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This pattern is copyrighted 2021 to Rebecca Page by app.youmakehq.com
Please feel free to make garments from this pattern to sell. If you do, we would love you to include a credit to app.youmakehq.com as the pattern designer, but it is up to you.
The finished product may only be sold by crafters. It may not be mass produced. You can only sell the finished product; you cannot sell the pattern or these instructions.
Best of luck and happy sewing!
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Vintage Suitcase
Member Rating
Difficulty Level
Beginner
Equipment Needed
Description
Learn to sew a mini vintage-style suitcase for toys and other small goodies with this versatile carry case sewing pattern. Features bound edges, pockets, a removable insert, and handles.
Includes sizes XS to L
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- +Preparation
- Ultra-firm heavyweight fusible stabilizer e.g. Peltex 72F / Vilene S133 and Midweight fusible woven interfacing e.g. Pellon SF 101 Shape Flex / Vilene G700
- Extra Small – approximately 3 yards of each is sufficient
- Small – approximately 3 ½ yards of each is sufficient
- Medium – approximately 3 ¾ yards of each is sufficient
- Large – approximately 4 ¼ yards of each is sufficient
- OR Double-sided fusible foam and Midweight fusible woven interfacing e.g. Pellon SF 101 Shape Flex / Vilene G700
- Extra Small – approximately 3 yards of each is sufficient
- Small – approximately 4 yards of each is sufficient
- Medium – approximately 4 ¾ yards of each is sufficient
- Large – We recommend using a stabilizer for this size Case instead of Double-sided foam. Approximately 5 ¼ yards of the midweight interfacing is sufficient.
- Extra Small: 1x 30-inch Zipper
- Small: 1x 39-inch Zipper
- Medium: 1x 48-inch Zipper
- Large: 1x 54-inch Zipper
- NOTE – We have used a zipper with a 10 mm zipper tape on either side of the teeth. If your zipper is wider than this, you will need to adjust the Main and Lining Gusset and Side Gusset pieces by adding the difference into the width of these pieces. Adjust your pattern pieces before cutting.
- TIP – The suitcase is designed to unzip from the bottom. If you would prefer to unzip it from the top use two-way head to head zipper.
- Extra Small
- 1x Large Pocket: 1x 10-inch zipper
- 1x Small Pocket: 3x 8-inch zipper (set of 3 vinyl pockets)
- Small
- Large Pocket: 1x 12-inch zipper
- Small Pocket: 3x 10-inch zipper (set of 3 vinyl pockets)
- Medium
- Large Pocket: 1x 14-inch zipper
- Small Pocket: 3x 12-inch zipper (set of 3 vinyl pockets)
- Large
- Large Pocket: 1x 16-inch zipper
- Small Pocket: 3x 14-inch zipper (set of 3 vinyl pockets)
- OPTIONAL Fusible webbing or Wash away Fusible Tape to secure your zippers e.g. Pellon 805 Wonder-Under / Vilene Bond-a-web – approximately ½ yard will be sufficient.
- 1-inch wide Hook and loop tape (for each Removable Insert)
- Extra Small – 9 inches will be sufficient.
- Small – 11 inches will be sufficient.
- Medium – 14 inches will be sufficient.
- Large – 16 inches will be sufficient.
- Bias binding – double fold bias tape that is ⅜ inch wide when finished. You can buy/make ¾ inch wide single fold bias tape and fold in half down its center line.
- Extra Small – approximately 6 yards will be sufficient.
- Small – approximately 7 ½ yards will be sufficient.
- Medium – approximately 9 yards will be sufficient.
- Large – approximately 10 yards will be sufficient.
- OPTIONAL Gathered Pocket – ⅜ inch wide Elastic. Approximately 0.75 yards will be sufficient for all sizes.
- Thread to match
Project OverviewVintage Suitcase
Difficulty Level = Beginner
With four sizes to choose from, the Vintage Suitcase with handles makes a perfect accessory for your little one’s treasures. The outer edges are bound, covering all raw edges. Add optional quilting to the outside and add an optional gathered pocket inside for a lovely vintage vibe. You can also add additional removable inserts with vinyl pockets to see all your bits and bobs – perfect to keep a set of Felt Dolls in.
Our Facebook group is a great place to get help, share your tips and creations! We are a friendly bunch, and we love to help and see what you have made.
Please read the full instructions before getting started.
Wash, dry, and press your fabric before starting your project. A bit of prep now prevents shrinking and means your garment will stay the same size you made it.
Never leave a child or baby unattended or allow to sleep in a garment made from one of our patterns with ties, snaps, buttons, or anything they could remove, choke on, or get caught on. Always use caution if you are unsure. We love our patterns, but we love your bundles of joy more!
SizingSize Range
Bag
Finished Measurements (Inches)
Width
Depth
Height
XS
11.5
3
10.1
S
14.5
4
12.5
M
17.6
5
15.1
L
20
6
17.4
Materials and ToolsYou will need a woven or non-stretch fabric for both the Main and Lining fabric. Cotton, quilting cotton, denim, cotton lawn, canvas or upholstery fabric are great options.
OPTIONAL Removable Insert – If you are adding this pocket you will need clear vinyl plastic. Half a yard is sufficient for all sizes for the 1x Large Inner Pocket and ¼ yard for the 1x Small Inner Pocket (54 inch / 138 cm wide). You will need either 2x Large Inner Pockets or 2x Small Inner Pockets or a combination of both. The Small Inner Pocket is made up of a set of three small pockets. For all sizes you can add up to 2x Removable Inserts which are attached together with hook and loop tape.
