Toronto Toiletry Bag
Today, we’ll show you how to make a waterproof toiletry bag using clear plastic designed specifically for sewing. You can also use it as a pencil case, pouch, or anything else you like.
Project preview
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
Sew the Toronto, a zippered toiletry bag with a clear plastic body, structured fabric panels, fabric zipper stops, a side handle, and a boxed base.
The transparent body makes its contents easy to see. Use the bag for toiletries, makeup, sewing supplies, or beach essentials.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Interface and finish exposed fabric panels.
- Shorten a zipper and add clean fabric stops.
- Use a pressed crease as a zipper-sewing guide.
- Sew clear plastic with clips, a size 90 needle, and a walking foot.
- Keep plastic moving when a walking foot is unavailable.
- Insert a handle and reinforce the side seams.
- Box the lower corners to create depth.
Fabric and supplies
You will need clear plastic intended for sewing, woven fabric, fusible interfacing, and a zipper. Interfacing supports the fabric panels and handle so the bag keeps its shape.
Do not press the clear plastic directly. Clips avoid permanent pinholes, and pattern paper can help the plastic move beneath the presser foot.
Make it your own
Change the fabric, enlarge the bag, add a snap, or alter the depth of the boxed corners.
The clear-window technique also appears in the multipurpose backpack.
For another practical use of transparent material, see the car seat organizer.
Base measurements
The demonstrated version starts with a 23 × 25 cm clear-plastic piece and two 8 × 25 cm fabric panels. Its zipper is cut to 21 cm for the 25 cm bag width.
The PDF also provides the dimensions for the zipper stops and handle.
The complete video class includes a measured PDF for the Toronto bag and demonstrates the machine setup for sewing clear plastic.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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