of hours this afternoon and can stlll not decide on which of the fantastic projects to try first. So glad it is July as it gives me plenty of time to make projects for Christmas presents. Another 5 star book from Debbie.

-- Lesley Wheelwright * Customer review *

Excellent for all sewing ability levels. Lovely book, clear, easy to follow instructions & some unusual designs. A good buy to add to my Debbie Shore book collection.

 

-- Jane Symonds * Customer review *

Another lovely book by Debbie Shore - it is written in an easy to follow style with simple steps and lots of photos. Lots of useful hints and tips as well as reminders. A good choice and variety of bags and matching purses. There are also smart links to videos for those that use them.

 

-- Christy Chapman * Customer review *

This is a great little book containing some lovely projects. I am a bit of a novice, but the step-by-step instructions look easy to follow so I'm sure even I will be able to turn out some neatly finished bags and purses. I'm looking forward to having a go - I just need to brush up on my sewing machine skills and I'll be away!

 

-- Tess Stevenson * Customer revi