Fabric Requirements 45 inches/115 cm wide (in YARDS)
Main
Lining
OPTIONAL Removable Insert
XS
1.50
1.00
0.75
S
2.00
2.00
1.00
M
2.25
2.25
1.00
L
2.50
2.50
1.25
Fabric Requirements 60 inches/150 cm wide (in YARDS)
Main
Lining
OPTIONAL Removable Insert
XS
1.25
1.25
0.50
S
1.75
1.75
0.50
M
1.75
1.75
0.75
L
2.00
2.00
1.25
* If you are using a narrower fabric, a directional print, or a fabric with nap you may need more.
** Make sure to wash, dry, and press all fabrics before cutting out in case they shrink.You will also need:
Interfacing / Stabilizer
Main Zipper:
OPTIONAL Removable Insert Zippers:
NOTE – You can add 2x Large Pockets or 2x Small Pockets or a combination of each, per Removable Insert. If you would like to add 2x Removable Inserts you will need double the number of zippers.
Tools needed are needle, pins, iron, disappearing ink pen, bodkin or safety pin, cutting mat and rotary cutter or scissors, zipper foot and a sewing machine.
Printing Your PatternSettings
The pattern is a separate download. Choose either the US letter paper, A4 paper, or A0 paper size based on the printer you wish to use. If you are in the US or Canada then your printer will likely use US letter paper. Other regions normally use A4 paper. Some people prefer to print their patterns at a print shop: A0 is best in this case.
Print at 100%.
On the second page, you will find a 1-inch and a 3-inch square test box. Print this page first, on its own, and measure these squares.
Once you are happy that the test box is accurate, print the rest of the pattern pages.
Please follow this video for information and assistance on assembling this pattern.
Also, please note that some Rebecca Page patterns and projects also come with cut files and a printable design page which you can use to plan your project if you wish. These are provided in a separate section below to avoid any confusion!
+US Print Charts
Here are which pages to print for the US Files
Suitcase OPTIONAL Gathered Pocket OPTIONAL Removable Insert XS 3-7, 10-14 20-22, 29-30 15-17, 24-27, 29-33, 35-37 S 2-7, 9-14 19-22, 29-31 15-18, 24-37 M 2-14 19-23, 29-31 15-18, 24-37 L 2-14, 22-23 19-23, 29-33 15-18, 24-37 +A4 Print Charts
Here are which pages to print for the A4 Files
Suitcase OPTIONAL Gathered Pocket OPTIONAL Removable Insert XS 2-6, 13-15 18-21 16-17, 24-30, 34-35 S 2-7, 10-15 18-21 8-9, 16-17, 24-31, 34-35 M 2-7, 10-15 18-22 7-9, 15-17, 23-31, 34-36 L 2-8, 10-25 18-22 7-9, 15-17, 23-36 Cutting InstructionsCut each of the pieces according to the directions on the pattern piece. Seam allowances are all included so just cut them as is.
Cutting Charts – All pattern pieces are included, however if you prefer to cut using a cutting chart, the dimensions for the rectangular pieces are below:
Gusset
Handle
Zipper Panel (Fabric cut 2, Lining cut 2, Interfacing cut 4, Fusible Foam / Stabilizer cut 2)
OPTIONAL: Gathered Pocket Elastic Guide (⅜ inch wide Elastic cut 1 per pocket)
Gusset (Fabric cut 1, Lining cut 1, Interfacing cut 2, Fusible Foam / Stabilizer cut 1)
Side Gusset (Fabric cut 2, Lining cut 2, Interfacing cut 4, Fusible Foam cut 2)
Handle
(Fabric cut 2)
Handle Foam (Fusible Foam cut 2)
Width
Length
Width
Length
Width
Length
Width
Length
Width
Length
Length
XS
10.1
4.0
2.0
4.0
12.3
4.0
11.3
2.1
30.0
2.4
11.5
S
12.4
5.0
2.0
5.0
14.3
4.0
13.3
2.1
38.4
3.0
14.5
M
14.5
6.0
2.0
6.0
16.3
4.0
15.3
2.1
47.0
3.7
17.3
L
16.5
7.0
2.0
7.0
18.3
4.0
17.3
2.1
54.1
4.3
20.0
TIP – If you prefer a thinner Handle, use Interfacing instead of Fusible Foam.
NOTE – We have used a zipper with a 10 mm zipper tape on either side of the teeth. If your zipper is wider than this, you will need to adjust the Main and Lining Gusset and Side Gusset pieces by adding the difference into the width of these pieces. Adjust your pattern pieces before cutting.
