Sewing With Oilcloth: Bags & Baskets

Class Preview

Use oilcloth to sew a marvelous market bag and a sturdy sewing basket! Learn how to easily cut, stabilize and sew this vibrant, durable fabric.

What Is Oilcloth?

Meet sewing instructor Kathy McGee as you embark on an oilcloth adventure! Kathy shares an introduction to the two projects you’ll make in class: a market bag and a sewing bag with pockets. Next, learn about ways to work with oilcloth as you transfer your pattern pieces and sew an appliqué flower.

Market Bag: Preparing the Pieces

Start preparing the pieces for your market bag as Kathy shows you how to mark the oilcloth and cut out each of the pieces cleanly and efficiently. Next, make the bag’s handles and attach them as you get accustomed to sewing with this fabric.

Market Bag: Adding the Details

Follow along with Kathy’s expert guidance as you finish the bag’s upper edges and apply the appliqué that you created in Lesson 1. Kathy shows you how to glue baste your oilcloth as you start to construct the bag, and shares methods for making a darling fabric bias binding.

Market Bag: Finishing

Apply the bias binding to the border of your bag, securing it in place as you work. Next, Kathy discusses stabilizer options that will help add structure to your bag, and shows you how to attach oilcloth to the stabilizer in the base of your bag.

Sewing Basket: Pockets

Dive into your second project, a sweet sewing basket with pleated pockets, elastic bands for holding tools, cotton lining, bias binding and an adorable knotted handle. Kathy shows you how to use the provided pattern before walking you through the construction of the pockets.

Sewing Basket: Construction

Construct the sewing basket you started in Lesson 5 as Kathy shows you how to sew over thick layers of oilcloth. Next, construct the bottom corners and add stabilizer to give your basket more structure and support. Kathy shares tips along the way for inserting the stabilizer and adding weights.

Sewing Basket: Finishing

Finish your sewing basket project as you create the bag’s facings and cotton lining, reinforcing the lining with Kathy’s recommended sewing methods before inserting it into your bag. Next, learn how to tie the handles into a knot and put the final touches on your oilcloth caddy.