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How-to

Book Giveaway: “Handbag Workshop”

Handbag Workshop (The Taunton Press, 2014) by Anna Maia Mazur will change the way you think about handbags. If you can't wait to start creating these beautiful handbags, you can buy a copy or preview the book here.

The perfect handbag is hard to come by, but Anna Maia Mazur’s latest book, Handbag Workshop (The Taunton Press, 2014), will change all of that by giving you the tools you need to design and make your ideal bag.

Not only does the book include an extensive overview of the many facets of bag anatomy and the assortment of sewing techniques you’ll need, it also has eighteen detailed projects divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced categories so that there’s something for everyone. You can read the entirety of one of these projects here and learn to make an elegant 1940s Hobo Wristlet.

HOW TO WIN

Five (5) Threads online members who leave a comment here by 11:59 p.m. EST, December 5, 2014 will be selected at random to win a copy of this fantastic book. Winners will be announced the week of December 8, 2014.

Good luck!

Discuss

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  1. abqdancer | | #1

    I'd love to win this book, and BOY, do I need something free!!

  2. rodrigues | | #2

    Bags make great gifts! This book looks to have lots of details that would make my sewing fun and extra gift worthy!

  3. scarflady | | #3

    I always say never too many scarves, and I would add, never too many handbags! Looks like a fantastic book!

  4. User avater
    ctdamsel | | #4

    I made my first handbag when I was 11. I did not have a pattern (it was 1965) I used poster board and covered it with brown fabric. I used a belt kit to make the strap. Handbag #2 was knitted with a long braided strap of yarn. I need this book! :)

  5. user-4172264 | | #5

    I can't wait to win this book!

  6. vic2025 | | #6

    Beautiful book.

  7. Deb04 | | #7

    I have sewn almost everything over a 4o year stretch. Right now I have been focused on household stuff - pillows, window treatments, bedding and bags. Always looking for new ideas.

  8. MrsAasen | | #8

    Would love to win this book! Love handbags, sewing and Threads magazine! <3

  9. Mizmash | | #9

    I love handbags!

  10. User avater
    sergerqueen | | #10

    I would love to have a copy of Anna Mazur's book because I am a purse-aholic! I cannot find the right purse at the right price and prefer to customize a handbag to my specifications. I find purses are a perfect palette for embellishment as well as quick and instant sewing gratification.

  11. mollie16 | | #11

    I am ready to increase my skills with bag making and this book sounds like it will be just what I need. Thanks for the drawing.

  12. User avater
    rdejam | | #12

    Some people are shoe freaks, I'm a purse freak. I can never have enough bags especially when I get to make them to my liking with as many compartments as possible.

  13. Dusky | | #13

    I can never find just the right bag this book would solve my problem!

  14. susansnider | | #14

    I am a handweaver and enjoy sewing with my handwoven fabrics. Handbags are a perfect project to make with handwoven cloth as the creative potential is unlimited. I would like to explore and learn how to make outstanding and one of a kind handbags.

    Susan

  15. Designer_maker | | #15

    Would love to learn how to make these fab bags

  16. LoracC | | #16

    This book looks fantastic. I would love to add this to my library. Thanks for the chance to win.

  17. grumpytulips | | #17

    I love making purses! This would be wonderful to further my skills :)

  18. user-3303384 | | #18

    I have some grey leather and some yellow suede, and am dying to make a beautiful bag with them! This book sounds like the perfect companion as I have never attempted this kind of sewing before and need some good advice.

  19. user-3647854 | | #19

    Read the 1940's Hobo Wristlet project. Excellent instructions! Would love to win the book.

  20. User avater
    suewsews | | #20

    This book has some great reviews, with good layout and illustrations. I will keep my fingers crossed xx I would love to add this book to my library. You can never have too many ideas for something new to sew which challenges your abilities!

  21. User avater
    pattylynn50 | | #21

    In Summer 2014, I purchased a copy of the "The Best of Threads Handbags" I haven't started any of the projects. Once the holidays are over I'll work on Spring/Summer. As a novice sewer, I would love to have this book to guide me in constructing handbags.

