Japanese Knot Bag Workshop

What you'll learn

Create your own beautiful Japanese knot bag with our textiles & fashion short courses in Sydney!

Discover the satisfaction of sewing a stylish and practical Japanese knot bag in this creative hands-on workshop. Characterised by its elegant looping handle and clever fastening design, the Japanese knot bag is both functional and beautiful – making it perfect for everyday use, gifting, or carrying small personal items.

In this relaxed and welcoming workshop, you'll learn how to construct a fully reversible fabric bag while developing practical sewing skills that can be applied to future projects. Guided step-by-step by your tutor, you'll cut, sew, turn, press, and finish your bag, creating a handmade accessory that reflects your own choice of fabrics and personal style.

Whether you're completely new to sewing or looking for a satisfying small project, this workshop offers a rewarding introduction to garment construction techniques in a supportive and creative environment.

You'll leave with a finished Japanese knot bag, newfound sewing confidence, and inspiration for future handmade projects.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Japanese Knot Bag Workshop, you will have explored concepts and techniques such as:

Understanding the design and cultural origins of the Japanese knot bag
Selecting fabrics suited to different styles and purposes
Following a sewing pattern and preparing fabric pieces
Constructing a reversible bag using a sewing machine
Sewing curves, seams, and topstitching neatly
Finishing and personalising a handmade accessory
Developing confidence with practical sewing techniques

(Finished bag approximately 28cm x 40cm.)

Course content

During the workshop, participants will work with techniques and ideas such as:

Introduction to the Japanese knot bag and its history
Understanding fabric choices and design possibilities
Pattern preparation and fabric cutting
Sewing and assembling the bag
Turning and pressing techniques
Topstitching and finishing methods
Ideas for customisation and embellishment
Tips for future sewing projects

Content may vary slightly depending on class pace, participant interests, and the tutor's approach.

Intended audience

Who is this Japanese Knot Bag Workshop for?

This workshop is suitable for complete beginners as well as those with some sewing experience looking for a creative and achievable project.

Ideal for anyone interested in sewing, handmade fashion, sustainable making, or creating unique gifts.

Course venue

Rozelle Campus

2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039 (corner of Gordon St & Victoria Rd on the grounds of St. Joseph's Church)

Accessibility: This class takes place in an upper-level room accessible by stairs only. The lift is currently out of service. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Course materials

What to bring to class

Fabric:

50cm of one fabric
50cm of a contrasting fabric

Equipment:

Thread
Pins
Fabric scissors
Small snips (optional)
Paper scissors
Hand sewing needle
Pen or pencil
Notebook for notes

Additional information

Please note the following

Familiarity with a sewing machine is helpful but not essential.
This workshop is ideal for creative beginners or crafters looking for a mindful and rewarding sewing project.
You may also be interested in our Sewing Essentials Course if you would like to further develop your sewing skills.

Course testimonials

Janine said: I really enjoyed this course, the teacher was excellent - she was encouraging, helpful, experienced and unruffled.
Fiona said: Fiona was a great instructor and the course was run really well.
Nina said: Fiona was a great teacher. She took a us all through the steps individually so we could work at our own pace without fear of falling behind.

Course tutors

Fiona Farmer

About Fiona. Fiona Farmer is a lifelong enthusiast of all things fabric, with a passion for sewing that began in early childhood. With now over 40 years of experience, she has developed a broad...

View Fiona Farmer's profile

Classes Online Courses

Japanese Knot Bag Workshop

Sat 18 Jul 2026

1 session, 4 hours total

10am - 2pm (UTC+10:00)

2A Gordon St, Rozelle

Fiona Farmer

Accessibility: This class takes place in an upper-level room accessible by stairs only. The lift is currently out of service. We apologise for any inconvenience.

When	Time	Where	Session Notes
Sat 18 Jul 2026	10am - 2pm	A2-1: Sewing Room - 2A Gordon St, Rozelle

If there isn't a class to suit you, please join our waitlist and we will notify you when we have places available. Join waitlist for Japanese Knot Bag Workshop