OPTIONAL Removable Insert
Inner Middle (Fabric cut 1)
Small Inner Pocket
Large Inner Pocket
Hook and Loop Tape Guide (Cut 1 per insert)
Small Inner Strip (Fabric cut 10)
Small Inner 1 (Vinyl Cut 2 per pocket)
Large Inner Strip (Fabric cut 1 per pocket, Lining cut 1 per pocket)
Width
Length
Width
Length
Length
Length
Width
Length
Width
Length
XS
4.3
9.2
1.5
8.1
2.6
8.1
1.5
9.2
1.0
8.2
S
4.3
11.6
1.5
10.1
3.2
10.0
1.5
11.6
1.0
10.5
M
4.3
14.1
1.5
12.1
4.0
12.1
1.5
14.1
1.0
13.1
L
4.3
16.1
1.5
14.0
4.4
14.0
1.5
16.1
1.0
15.1
Cutting Checklist:
Pieces
Fabric/Vinyl
Lining
Interfacing
Fusible Foam / Stabilizer
Hook and Loop Tape / Elastic
Case
Cut 2
Cut 2
Cut 2
Cut 2
N/A
Zipper Panel
Cut 2 on fold
Cut 2 on fold
Cut 4 on fold
Cut 2 on fold
N/A
Gusset
Cut 1
Cut 1
Cut 2
Cut 1
N/A
Side Gusset
Cut 2
Cut 2
Cut 4
Cut 2
N/A
Handle
Cut 2
N/A
N/A
Cut 2
N/A
Handle Foam
N/A
N/A
N/A
Cut 2
N/A
OPTIONAL Gathered Pocket (max 2 pockets)
Gathered Pocket
Cut 1 per pocket
Cut 1 per pocket
Cut 1 per pocket
N/A
N/A
Gathered Pocket: Elastic Guide
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Cut 1 per pocket
OPTIONAL Removable Insert (max 2 pockets)
Removable Insert: Outer Pocket
Cut 1 per insert
Cut 1 per insert
Cut 1 per insert
Cut 1 per insert
N/A
Removable Insert: Hook and Loop Tape
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Cut 1 per Outer pocket
Removable Insert: Inner Middle
Cut 1 per pocket
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Large Inner Pocket (Add 2 OR Add 1 and 1 Small, per Outer Pocket)
Removable Insert: Large Inner
Cut 1 per pocket
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Removable Insert: Large Inner Strip
Cut 1 per pocket
Cut 1 per pocket
N/A
N/A
N/A
Small Inner Pocket (Add 2 OR Add 1 and 1 Large, per Outer Pocket)
Removable Insert: Small Inner 1
Cut 2 per pocket
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Removable Insert: Small Inner 2
Cut 1 per pocket
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Removable Insert: Small Inner Strip
Cut 10 per pocket
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
NOTE – We recommend using Fusible Stabilizer instead of Fusible Foam for the Large Case.
NOTE – We have used a zipper with a 10 mm zipper tape on either side of the teeth. If your zipper is wider than this, you will need to adjust the Main and Lining Gusset and Side Gusset pieces by adding the difference into the width of these pieces. Adjust your pattern pieces before cutting.
- Ultra-firm heavyweight fusible stabilizer e.g. Peltex 72F / Vilene S133 and Midweight fusible woven interfacing e.g. Pellon SF 101 Shape Flex / Vilene G700
- + Instructions
- PATTERN MARKINGS – Transfer all pattern markings.
- INTERFACING – Apply Interfacing to required pieces.
- BIAS BINDING – Follow this free DIY Bias Binding tutorial to create single bias binding.
- CASE – Trim seam allowance off Foam / Stabilizer. Lay the Case Lining wrong side facing up. Place the Foam / Stabilizer on top. Place Main Case right side facing up. Apply Foam / Stabilizer. OPTIONAL: Quilt the Main and Lining Case pieces together. Press. Repeat for the other Main Case and Case Lining.
- OPTIONAL GATHERED POCKET – Place Gathered Pocket Main and Lining pieces right sides together. Stitch. Press the seam down. Fold wrong sides together. Press. Stitch along the top straight edge. Thread elastic through the casing. Pin on both ends. Baste outer edges. Mark center of Gathered Pocket bottom raw edge and bottom of the Case. Lay Gathered Pocket onto Case Lining, both right sides facing up, matching center points. Pin. Match the side outer edges. Pin. Create inverted box pleats using marking. Baste the sides and bottom of the Gathered Pocket. Repeat if adding a second Gathered Pocket.
- HANDLE – Use double fold bias tape method to fold Handle, placing Foam Handle at the center. Topstitch each long edge. Baste Handle at pattern markings on Main Case. Repeat for the second Handle.
- ZIPPER PANEL – Trim zipper tape above the zipper stops. Layer Zipper Panel Lining right side facing up, zipper right side facing up, Main Zipper Panel right side facing down. Stitch. Flip the Main Zipper Panel over. Press. OPTIONAL Topstitch. Trim seam allowance off Fusible Foam / Fusible Stabilizer. Place in between the wrong sides of the Main and Lining. Apply Fusible Foam / Fusible Stabilizer. OPTIONAL Quilt the Main and Lining together. NON-QUILTING OPTION: Baste Main and Lining together. Repeat to attach the Main and Lining Zipper Panels to the other side of the zipper.
- GUSSET – Trim seam allowance off Fusible Foam / Fusible Stabilizer. Place at the center, in between the Main and Lining Gusset. Apply Fusible Foam / Fusible Stabilizer. Topstitch the edge of the Side Gusset. OPTIONAL: Quilt Gusset. OPTIONAL Removable Insert: Stitch the hook tape piece onto the Gusset Lining.
