Belmont vs Alberta Custom Bag Maker Kit: Key Differences
By Klum House: Bag making kits, bag sewing patterns, waxed | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: Confronti
Compare the Belmont and Alberta Persimmon Custom Bag Maker Kits on project type, skill level, and included materials before you choose your next bag.
Quick answer
Choose the Belmont Custom Bag Maker Kit if you want a convertible tote-to-backpack with a matching zip pouch and are comfortable with French seams and extra-strong stitching. Choose the Alberta Custom Bag Maker Kit if you want a beginner-friendly crossbody tote with an adjustable leather strap and a simpler build.
Project scope and skill demand
The Belmont is a two-in-one project: a full-size bag that converts from tote to backpack and tucks into a matching zipper pouch. That extra pouch and the convertible strap system add steps, and the French seams and extra-strong stitching call for more careful sewing. The Alberta is a single crossbody tote that Klum House labels beginner-friendly, with a straightforward construction that suits newer makers.
If you have already sewn a few bags and want a project that teaches new techniques, the Belmont gives you more to practice. If you are still building confidence with zippers and straps, the Alberta keeps the scope manageable.
Materials and hardware included
Both kits include the fabric, leather, and hardware needed to make the bag, but the Alberta kit lets you choose leather and hardware options, so you can adjust the look before you buy. The Belmont kit offers a pocket option, which affects the exterior pocket configuration.
The Alberta’s adjustable leather strap and brass zipper with leather pull are included, so you do not need to source those separately. The Belmont’s convertible fabric straps are part of the kit, but the catalog does not specify leather content for that model, so check the product page if leather is important to you.
Carry style and everyday use
The Belmont adapts between tote and backpack, which suits days when you need your hands free or want to switch carrying modes. The matching pouch adds a place to stow the bag itself, useful for travel or storage. The Alberta is a crossbody tote sized for everyday essentials, with an interior patch pocket for a phone and small items, and the strap can be shortened to wear it over the shoulder.
Neither kit is described as having a laptop sleeve, so if you need padded device carry, plan to add your own insert or choose a different pattern.
Trade-offs to weigh before you buy
- Two projects vs one: The Belmont includes a matching zipper pouch as a second project, while the Alberta is a single bag. Choose the Belmont if you want more sewing time and a place to store the bag; choose the Alberta if you prefer to finish one bag and move on. Count the pouch as a separate project when estimating your time.
- Beginner-friendly vs technique-building: The Alberta is described as beginner-friendly, while the Belmont uses French seams and extra-strong stitching. Pick the Alberta if you are new to bag making; pick the Belmont if you want to practice those techniques with a kit that supplies the materials. Match the kit to the techniques you have already sewn, not the ones you hope to learn under deadline.
- Leather and hardware choice: The Alberta kit lets you select leather and hardware options, so you can coordinate the strap and zipper pull. The Belmont kit offers a pocket option but does not list leather as an option. If leather customization matters, the Alberta gives you more control at checkout. Check the option menus before buying if color matching is important to you.
Product facts at a glance
- Belmont - Persimmon Custom Bag Maker Kit: Convertible all-fabric bag that goes from tote to backpack and packs into a matching zipper pouch. Gives you two carry modes and a built-in storage pouch, but the conversion adds sewing steps.
Belmont - Persimmon Custom Bag Maker Kit - Alberta - Persimmon Custom Bag Maker Kit: Beginner-friendly crossbody tote with an adjustable leather strap, brass zipper with leather pull, lining, and interior patch pocket. A simpler build with included leather details makes it a lower-risk first bag project.
Alberta - Persimmon Custom Bag Maker Kit
Which kit fits you?
Best for
- Makers who have sewn a bag or two and want a convertible tote-to-backpack with a matching pouch.
- Sewists who want to practice French seams and durable stitching on a complete kit.
Not for
- Absolute beginners who want the simplest possible first bag project.
- Makers who need a laptop sleeve or padded device compartment built into the pattern.