  22. sidecarsusie | | #22

    I would love to win this book because I can never have enough bag patterns! I enjoy sewing handbags for many of my family members and friends. I made a handbag for a nurse who extra helpful with my Aunt and she was overwhelmed when she received the bag. All women of all ages appreciates a good handbag, when they find out it was made just for them their reactions are wonderful!

  23. trudiram | | #23

    This book would be a welcome addition to my sewing library. I remember Anna Mazur appearing on a TV show in the '90's or early '00's and her instructions were always so clear.

  24. user-1138245130 | | #24

    I would love to win this book. I've been reluctant to make a bag, but want to do it!!!

  25. user-1045905 | | #25

    I do like to have bags which are different from the norm, & often that means making them myself. I'm always looking for inspiration, an endless quest to learn as much as possible...
    :)

  26. SewMeSewYou | | #26

    SPECTACULAR!Seeing more projects down the road. PICK ME! PICK ME! LOVE!

  27. chrisch | | #27

    I was 'gifted' some leather and I've been looking for a great handbag pattern! Thanks for the giveaway!!

  28. December27 | | #28

    This looks like fun. Thanks!

  29. user-3185837 | | #29

    O, what a great book. I would love to win a copy!

  30. sewing60 | | #30

    This book would be a good addition to my sewing library. I have made handbags and am interested in learning more about bag making. I would like to design some bag patterns specifically tailored to my needs.

  31. sewing60 | | #31

    This book would be a good addition to my sewing library. I have made handbags and am interested in learning more about bag making. I would like to design some bag patterns specifically tailored to my needs.

  32. jarisal | | #32

    The handbag book is just what is needed to start my new handbag project. The ideas alone would be a treat to read!

  33. user-3177282 | | #33

    I have wanted to make my own bags for awhile now. I would love to win this bag!

  34. Vaune | | #34

    Looks like a great addition to my library!

  35. user-3179049 | | #35

    I think I'm going to order this book if I don't win it. Winning it is definitely the preferable option!. Making bags attracts me. What will I do with all of them??

  36. user-2936767 | | #36

    I would really like to try the bags in this book. Thanks for a great magazine each time. I really enjoy it and learn a lot each time.

  37. LeeWells | | #37

    About a month ago I realized I would have to make a bag to get the item I wanted but could not find in the stores. This book would be a useful addition to the information I have found so far.

  38. user-3796989 | | #38

    I would love to win this Handbag Workshop book. This is something that I have wanted to learn for quite sometime.

  39. crafting_in_my_cave | | #39

    I love making bags and would love another book on bag making for my library, too.

  40. Mayell | | #40

    It sounds like a great book! I would love to win. Thanks!

  41. user-895259 | | #41

    I am a person who loves to be different. An off-the-rack bag is OK, but a custom bag is WOW. I would truly enjoy customizing bags using this book.

  42. Mareyc | | #42

    Oh,I would love to win this fantastic book! Nowadays I am completely into making bags, and I could use those fantastic ideas and tips which are written in this book.

  43. b3l | | #43

    Love to make accessories. This book would make a lovely pre-Christmas present.

  44. Kengba | | #44

    Wi would love to learn to sew handbags.

  45. user-3628944 | | #45

    I would like to win this book.

  46. EdouardS | | #46

    Looks like a great book!

  47. sherih | | #48

    There are so many handbag books out there but they really don't cover everything we need to know to construct a quality bag. I'd love a copy so I can create something that will stand out in every way.

  48. User avater
    Michigwen | | #49

    At last, a book with designs worthy of the time we invest in making the bags. The preview is tantalizing.

  49. jennifer8790 | | #50

    As a novice/self taught sewer the monthly mag has been invaluable..I especially like the vintage style and couture techniques (not that I'm pulling them off yet; it's nice to know how it should be done)...

  50. CAS48 | | #51

    I would love to win this book. I had a difficult time sewing the only purse I've tried, a heavy denim with many pockets!

