Make sure pattern pieces are on a transparent/semi transparent paper. This way you can see the placing of details before you cut.
Tips & Tricks:
-Use a very heavy single side fusible interfacing fused to the suit coat.
-If using for a laptop – invest in quality padding. I used automotive headliner (the stuff in the roof of your car). It is fairly thin but cushy and sewed like a breeze.
-Repurpose hardware from another bag. I almost purchased swivel hooks from the fabric store, but they cost $10 a piece. No thanks. Instead I took the clips off a Salvation Army bag. ($2 total).
-I also repurposed the vinyl strap from the same thrifted bag for these photos because I ran out of time for my project submission. The bag now has a grey wool strap which I like much better.
-I used an old vinyl belt for a closure. It was easier to sew through than I thought. I made the mistake of assembling the back of the bag before securing the belt. On the back and bottom of the bag the belt is glued using Eileen’s OK to Wash Fabric Glue. Once dry it worked like a champ.
– I always encourage adding an unique label. These labels I made on my home printer, but you could stamp, embroider, fabric marker, etc to create your own seal.