How to Use Craft Clips for Bag Making: A Step-by-Step Guide
By Klum House: Bag making kits, bag sewing patterns, waxed | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use craft clips for bag making, including when to choose clips over pins, how to clip thick seams, and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Answer
Use craft clips to hold thick fabric layers together before sewing, especially when pins can't penetrate or leave marks. They work well for bag making seams, straps, and pockets.
Why Craft Clips Beat Pins for Bag Making
Bag making often involves multiple layers of waxed canvas, leather, and interfacing. Straight pins can bend or break on these thick stacks, and they leave permanent holes in leather. Craft clips grip the layers firmly without damaging the material, making them a practical choice for many bag projects.
Clips also let you adjust the fabric alignment quickly—just unclip and reposition. This is especially helpful when you're working with slippery lining or bulky seams that need frequent tweaks.
When Pins Are Still the Better Choice
Craft clips are not always the best tool. For very thin fabrics like silk or lightweight cotton, pins provide more precise control and less bulk. Clips can also leave slight indentations on soft materials if left on for a long time.
For curved seams or delicate details, pins allow you to ease fabric more accurately. Use clips for straight or gently curved seams, and switch to pins when you need fine adjustment.
Step-by-Step: Using Craft Clips in Bag Making
- Prepare Your Layers: Align the fabric layers you want to sew, matching edges and notches. Ensure the right sides are facing as your pattern requires. Check that all layers are smooth and flat before clipping; wrinkles will cause misaligned seams.
- Place Clips Along the Seam: Open a clip and slide it over the fabric layers, positioning it perpendicular to the seam line. Space clips about 2–3 inches apart, closer on curves. Don't clip too close to the edge—leave at least 1/4 inch so the presser foot can pass without hitting the clip.
- Sew the Seam: Start sewing, removing each clip just before the needle reaches it. Keep the clip in place until the last moment to maintain alignment. Never sew over a clip—it can break your needle or damage the machine.
- Reposition as Needed: If you need to adjust the fabric, unclip and re-clip. This is easier than removing pins, especially with thick layers. Use the clips to hold the fabric while you check the seam alignment before sewing.
- Store Clips for Next Time: After finishing, collect the clips and store them in a small container or pouch. They're reusable and will last for many projects. Keep clips away from heat sources to prevent warping.
Product Spotlight: Craft Clips
- Craft Clips: A pack of 10 craft clips, perfect for holding multiple layers of thick fabric when straight pins won't cut it. These clips are designed for bag making projects, so they can handle the thick seams and multiple layers typical in bag construction.
Craft Clips