  51. user-2091848 | | #52

    This looks like an excellent book, and I would love to win a copy. I have made a handful of purses of my own design on my home sewing machine. This book would be great for helping me make even better handbags to give to friends and family.

  52. JBeanne | | #53

    This is the book I've been looking for! Would love to win it!

  53. JaneEfficiency | | #54

    I've been meaning to get into bag sewing, and this book would be the perfect catalyst! Thank you!

  54. thestitch | | #55

    I sooooo have a thing for bags!! Would love, love, love this book.

  55. AliceEliza | | #56

    This looks like a good way to learn to make a bag, which I have never done before.

  56. user-659305 | | #57

    This book looks really cool & informative. I can't wait to try it out after I win it!

  57. ariadnejones | | #58

    I love handbags, I want more so I'll have to make them and they'll be originals!

  58. User avater
    user-221888 | | #59

    So, I've sewn the perfect outfit, clearly I would want to sew the perfect bag to accompany it. This book would fit that order.

  59. User avater
    user-221888 | | #60

    So, I've sewn the perfect outfit, clearly I would want to sew the perfect bag to accompany it. This book would fit that order.

  60. mdrgault | | #61

    At last! A book that you can refer to again and again. Bags are like shoes - addictive. However, you can make bags, you can't make shoes (unless you're a cobbler). This now puts you in the category of 'enabler'. Good for you. Someone had to do it and do it well. You qualify. Thanks.

  61. Bert49 | | #62

    I have always wanted to learn to make handbags that didn't look homemade.

  62. user-2033275 | | #63

    I have only made one handbag in my many years of sewing. Unfortunately, it could have come out better had I known all the correct interfacings and steps to create a wonderful bag. This book would be a wonderful reference to creating a custom bag fit perfectly for all my needs! Pockets everywhere for cell phone, keys, mints, nail file, pens, checkbook, credit cards, cash, and change...who needs the bag part when you can create pockets that hold everything! That would be the absolute best way to keep everything organized.

  63. 247kath | | #64

    I have made a few purses and tote bags and would love to learn new techniques and get inspiration for new creations! Looks like a fab book!!

  64. pamg | | #65

    Please choose ME - I never win anything! I LOVE making bags!

  65. User avater
    LadyofShalott | | #66

    I have not heard of this author before, but the book looks very interesting. I would like to try making the 1940s wristlet.

  66. Sans6 | | #67

    I would love to win Anna's book-it would be a much used addition to my Taunton Press library.

  67. user-3385447 | | #68

    Looks like an amazing book. I have been teaching myself to make purses and tote bags. There are not too many patterns readily available, so have been trying to create my own. Would love to win this book as I sure it has many features a patterns I could never come up with on my own. Please select me. Thank you Sophia

  68. user-3008701 | | #69

    This book would make a wonderful addition to my sewing library!

  69. organdy | | #70

    Would love to have this book! I make bags and newsboy caps for family--and this would help my designs. Thanks for the opportunity to win!

  70. Spizz | | #71

    I enjoy making purses and this book would be a great addition to my library of books and patterns.

  71. user-3552981 | | #72

    Love bags, I could use this book!

  72. judyh321 | | #73

    I love purse books.

  73. judyh321 | | #74

    Love purse books. Can't wait to see this one.

  74. Changmom | | #75

    What a lovely gift for me!

  75. seemless | | #76

    I had my library purchase this (why should I have all the fun). Excellent detail, each project has a new skill/technique. Interesting what tools will be needed.

  76. hawaiianei | | #77

    I'd love to have this book!!

  77. DesertDiana | | #78

    I have been wanting to make a handbag for the longest time, but have never 'pulled the trigger' on it! Even bought the fabric, handles and hardware, but afraid I'm going to mess it up! This book looks like a big ol' confidence booster!!! :-D

  78. Lyn0454 | | #79

    Would love to learn how to make handbags! What a wonderful Xmas gift it would be.

  79. user-3088787 | | #80

    This would be an excellent addition to anyone's sewing library. I could create original handbags.

  80. user-3088787 | | #81

    This would be an excellent addition to anyone's sewing library. I could create original handbags.