- ATTACHING GUSSET TO CASE – Lay Main Gusset right side facing up. Stitch Main Side Gusset at the short side, right sides together. Press seam open. Repeat to attach second Main Side Gusset to the other short end. Repeat with the Gusset Lining and Side Gusset Lining pieces. Repeat to attach the other side of the Main Zipper Panel and Main Gusset together. Press seam towards the Main Gusset on both sides. Repeat attaching one side of the Gusset Lining to one side of the Zipper Panel Lining. Press. Create a memory hem of the Gusset Lining. Place the memory hem side of the Gusset Lining onto the Zipper Panel Lining, covering the stitching. Edgestitch. Mark the center points on each side of Case and Gusset. Place the Case Lining onto the Gusset Lining, right sides together, matching the quarter points. Stitch. Repeat to stitch the other side of the Gusset Lining to the other Case Lining.
- BINDING THE CASE – Cover raw edges on each side of Case using bias binding.
- OPTIONAL REMOVABLE INSERT – Trim seam allowance off Stabilizer. Lay Removable Insert Lining wrong side facing up. Place Stabilizer on top. Place Main Removable Insert right side facing up. Apply the Stabilizer. Find and mark center of Main . Place the loop tape at the center. Stitch. LARGE/SMALL INNER POCKET – Press one long edge of Main Inner Strip over to the wrong side by ½ inch. Repeat with Inner Strip Lining. Layer Inner Strip Lining right side facing up, zipper right side facing up, Main Inner Strip right side facing down. Stitch. Flip Main Inner Strip over. Press. OPTIONAL: Topstitch. Open Main and Lining Inner Strip. Slide Vinyl Pocket in between the two layers. Topstitch. Press Inner Middle ½ inch on both long sides. LARGE INNER POCKET: Lay Removable Insert Lining right sides facing up. Place Large Vinyl Pocket on top, right sides facing up. Clip. Pin zipper tape to Removable Insert Lining. Stitch. Repeat if you are adding a second Large Inner Pocket. SMALL INNER POCKET: Repeat steps attaching a Main and Lining Inner Strip to the top of the zipper on Pocket 2 and 1x Pocket 1. Repeat steps inserting the vinyl of Pocket 1 into the top Inner Strip of Pocket 2. Then repeat to insert the vinyl of Pocket 1 (without the top Inner Strip) into the top Inner Strip of Pocket 1. Place the Small Inner Pocket onto the Removable Insert Lining, matching the rounded bottom edges. Stitch along the top zipper tape (without Inner Strip). Topstitch along the middle and bottom Inner Strips. ALL POCKET COMBINATIONS: Unfold pressed edge of Inner Middle and match the raw edge onto zipper edge. Stitch. Flip Inner Middle over, wrong sides together. Topstitch. Edgestitch down the folded edge. NOTE – If you are adding a second Removable Insert, stitch a piece of hook tape in the center of the Middle Piece. Repeat step 8 to cover the raw edges of the Removable Insert with bias binding. Repeat if adding a second Removable Insert.
Quick Glance Cheat Sheet½ inch seam allowance included – Top stitching ⅛ inch – Basting ¼ inch
Preparation –
Sewing –
0 . PreparationSeam Allowance
½ inch seam allowance included – Top stitching ⅛ inch – Basting ¼ inch
0.1Pattern Markings
Transfer all pattern markings using either tailors chalk or a disappearing fabric marker, or pins.
0.2Interfacing
Using the manufacturer’s instructions, apply mid-weight iron-on fusible interfacing to the Main Case, Case Lining, Main Zipper Panel and Lining, Main Gusset and Side Gusset, Gusset and Side Gusset Lining.
If you are adding the OPTIONAL Gathered Pocket(s) apply interfacing to the Main pieces.
If you are adding the OPTIONAL Removable Insert(s) apply interfacing to the Main pieces.
0.3Bias Binding
If you are not using store bought binding, you will need to create a double fold to bind the Case.
Follow this free DIY Bias Binding tutorial to create the bias binding.
1 . Case1.1Trim the ½ inch seam allowance off the Fusible Foam / Stabilizer.
1.2Lay the Case Lining wrong side facing up. Place the Fusible Foam / Stabilizer on top. Place the Main Case right side facing up.
Using the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the Fusible Foam / Stabilizer in-between the Main Case and Case Lining.
If you would like to quilt your Case, follow below. If not quilting, skip to step 1.4.
1.3OPTIONAL: Quilt the Main and Lining Case pieces together using the design of choice.
Quilting adds a lovely dimension, texturally and visually, to your fabric. It can make your sewn items look really special.
If you would like to achieve the look we have created, here is how to do it.
Find the center of the Case. Using chalk or a disappearing ink pen, draw a vertical line. Mark vertical lines ½ inch apart on either side, until you reach the end.
Stitch down a line, across the horizontal edge and up the line. Keep repeating until all lines are stitched.
Press.
TIP – Use a walking foot and lengthen your stitch. Test this on a scrap piece of fabric first.
TIP – Use a contrasting thread to show the quilting detail.
1.4Repeat steps 1.1 to 1.3 for the other Main Case and Case Lining.
NOTE – You will now treat each piece as one Case piece.
2 . OPTIONAL Gathered Pocket2.0This pocket is gathered along the top edge with an inverted box pleat along the bottom edge. It is attached to the Case Lining. You can add one pocket or a pocket on either Case Lining.
If you would like to add this internal pocket option, follow below. If you are not adding the pocket, skip to step 3.
2.1Place the Gathered Pocket Main and Lining pieces right sides together. Pin along the top straight edge.
2.2Stitch using a ½ inch seam allowance.
2.3Open the Gathered Pocket and press the seam allowance down towards the Main piece.
2.4Fold the Gathered Pocket wrong sides together. Press.
