Wanting a New Bag

Over the weekend I was struck with the want of a new carpet bag. In reality, I want one of my carpet bags. But, it may actually be easier to make a new one then to send mom on a hunt for one in storage.

Here is my red plush carpet bag which Cleo decided was her’s. This one really is an ideal size for travel. It isn’t to big, yet fits lots and lots.

I’ll have to look for a photo of my other one. It is bigger with a flat metal frame. It is good for carrying clothes into an event. But, it is a bit big to carry around all weekend.

The other kind of travel bag I have is this one in Karen Augusta’s collection which looks like a duffle bag. For a while Shooting Star had an online class for making this bag. It is so easy to make.

Bevin ‘s Travel Bag http://s136.photobucket.com/albums/q178/canardverte/?action=view&current=travelbag1.jpg

Inside http://s136.photobucket.com/albums/q178/canardverte/?action=view&current=travelbag2.jpg

So, now that I want a bag here, what kind do I want?

Dan’s reaction was that my wanting a bag means more work for him, since he would need to bend a frame. So, maybe I’ll make another duffle bag style bag. Maybe.

I do like the structure of a typical carpet bag:

If I wasn’t making my own bag, the go-to place would have to be the Carpet Bagger. Another option would be leather satchels made by ______.

Then there are these little carpet bags:

http://www.vintagetextile.com/new_page_12.htm

Making a bag….

The bags at top were made with a pattern Bevin made. I have another idea for a bag with a stronger bottom. If you are looking to make a bag, there are a few resources. For a kit, I suggest seeing if Glenna Jo is still offering her kits. Here are directions from the 1880s.

Frames….. Have I mentioned I like Google’s Patent Search?

Here is one from 1840, one from 1863, and one from 1864. There are oodles after 1864.

Other tid-bits

This is a beautiful nameplate with a carpet bag theme.

I made mini versions of the dufflebag style for my doll, Mae and Civility. They were very cute. Mae needs a carpet bag too. Here are direction for a doll sized bag.