In-person course
in Amersham Maker & location details

Zipped Tote Bag Workshop

Description

Sam Slator’s sewing workshops continue to grow in popularity, inspiring local amateur sewers to dust off their machines and see what they can create. Having seen a fantastic array of different pyjama bottoms, pull-on elasticated waist trousers and adorable make up bags and pencil cases last year, we were super excited to hear what Sam had up her sleeve next… and we weren’t disappointed! In this ‘new for spring 2026’ workshop we will be learning all about zips and making a really practical and versatile tote bag. Sam will guide you through every part of the process, including adding the zip to sewing up the bag which is lined & has an inside pocket. The bag can be worn across the body or on the shoulder. The finished bag size will be approx. 47cm x 45cm, strap length approx. 92cm. You will need to provide the fabric & zip. What do you need to bring? Ideally please bring your own sewing machine (if this is a problem please contact us and we can supply one subject to how many people need one - first come first served!) Fabric (see below) Zip - 35cm Thread scissors Fabric scissors Thread to compliment your outer & lining fabric. Bobbins Pins Zipper foot for your machine if you have one. Don’t worry if you don’t. Details of how much fabric to bring are as follows: Fabric for outer & straps: L150cm x W100cm - This fabric should be thick to give the bag some substance. Fabric for lining & pocket: L150cm x W100cm - This fabric should be thinner than your outer fabric. Zip 35cm - choose a colour that compliments your outer & lining fabric. This workshop has been put together, and will be led by our expert sewing teacher, Sam Slator, who also runs her own mending business, The Sewing Loft. Sam is a huge advocate for sustainable fashion and regularly teaches a range of different sewing classes with us. Her two-week Saturday morning course is a great place to start if you have a sewing machine that hasn’t been used in a while! At Where Inspiration Blooms, we’re big fans of delicious cake! In this class, you can enjoy a choice of traditional and herbal teas from Chesham-based tea connoisseurs, Two Spoons, as well as both caffeinated and decaf coffee. We have dairy and non-dairy milks to suit every preference, and our homemade cakes are always sourced from good local bakers. We also make sure those who need gluten-free options aren’t left out, with carefully selected treats. If you have any allergies, please do let us know when you book so we can make sure everyone has a wonderful and worry-free treat. Please note that we will only be able to run this class/course if we have a minimum of 5 guests. All of our teachers are highly skilled in their fields, but being an artist isn't always a well paid profession so we hope you understand why it's important that we ensure that our teachers can afford to run each of their classes. Should the class not be able to go ahead we will contact you no less than 2 weeks before it is due to start and we will of course, offer you a full refund.