2.5Stitch along the top straight edge using a ½ inch seam allowance. This will create the casing for the elastic.
2.6Thread the elastic through the casing. Pin the elastic in place on both ends of the Gathered Pocket.
TIP – Use a bodkin or safety pin to thread the elastic through the casing.
2.7Baste the sides and bottom of the Gathered Pocket using ¼ inch seam allowance.
TIP – Basting is just like normal stitching except the stitches need to be long and loose so that they can be removed later, if needed. Stitch within the seam allowance, so that the basting stitches are not seen in the final garment, while keeping the stitches loose enough to pull out just in case they are visible. The purpose is to hold a piece of fabric in place until that section is properly sewn. Set the machine to a long loose stitch. Test it on a piece of fabric first to make sure that the stitches can easily be removed. Do not backstitch at either end. Leave the ends loose, with approximately 1 inch of thread tails at either end of the stitching.
2.8Find and mark the center of the Gathered Pocket bottom raw edge and the bottom of the Case.
Lay the Gathered Pocket onto the Case Lining, both right sides facing up, matching center points. Pin.
Match the side outer edges. Pin.
2.9There are two sets of three lines along the bottom edge of the Gathered Pocket. You will use these to create an inverted box pleat.
Take the fabric at the first inner mark and align it wrong sides together with the third outer mark. Pin each side in place. Flatten the pleat so that the middle line lies over the center where the first and third markings meet. Pin.
NOTE – The back of the inverted box pleat should be flat and pinned to the front fabric.
2.10Repeat step 2.9 with the second set of three lines to create another inverted box pleat.
TIP – Once the pleats are pinned in place, the elastic can be tightened if desired. Adjust the length and pin in place.
2.11Baste the sides and bottom of the Gathered Pocket using ¼ inch seam allowance.
2.12Repeat steps 2.1 to 2.11 if you are adding a second Gathered Pocket to the other side of the case.
3 . Handle3.1If you are familiar with making double fold bias tape, please use this. If not, don’t worry, just follow along here!
Fold the Handle in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press.
3.2Open the Handle, then fold the two long sides into the middle and press.
Open the Handle and place the Foam Handle at the center.
3.3Refold the Handle along the center edge, folding the raw edges to the inside. Press. Pin.
3.4Topstitch each long edge using ⅛ inch seam allowance.
3.5Take one side of the Handle and place it onto the Main Case, right sides facing. Use the handle placement markings as a guide. Pin.
Repeat to attach the other side of the Handle to the second placement marking.
NOTE – Check that the Handle hasn’t twisted.
3.6Baste using a ¼ inch seam allowance.
TIP – Basting is just like normal stitching except the stitches need to be long and loose so that they can be removed later, if needed. Stitch within the seam allowance, so that the basting stitches are not seen in the final garment, while keeping the stitches loose enough to pull out just in case they are visible. The purpose is to hold a piece of fabric in place until that section is properly sewn. Set the machine to a long loose stitch. Test it on a piece of fabric first to make sure that the stitches can easily be removed. Do not backstitch at either end. Leave the ends loose, with approximately 1 inch of thread tails at either end of the stitching.
3.7Repeat steps 3.1 to 3.6 for the second Handle.
4 . Zipper Panel4.1Trim the zipper tape above the zipper stops. If your zipper is longer than the Zipper Panel, trim it the right length and stitch a bar tack to close the zipper.
4.2Lay the Zipper Panel Lining right side facing up. Place the zipper, right sides facing up, matching the zipper stop with the raw short edge, and the top edge to the raw edge of the Lining. Pin.
TIP – Use fusible webbing or washaway sewing tape to secure the zipper. This will help prevent the zipper from shifting or the fabric from distorting when sewing.
4.3Place the Main Zipper Panel right side facing down, lining up the raw edge with the zipper tape. Pin.
They will now be layered in this order: Zipper Panel Lining right side facing up, zipper right side facing up, Main Zipper Panel right side facing down.
4.4Using a zipper foot, stitch using ¼ inch seam allowance.
4.5Flip the Main Zipper Panel over, so wrong sides of the Main and Lining are facing. Press.
OPTIONAL – Topstitch along the zipper tape ⅛ inch from the stitched fabric edge.
4.6Trim the ½ inch seam allowance off the Fusible Foam / Fusible Stabilizer.
Place it in between the wrong sides of the Main and Lining, matching the edge to the zipper, leaving a ½ inch seam allowance on the outside seam.
Use the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the Fusible Foam / Fusible Stabilizer.
4.7OPTIONAL QUILTING: Quilt the Main and Lining together using a design of your choice.
NON-QUILTING OPTION: Baste the raw edges of the Main and Lining together, using a ¼ inch seam allowance.
4.8Repeat steps 4.2 to 4.7 to attach the Main and Lining Zipper Panels to the other side of the zipper.
5 . Gusset5.1Lay the Main Gusset right side facing up. Place the Main Side Gusset at the short side, right sides together. Pin.
NOTE – Your pieces will be interfaced.
5.2Stitch using a ½ inch seam allowance.
5.3Press the seam allowance open.
5.4Repeat step 5.1 to 5.3 to attach the second Main Side Gusset to the other short end of the Main Gusset.
NOTE – This will now be referred to as the Main Gusset.
5.5Repeat step 5.1 to 5.4 with the Gusset Lining and Side Gusset Lining pieces.
