Course objectives: This class will introduce you to constructed and semi constructed handbags. You will broken bottom, flat bottom construction, gussets and tunnel gusset construction as well as envelopes and clutches. You will also get an introduction to box bag construction, self- framing (create your on frames) push-up frame and more. You will also be expected to cut loose the apron string of videos, more and more you will be given notes and instructions. In the real world you won’t have a video to help you. In the real world you are given an idea, or sketch, the rest is up to you. This will build confidence and trust in your ability to overcome the obstacles to completing the task at hand.

Instructors: The courses are taught by Richard Manigault and Linda Gentile-Manigault, who have a combined 40 years of experience designing and making handbags in many different styles. Both instructors attend F.I.T in New York City.

Assignment submissions consists of an original sketch of the students design, the three patterns, Master, Outside and Lining Patterns, pictures of the construction process and the finished bag.

Support: Students have several options for support, Email, Forums or one of several community groups, we also have a Facebook group, but answers are limited as many of the members are not students.

The skills you will be mastering will give you the opportunity to make your own first samples. First samples and patterns can cost as much as $5,000 per bag and small production runs are extremely expensive making it extremely hard for a designer to enter the market. Knowing how to make patterns and first samples can save you a heck of a lot of money in getting your collection to market on a limited budget.

Are you a small boutique owner and want to accent your clothing collection with your own designer label bags? Here is a chance to explore those ideas, Imagine being able to take that left over fabric and create bags as an extra revenue stream.

You can also use these skills to create and sell your own patterns for profit.

You can sell your designs online

You can start a small business

Advanced Lesson 1: Semi Constructed Handbags Notes- Lesson 1

Lesson 1 Wallet -Tri-Fold

Advanced Lesson 2: Envelope Clutch

Advanced Lesson 3: Tunnel Construction

Advanced Lesson 4: Wedding or anything you want it to be.

Advanced Lesson 5: Box Bags

Advanced Lesson 6: Alexis

Self- Framing Lesson 7: Notes and Lesson

Original purple clutch

Shorts

Supply List:

• Oaktag or poster board
• scratch awl
• pencils, eraser
• 12″ 24″ 36″steel ruler
• Xacto knife or utility blade
• Cutting board.
• Rubber cement
• Sketchbook.
• Fabric or lightweight leather
• For this course it is best that you have an industrial cylinder walking foot cylinder machine for leather or fabric for best results.

You have 1 year to complete the course.