Handmade Bags is a lovely book.  Bags are laid out using a 2-dimensional silhouette with  a 3-dimensional bag; bags set out on sumptuous fabrics, feathers and ribbons; and other bags set next to appropriate props. 

Each bag pattern provides step-by-step instructions with color illustrations of each step.  Instructions include both hand stitching and machine stitching the projects. There is a chapter on tools and materials with descriptions; fabrics best for bags, linings and facing plus how to make and use bag patterns.

These bags are fun, chic and voluptuous, from evening bags to totes for shopping, all exciting and easy to make.

Most of the bags are made with fabric, however, there are also bead wire crocheted and knitted bags plus wire worked bags!  There are gobs of embellishments that can be added to the bags and lots of room for experimentation.

Even if you do not have a sewing machine or hand stitch extensively with fabric, some of these bags could be taken to a sewing center or to dry cleaners that includes alternations and have the fabric stitched together.  There are also machine stitchers who do alternations and tailoring and leave their business cards with their local sewing center or couture fabric shop.

There is a variety of shapes for the bags and simple application of ready-made fringe; feathers, small silk flowers, beads and leather will leave you reeling with new ideas for bag embellishment.  Although metal purse frames could be used for some of these bags, all the handles can be made with easy to find materials.

Many of the designs can be adapted to purses you already have.  Some of the ideas for embellishment could completely renew an old bag.  As you look through all the pages, you begin to feel like you are looking through a fashion magazine for bags.

Bag lovers need this book as an addition to their library.  Whether you are a quilter or fabric stitcher, or just occasionally make changes to your own bags, Handmade Bags will be a plus for you.  Making and embellishing these bags is probably as much fun as making unique hats and embellishing shoes!