NOTE – We have used the same fabric for our Main and Lining pieces.
NOTE – This will now be referred to as the Gusset Lining.
5.6Lay the Main Gusset onto the Main Zipper Panel, right sides facing, matching short sides. Pin.
5.7Stitch using a ½ inch seam allowance.
5.8Repeat steps 5.5 to 5.6 to attach the other side of the Main Zipper Panel and Main Gusset together.
NOTE – You will now have one connected piece with the Main Zipper Panel and Main Gusset.
5.9Press the seam allowance towards the Main Gusset on both sides.
5.10Repeat steps 5.6 to 5.7 attaching one side of the Gusset Lining to one side of the Zipper Panel Lining. Press.
5.11Create a memory hem on the raw edge of the Gusset Lining. Fold the short edge ½ inch to the wrong side. Press.
NOTE – A memory hem is where you fold and press your hem, but do not actually stitch it yet. We do this so that fold lines are pressed into the Case. It is much easier to do this now, than to try and press later.
5.12Place the memory hem side of the Gusset Lining onto the Zipper Panel Lining, covering the stitching. Pin.
5.13Edgestitch along the folded edge using a ⅛ inch seam allowance.
5.14Trim the ½ inch seam allowance off the Gusset Fusible Foam / Fusible Stabilizer.
Place it at the center, in between the Main and Lining Gusset.
Use the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the Fusible Foam / Fusible Stabilizer.
5.15Topstitch the edge of the Side Gusset, using ⅛ inch seam allowance.
NOTE – This will now be called the Gusset.
If you would like to quilt the Gusset, follow step 5.15.
If you are adding the OPTIONAL Removable Insert, follow step 5.16.
If you would prefer neither of these options, skip to step 6.
5.16OPTIONAL: Quilt the Gusset using the design of your choice.
5.17OPTIONAL Removable Insert: You will need to add the hook tape piece onto the Gusset Lining in order to attach the pocket.
Place the hook tape at the center of the Gusset Lining. Pin.
Stitch all the way around.
6 . Attaching Gusset to Case6.0NOTE – We are showing a Gathered Pocket in this step. If you have not added this option, the steps are still the same.
6.1Fold the Case in half lengthwise and widthwise and mark the center points on each side.
6.2Find and mark the quarter points on the Gusset.
6.3Place the Case Lining onto the Gusset Lining, right sides together, matching the quarter points. Pin.
NOTE – The top of the Gusset Lining (where the zipper is) needs to be at the top of the Case Lining.
TIP – Pin along the ½ inch seam allowance at each of the four corners. This will make it easier to fit the pieces together.
6.4Stitch using a ½ inch seam allowance.
6.5Repeat steps 6.1 to 6.4 to stitch the other side of the Gusset Lining to the other Case Lining.
NOTE – The raw edges will be bound in the next step.
7 . Binding the Case7.1Open up the bias binding.
Place the binding onto the Main Zipper Panel, matching raw edges, leaving a 3-inch tail.
7.2Continue pinning the binding all the way around leaving an approximate 4 inch wide gap, and 3-inch tail on the binding.
7.3Pinch the binding together at the 4-inch gap so that each side sits flush.
Place a pin where the binding from both sides meet in the middle.
NOTE – The binding should meet at the center of the 4 inch unsewn gap from step 7.2.
7.4Gently pull the binding away from the Case.
Stitch the two pieces of binding together.
Trim off the excess binding.
7.5Pin the binding to the Main Zipper Panel at the gap.
Stitch the binding to the Case using a ¼ inch seam allowance.
7.6Trim the seam allowances approximately in half. Notch the corners to reduce bulk.
NOTE – Be careful not to cut into the stitches.
7.7Fold the bias binding over the raw edge, covering the stitching. Pin.
7.8Edgestitch the binding in place using a ⅛ inch seam allowance.
7.9Repeat steps 7.1 to 7.8 to stitch the binding to the other side of the Suitcase.
If you are adding the OPTIONAL Removable Insert, follow step 8 below.
If you are not adding the Removable Insert, your Vintage Suitcase is finished!
8 . OPTIONAL Removable Insert8.0Each Removable Insert can have either 2x Large Inner Pockets, OR 2x Small Inner Pockets OR 1x Large and 1x Small.
Suitcase size XS can have 1x Removable Insert. Sizes S – L can each have 2x Removable Inserts. One is inserted into the other and attached by hook and loop tape.
8.1Trim the ½ inch seam allowance off the Stabilizer.
Lay the Removable Insert Lining wrong side facing up. Place the Stabilizer on top. Place the Main Removable Insert Outer right side facing up.
Use the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the Stabilizer in-between the Main Removable Insert Outer and Removable Insert Lining.
8.2Find and mark the center of the Main Removable Insert. Place the loop tape at the center. Pin.
8.3Stitch around the entire strip of tape using a ⅛ inch seam allowance.
8.4LARGE/SMALL INNER POCKET – You will need the Large Inner Strip for the Large Pocket and the Small Inner Strip for the Small Pocket. However, the steps are the same.
Fold one long edge of the Main Inner Strip over to the wrong side by ½ inch. Press.
8.5Repeat step 8.4 with the Inner Strip Lining.
8.6Lay the Inner Strip Lining right side facing up. Place the zipper, right sides facing up, matching the zipper stop with the raw short edge, and the top edge to the raw edge of the Lining. Pin.
NOTE – You are attaching the zipper to the unpressed edge.