  81. mgronan | | #82

    I love reading all the Thread emails & most of all the insider is just awesome. I sometimes take time to watch the wonderfully done programs...keep up the great work & thank you sew much!

  82. Kareemah | | #83

    Love the magazine, would love the book.

  83. User avater
    ChicCouture | | #84

    I've been looking for a good bag book! So excited!

  84. soie | | #85

    Replacing my worn leather bag with a new perfect one is on my list of things to do -- this book looks like a good guide to make a stylish bag that will last !

  85. user-2684263 | | #86

    I started making bags in the past year and it has become my passion. This books looks like a nice addition to my collection!

  86. Lindalou1617 | | #87

    I have always wanted to sew my own handbags/purses, this book would be perfect ! It would be a wonderful early holiday present to me. Fingers crossed!

  87. katcatt | | #88

    I love to make handbags and this would be wonderful to add to my collection of how to make them!

  88. karynfell | | #89
  89. karynfell | | #90

    It looks fabulous,can't wait to win.

  90. User avater
    Cynthia_oz | | #91

    how cute just the right size for folding money and a key
    perfect gift for a teenager or older party girl

  91. CherryVanilla | | #92

    Took a look at the preview and these aren't your usual handbags! The reversible tote and the hobo wristlet are now on my wishlist to make!

  92. TequilaRiverQuilts | | #93

    Amazing, to think all those bag patterns in one book, at that great price! Lovely.

  93. Carly_Sue | | #94

    This book looks terrific...like most women, I love to carry different bags to go
    with the outfit I am wearing. i have made some purses and have loved them. I would love to have this book.

  94. User avater
    user-2777578 | | #95

    Handbag Worship - that's what I read at first glance. And I thought - that's me! Handbags and shoes - we all have to have a vice or two, and those are mine. I love to make handbags that are different from what's in the store - and that are unique. I've been a Threads subscriber for many years and learned so many skills from your pages. Thank you for that. Maggie Hillock, Hamilton, New Zealand.

  95. lisanmchen | | #96

    I've been having a sewing blank for the last few months. I saw the wristlet and it's inspiring me to get back behind the machine. I would love to get my hands on that book!

  96. lvislief | | #97

    I am always looking for more bag designs, as I never like to make the same thing twice. I would love to win the book!

  97. jeansophie | | #98

    I am an accessories girl and would to make the bags in this book.

  98. sewjazzy | | #99

    Merry Christmas to me. Hope I win!

  99. Vikichek | | #100

    I've made handbags in the past, mostly small evening bags to match or complement a specific dress. I'd love to learn more about creating handbags and take my skills to a much higher level!

  100. User avater
    andysmom | | #101

    I have been sewing handbags forever and they look nice and function like they should, but I know they could be better. A book like this would help me change the handbag from home made to hand made.

  101. User avater
    slmendes | | #102

    Who wouldn't want a new, custom made, designer handbag? Especially to be able to make your own. Nobody!!!! I'd love to add this book to my library and learn from an expert.

  102. User avater
    Countessa | | #103

    A lady can never have enough handbags!!!! The book sounds awesome.

  103. User avater
    Cyd88 | | #104

    I loved the Hobo Wristlet article. The instructions, though I'm not familiar with some of the techniques, are incredibly clear. If the article is any indication of the book it must be a master piece. I want more!! ;-)

  104. joanrob8 | | #105

    I've sewn since the age of 3 and I still learn so much each month from Threads magazine. I look forward to every new issue. I would love to win a new book

  105. User avater
    ShiningStar | | #106

    I really like the projects on the cover.

  106. bermbroro | | #107

    Just the detail on the cover looks great

  107. User avater
    Chilizee | | #108

    I would love to ad this to my library.

  108. BossLady4me | | #109

    I want to create my own original leather handbag, just my size, not what the stores are selling. I need some information on what to construct and where on the inside. This would be such a wonderful book of information.

  109. User avater
    wendy77 | | #110

    This looks like a great book

  110. cweetgal | | #111

    Would love the book ;) Thanks for the giveaway

  111. crazymom | | #112

    One of the things on my 'to do' list is make a handbag.

