If you’ve spent any time at Artistic Quilts with Colors, chances are you’ve seen the jaw-dropping bag samples proudly displayed around the shop. You know, the ones that make you stop in your tracks and say, “Wait, did someone really make that?!” 😍 Well, chances are, those masterpieces came straight from the sewing table of our very own Valerie Coatham—quilter extraordinaire and bag-making guru! 💫
Valerie isn’t just insanely talented (although she absolutely is)—she’s also one of the kindest, most encouraging instructors you’ll ever meet. Whether you're brand new to bag making or looking to sharpen your skills, Valerie’s classes are the place to be. She’s got the patience of a saint (especially when your zipper foot decides to stage a rebellion 🤣) and she always knows how to turn "uh-oh" moments into confident victories.
To celebrate Valerie and all the creativity she brings to our shop community, we’re shining a spotlight on six of her favorite bag-making tools—the trusty sidekicks she never leaves home without!
🧵 Valerie’s Top 6 Bag-Making Essentials
1. ByAnnie’s Stiletto & Pressing Tool
This two-in-one wonder features a sharp stiletto for precise fabric control and a flat end that doubles as a seam press—perfect for quick fixes right at your machine. The sand-ground tip grips fabric firmly so you can say goodbye to slips and hello to accuracy.
2. Heat Press Batting Together
No more bulky seams or awkward overlaps—this fusible tape lets you join batting pieces with ease. It bonds quickly, creating a smooth, even surface that’s a dream to sew through.
3. Clover Mini Wonder Clips (Assorted 50 pcs)
Pins? Who needs 'em! These colorful little clips hold fabric layers securely, even in tight corners. With a flat base for easy feeding into your presser foot, they’re a must-have for any bag maker’s toolkit.
4. Quick Turn Fabric Tube Turner
Turning fabric tubes right-side out used to be a chore—until now. This tool makes light work of handles, drawstrings, and straps. Fast, simple, and oh-so-satisfying.
5. Clover Chaco Liner (White)
When precision counts, this tool delivers. The fine white chalk makes crisp, visible lines on dark fabrics, and brushes off easily when you're done. Perfect for marking darts, placement lines, or stitching guides.
6. Bias Tape Maker
Take your bags to the next level with custom bias tape! Whether you're adding a pop of contrast or a perfectly matched finish, this tool helps you whip up professional-looking binding in no time.
All of Valerie’s go-to tools are available right here at Artistic Quilts with Colors, so you can stock up and sew along with the best of them.
Ready to put these tools into action?
Valerie doesn’t just recommend these tools—she teaches you exactly how to use them in her ByAnnie @ AQWC Studio Academy series! 💼🧵
This exciting monthly program is your step-by-step guide to mastering the art of bag making, using the renowned ByAnnie patterns. Each class builds on the last, so you’ll grow your skills in a structured, supportive way. Whether you're just starting out or dreaming of advanced bag projects, this progressive series is designed to take you there—with Valerie cheering you on the whole way!
Here's how it works:
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Beginner classes cover the fundamentals: fabric prep, Soft and Stable quilting, zipper insertion, basic hardware, and an intro to bias binding.
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Intermediate and advanced classes build from there, adding new techniques, finishes, and design skills with each session.
You must take the beginner class before moving on to intermediate or advanced levels to get the most out of the academy.
Have you taken a class with Valerie? Share your creations in the comments and drop a 📷 if she’s inspired your bag-making journey—we’d love to see what you’ve made!
Happy Bag Making!
❤️ The Artistic Quilts with Colors Team
