The Bristol pattern is a wonderfully versatile design, perfect for creating everyday essentials with a neat, professional finish. Whether you’re sewing a pencil case, a vanity bag or a compact handbag, Bristol is one of those patterns you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

Designed with both function and style in mind, Bristol features a clever double-slider zip opening, a fully lined interior with no bias binding, and a handy inside pocket to keep everything organised. You can choose between simple handles or looped versions, and there’s the option to add a shoulder strap for hands-free carrying. The clean construction means all seams are neatly enclosed, giving a polished result inside and out.

With four sizes to choose from, you can tailor your make to suit your needs. The larger sizes work beautifully as roomy vanity or wash bags, while the smaller versions are ideal for everyday essentials – think phone, purse and a few favourite bits. It’s also a brilliant pattern for gifting or sewing for the whole family. Confident beginners will enjoy learning new techniques while creating something genuinely useful.

Sizes (Width x Height x Depth):
Large vanity case: 25 x 18 x 16 cm
Small vanity case: 20 x 15 x 13 cm
Small vanity bag: 22 x 15 x 9 cm
Mini vanity bag: 19 x 11 x 8 cm

Fabric Suggestions: Outer fabric: quilted cotton, poplin, linen, canvas, gabardine, denim, jacquard, corduroy, oilcloth or leather-look fabrics. Lining: cotton poplin or thermal lining for insulated lunch bag versions.

Interfacing: Heat-bonded wadding (H630 or H640) for the outer, and semi-rigid interfacing (S320) for the lining, or foam interfacing such as Style-Vil (not recommended for smaller bag versions).

You will also need:

• Nylon zip by the metre with 2 sliders
• 25 cm of 11 mm wide elastic
• 2 x 2.5 cm loops (for handle option with loops)
• Optional shoulder strap hardware: 2 half-moon rings and 2 snap hooks

Skills You’ll Learn: Inserting a zip, constructing a fully lined bag without bias binding, sewing a pocket, making handles and attaching a shoulder strap.

Ability: Intermediate