  112. sweetserenity | | #113

    I would make very good use of this book. I love different purse styles.

  113. guidance4u | | #114

    I love, love ,love making handbags. This little gem looks so special, I would love to see what else the book has to offer.

  114. User avater
    LuvThreadsMagazine | | #115

    Turning my leather "1/2 of a sectional" into some beautiful bags would be wonderful. Of course, first I have to win this book.

    Of winning, and creating, I ask you, is that too much to dream of??? Hmmmm??

  115. sisylyn | | #116

    would like to learn how to make handbags.

  116. User avater
    jamaco | | #117

    Would love to win! I have a stash of fabric that would be perfect for bags!

  117. User avater
    [email protected] | | #118

    Have been making handbags mainly by copying RTW so would like to have instructions and a resource list readily available in this book.

  118. sewgramms | | #119

    Handbags are my latest thing. I'd like to know more.

  119. DonaMarie | | #120

    I love to sew!!!! The only project I have'nt attempted is sewing a leather bag. This book would help me overcome my last fear in sewing. My imagination is running away on me thinking about all the handbags I could make. PS I've got a special place for it already in my sewing room!

  120. RushW | | #121

    Making handbags - sounds like fun.

  121. User avater
    dunnwithflair | | #122

    Free is always good. I have lots of "free" fabric ends just waiting for the projects from this book!

  122. User avater
    agapantha | | #123

    Handbags... my guilty passion.

  123. gailete | | #124

    After seeing the wristlet project, I would love to see more!

  124. user-905554 | | #125

    I need a new handbag. I've been looking for months in the stores and cannot find what I am looking for. Do it myself will get me exactly what I need.

    H. Miller

  125. buckarina | | #126

    I would love to win this book and share it with the amazing women at the Downtown Women's Center on Los Angeles skid row, where I facilitate a machine sewing workshop. The ladies are currently making market totes from recycled men's dress shirts, and yhe bags are selling like hot cakes at the Made by DWC Boutique and Etsy store. We'd be most grateful to have an inspiring book like this full of more creative bag making ideas.

  126. GrandmaDiane | | #127

    Have made a few handbags but having a great book of handbag knowledge would be tremendous.

  127. user-3722184 | | #128

    Would love to have a copy of this book to add to my library of sewing and craft books. I am presently enrolled in an online class to make leather handbags and am sure this book would be a big help.

  128. jennifer_georgia | | #129

    I have some lovely embossed faux leather I'd like to use to make a handbag, so I'm looking for inspiration.
    (I don't know why it keeps calling me user-103329 even after I log in. My email is [email protected])

  129. user-4192191 | | #130

    I have just made my first handbag. Am looking forward to making more. This book would be just the thing to help me on my way.

  130. User avater
    Kate_W | | #131

    I just started making bags. Would love to bag this book and up my game (smile). If not, it's #1 on my Christmas list. Thanks, Threads!

  131. Nittywitter | | #132

    The wristlet project looks ideal for some vintage Japanese silk in my stash. I do make bags and am always eager to learn new techniques. Please enter my name for the book drawing.

    Happy Thanksgiving!

  132. User avater
    auschick | | #133

    I'd love a copy!

  133. DebbieSchoe | | #134

    I would so love to win this book. I am always making bags and purses. I would love one to look like the ones in the book.
    Debbie

  134. User avater
    Missahope | | #135

    Luv to sew bags, Luv to win the book!

  135. User avater
    Passante | | #136

    I've sewn tote bags but nothing more formal, so I'd love to win this book and expand my skills. Fingers crossed!

  136. user-3741199 | | #137

    I would like to add this to my library. The techniques will encourage me to challenge myself

  137. 416 | | #138

    After reading all of those wonderful things I could learn about handbags in this book, I am really excited about making a one of a kind handbag for me. I like those wristlets to use. I plan to make the quilted one for to use at my next outing. It's nice to keep with you and not worry about losing anything, just leave your main purse in the car trunk. I would love to receive a book like this for Christmas.

