Harper Holdall Class

Instructor: Crystal
Dates: Friday, August 14, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Harper Holdall

Create a beautiful, functional travel bag that's perfect for retreats, classes, and everyday use! In this two-session class, you'll learn techniques for working with quilted fabrics, zippers, pockets, and bag construction while creating a professional-looking Harper Holdall.

Skill Level

Confident Beginner to Intermediate

Students should be comfortable using a sewing machine, sewing accurate ¼" seams, and following a sewing pattern.

Supplies

Please purchase the Harper Holdall pattern before class.

Fabrics

Refer to the pattern for fabric requirements. A panel may be used for one side or try waxed canvas!

Notions

• All required interfacing and stabilizers listed in the pattern
• Zippers and hardware specified in the pattern. Come in ahead of class to match your zipper, in case we need to order one.
• Coordinating thread
• Wonder Clips
• Glass-head pins
• Fabric marking pen or pencil
• Rotary cutter, ruler, and cutting mat
• Fabric scissors and small thread snips
• Seam ripper
• Machine needles (90/14 recommended)
• Sewing machine in good working order with power cord and foot pedal
• Standard presser foot and zipper foot
• Extra bobbins

Before Class (Required)

To make the most of our class time, please complete the following before arriving:

• Read through the entire pattern.
• Prewash fabrics if desired.
• Cut all fabric, lining, interfacing, and stabilizers according to the pattern, if possible.
• Label each piece with painter's tape or sticky notes.
• Apply all interfacing and stabilizers as directed in the pattern.
• Wind at least two bobbins with coordinating thread.
• Make sure your sewing machine is clean and in good working order.

Students who arrive with prep work completed have the best chance of finishing their bag during class.

Session 1

Friday, August 14 | 1:00–4:30 PM

We'll Cover

• Pattern overview and organization
• Review of bag components
• Construct exterior pieces
• Make and attach pockets
• Install the zipper
• Begin assembling the bag body

Homework (if needed)

• Finish any remaining exterior construction.
• Press all completed sections.
• Organize pieces for final assembly.

Session 2

Saturday, August 15 | 10:30 AM–1:30 PM

We'll Cover

• Complete bag assembly
• Join lining and exterior
• Turn and finish the bag
• Attach straps and hardware
• Final topstitching and finishing details
• Tips for achieving a professional finish

By the end of class, most students should leave with a completed Harper Holdall or only a few finishing stitches remaining.

We can't wait to sew with you and help you create a bag you'll be proud to use for years to come!