This is the second large Companion Carpet Bag I've made and I still love this pattern! It sews up quite quickly, but the finished result is an impressive one. The defining feature of this bag is its unique metal frame. The foam stabilizer (I used Pellon Flex-Foam) supports the weight of the frame nicely.

Don't let the frame scare you though! It's easier than it looks, and I've even made a quick video showing you how.

I've mentioned before that I like to check out thrift stores for the perfect purse parts, and this bag was a result of a lucky find. I happened upon a bag in really good condition with these gorgeous handles. The bag wasn't my style, but the handles caught my eye.I was also able to rip-stitch the strapping on the bag for enough material to create my own connectors. 

For this bag I chose Tula Pink, Elizabeth, from Fabric Spark and Tangled Blossoms Design on Etsy, both great Canadian shops. The frame came from Emmaline Bags, another wonderful Canadian shop. Or check out Bobbin Girl if you're in the UK. 

You can get the pattern for the Companion Carpet Bag from Sewing Patterns by Mrs. H here.

I get a lot of questions from other bag makers about my zippers. I often match my zipper pulls to the fabric I'm using, giving the bag an extra special touch. Today I'm sharing exactly how I make my zippers. I start with a #4.5 or #5 zipper tape, then choose the correct size zipper pull of whichever colour I want to match with my fabrics. I really love the By Annie Zipper By the Yard available at Stitch in the Ditch, and I also use the zipper tape and pulls from Paccana. 

I've created a quick video to show the rest. I also include directions for creating a double-pull zipper. 

Not only do I prefer this method, because of the endless possibilities of custom sizes and colours of zippers, but it's much cheaper than buying these specialty zippers individually. I was able to make a custom coloured 36" double pull zipper for 50 cents!  Go forth and make zippers! I'd love to hear what you think.