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About Nicole Mallalieu Design Bag Patterns

"So, what's so good about Nicole Mallalieu Design Patterns...? "

Nicole Mallalieu Design Bag Patterns are more than just patterns!

Graded over four levels of difficulty (from "Beginners" to "Advanced"), with each level teaching more of the fundamentals of professional bag-making, the patterns are like a self-paced bag-making course to help you to LEARN and IMPROVE your skills.

There's also a growing range of cute purse patterns, using purse frames or zippered closures.

You can read what others have to say about Nicole Mallalieu Design Patterns on the Testimonials Page.

Click on the images for details on each pattern, or see the side panel for the "graded" menu.

"....I mean, besides the fabulous designs and all the professional bag-making tips I'll pick up......What have they got going for them?"

The bag patterns don't show you how to make just one bag, or even just a limited range of bags. You can vary the designs as many different ways as your imagination will allow.

Instructions for variations leave the ACTUAL design work up to you. For example, you can make the straps as long or as wide as you want to, choose to use rings or handles or not... You're encouraged to think for yourself and explore all the possibilities. This is how you LEARN and DEVELOP the craft, rather than make up just another kit bag (like everyone else!!). Your bags will be original and creative, and you will become a BETTER DESIGNER!!

As you view the Pattern pages, click on the links that say "Design Variations" for some inspiration for creating your own designs from each of the patterns.

"What do I expect the pattern to LOOK like....?"

The patterns are all full-size patterns (actual size, with almost no "cut on fold" pieces), printed on 80gsm white paper.

The instructions are VERY DETAILED, with lots of diagrams and photos of every stage of the construction process. There are also tips for a better finish, and also lots of hints and instructions for varying the design of the bag.

The pattern is packed in a ziplock bag - which will store your pattern pieces securely once you've cut them out. The colour prints on the cover are there for inspiration, and you'll also find a materials list on the back, and more information on cutting on the inside of the cover.

"What if I don't understand the instructions, or have any problems making the bag...?"

You'll have the back-up of "technical support"!!

If you have any problems with the pattern, or need any advice on making up the bag, check the Tips and Tutorials page - the answer might be there... If not, then please email your query to Nicole. You'll get a personal response, and your query may then be added to the Tips and Tutorials page.

You might prefer to come to a workshop or course to learn a bit more.

If you notice any typos, please contact Nicole to let her know!!!

"The instructions are a little LONG... does that mean that they're very complicated?"

NO! The patterns are straightforward! Because Nicole does a LOT of teaching, she understands just how many questions people have when they're following each pattern. She tries to ANSWER ALL THESE QUESTIONS by fully breaking down the process and showing diagrams and photos at every stage. At every step there are tips and suggestions to make the job easier, or give a better finish... so that's a lot of information! It's like a bag-making class in a packet.

Experienced sewers may choose to skim the instructions (although they'd probably pick up a few new tricks if they read them), but all the information needed is there for those who need it.

It's best to stick to a simple design idea when working with a new pattern for the first time. Read through each step as you're sewing the bag to make sure you're on track. Once you've made one bag, MAKE ANOTHER ONE with a new variation. Try new things with each bag and extend your skills by following the "variation" instructions.

"Can I use the patterns to make bags to SELL?"

Nicole has no objection to this, as long as you use your own design ideas to interpret the patterns.

Copying or distributing the actual patterns or intellectual property therein in ANY WAY is an infringement of copyright - which is ILLEGAL and subject to prosecution!!!

Why is there no shopping cart on this site?

We'd like to think of ourselves as your friendly neighbourhood sewing supplies shop. We're available to answer questions, help you to choose the products that are right for you and give you the best value for your postage dollar.

We tailor each sale to suit your needs, preferences for payment and shipping methods. You're not just an anonymous order number to us! We love getting to know our customers, and invite you to get to know us, too. See the ORDERS Page.

"What are the policies and main drives of Nicole Mallalieu Design...?"

Nicole Mallalieu Design is a small, independent business which follows ethical employment practices (no sweatshops here!).

Nicole Mallalieu Design Bag Patterns are proudly designed, printed and assembled in Melbourne, Australia. We support other small local businesses by sourcing and outsourcing locally.

Nicole also has lots of warm-and-fuzzy notions about helping the world to be a better place through unleashing creativity and confidence and bringing something positive into people's lives....