8.7Place the Main Inner Strip right side facing down, lining up the raw edge with the zipper tape. Pin.
They will now be layered in this order: Inner Strip Lining right side facing up, zipper right side facing up, Main Inner Strip right side facing down.
8.8Using a zipper foot, stitch using ¼ inch seam allowance.
TIP – Open the zipper and move the zipper end out the way when stitching, so that you can keep the stitching close to the zipper teeth.
8.9Flip the Main Inner Strip over, so the wrong sides of the Main and Lining are facing. Pin the memory hems together. Press.
8.10OPTIONAL: Topstitch along the zipper tape ⅛ inch from the zipper.
8.11Open the Main and Lining Inner Strip. Slide the Vinyl Pocket in between the two layers. Carefully clip in place.
NOTE – Do not use pins. It is important to use clips as vinyl is not self-healing. The fewer holes put into it the better.
NOTE – When attaching the zipper to the Vinyl Pockets, you will attach it to the long straight edge.
8.12Using a zipper foot, topstitch ⅛ inch from the edge of the fabric.
TIP – To make it easier to stitch through the vinyl, lengthen your stitch slightly.
TIP – Place masking tape / ‘washi tape’ either side of the plate of your sewing machine. This will help the vinyl glide though and avoid sticking.
TIP – Use a teflon zipper foot to help guide the vinyl while stitching.
8.13Fold the Inner Middle ½ inch on both long sides, to the wrong side. Press.
If you are sewing 1 or 2 Large Pockets follow below. If you are only sewing Small Pockets skip to step 8.17.
8.14LARGE INNER POCKET: Lay the Removable Insert Lining right sides facing up. Place the Large Vinyl Pocket on top, right sides facing up. Clip.
8.15Pin the top of the zipper tape to the Removable Insert Lining.
8.16Using a zipper foot, carefully stitch along the zipper tape, close to the zipper teeth.
If you are adding a second Large Inner Pocket, repeat steps 8.14 to 8.16.
NOTE – You will attach the Inner Pocket to the opposite side of the Removable Insert Lining.
If you are adding a Small Inner Pocket, follow below.
8.17SMALL INNER POCKET: Repeat steps 8.4 to 8.9 and 8.11 to 8.12 attaching a Main and Lining Inner Strip to the top of the zipper on 2x Inner Pocket 2 and 1x Inner Pocket 1.
NOTE – We are showing this Vinyl Pocket on top of the Lining fabric as it is difficult to see. It is not stitched down at this point.
NOTE – The top of the zipper of 1x Inner Pocket 2 will be stitched to the Removable Insert Lining and covered with binding.
8.18Repeat step 8.11 to 8.12 inserting the vinyl of Pocket 1 into the top Inner Strip of Pocket 2.
Then repeat to insert the vinyl of Pocket 1 (without the top Inner Strip) into the top Inner Strip of Pocket 1.
You will now have one full Small Inner Pocket piece.
8.19Place the Small Inner Pocket onto the Removable Insert Lining, matching the rounded bottom edges. Clip.
Stitch along the top zipper tape (without Inner Strip) using a zipper foot and a ¼ inch seam allowance.
NOTE – You will need to trim the top zipper tape to match the curve of the Removable Insert Lining.
8.20Topstitch along the middle and bottom Inner Strips, ⅛ inch from the zipper teeth. This will create the middle and bottom Pockets.
TIP – Double check before stitching to make sure you are not stitching a pocket closed.
8.21ALL POCKET COMBINATIONS: Unfold the pressed edge of the Inner Middle and match the raw edge onto the zipper edge of the Large Inner Pocket.
NOTE – If you have 2x Large Inner Pockets there will be two unfinished zippers. You can attach it to either zipper as both will be finished.
TIP – If your zipper opens at the side you are attaching this piece to, open the zipper slightly before pinning.
8.22Stitch using a ½ inch seam allowance.
8.23Flip the Inner Middle over, wrong sides together. Pin.
NOTE – If you have 2x Large Inner Pockets you will be covering the second zipper tape. If you have a Small Inner Pocket you will be covering the raw edges of this Pocket.
8.24Topstitch ⅛ inch from the zipper teeth.
8.25Edge stitch down the folded edge.
NOTE – If you are adding a second Removable Insert, stitch a piece of hook tape in the center of the Middle Piece, before stitching it down.
8.26Repeat steps 7.1 to 7.8 to cover the raw edges of the Removable Insert with bias binding.
8.27Your Removable Insert is finished!
Attach the Pocket to the Gusset inside the Suitcase, using the hook and loop tape!
If you would like to add an additional Removable Insert, follow steps 8.1 to 8.26.
- + Finishing Notes and Congratulations
Finishing Notes and Congratulations
Congratulations, your Vintage Suitcase is done. Enjoy! ♥
We would love to hear how you got on and see photos of your finished project!
Join us at our Facebook Group, tag us on Instagram, or use the hashtag #rpvintagesuitcase.
Thank you for using a Rebecca Page pattern.
© Copyright 2021
All Rights Reserved
Sales + Licencing InformationProject OverviewVintage Suitcase
Difficulty Level = Beginner
With four sizes to choose from, the Vintage Suitcase with handles makes a perfect accessory for your little one’s treasures. The outer edges are bound, covering all raw edges. Add optional quilting to the outside and add an optional gathered pocket inside for a lovely vintage vibe. You can also add additional removable inserts with vinyl pockets to see all your bits and bobs – perfect to keep a set of Felt Dolls in.