  138. Bowland_Lady | | #139

    Designer style handbags!! I would love, Love, LOVE to win this book. I have never made a handbag before and would love to learn new skills. Thank you Threads.

  139. user-2425776 | | #140

    I would love to be one of the winners of this book. I've always admired Anna Mazur's creations. They are so professionally done along with always adding that "special something" that makes it special. Pick me! :-)

  140. user-4163081 | | #141

    I would love to win this book! I am obsessed with making bags and this looks like a good way to learn new techniques.

  141. mykashi6 | | #142

    The Hobo bag is one of the most creative designs I have ever seen. I would really like to see her other patterns in the book, and have a chance to make them.

  142. realhappy | | #143

    Love the handbags, would be a joy to win the book! Thanks for offering this contest

  143. jaggededge | | #144

    Always wanted to make a bag, always meaning to have a go but never quite have the confidence to try. This book might help!

  144. pattipat | | #145

    I LOVE making handbags and would welcome new tips, patterns and ideas.

  145. sewleslie | | #146

    I have decided that the only way for me to get the perfect handbag is to make it. I've tried, but I need a little extra help like in the book! I'd love to win it.

  146. User avater
    ArleJ | | #147

    This is something I have always been afraid to try. I have made simple totes but that is all. It would be great to be able to make make my own handbag. Would love to see this book!

  147. raslalique | | #148

    I'd love to win this. I bought some leather to make a handbag and I've been reading up on how to make a professional looking one.

  148. GrammysSC | | #149

    What a lovely little bag! It is something that many of my students would enjoy making. Thank you for sharing the idea and the know how.

  149. Lynle | | #150

    I've wanted to know how to make handbags and even bought a pattern to do so....it's confusing though. I'm interested in learning more about resources to buy some of the materials necessary to make a handbag.

  150. BevJV | | #151

    Great timing! I love 40's fashions and have been poring over a recent book purchase of 1940s Fashion: The Definitive Sourcebook to find many of the wonderful, highly stylized details to add to my sewing. The Hobo Wristlet from Mazur's Handbag Workshop fits beautifully with some of those styles, and I'm anxious to see what other gems are in her book!

  151. Enchantedbag | | #152

    I sew pocketbooks, thus the name, but could always use more help and ideas. Would LOVE this book.

  152. MartiClaire | | #153

    This book sounds great. I love to make purses, totes, and travel bags. I am always looking for new insperation and creative ideas for gifts. This is great timing for Christmas gifts.

  153. greengrapes | | #154

    Hi,

    I would be delighted to have a book detailing sewing directions for making handbags. It would be fun to make handbags for my daughter who collects handbags.

    Best Wishes,
    Alexandria Feeney

  154. sassy_lass | | #155

    I love the idea of making handbags - watch out Kate Spade!

  155. User avater
    KritterStitcher | | #156

    I'd love to win this book!!

  156. User avater
    SusanDuality | | #157

    So tired of my droopy store-bought handbag. I wear them 'til (their) death do us part. Then the agony of seeking a new one. Most expensive, yet hardly distinguished. Never have the size pockets I need, either!

  157. user-2410701 | | #158

    Threads has been such a big part of my life. I have every copy from the beginning. I now have grandkids that are learning from all the past editions that I have. Thanks for all the wonderful help through the years.

  158. acden | | #159

    This looks like a fabulous book. Making bags has been on my radar for a long time so I'd love to learn all the techniques that are presented!

  159. user-1122622 | | #160

    Looks like an interesting book. I want one!

  160. User avater
    Loesje | | #161

    I have a lot of leather scraps that I would love to make into something unique as well as stylish and useful.

  161. denisebb | | #162

    I am an enginerd and would love this set of handbag blueprints.

  162. tjaros | | #163

    I have been looking for the perfect handbag for over a year now. I know exactly what I want and this book would be great in helping me to create it.

  163. Lindalou1617 | | #164

    Can someone tell me who won the handbag book giveaway? I can't seem to find the winners anywhere?

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