SizingSize Range
Bag
Finished Measurements (Inches)
Width
Depth
Height
XS
11.5
3
10.1
S
14.5
4
12.5
M
17.6
5
15.1
L
20
6
17.4
Materials and ToolsYou will need a woven or non-stretch fabric for both the Main and Lining fabric. Cotton, quilting cotton, denim, cotton lawn, canvas or upholstery fabric are great options.
OPTIONAL Removable Insert – If you are adding this pocket you will need clear vinyl plastic. Half a yard is sufficient for all sizes for the 1x Large Inner Pocket and ¼ yard for the 1x Small Inner Pocket (54 inch / 138 cm wide). You will need either 2x Large Inner Pockets or 2x Small Inner Pockets or a combination of both. The Small Inner Pocket is made up of a set of three small pockets. For all sizes you can add up to 2x Removable Inserts which are attached together with hook and loop tape.
Fabric Requirements 45 inches/115 cm wide (in YARDS)
Main
Lining
OPTIONAL Removable Insert
XS
1.50
1.00
0.75
S
2.00
2.00
1.00
M
2.25
2.25
1.00
L
2.50
2.50
1.25
Fabric Requirements 60 inches/150 cm wide (in YARDS)
Main
Lining
OPTIONAL Removable Insert
XS
1.25
1.25
0.50
S
1.75
1.75
0.50
M
1.75
1.75
0.75
L
2.00
2.00
1.25
* If you are using a narrower fabric, a directional print, or a fabric with nap you may need more.
** Make sure to wash, dry, and press all fabrics before cutting out in case they shrink.You will also need:
Interfacing / Stabilizer
- Ultra-firm heavyweight fusible stabilizer e.g. Peltex 72F / Vilene S133 and Midweight fusible woven interfacing e.g. Pellon SF 101 Shape Flex / Vilene G700
- Extra Small – approximately 3 yards of each is sufficient
- Small – approximately 3 ½ yards of each is sufficient
- Medium – approximately 3 ¾ yards of each is sufficient
- Large – approximately 4 ¼ yards of each is sufficient
- OR Double-sided fusible foam and Midweight fusible woven interfacing e.g. Pellon SF 101 Shape Flex / Vilene G700
- Extra Small – approximately 3 yards of each is sufficient
- Small – approximately 4 yards of each is sufficient
- Medium – approximately 4 ¾ yards of each is sufficient
- Large – We recommend using a stabilizer for this size Case instead of Double-sided foam. Approximately 5 ¼ yards of the midweight interfacing is sufficient.
Main Zipper:
- Extra Small: 1x 30-inch Zipper
- Small: 1x 39-inch Zipper
- Medium: 1x 48-inch Zipper
- Large: 1x 54-inch Zipper
- NOTE – We have used a zipper with a 10 mm zipper tape on either side of the teeth. If your zipper is wider than this, you will need to adjust the Main and Lining Gusset and Side Gusset pieces by adding the difference into the width of these pieces. Adjust your pattern pieces before cutting.
- TIP – The suitcase is designed to unzip from the bottom. If you would prefer to unzip it from the top use two-way head to head zipper.
OPTIONAL Removable Insert Zippers:
NOTE – You can add 2x Large Pockets or 2x Small Pockets or a combination of each, per Removable Insert. If you would like to add 2x Removable Inserts you will need double the number of zippers.
- Extra Small
- 1x Large Pocket: 1x 10-inch zipper
- 1x Small Pocket: 3x 8-inch zipper (set of 3 vinyl pockets)
- Small
- Large Pocket: 1x 12-inch zipper
- Small Pocket: 3x 10-inch zipper (set of 3 vinyl pockets)
- Medium
- Large Pocket: 1x 14-inch zipper
- Small Pocket: 3x 12-inch zipper (set of 3 vinyl pockets)
- Large
- Large Pocket: 1x 16-inch zipper
- Small Pocket: 3x 14-inch zipper (set of 3 vinyl pockets)
- OPTIONAL Fusible webbing or Wash away Fusible Tape to secure your zippers e.g. Pellon 805 Wonder-Under / Vilene Bond-a-web – approximately ½ yard will be sufficient.
- 1-inch wide Hook and loop tape (for each Removable Insert)
- Extra Small – 9 inches will be sufficient.
- Small – 11 inches will be sufficient.
- Medium – 14 inches will be sufficient.
- Large – 16 inches will be sufficient.
- Bias binding – double fold bias tape that is ⅜ inch wide when finished. You can buy/make ¾ inch wide single fold bias tape and fold in half down its center line.
- Extra Small – approximately 6 yards will be sufficient.
- Small – approximately 7 ½ yards will be sufficient.
- Medium – approximately 9 yards will be sufficient.
- Large – approximately 10 yards will be sufficient.
- OPTIONAL Gathered Pocket – ⅜ inch wide Elastic. Approximately 0.75 yards will be sufficient for all sizes.
- Thread to match
Tools needed are needle, pins, iron, disappearing ink pen, bodkin or safety pin, cutting mat and rotary cutter or scissors, zipper foot and a sewing machine.
- Ultra-firm heavyweight fusible stabilizer e.g. Peltex 72F / Vilene S133 and Midweight fusible woven interfacing e.g. Pellon SF 101 Shape Flex / Vilene G700
